Things to do in
Muscat

Our most recommended things to do in Muscat

Muscat: Dimaniat Islands Snorkeling Trip

1. Muscat: Dimaniat Islands Snorkeling Trip

Experience the beauty of the crystal-clear waters of the Daymaniyat Islands on this delightful snorkeling tour. Discover a diverse mixture of snorkeling spots as you dive into the dynamic marine environment of Oman. Relax in the shade of the comfortable sailboat between your swimming excursions. Comprising of nine small islands, this snorkeling paradise showcases an array of brilliantly hued fish, graceful sea turtles, and the pristine, crystal-clear waters of the sea. Experience the natural beauty of these islands which remain in their uninhabited state, preserved and protected by a marine reserve. Your snorkeling adventure package includes all necessary equipment, as well as delectable snacks, sandwiches and refreshments. Additionally, intrepid travelers have the option to ascend the islands' mountains for a breathtaking panoramic views of the surroundings.

From Muscat: Wadi Shab & Bimmah Sinkhole Full-Day Tour

2. From Muscat: Wadi Shab & Bimmah Sinkhole Full-Day Tour

Discover the incredible oasis of Wadi Shab - one of the last places in Oman where you can chill in fresh blue water surrounded by mountains. Enjoy a rewarding full-day experience as you explore this spectacular waterfall in a cave. Start the tour with pick up from your hotel in Muscat. Hop into an air-conditioned vehicle and set off on a 2-hour scenic drive through the otherworldly landscapes of Oman. Along the route, stop at a local coffee shop to try an energizing Omani tea. When you arrive at your destination, hidden away in the canyon of the dry river Wadi-Shab, take a very quick boat ride to the other side of the bank. From here, embark on your 40-minute hike.  During the walk, experience the awesome power of nature which has forged the rock formations of this impressive canyon. Observe how the local farmers live and work, maintaining their crops in rough, rocky lands using the old irrigation system as their water supply. Be sure to bring along your waterproof cameras and shoes so that when you reach the lake you can snap some photos and walk around the magnificent site.  Admire the cascade of the waterfall and take a refreshing dip in the beautiful blue water to cool off from the heat. On the way back, stop to see a beautiful lake located in the Bimmah Sinkhole.  Finally, return to the vehicle and begin the drive back to Muscat where you will be dropped off at your hotel and the tour concludes.

Muscat: Daymaniat Islands Snorkeling Tour with Refreshments

3. Muscat: Daymaniat Islands Snorkeling Tour with Refreshments

The islands have been protected as a nature reserve since 1996 and provide an important nesting site for hawksbill and green turtles, as well as a wide range of migratory birds including the increasingly rare sooty falcon, one of the few migratory raptors which actually nests and breeds in the region. Given their protected status, access to the Daymaniyats is restricted, and you’re not allowed to land on the islands from the beginning of May until the end of October Daymaniyat Islands, often called the “ Jewel of the Middle East” offers great dive sites for visitors to enjoy. With most dive sites located along the islands, Daymaniyat Islands offers great dive sites to all level divers, beginners to advanced. Snorkelers will be taken to 2 different snorkeling sites. Departure & Return Location: Seeb Port, Muscat (Google Map) Departure time: 8:30 am (20 min before boats leave) What to expect: -Throughout the year you will see 3 different species of turtles who come since centuries to the islands. -A huge diversity of hard & soft corals. -Common encounters will be honeycomb Murray Eel, sting rays, schools of fish, sometimes black tip sharks. -For those coming during summer our good friend the Whale Shark will definitely be around.

Muscat: Wahiba Desert and Wadi Bani Khalid Guided Group Tour

4. Muscat: Wahiba Desert and Wadi Bani Khalid Guided Group Tour

Have you ever thought of attending a desert where you can explore the boundless sea of sand and feel the baking temperatures on your own? If your answer is yes, so the Wahiba Wilderness Tour is just for you! Cross the desert dunes by 4WD vehicle, and experience the adrenaline rush of driving across the rugged terrain in an off-road mode of transport. Make your way to the Wahiba Sands to see the traditional homes of the desert nomads and Bedouin tribes. Keep a look-out for the nomads as they move through the desert with their camels. Visit a Bedouin home in the middle of the desert, and contrast the arid landscape with the clear, blue waters of Wadi Bani Khalid. Enjoy a relaxing siesta in the shade of the palm trees, and catch a glimpse of the pretty villages scattered across the slopes of the wadi. Marvel at how the houses cling precariously to the rugged mountain side. Bring your swimming costume to take a dip in the inviting waters!

