salalah tourist places

15 Best Places to Visit & Things to Do in Salalah Oman

Nestled within the Arabian Peninsula, Salalah boasts a distinctiveness that sets it apart and has made it a year-round tourism hotspot. With a multitude of captivating activities and an array of remarkable tourist destinations, Salalah offers an enticing array of options to explore.

This comprehensive guide to visiting Salalah and Dhofar will furnish you with valuable insights into the vibrant realm of tourism in this region.

Where is Salalah?

Salalah is nestled in the southern region of the Sultanate of Oman, a captivating country located on the southeastern coast of the Arabian Peninsula. It’s a city that enjoys a unique geographical position, bordered by the azure waters of the Arabian Sea to the south and the rugged landscapes of the Dhofar mountain range to the north.

The city is the capital of the Dhofar Governorate, an area renowned for its lush landscapes, contrasting with the arid surroundings typically associated with the desert. This exceptional location grants Salalah a distinct microclimate that sets it apart from the rest of Oman, resulting in its lush greenery, particularly during the Khareef season, a time of year when monsoon rains transform the city’s surroundings into a verdant paradise.

With its prime location along the coast and the fertile plains of Dhofar, Salalah has become a hub of economic and cultural activity in the region. Its strategic position has fostered a rich history of trade, connecting the Arabian Peninsula to Africa and beyond. As the second-largest city in Oman, Salalah’s modern infrastructure, combined with its historical significance and breathtaking natural beauty, makes it an alluring destination for both local and international visitors.

Why is Salalah Famous?

Salalah is well-known for its beautiful landscapes and great weather. People like to visit Salalah, Oman during two different times of the year. The first and most popular time is called the Khareef season, when everything turns green and lively. The other popular time to visit is during the winter season.

Different types of tourists come to Salalah during these two seasons. And the places to visit and things to do are also different. This guide will give you helpful information to plan your trip to Salalah better and make it more memorable.

Seasons in Salalah

Before you learn about the places to visit, it’s important to understand the seasons because they affect what you can do and see. Let’s take a closer look at these two seasons:

1. Khareef Season in Salalah

Khareef, which translates to “Autumn” in Arabic, stands as the dominant season in Salalah. This stretch of time, from late June to early September annually, ushers in the most inviting weather in the city. Referred to as the Khareef season, it is synonymous with the English term “monsoon season”.

During this period, Salalah experiences refreshing rains, fostering a delightful ambiance that breathes life into the region. These showers lead to the emergence of numerous waterfalls and springs among the mountains, some of which remain even beyond this season. However, many of these natural wonders are transient, disappearing once the season concludes.

The Khareef season draws a throng of visitors to Salalah, especially from within Oman and neighboring Gulf States, where scorching temperatures prevail. In stark contrast, Salalah enjoys temperatures ranging from 20 to 25 degrees Celsius during this season, creating a marked disparity. This variance in climate makes Salalah a sought-after summer retreat for residents across the Middle East.

Additionally, European and Western expatriates residing in the region also flock to Salalah during Khareef to relish the refreshing temperature shift. Salalah’s accessibility is noteworthy, being a mere 2 to 3 hours’ flight away from most of the Arabian Peninsula’s capital cities.

Given the heightened tourist activity during this peak season, it is strongly advised to secure sightseeing tours and hotel stay well in advance to avoid missing out on the opportunity due to full bookings.

For more details about this amazing season, read the post What is Khareef Season?

2. The Winter Season

The winter season stands as another favored period among tourists. This season spans from October through April each year, encompassing the months of October, November, December, January, February, March, and April. Throughout these months, the climate tends to be clear, marked by abundant sunshine and the absence of rain. Additionally, the beaches experience regular tidal patterns during this time.

During the aforementioned months, tourists hailing from European countries often flock to Salalah, seeking respite from the chilly temperatures in their home nations while indulging in a holiday getaway. The tourists are especially from Italy, Poland, Germany, France, and Chez Republic.

Within this article, we will present an exploration of the notable destinations to visit in Salalah during both the Khareef and winter seasons. This comprehensive guide aims to provide a thorough understanding of the city’s attractions during these distinct periods.

What is the best time to visit Salalah?

With Salalah experiencing two distinct seasons, a question often asked by visitors pertains to the ideal time for their Salalah sojourn. Fortunately, the answer is straightforward.

For those yearning to witness the spectacle of seasonal waterfalls, enveloping fog, mystical mist, and the transformative monsoon rains that adorn the mountains with lush greenery, August emerges as the prime month to visit Salalah.

Conversely, if the aim is to revel in the captivating landscapes and beaches, the winter months are deemed the most suitable for a Salalah expedition. During this period, the sun graces the days with warmth while maintaining a comfortable temperature, rendering the winter season the optimal time to explore the picturesque beauty of Salalah.

Best Places to Visit and Things to Do in Salalah

Salalah boasts an array of captivating destinations waiting to be explored. The following are a selection of the enticing places to visit and activities to partake in while in Salalah.

1. Pray at Sultan Qaboos Mosque

Sultan Qaboos Mosque is the largest mosque, not only in Salalah, but in Dhofar Region and outside of Muscat and Nizwa.

Situated at the heart of the city, this mosque is a grand testament to Islamic design, exemplifying its splendor. The prayer hall is adorned with ornate chandeliers, green carpeting, and intricate wall patterns, encapsulating the essence of Islamic aesthetics.

This is all year round attraction. So visitors in khareef season as well as other parts of the year can visit the Mosque. It’s worth noting that non-Muslims can explore the interior of the main prayer hall every morning, excluding Fridays.

This place is covered in Salalah City Tour and can be added as a stop in other amazing tours run by Beautiful Salalah Tours. There are some other very interesting places to visit in the city tour that you must not miss.

Further Reading: Sultan Qaboos Masjid Salalah

2. Explore the Beautiful Waterfalls

The best part of the Khareef in Salalah is the pleasant weather, drizzling, mountains turning green and the waterfalls. These waterfall will be available only in the Khareef season and depends on the amount of rain.

There are some really nice waterfalls, which are a must to see. Like Wadi Darbat Waterfalls, Ayn Athum , Ayn Khor , Ayn Gogub, Ayn Hamran, Ayn Ghaith, etc.

Further Reading: Detailed Post on All Waterfalls in Salalah

As a word of caution, most of mountains in Dhofar has fog in the khareef season and most of the time, the visibility is very low. It is better to book the sightseeing tour to experience these sites with the local Omani experienced guides. Contact us and we can help you on this matter by offering you the tours with the experienced Omani guide. We are Number 1 tour provider in Salalah as per TripAdvisor.

In addition to the waterfalls, many springs in Salalah are highlight of Khareef as well as winter season. For instance, Ayn Sahalnoot, Ayn Razat , and Ayn Jarziz are captivating springs in Salalah, each offering its own unique charm.

Since Khareef is peak tourist season, we highly recommend you to book the accommodation before they are fully booked.

3. Paddle the Boat at the Wadi Darbat, Oman

Without a doubt, the boat ride along the natural canal at Wadi Darbat is an absolute must-do activity. This valley stands as one of Dhofar’s most popular attractions, drawing numerous visitors. Beyond the motorized boat excursion, individuals can also choose to explore the watercourse on paddle boats or kayaks.

Adding to its allure, this valley showcases two splendid waterfalls, which emerged in 2018. Known as the cascade waterfall, it’s characterized by its interconnected streams flowing through the valley. The second waterfall descends dramatically from the cliff’s edge, forming an impressive Travertine Curtain.

