Discovering Oman. In Photos.

Photo + Words: Javier Colombo

Instagram: @awonderseeker

Oman is, in my opinion, one of the most underrated destinations in the Middle East. It’s a peaceful and culturally rich country on the southeastern tip of the Arabian Peninsula. Unlike its flashy neighbor, UAE, it has taken a slower, more traditional approach to development. It feels very authentic and unspoiled.

I found the best way to enjoy the country is by renting a car. The distance between the main cities is very reasonable, and there are a lot of things to do along the way. Traffic is rarely an issue, and the roads are safe and generally quiet.

Exploring Muscat

Muscat, its capital, is a great starting point and offers a soft landing into Omani culture. The city is located between rugged mountains and the Arabian Sea—you can go from hiking trails to the beach in minutes. Unlike many Gulf capitals, Muscat has avoided skyscrapers. The low-rise buildings, often sand-colored, along with their impressive mosques, create a cityscape that feels both authentic and deeply connected to its traditions.

Nizwa

Nizwa, one of the oldest cities in Oman, is just an hour and a half away by car. It feels like stepping back in time with its ancient fort, souq (traditional market), and rhythms of daily life that haven’t changed for generations.

The blend of breathtaking nature and cultural heritage in Oman is hard to beat. One of my favorite experiences was exploring the region in search of wadis—natural oases hidden in the desert or mountains, often framed by palm trees and dramatic rock formations. And it’s not unusual to spot camels casually wandering along the highway, which feels surreal.

Keep heading south, and you will reach the edge of the desert. From this point, you need either a 4x4 or to pre-arrange the pick-up with one of the many camps in Wahiba Sands. Spending a few nights in the desert is a unique experience.

Oman Tips

1. Don’t overlook Oman’s islands. 

Places like the Dimaniyat Islands, just off the coast near Muscat, offer stunning snorkeling and diving with vibrant coral reefs, sea turtles, and even reef sharks. These protected islands are only accessible by boat, so book a tour in advance.

2. Spend a night in the desert. 

Spending a night in the Wahiba Sands is one of the most unforgettable experiences in Oman. Accommodations range from a basic Bedouin camp to luxury setups. It’s a chance to disconnect completely, sit by the fire, and experience the vast stillness of the desert.

3. Visit the Ras Al Jinz Turtle Reserve. 

Peak turtle season in Oman usually runs from May through September, which are also the hottest months in the country. However, turtles can be seen all year-round, and your best chances are in this reserve.

4. Experience Sandboarding or 4X4 Dune Bashing. 

Wahiba Sands offers many opportunities for adventure—ride over towering dunes in a 4x4 with an experienced driver, or grab a board and slide down the soft, golden slopes for a thrill you won’t forget.

5. Go Wadi Hunting. 

Oman is full of wadis—natural oases tucked into desert or mountain landscapes, often featuring lush palm trees, clear pools, and rocky canyons perfect for swimming or hiking.

Travel Essentials

• Dress appropriately. 

Oman is a deeply traditional society, and dressing modestly is an important way to show cultural awareness. While there’s no strict dress code for tourists, it’s appreciated—and often expected—that both men and women cover their shoulders and knees. Mosques, in particular, have a stricter dress code and might require women to cover their hair too.

• Consider the best times of the year to visit. 

Oman gets extremely hot in the summer, with temperatures often soaring above 45°C (113°F), especially in the interior and desert regions. The best time to visit is between October and April, when the weather is much cooler and ideal for exploring wadis, mountains, and coastal areas comfortably.

• Bring a book to the Wahiba Sands.

In most camps in the desert there’s no Wi-Fi and the power can be limited. It’s a great opportunity to disconnect and read.