Muscat Half-Day City Tour with Audio Guiding

5. Muscat Half-Day City Tour with Audio Guiding

Discover the rich blend of ancient and modern architecture of Muscat on a half-day city tour. Learn how the city has undergone dramatic development in the past 3 decades, yet managed to preserve its age-old culture and heritage. Your driver will show you how to use the audio guide system to benefit the GPS enabled commentary that follows the tour. Start with a visit to the Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque, and then continue through the Ministries' area to see a number of modern buildings with a touch of ancient, Islamic architecture. Go to the fish market and explore the narrow alleyways of the Muttrah souk to soak up the scent of exotic spices, coffee beans and ancient remedies. Learn more about the history of Oman at the Bait Al Zubair Museum. Take a souvenir photo at the magnificent Al Alam Palace, flanked by the twin Portuguese forts of Mirani and Jalali. Itinerary: • 45 mins in Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque • 15 mins in the fish market • 30 mins in the Bait Al Zubair Museum  • 10 mins for a photo stop in Al Alam Palace • 10 mins for a photo stop in Mirani & Jalali • 30 mins in Muttrah Souq

Muscat: Dolphin Watch & Snorkel Excursion

6. Muscat: Dolphin Watch & Snorkel Excursion

Make your dreams come true with double the pleasure of watching dolphins and snorkelling by combining the two!. Regular visitors are bottlenose dolphins, common dolphins, spinner dolphins and Rissos dolphins along the coast in Oman. After seeing these beautiful cetaceans unwind by snorkelling in the crystal waters in nearest snorkelling sight. Coral beds provide homes to an exotic variety of fish that are a pleasure to be hold. Catch the timeless magic of tropical fish in a real life situation.

From Muscat: Nizwa & Al Hamra Guided Historical Tour

7. From Muscat: Nizwa & Al Hamra Guided Historical Tour

Embark on a historical and cultural tour that gives an insight into Omani life. Visit the impressive Nizwa Fort, haggle a bargain at the local souq, and end the day seeing a traditional village. Start with a spectacular drive through the Hajar Mountains via Fanjah for a photo stop. Then, arrive in Nizwa City to see the Nizwa Fort — the most popular monument of Oman. Next up is a visit to Nizwa souq, the market where you can buy traditional knives, pots and other unique items. Head next to the Al Hamra and Bait Al Safah museum where you can learn about how locals lived in generations past.

Muscat: Dolphin Watching Boat Tour

8. Muscat: Dolphin Watching Boat Tour

Embark on a thrilling dolphin watching tour in Muscat and witness these intelligent creatures playfully jumping out of the water in their natural habitat. With regular departures throughout the day, cruise at a time that suits you enjoy views of the coastal landscape of Oman, and the Arabian sea Spot marine life, including dolphins and whales, in its natural habitat Escape the hustle and bustle of the shore. Experience the beauty of Oman's marine life with Nobles Marine Tour's Dolphin Watching Tour in Muscat! Hop on board our comfortable and modern boat as we set sail to spot these majestic creatures in their natural habitat. Our expert guides will take you on a journey along the coast, providing interesting insights about the dolphins and their behavior. As you cruise through the crystal clear waters of the Arabian Sea, keep an eye out for playful dolphins leaping and flipping out of the water. Our tours are designed to offer a respectful and eco-friendly encounter with these amazing animals, allowing you to witness their beauty up close without disturbing their natural environment. Apart from dolphin watching, our tour also offers breath-taking views of the coastline and the stunning Al Hajar Mountains. Don't forget to bring your camera to capture the memories of this once-in-a-lifetime experience. With our experienced crew and top-notch facilities, we guarantee a safe and enjoyable adventure for all ages. Book your Dolphin Watching Tour in Muscat now and get ready for an unforgettable experience! The dolphins are playful and friendly. It is possible to spot dolphins all year round on most days with a high success rate. The types of dolphins that are seen typically around Muscat are: Risso’s Dolphins, Common Bottle Nose Dolphins, Spinner Dolphins, and Long-Beaked Common Dolphins.