Further Reading: Wadi Darbat – A Must Visit Destination in Dhofar

This is a year round destination. Therefore, anyone who visits Salalah at any time of the year can enjoy the beauty of this valley.

The tour to Wadi Darbat is included in both the Half Day East Salalah Tour and the Full Day East Salalah Tour . These are mostly private tour in 4×4 SUV for your family. But on request group tours can also be arranged. This is one of our most popular tours and is highly recommended.

4. Get Yourself Soaked with Water Splashes at Mughsail Blowholes

Mughsail Beach and Blowholes (also called geysers and natural fountains) at Marneef cave are the most visited place on the Western side of Salalah. The landscape of Mughsail Beach is stunning and the natural fountains are mesmerising. This is a year round tourist destination as well.

The natural fountains have more height in khareef season. However, in the other part of the year, these water jets are present but are not going that high. But, the fountains are charming throughout the year and a must when you are in Salalah.

Bird watching is a popular activity at Mughsail Lagoon. Moreover, horse riding and making barbecue are other popular activities on this beautiful beach. A day out at Marneef Cave, Al Mughsayl Blowholes and Mughsayl Beach is an ultimate picnic experience. No doubt, this can be visited in any time of the year.

We cover this amazing place in our West Salalah Tours, either in 3-4 hours Half day West Salalah Tour or in 7-8 hours Full day tour West Salalah Tour . Check more about these tours

Further Reading:

• Mughsail Beach – A Must Visit Beach
• Detailed Post on Marneef Cave and Mughsail Blowholes
• List of Stunning White Sand Beaches in Salalah

5. Discover Land of Frankincense – The UNESCO World Heritage Sites

As per UNESCO World Heritage site , there are four components that make Land of Frankincense. These sites are Al Baleed Archeological Site , Sumharam Old City (khor Rori), Wubar Archeological Site and Wadi Dawkah .

The first two are the ancient sea ports – Sumhuram (4th century BC to the 5th century AD) and Al Baleed (8th century till 16th century AD). From here Frankincense was shipped to other parts of world including Africa, Europe, India and China.

Frankincense was inland traded via the Lost city of Ubar. This outpost was close to Shisr, about 170 km inland of Salalah and in close proximity to the Great Sand Desert of Empty Quarter (Rub Al Khali).

The forth one on the list is Wadi Dawkah, which is an outstanding example of the frankincense plantation (Boswellia Sacra) area. From these trees, the resin was produced, collected and then traded.

All of these sites in UNESCO World Heritage list, can be visited throughout the year. We organize the tours to these archeological sites, with our tours like Salalah UNESCO world heritage Site tour ,

6. Sand Bashing at The Sand Desert of Empty Quarter Oman (Rub Al Khali)

Empty Quarter Oman is one of the most famous desert in the world. Also, it is one of the largest desert in the world. It is located after 2 hours drive on the North side from Salalah, Oman.

The desert has a lot of uniqueness and is a huge pile of Sand. Interestingly, Empty Quarter extends in 4 countries in Arabian Peninsula. Oman is one of these.

The desert can only be visited with guide and Beautiful Salalah Tours can arrange this trip for you. These guides are Omanis and know Salalah pretty well. Desert adventure needs an experienced driver. You can drop an email to  [email protected]  or book via TripAdvisor .

 There are 2 sightseeing options for Empty Quarter Oman. One is the Sunset Tour, while the other one is with an overnight stay at the desert in Bedouin Tents. Desert is only recommended for visit in winter (from October to April) due to temperature. Further Reading: The Ultimate Guide about Empty Quarter Oman – One of the Largest Desert in the World

7. A Picnic at Fazayah Beach with Camels

Fazayah is one of the most popular beaches in Dhofar. Known for its pristine and nature, Fazayah Beach is located on the western side after Mughsail Beach and Masood Hidden Beach. The road to the beach is off-road and we highly recommend you to book the guided tour to experience it in the best possible way.

You will find lots of camel in Fazayah Beach and they will be guests on your picnic at the pristine beach. Whether you are visiting Salalah in Khareef or winter, this should be on your Salalah places to visit.

• Fazayah Beach – The Beach you must visit
• Masood Hidden Beach of Mughsail

8. Pay Visit to Tombs of Prophets in Salalah

Salalah has tombs of four prophets. These are Prophet Ayub, Prophet Hood, Prophet Saleh and Prophet Imran.

Firstly, the Prophet Ayub (Prophet Job) Tombs is in the top of the hill in Jebel Ittin. He is known for the patience during the trials. The drive from Salalah city to Jebel Ittin is quite pleasant, and memorable. It will take around 30 minutes to reach the tomb.

During Khareef Season, the mountains are covered with fog and sometimes the visibility is very low on the roads. This could make driving on the mountain road quite challenging, especially for those who are not used to drive on the mountainous tracks. It’s advisable to go on a guided tour, with experienced driver to be on the safer side.

Secondly, Prophet Hood’s Tomb is located at 20 minutes drive on the Northern side of Salalah. He was a prophet sent towards the tribe of Ad, who are mentioned multiple time in Quran.

Thirdly, the other notable tomb is that of Nabi Imran. It is not clear who is Nabi Imran. He could be father of Prophet Mosa (Prophet Moses), or Grand Father of Prophet Issa (Prophet Moses) or another Prophet. The length of the tomb is around 12 meters, which makes it one of the largest in the world.

Fourthly, Prophet Saleh Tomb is located on the Eastern Side of Salalah, some 2 hours drive away from the City Center. However, a site in the city is famous for the footprint of a camel (Prophet Saleh’s camel) and it is also visited by many. This camel was sent as a sign to the Tribe of Samood (Quam e Samood).

• The Tomb of Nabi Ayub in Jebel Ittin
• Nabi Hood Tomb in Al Qara Mountains
• The Tomb of Nabi Umran in Salalah City
• Nabi Saleh Tomb in Hasik
• The footprint of Prophet Saleh’s Camel

9. Shop at the Souks in Salalah

Salalah has several souks (also spelled as souq), which are basically traditional style markets.

The most popular one is that of Haffa. Al Hosn Souk (also known as Al Haffa Souk, and Frankincense Souk) is an open air market besides the beach in Haffa district. This souk is specialized market in selling of Frankincense, Bukhoor, Perfumes, traditional clothes, other souvenirs and day to day use items.

Second souk on the list is Salalah Central Market. It is a relatively newer souk in Salalah City Center. This market has a lot of shop, mostly of fish, meat and fruits and vegetables. In addition to the shops, there are some restaurants as well.

The third souq is Gold Souk. Here, you will find gold and silver ornaments, traditional Omani Khanjar and other souvenirs. It’s not big, but it’s nearby to Central Market and Sultan Qaboos Mosque.

Last but not the least, Salalah has a new air-conditioned souk in one of the modern shopping mall. This is Souk in Salalah Gardens Mall. It sells Frankincense, traditional clothes and perfumes.

• Al Hosn Souk – The Frankincense Souk in Salalah
• Salalah Central Market in City Center
• Gold Souk – The place to buy Gold and Silver Jewelry
• Salalah Gardens Mall – The first Modern Shopping Mall in Salalah

10. Experience Sunset from the Cliff at Taqa Beach

Taqah is the nearest wilayat from Salalah on the Eastern site. The beach is beautiful. The cliff at the end of the corniche is one of the best spot to experience a wonderful sunset. Experience an unforgettable sunset from above the Indian Ocean and white sand shore, with a great view of Taqa City.

Taqa Beach is a paradise for Bird Waters in the morning. The entire white sand shore is full with birds.

Further Reading: Taqa Beach and Other Places to visit in Taqah

11. Adventure of Jebel Safari – A Drive to Remember

The drive on the mountains in Dhofar is an unforgottenable expereince. This is one the things to do in Salalah. Locally this is called Jebel Safari. Jebel is an Arabic word for mountain.

Dhofar mountains comprise of 3 renowned chain. Al Qara mountain (Jebel Al Qara), Jebel Shams and Al Qamar Mountains (Jebel Al Qamar).

Salalah city has mountains on its Norther and Eastern side. These are Al Qara mountains. The famous Ittin mountains, Wadi Sahalnoot, Zeek, Wadi Darbat, Wadi Naheez and other valleys are in Al Qara mountains.

• Explore Wadi Naheez
• Ittin Mountains
• Wadi Sahalnoot

At the eastern end, the Samhan mountains form the highest point in Dhofar. Its highest peak reaches 2,100 meters. Here you can see dense clouds below you, especially in khareef season. A perfect view point for capturing the time lapse of clouds movement.

On the western side of Salalah, after Fazayah Beach, the mountains of Al Qamar will captivate your attention. This will continue in Shaat, Rakhyut and Dhalkut. Just for information, this side is visited by tourists who have more time, as a trip to Dhalkut will take the entire day.

Our experienced guide will take you to the hidden beaches and fascinating landscapes. The hairpin road is popular highway to reach to this part of Dhofar, which has bends every few meters. The guide knows how to drive here even with fog as he knows the route.

• The Hidden Beach in Shaat – An Off-Road Track
• Places to Visit in Dhalkut
• Rakhyut and its Tourist Attractions

12. Discover Marine Life by Dolphin Watching Cruise & Diving

Salalah has diversifed marine life and coral. Moreover, there is a ship wreck in Mirbat as well. The underwater marine life, coral and ship wreck can be discovered by diving in Mirbat. Beautiful Salalah Tours arrange diving with pick and drop from the hotel.

If you don’t want to dive, you can do snorkeling instead. This is also arranged with the experienced staff and with all the gadgets required for diving and snorkeling.

Moreover, another way to explore the marine life is by cruise in Indian Ocean. The trips on speed boats make you see the humpback dolphins in their natural habitants and sometimes jumping as well.

Snorkeling, Scuba Diving and Dolphin watching tours are arranged only from October to May. Due to high tides in khareef season, these activities are not performed. To arrange any of these contact us and we would be happy to assist you.

Additional Tip: You can plan a visit to Mirbat after diving. Mirbat has a beautiful coast, a castle, fishing port, fish market, an old town and mausoleum of Bin Ali.

• Dolphin Watching in Salalah, Oman
• Diving in Mirbat
• Guide to Mirbat City, Old Town and Beaches

13. Trek at Tawi Attair Sinkhole

Tawi Atair Sinkhole Oman is the most famous sinkhole in the Dhofar. This sink hole is located in Tawi Atair, Eastern side of Salalah, after Taqa and Wadi Darbat and Before Mirbat.

You can go down this sinkhole either by trekking on the steep muddy trek or by rope access. Both of these can be arranged by Beautiful Salalah Tours, who is with you during Salalah Places to Visit.

There are two more sinkholes, which you can visit. These are Shaat Sinkhole and Taiq Sinkhole (also spelled as Tayq or Taeq Sinkhole).

All of these sinkholes are year round destination. Further Reading:

• Tawi Attair Sinkhole
• The Sinkhole at Taiq
• Shaat Sinkhole

14.  Experience Car Drive at Neutral Gear at Salalah Anti Gravity Point

Its an amazing experience to see the car going up the hill at Neutral gear (without any acceleration) at Salalah Anti Gravity Point (also known as Magnetic Point, or Gravity Hill). This is a really something unique. The car can move at a speed of 40 to 60 kilometers per hour without any acceleration.

Additional Tip: Just few meters away from the baffling site of Magnetic Point, you will find Baobab Trees in Wadi Hana. This is an impressive botanical reminder of Dhofar’s link with Africa.

• Salalah Anti Gravity Point Before Mirbat
• Baobab Trees in Wadi Hana near Anti Gravity Point

15. Sip Fresh Coconut Drink at Fruit Huts

Fruit Huts in Salalah are famous for the fresh fruits particularly coconut. Having coconut drink at tropical style fruit huts (stalls) is a refreshing activity, recommended for all.

Further Reading:  Coconut Drink from Beautiful Fruit Huts in Salalah

16. Get Inside the Castle in Dhofar

There are 2 prominent castle / Fort in Dhofar Region. The first one is Taqa Castle, which is located in the wilayat of Taqa. Whereas the other one is Mirbat Fort, located in Mirbat.

Moreover, there is one Palace in Salalah – Al Hosn Palace, which can be seen from outside only. This is in the middle of Salalah City right next to Haffa Souk. This is one of the palaces of Sultan in Oman. Entrance is not permitted.

• Taqa Castle in Taqah, Oman
• Mirbat Fort in Mirbat, Oman
• Al Hosn Palace in Salalah, Oman

Guided Tour In Salalah and Around

For booking the tour, you can contact Beautiful Salalah Tours, which is the leading online tour operator in Salalah. The company arranges the tour with the licensed guide, who are Omanis and know Salalah pretty well.

Booking the memorable tour with professional team of Beautiful Salalah is very easy. Just drop a Whatsapp message to our 24/7 customer support numbers  +968 9120 6678  or  +968 9012 3004  and book the trip.

Alternately, you can drop an email to  [email protected]  or book via TripAdvisor.

Beautiful Salalah Tours has 4.5 star review in TripAdvisor and is operating in Salalah since 2018. You can  read all the reviews on TripAdvisor  before making a decision.

Recommended Place To Stay In Salalah

For a memorable and comfortable family vacation, the best place to stay in Dhofar is in the city of Salalah. There are  Over 100 Hotels and Apartments on Booking.com for Salalah , which you can consider for your comfortable and memorable stay.

Below are our recommendations:

Luxury: Al Baleed Resort Salalah by Anantara

There couldn’t be any better choice of staying in Salalah other than Al Baleed Resort Salalah by Anantara. This is the finest and premium resort in the city with private pool villas, which are not available in other resorts.

The location of Anantara is excellent. It is next to the famous tourist location of Al Baleed Archeological Site, Frankincense Land Museum and is on the white sand beach of the Arabian Sea.

Indeed, it is a great place to have a fun filled family vacation.  Check prices, reviews, and availability here

Mid Range: Fanar Hotel and Residences

Although Fanar Hotel and Residences is a 5 star resort, its price is almost equal to that of a 3 star hotel in the center of the city. It is located at  Hawana Salalah Marina , and is by far the largest resort in Salalah.

The only drawback is that this hotel a little away from the city. But hotel will arrange the airport transfers, so there is nothing to worry about. Also if you have rent a car, or are planning to book guided tours by Beautiful Salalah then it’s an ideal pick.  Check prices, reviews, and availability here

Budget: Star House Elite

There are many apartments by the name of Star House, but this one is preferred as it is a nice apartment in the center of the city. There are many restaurants, including Indian cuisine and local food, at walking distance. It’s right opposite of the largest mosque in Salalah – Sultan Qaboos Mosque .