Snorkelling Tours to Daymaniyat islands

9. Snorkelling Tours to Daymaniyat islands

We offer daily Snorkelling trips to Daymaniyat islands. Our meeting point is inside seeb marina. At 8.15am. Guide will meet you directly where the boats are parked, after all the introduction and briefing you can have a relaxed 25 min trip to the islands by our 38 feet boat (shaheen.) The Dimaniyat islands, often called as the “Jewel of the Middle East” are a nature reserve and provide a nesting site for hawksbill and green turtles as well are a sanctuary for birds and white sands all around the islands. Everybody can join the snorkeling trip, children from 3 years old and above. You will be taken to two different snorkeling sites, in between some snacks and soft drinks will be served on board. For Non swimmers and children off course life jacket are always on the boat. Nice relaxing beaches on these islands are just amazing. During this activity it is not uncommon to spot turtles, rays or reef sharks, and in whale shark season off course you can snorkel with the giant and friendly fish. We return back to marina around 1.30 pm

Muscat: Evening Guided City Highlights Tour by Van

10. Muscat: Evening Guided City Highlights Tour by Van

Enjoy a tour of Muscat's major sights after sundown. See the city's landmarks bathed in the warm evening glow. Begin your tour with a pickup from your hotel with Muscat. For your first stop, visit the Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque and the Royal Opera House (photo stop). Admire these iconic buildings in the glow of the evening lights. Take some time to snap some great photos before moving on. Next, stroll along the picturesque promenade of Mutrah Corniche. Then, delve into the bustling energy of Mutrah Souq. Here, scents of frankincense mix with the vibrant display of crafts and textiles, offering a sensory treat. After your visit to the souq, witness the regal elegance of Al Alam Palace. See this contemporary masterpiece set against an ancient backdrop, as its illuminated façade gleams in the night. Finish your tour with a culinary journey at an authentic Omani restaurant. Get dropped off back at your hotel after dinner. Dear Travelers, Please note that the evening Muscat city tour does not include visits inside the Grand Mosque or Royal Opera House. However, it does offer excellent opportunities for photo stops outside these iconic landmarks, allowing you to capture their grandeur from the outside.

Top activities

Top sights in Muscat

All activities

Frequently asked questions about Muscat

What are the best day trips and excursions from Muscat?

The best day trips and excursions from Muscat are:

Salalah

What are the best inexpensive tours in Muscat?

Other Sightseeing Options in Muscat

Want to discover all there is to do in Muscat? Click here for a full list.

What people are saying about Muscat

Overall rating

4.3
(1,000 reviews)

Plus: We enjoyed swimming in the river/ wadi and getting into the cave. Amazing views. Exciting. Also lunch was nice. Guide was friendly. Improvements: Would be better to give visitors more information to ensure people have the right clothes and shoes, for instance: to wear hiking sandals for the hike (not hiking shoes, nor water shoes), since you have to cross several parts of the river and will get wet, but still you need traction on your footwear.

We had to change schedule because of the wind today but the activity was just amazing ! We had the chance to see and swim with whale-sharks, many turtles and colourfull fishes ! The islands are amazing, really clear water… just perfect, one of my dreams came true !!! Thanks a lot to all the great team who was perfect to us as well and very sympathic ! I could have stayed the whole day !!!

The snorkeling tour was amazing!! The staff is super friendly and the islands are wonderful! We were so lucky to swim with some whale sharks and lot of turtles! The staff provides you snorkeling stuff, juices, sandwiches and water. 5/5 stars! Super recommended!!

It's a very nice tour to know more about the culture and history of Oman. The itinerary and food were great and my guide, Mahmood, which was also my guide in Wadi Shab, is the best.

Nice activity to do. Recommended for those who like snorkeling. The guide Sunny is very good and kind