The most unique feature of this apartment is that its on the bus route of Mwasalat public transport and you can arrive here from airport using the bus.  Also Star House Elite is at walking distance from the bus station of Mwasalat, GTC, GLT, and other intercity buses.   Check prices, reviews, and availability here

The ultimate guide for Salalah Places to Visit ends here. If there is any place that is missed, you can write in comment. If you want to visit any of these places, write to us and we can arrange the sightseeing torus for solo, family, or group.

Is Salalah Worth Visiting?

Off-course Salalah is worth visiting. It’s a very unique place in the world – not just in Arabia and Middle East. The place has all what you can imagine – desert, beaches, mountains, waterfalls, springs, sinkholes, caves. In addition to these amazing landscapes, Salalah has delicious cuisine, friendly people, safe environment and pristine nature.

For adventure lovers, Salalah also has many things to offer. Salalah also offers camping options for those who want to spend time in the nature.

All of these are mentioned in the tourist guide above. So what are you waiting for. Just book the tickets, hotels and tours and come to this beautiful place. Thats why we call it Beautiful Salalah .

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34+ Tourist Places in Salalah: A Guide to the Best of Salalah

• May 25, 2023
• Reading Time: 20 minutes

Welcome to the enchanting city of Salalah, a hidden gem nestled in the southern region of Oman. Known for its breathtaking landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and pleasant climate, Salalah offers a unique and captivating experience for travelers.

In this comprehensive guide, we will take you on a journey through the best tourist places in Salalah, showcasing the city’s main attractions and hidden treasures. From historical landmarks to natural wonders, from vibrant markets to serene waterfalls, Salalah has something for every traveler’s taste.

Whether you’re a history buff, a nature enthusiast, or simply seeking a tranquil escape, Salalah’s diverse offerings will leave you in awe. Join us as we unveil the 34+ best places to visit in Salalah, ensuring that you don’t miss any of the must-see destinations during your visit.

Get ready to immerse yourself in the beauty and charm of Salalah and create memories that will last a lifetime. Let’s begin this exciting journey through the wonders of Salalah!

34+ Best Places to Visit in Salalah

The museum of the frankincense land:.

One of the most famous places in Salalah, the Museum of the Frankincense Land is a fascinating cultural institution that takes you on a journey through the history and significance of the frankincense trade in the region. Explore the exhibits that showcase the ancient artifacts, archaeological discoveries, and interactive displays, providing insights into the thriving trade routes and the importance of frankincense in the local economy. Gain a deeper understanding of the rich cultural heritage of Salalah and its connection to this precious aromatic resin.

Nabi Imran Tomb:

Visit the Nabi Imran Tomb, a revered religious site that holds significant historical and spiritual importance. This mausoleum is believed to be the burial place of Nabi Imran, the father of Maryam (Mary), who is revered in Islamic tradition. Admire the beautiful architecture of the tomb, which reflects the region’s traditional Islamic design elements. Take a moment for quiet contemplation and reflection in this serene and sacred place.

Ain Razat is a tranquil oasis located in the heart of Salalah, offering respite from the arid surroundings. This natural spring is surrounded by lush greenery, palm trees, and vibrant flowers, creating a serene and picturesque setting. Take a leisurely stroll along the pathways, enjoy a picnic by the water’s edge, or simply relax and take in the peaceful ambiance. The cool, refreshing waters of Ain Razat provide a delightful escape from the heat and offer a soothing experience for visitors.

Salalah Gardens Mall:

For a modern shopping experience, head to Salalah Gardens Mall, a premier shopping destination in Salalah. This expansive mall boasts a wide range of retail outlets, including international brands, local boutiques, and specialty stores. Explore the various sections of the mall, from fashion and accessories to electronics and home goods. Indulge in some retail therapy, browse the latest trends, and enjoy a memorable shopping experience in a vibrant and contemporary setting.

Places to Visit in Salalah During Khareef

Salalah is renowned for its unique weather phenomenon known as Khareef, which brings cool temperatures, misty landscapes, and lush greenery to the region. Explore the following attractions that are particularly enchanting during this season:

Wadi Darbat:

Wadi Darbat is a must-visit destination during Khareef. This picturesque valley transforms into a verdant paradise, with cascading waterfalls, flowing streams, and vibrant flora. Take a leisurely hike along the winding trails, marvel at the natural beauty around you, and immerse yourself in the serene atmosphere of this hidden gem.

Mughsail Beach:

Mughsail Beach is a stunning coastal area that captivates visitors with its rugged cliffs, pristine shores, and dramatic blowholes. During Khareef, the beach becomes even more alluring as the waves crash against the cliffs, creating a mesmerizing display of natural power. Enjoy a leisurely stroll along the sandy shores, soak up the breathtaking views, and witness the raw beauty of the ocean.

Jebel Ittin and Ayn Gharziz:

Jebel Ittin and Ayn Gharziz are two natural attractions that offer a unique experience during Khareef. Jebel Ittin is a mountain known for its mist-covered peaks and lush vegetation, providing a serene backdrop for nature lovers. Ayn Gharziz, located at the foot of Jebel Ittin, is a natural spring that forms a series of pools, perfect for a refreshing dip. Explore the trails, breathe in the fresh mountain air, and bask in the tranquility of these hidden treasures.

Taqah Castle:

Taqah Castle is a historical fortress that provides a glimpse into the region’s rich heritage. Built in the 19th century, the castle showcases traditional Omani architecture and offers insights into the area’s defensive strategies. Step inside to explore its well-preserved rooms, courtyards, and towers, and learn about the castle’s significance in the local history. The castle’s location near the coastline also offers picturesque views of the surrounding landscape.

Places to Visit in Salalah in July

Salalah in July offers a unique experience for travelers seeking to explore this captivating region. Although Khareef season is not in full swing during this time, there are still plenty of attractions to discover. Here are some noteworthy places to visit in Salalah in July:

Hawana Aqua Park:

Beat the summer heat and make a splash at Hawana Aqua Park. This family-friendly water park offers a thrilling array of slides, pools, and water attractions that guarantee hours of fun and excitement. From adrenaline-pumping water slides to relaxing lazy rivers, there’s something for everyone at this vibrant aquatic playground.

Qasr Al Hosn:

Explore the rich history of Salalah by visiting Qasr Al Hosn, a historic fort that stands as a testament to the region’s architectural and cultural heritage. Dating back to the 19th century, this well-preserved fort showcases traditional Omani craftsmanship and provides a glimpse into the past. Take a guided tour to learn about the fort’s significance and enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.

Fazayah Beach:

Unwind and soak up the sun at Fazayah Beach, a pristine stretch of coastline known for its soft white sands and crystal-clear waters. Whether you’re looking to swim, snorkel, or simply relax under the shade of a palm tree, Fazayah Beach offers a tranquil retreat away from the bustling city. Enjoy a leisurely beach day, indulge in a picnic, and immerse yourself in the natural beauty of Salalah’s coastal paradise.

Places to Visit Near Salalah

If you’re looking to venture beyond the city limits of Salalah, there are several captivating destinations nearby that are worth exploring. Here are a few notable places to visit near Salalah:

Ayn Khor is a natural spring located just a short drive from Salalah. Surrounded by lush vegetation and towering palm trees, this serene oasis provides a refreshing escape from the desert landscape. Take a dip in the cool turquoise waters, explore the surrounding trails, and enjoy a peaceful picnic in this hidden gem of tranquility.

Korr Jebel:

For outdoor enthusiasts and adventure seekers, Korr Jebel is a must-visit destination. This rugged mountain range offers thrilling hiking opportunities, scenic viewpoints, and the chance to witness breathtaking panoramic vistas of Salalah and its surrounding landscapes. Lace up your hiking boots, embark on an unforgettable journey, and marvel at the beauty of nature unfolding before your eyes.

Ain Sahlounout:

Ain Sahlounout is a natural freshwater spring nestled in the heart of the mountains near Salalah. Surrounded by lush greenery and picturesque cliffs, this hidden gem offers a serene setting for relaxation and contemplation. Enjoy a peaceful stroll along the trails, listen to the soothing sounds of the flowing water, and connect with nature in this tranquil oasis.

Ain Hamran:

Ain Hamran is a captivating natural attraction that showcases the beauty of Salalah’s landscapes. This natural spring is nestled amidst rugged mountains and lush vegetation, creating a picturesque setting for exploration. Take a leisurely walk along the trails, breathe in the crisp mountain air, and let the tranquility of Ain Hamran rejuvenate your senses.

Historical Places in Salalah

Salalah is steeped in history and boasts a rich cultural heritage. Exploring the city’s historical sites allows you to delve into its fascinating past. Here are some historical places in Salalah that should be on your itinerary:

Al Baleed Archeological Park:

Step back in time at the Al Baleed Archeological Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site that offers a glimpse into the ancient port city of Zafar. Explore the well-preserved ruins, including the remnants of a grand mosque, fortifications, and residential areas. The informative museum within the park provides further insights into the region’s maritime history, showcasing artifacts and exhibits that shed light on Salalah’s past as a bustling trading hub.

Located in the western part of Salalah, Al Haffa is a charming neighborhood known for its old-world charm and traditional architecture. Stroll through its narrow winding streets, lined with old houses and colorful shops selling local handicrafts and souvenirs. Immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere, browse the bustling markets, and experience the authentic Omani hospitality that characterizes this historic neighborhood.

Jabal Samhan:

Nature and history intertwine at Jabal Samhan, a mountain range overlooking Salalah. Besides offering breathtaking panoramic views of the city and the surrounding landscapes, Jabal Samhan is home to ancient rock formations and archaeological sites. Explore the rock-cut tombs, marvel at the intricate carvings, and imagine the lives of those who once inhabited these highlands.

Places to Visit in Salalah in December

December brings a different allure to Salalah, with pleasant weather and a sense of tranquility. Here are some enchanting places to visit in Salalah during this time of year:

Anantara Spa at Al Baleed Resort Salalah:

Indulge in a rejuvenating spa experience at the Anantara Spa, nestled within the luxurious Al Baleed Resort. Treat yourself to pampering rituals inspired by ancient wellness traditions, utilizing natural ingredients to soothe your body and mind. From relaxing massages to revitalizing treatments, this tranquil oasis offers a perfect retreat for ultimate relaxation and rejuvenation.

Yasameen Spa:

Yasameen Spa is another sanctuary of wellness and serenity, located in the heart of Salalah. Surrender yourself to a world of bliss as skilled therapists guide you through an array of therapeutic treatments. Experience the healing properties of traditional Omani rituals, invigorating massages, and indulgent beauty treatments, leaving you feeling refreshed, renewed, and ready to embrace the holiday season.

Arabian Fly Sport Fishing:

For fishing enthusiasts, December in Salalah offers exciting opportunities to cast your line and test your angling skills. Join a fishing excursion with Arabian Fly Sport Fishing and embark on a thrilling adventure in the Arabian Sea. Whether you’re a seasoned angler or a beginner, the experienced guides will ensure a memorable fishing experience as you try your luck at catching a variety of fish species.

Best Hotels in Salalah

Finding the perfect accommodation is essential for a memorable stay in Salalah. The city offers a range of excellent hotels that cater to different preferences and budgets. Here are some of the best hotels in Salalah:

Fanar Hotel and Residences:

Situated along the stunning coastline, Fanar Hotel and Residences is a luxurious beachfront retreat. The hotel boasts elegant rooms and suites with breathtaking sea views, modern amenities, and impeccable service. Guests can unwind by the pool, indulge in spa treatments, savor delicious cuisine at the on-site restaurants, and enjoy direct access to the pristine beach. With its tranquil ambiance and top-notch facilities, Fanar Hotel and Residences promises a truly remarkable stay.

Salalah Beach Resort:

Nestled amidst lush tropical gardens, Salalah Beach Resort offers a serene escape from the bustling city. The resort features spacious rooms and villas with private balconies or terraces, allowing guests to immerse themselves in the natural beauty of the surroundings. Take a dip in the swimming pools, savor delectable meals at the beachfront restaurant, and rejuvenate at the spa. The resort’s peaceful ambiance and proximity to the beach make it an ideal choice for those seeking relaxation and tranquility.

Millennium Resort Salalah:

Conveniently located near the city center, Millennium Resort Salalah provides a perfect blend of comfort and convenience. The stylish rooms and suites are well-appointed with modern amenities, and the resort offers a range of facilities including swimming pools, fitness center, and multiple dining options. Guests can explore nearby attractions, indulge in spa treatments, or simply unwind in the beautiful landscaped gardens. With its central location and exceptional hospitality, Millennium Resort Salalah ensures a pleasant and enjoyable stay.

Salalah Rotana Resort:

Situated along the white sandy beaches of the Arabian Sea, Salalah Rotana Resort offers a luxurious coastal getaway. The resort features elegantly designed rooms and suites, all with private balconies overlooking the sea or lush gardens. Guests can relax by the pool, enjoy water sports activities, dine at the various restaurants offering diverse culinary experiences, and rejuvenate at the spa. The resort’s idyllic setting and top-notch amenities make it a popular choice for discerning travelers seeking a truly memorable stay.

Hidden Places in Salalah

Salalah is not only known for its popular tourist attractions but also for its hidden gems waiting to be discovered. If you’re seeking off-the-beaten-path experiences, here are some hidden places in Salalah worth exploring:

Rub’ Al Khali Desert:

Venture into the vast Rub’ Al Khali Desert, also known as the Empty Quarter, for an unforgettable desert adventure. This expansive desert landscape spans across multiple countries and offers a surreal experience of untouched beauty. Marvel at the towering sand dunes, witness mesmerizing sunsets, and immerse yourself in the tranquility of the desert. Whether it’s a thrilling dune bashing excursion, a peaceful camel ride, or a serene night under the starry sky, the Rub’ Al Khali Desert is sure to leave you in awe of nature’s wonders.

Mirbat Salalah:

Travel to the picturesque coastal town of Mirbat, located southeast of Salalah, to discover its unspoiled beauty and historical significance. Explore the old town with its traditional houses and visit the ancient Mirbat Castle, a reminder of the town’s prosperous past as a trading hub. Stroll along the pristine beaches, enjoy fresh seafood at local restaurants, and soak in the laid-back atmosphere of this hidden gem.

Marneef Cave:

Tucked away along the scenic coastline, Marneef Cave is a natural wonder that deserves a visit. This sea cave offers breathtaking views of the turquoise waters and dramatic cliffs. During low tide, you can explore the cave and marvel at its impressive rock formations. Witness the power of the waves crashing against the cliffs, creating a spectacle of nature’s forces. The Marneef Cave is a hidden treasure that showcases the raw beauty of Salalah’s coastline.

Best Places to Visit in Salalah at Night

Salalah offers a captivating ambiance after sunset, with several attractions and activities that come alive in the evening. Here are the best places to visit in Salalah at night:

Salalah by Night Private Tour

Explore the enchanting “garden city” of Salalah on a captivating nighttime sightseeing tour. Accompanied by a private guide, delve into the city’s historical and natural treasures, including the picturesque Dahariz Lagoon, the informative Museum of Frankincense, the majestic Al-Hosn Palace, and the magnificent Sultan Qaboos Mosque.

Additionally, immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of local markets, where your knowledgeable guide will assist you in securing great deals and finding unique treasures to take home. Discover the beauty and allure of Salalah under the starry night sky as you uncover its hidden gems and create lasting memories.

Desert Overnight Experience

Embark on an unforgettable journey starting at noon, where we venture northward through the majestic mountains of Dhofar. Join us as we make our way to the mesmerizing Al Rub-al Khali desert, also known as the Ghadaf dunes, immersing yourself in the rich culture of the Arabian Bedouins.

Prepare for an extraordinary adventure as you actively participate in exhilarating desert activities, leaving an indelible mark on your memories. Experience the thrill of dune bashing, navigating the sandy terrain with excitement and adrenaline. As the day draws to a close, delight in a delectable evening dinner and retreat to the renowned Bedouin camp for an overnight stay, fully immersing yourself in the intricacies of desert life. Marvel at the enchanting night sky, basking in the desert’s tranquil ambiance.

Rest assured, our dedicated tour team is committed to ensuring every detail of your journey is meticulously crafted, providing you with a truly unique and unparalleled experience.

Waterfalls in Salalah

Salalah is blessed with natural beauty, and its waterfalls add a touch of magic to the landscape. Here are some mesmerizing waterfalls to visit in Salalah:

Located in the lush Wadi Athum, Ayn Athum is a picturesque waterfall surrounded by towering cliffs and lush greenery. The cascading waters create a soothing ambiance, making it an ideal spot for relaxation and tranquility. Take a refreshing dip in the crystal-clear pools or simply bask in the serenity of the surroundings. Ayn Athum is a hidden gem that offers a refreshing escape from the heat and a chance to reconnect with nature.

Situated in the stunning mountains of Salalah, Ayn Gogub is a stunning waterfall nestled amidst a rugged landscape. The waterfall cascades down a series of rocky terraces, creating a mesmerizing sight. Explore the surrounding area and marvel at the diverse flora and fauna that thrive in this oasis-like setting. The tranquil ambiance and breathtaking natural beauty of Ayn Gogub make it a must-visit destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers.

Ayn Tubrook:

Hidden within the scenic valleys of Jebel Samhan, Ayn Tubrook is a captivating waterfall that offers a peaceful retreat. The waterfall plunges into a tranquil pool, inviting visitors to take a refreshing swim or simply relax by the water’s edge. Surrounded by lush vegetation and towering cliffs, Ayn Tubrook is a hidden gem that showcases the pristine beauty of Salalah’s natural landscape. Take a moment to soak in the serenity of this secluded oasis and appreciate the wonders of nature.

Conclusion:

In conclusion, the 34+ tourist places in Salalah offer a remarkable blend of natural beauty, historical significance, and cultural richness. From exploring the ancient ruins of Al Baleed Archeological Park to experiencing the lush landscapes during the khareef season, Salalah has something for every traveler.

As you bid farewell to this enchanting city, carry the memories of its welcoming hospitality, pristine beaches, and vibrant souks. Don’t forget to explore the hidden gems that offer tranquility amidst the popular attractions.

Plan your visit based on the seasonal highlights, whether it’s the monsoon season or the cooler months. Salalah’s allure will leave an indelible mark on your heart, beckoning you to return and create more cherished memories.

Thank you for joining us on this journey through the best of Salalah. May your future adventures be filled with joy and the magic of travel. Safe travels until we meet again in the captivating city of Salalah!

Rent a Car in Salalah

When exploring the enchanting city of Salalah, having the freedom to roam at your own pace is essential. That’s where car rental services in Salalah come to your rescue. Whether you wish to immerse yourself in the natural wonders of Wadi Darbat or indulge in retail therapy at Salalah Gardens Mall, renting a car offers convenience and flexibility.

Choose from a wide range of vehicles, including SUVs for off-road adventures or comfortable sedans for city exploration. With reputable car rental companies like Orbit Car Rental & Lease, you can embark on a memorable journey, discovering Salalah’s hidden gems and experiencing the true essence of this captivating destination on your terms. Say goodbye to constraints and embrace the joy of independent exploration with a rented car in Salalah.

Frequently Asked Questions:

Q: what is special in salalah.

A: Salalah is renowned for its unique monsoon season, known as the khareef, which transforms the region into a lush green paradise. The city is also famous for its stunning beaches, historical sites such as the Al Baleed Archeological Park, and its warm Omani hospitality.

Q: Can I rent a car in Salalah?

A: Yes, you can easily rent a car in Salalah. There are several car rental agencies available in the city that offer a range of vehicles to suit your needs and preferences.

Q: How many days are required to visit Salalah?

A: The ideal duration to explore Salalah depends on your travel preferences and the activities you wish to engage in. To experience the main attractions and immerse yourself in the beauty of the region, a minimum of 3-4 days is recommended. However, for a more comprehensive exploration, you may consider extending your stay to a week or more.

Q: What do I need to rent a car in Salalah?

A: To rent a car in Salalah, you typically need a valid driving license, a passport or ID, and a credit card for the rental deposit. It is advisable to check with the specific car rental agency for their requirements and any additional documents or conditions.

Q: What is the best month to visit Salalah?

A: The best month to visit Salalah is typically during the khareef season, which occurs from June to September. This is when the region experiences its unique monsoon weather, with moderate temperatures, refreshing drizzles, and vibrant green landscapes. However, Salalah also offers pleasant weather and attractions throughout the year, so you can plan your visit based on your preferences.

Q: Is Salalah worth visiting?

A: Yes, Salalah is definitely worth visiting. With its captivating natural beauty, rich history, cultural heritage, and warm hospitality, Salalah offers a unique and memorable experience for travelers. Whether you are interested in exploring archaeological sites, relaxing on pristine beaches, or immersing yourself in local traditions and cuisine, Salalah has something to offer for everyone.

Q: Is Muscat better or Salalah?

A: Both Muscat and Salalah have their own distinct charm and attractions. Muscat, the capital city of Oman, offers a mix of modernity and traditional architecture, bustling souks, and historical landmarks. Salalah, on the other hand, captivates visitors with its natural beauty, picturesque landscapes, and the enchanting khareef season. The choice between the two depends on your preferences and the kind of experience you are seeking.

Q: Which is the coldest month in Salalah?

A: The coldest month in Salalah is typically January, where temperatures can drop to an average of around 20°C (68°F). However, it’s important to note that Salalah enjoys a relatively mild and pleasant climate throughout the year, with temperatures rarely reaching extremes.

Q: Why is Salalah famous?

A: Salalah is famous for several reasons. It is known for its unique khareef season, where the region experiences a monsoon-like weather pattern, resulting in lush greenery and pleasant temperatures. Salalah is also renowned for its historical sites, such as the ancient ruins of Al Baleed Archeological Park and the Museum of the Frankincense Land. Additionally, the city’s beautiful beaches, warm hospitality, and rich cultural heritage make it a popular tourist destination in Oman.

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Salalah Travel Guide + 10 Things To Do In Salalah

Updated April 2024, Salalah Travel Guide + 10 Things To Do In Salalah was originally published in July 2020

Most attractive during the lush and green khareef season, Salalah is Oman’s southern city and capital of the Dhofar Governorate. Oman has a long history as a center of Frankincense trade as much the finest come from around the Dhofar region and with Zanzibari nuances from the Sultanate’s former ties to East Africa makes Salalah feel quite unique, in fact, a world away from Muscat.

Start there:  The Ultimate Oman Travel Guide Grab a copy of Bradt Oman to kickstart your travel planning

Need Travel Insurance and Evacuation Services for Oman?

Start shopping for travel insurance plans over at  IATI Insurance . Readers of the Adventures of Nicole get a 5% discount off your plan.

The Adventures of Nicole partners with Global Rescue to offer the world’s leading medical evacuation and security advisory services. To travel with peace of mind, shop evacuation coverage at Global Rescue .

A Quick History Of Salalah

Reaching its zenith in the 13th century when Salalah was a main center of trade along the Incense Trail, the city was the functioning capital of Dhofar. As trade slowed, the city eventually fell to ruin.

In the 19th century, Salalah was absorbed by the Sultanate of Muscat and Oman, and from 1932 to 1970 it was the capital. In 1970 the capital was moved back to Muscat.

Where To Sleep In Salalah

We stayed at the  Belad Bont Resort  in Salalah on my recent visit, which I thought was a great midrange option.

Evan Hotel |  Booking.com  |

Belad Bont Resort |  Booking.com  |  Hotels.com  |

Millennium Resort Salalah |  Booking.com  |  Hotels.com  |

Things To Do In Salalah

Al baleed archeological site & museum of the frankincense land.

The ruins of Al Baleed are what remains of the ancient city of Zafar, where Frankincense was loaded on to ships bound for India. The area’s history dates back over 4,000 years and not much is known as to what lead to the ultimate abandonment of the Port of Zafar. The Museum of the Frankincense Land is a must-visit along with the Archeological Site.

Entrance to Museum of the Frankincense Land:  2 OMR

Dahariz Beach

As you’ll see in this post, many of Salalah’s attractions are actually located outside of the city. Dahriz Beach is a unique one, as the beach is sat smack in the middle of the city. A lit promenade backs the coconut-fringed beach, making this a great place to picnic in the day or stroll in the evening.

Al Husn Souq

Al Husn Souq is the place to go to pick up just about anything. From clothing to Frankincense, jewelry, to souvenirs to spices you can find just about anything you might be looking for. The locals working in Husn Souq are very forward and friendly, visit twice and several people will likely even remember you.

Fruit Plantations

Owing to its subtropical climate and lush khareef season, Salalah and the Dhofar region are home to a number of fruit plantations, most notably coconuts, as well as bananas and papayas. Take a two kilometer walk east of the Corniche in Salalah to reach the color fruit stands.

Short on time in Oman? Read my  one week Oman road trip guide

Things To Do Near Salalah

Mughsail Beach

Mughsail Beach is one of the most popular places tourists visit when in Salalah. There is a great viewpoint near the Al Marneef Cave nearby and the Mughsail Blowholes.

Al Marneef Cave

The Al Marneef Cave is a strange rock formation right on the coast. It’s easy to get to with a parking lot and walkway built right up to it, with the Mughsail Blowholes right nearby.

Al Fazayah Beach

Al Fazaya, in my opinion, is the best beach in Salalah for exploring. It’s a roughly 5 kilometer long stretch of sugary white sand with huge boulders dotting the coast. In a way, it took me back to exploring South Portugal’s Algarve beaches a few years ago, just with a different color scheme and a more wild demeanor.

A 4WD is recommended to get from the main Salalah-Surfeet Road down to the beach (however we chanced it and took a tiny car down there and made it down and up just fine).

Khor Rori sits just due east of Salalah and was once one of the most important in the world as it was an important trading post along the Frankincense route. Little is left from Khor Rori’s heyday, but the ruins of Sumhuram Archeological Park are worth a look if you’re coming all the way out here anyway.

Taqah Castle

Taqah is located just east of Salalah too, home to a fishing village and a lovely white sand beach. The main attraction to come to Taqah now is to visit the Taqah Castle. The castle dates back to the 19th century.

Entrance to the Taqah Castle:  0.50 OMR

Mirbat Fish Market

Located about 70 kilometers east of Salalah, the main attraction now is the morning Mirbat Fish Market and the bustling yet small port.

Looking for more ideas? Check out the  12 best things to do in Oman

Off To Yemen Next?

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Have Any Questions About Visiting Salalah?

Ask any questions about any of the things to do in Salalah in the comments section below.

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The best things to do in and around Salalah

For a few months each year, Salalah is swaddled in thick white clouds and wispy mists cling to dark forests and limestone cliffs. This has made the capital of Oman ’s southern Dhofar region a destination for rain tourism, which, in the Middle East, is quite the novelty. The khareef, as the monsoon is locally known, lasts from June to September and has long drawn rain tourists from across the Arabian Peninsula. But this city of swaying coconut palms and banana fronds holds charms even when the land reverts to its muted greens and browns, and there are plenty of things to do in Salalah. Notably, its white beaches become safe for swimming at the monsoon’s end.

Salalah has shed its small-town vibe. Today, it is a city of about 450,000 residents, with multi-lane motorways, luxury hotels and a revamped airport that opened in 2015. If you are already in the Arabian Peninsula, the best (and most carbon-friendly) way to appreciate Dhofar is by driving there , either through the gravel plains of Oman’s interior down Motorway 31 or, if you have a few days, along the spectacular south coast roads from Sur.

The best things to do in Salalah

Haffa Souk, the biggest frankincense marketplace in Oman

Shop at Haffa Souk

Frankincense was once traded ounce for ounce with gold and Dhofar’s Boswellia trees produced the best in the world. Today, you can buy the aromatic resin for just a few riyals at Al Haffa Souk . The market, also known as Al Hosn or Al Husn Souk, sits beside Al Hosn Palace, a beach and coconut groves. Al Haffa souk is Salalah’s oldest and most fragrant. Deep tubs hold frankincense in hues of pale yellow, green and silver. These translucent granules are said to heal the gut, revive libido, ward off jinn and cure a raft of other dilemmas. When the Moroccan explorer Ibn Battuta arrived in Dhofar in 1329, he remarked on the many women who owned and ran market stalls and this remains so. Many make their own bukhoor, or perfumed briquettes, and sell handmade clay burners. The souk has the usual smattering of souvenirs and textile shops. For women, it’s a good place to get a cotton thobe in psychedelia colours and useful if you want conservative but cool beachwear. Also handy for an Omani road trip : miniature, plug-in frankincense burners for your car. (You never know when you might, say, forget half a falafel sandwich in there during a cross-country trip. Trust me.) The souk is closed on Friday mornings and open until late at night.

Remains in the ancient site of Samharam

Wander the ancient city of Samharam

A Hadhrami king claimed to have founded the port city of Samharam (or Sumhuram) in the first century but the settlement had already been around for 200 years and was renowned for frankincense and myrrh in ancient Egypt , Greece and Mesopotamia. The city thrived for 800 years and was eventually abandoned from the fifth century AD, probably when Khor Rori harbour silted up. The archaeological site is 40-minutes east of Salalah. Visitors can amble through the remains of storehouses, multi-story homes and a temple to the moon god Sin, visit the adjacent museum and admire dusky camels bath languidly in the Khor Rori lagoon. Samharam is part of a UNESCO World Heritage listing recognising the Land of Frankincense, along with the Boswellia trees of Wadi Dawkah, the caravan oasis of Shishr and the ruins of the medieval town of Al Baleed in Salalah.

Wadi Darbat's network of waterfalls is a piece of monsoon magic

Chase waterfalls in Wadi Darbat

Dhofar is the place to chase waterfalls. These are not the rivers and the lakes that you’re used to but pieces of fleeting monsoon magic: aquamarine pools and waterfalls crashing off mountains. The best known, like Ain Athum and Ain Garziz, have sturdy paths, handrails and roadside stalls during the festive atmosphere of the khareef. Most loved is Wadi Darbat, where low waterfalls cascade into turquoise pools during the khareef. But the wadi is popular all year. Driving further into the wadi and past its vine-snarled trees, you’ll reach a pool where small boat rides are offered. These waters flow to the Samharam estuary and into the Arabian Sea.

The smooth mud walls of Taqah Fort

Visit the wali’s majlis at Taqah Fort

The 19th-century mud-walled fort is a newcomer compared to other forts and castles in Oman. Its wall and towers were added in the 1960s and it was renovated before opening as a museum in 1994. Nonetheless, Taqah has some beautiful examples of traditional Dhofari architecture and the fort is a charming museum. It served as the office of the local wali until the 1970s and you can sit in the governor’s old majlis, decorated with bright cushions and vintage peacock paintings, and imagine him hearing the grievances of the day. The fishing village of Taqah, just west of Khor Rori, was once famed for its myrrh. For Omanis, Taqah is perhaps best known as the resting place of Sultan Qaboos’ Dhofari mother, Mazoon Al Ma’ashani. She is buried in the graveyard beside the castle.

Scenic views from vertiginous Jebel Samhan

Touch the sky at Jebel Samhan

Rising to 2,100 metres, Jebel Samhan is the highest point in Dhofar, with spectacular vistas from above the cloudline. But when to go is a matter of perspective. Foreign visitors typically want clear days for panoramas of shrub-dotted valleys falling into the cobalt blue ocean. If you’re from the Arabian Peninsula, you probably prefer to grab a cup of spiced milk tea, or karak, from a food truck and enjoy the changing cloudscape. There is a paved and railed walkway to the lookout, a 50-minute drive, north-east of Taqah. Intrepid travellers can book hiking trips from local guides. The Jebel Samhan nature reserve is the last holdout of the elusive Arabian leopard and home to a motley crew of mammals: the Indian-crested porcupine, the striped hyena, the honey badger and the rock hyrax, a singing rodent-like creature whose unlikely closest living relatives is the elephant.

Easier to spot (and more stationary) are the mountain’s incredible flora: wiry frankincense trees, swollen desert rose trees and Arabian dragon trees with spiky mohawk tops. Dhofar’s vegetation is closely related to species in north-east Africa, from a time when this land was part of the continent.  Dhofar and eastern Yemen have at least 39 species of plants found nowhere else on earth and Jebel Samhan is a chance to see it all up close.

Tawi Attair sinkhole (sometimes known as Taiq cave) is one of the largest sinkholes in the world

Defy gravity at Tawi Attair

Peer into the depths of this vine-drenched sinkhole and you won’t see the ground, only the birds as they flit in, out and across the rift. ‘The Well of the Birds’ spans 100 metres across and plummets down 210 metres, more than twice the height of Big Ben in London. Or, you can stop at ‘The Location of Gravity’, which is, in fact, the opposite of what the signpost says. It’s 27 km south-west from Taqa on the road to Mirbat. Put your car in neutral at this ‘anti-gravity point’ and it will appear to mysteriously drive itself uphill. It’s an optical illusion. But feels like magic indeed.

The tomb and mosque of the Prophet Ayyub, also known as Job

Visit Job’s Tomb

Good-hearted Job was so devout that his faith never wavered when he lost wealth, health and family. He is known in Arabic as the Prophet Ayyub and his tomb is found in a small and peaceful compound on the plateau of Jebel Qara, 30 km north-west of Salalah. The mausoleum is a simple green and white room, perfumed by plumes of frankincense and lit by a chandelier. A decorative cloth covers the long tomb. The compound is not old but has the remains of a far older mosque. Drive to Job’s tomb past luminous green fields grazed by cows, goats and camels. The turnoff is 14 km after Ain Jarziz. Job’s tomb is not Salalah’s only holy site. Downtown, you can see the petrified footprints of the Prophet Saleh’s camel and, a ten minute walk away on Airport Road, the tomb of Prophet Imran.

Camel meat is a popular dish in the roadside stalls across Dhofar

Dine like a Dhofari

Camel meat sizzled on wadi rocks, served with spiced rice and fresh limes — for carnivores, this is Dhofari cooking at its best. Meat eaters can visit the roadside restaurants across from Atin (or Ittin) Park offering all manner of Dhofari-style grills, fresh juices and the regular selection of cold mezze dishes. Atin Street rises up a mountain towards Job’s tomb, with many places to stop en route for a picnic with good friends and hot tea. Fresh seafood, considered best when the khareef whips up nutrient-rich waters, is not to be missed. Liyali Hadhramout, near the Haffa Souk, has long communal tables and serves charred fish and other Yemeni dishes. For vegetarians, there are excellent Indian restaurants and cafeterias around Salalah. Udupi Restaurant, across from the Sultan Qaboos Mosque on 23rd July Street, offers fare from north and south Indian, including a perfect masala dosa. Just down the road from Udupi is Al Tannour Lebanese Restaurant, a good breakfast spot with covered outdoor seating. Try the foul, shashouka, or cheese and honey ma’anesh with fresh minty tea for a powerful start to the day.

Mughsail beach boasts six kilometres of white sand, complete with picnic shelters and frankincense trees

Get blown away by Mughsail Beach

Six kilometres of powder-soft sand, frothy waves and cratered cliffs make Mughsail the must-visit beach east of Salalah. Dramatic white mountains drop to the water’s edge and during summer, you can walk out under a limestone overhang to get a blast of salt water from Mughsail’s famous blowholes as waves pound its porous rocks. Mughshail is 45-minutes west of Salalah and crowded in summer. In winter, the waters calm, the tourists disappear and the beach is ideal for swimming, bodyboarding and picnics. During the khareef, stop at Eftalqot meadows on the road to Mughsail. In summer, its hills and seaside cliffs are covered in delicate yellow flowers that catch the mist. A Saudi tourist collecting blossoms for tea once told me such flowers grow in Paradise. Of that, I have no doubt.

Marneef Cave

Close to Mughsail Beach you'll find Marneef Cave, which, despite it's name, isn't actually a cave. This large rock structure which stands alone of the sand looking out to sea doesn't have an opening, but is instead surrounded by several other smaller caves, making this a popular rock climbing spot. The rocks feature several old engravings as well as walkways between them, making it easier to explore.

The best time to visit Salalah

The best time to visit Salalah will depend on whether you are looking to lounge on the beach, explore its coastal villages, or join the many travellers who come here every summer to witness the khareef season, during which the tail end of the southeastern monsoon engulfs the region in thick white clouds and wispy mists, transforming its muted landscapes into lush green valleys.

When is khareef season in Salalah 2024?

While it may translate to autumn in Arabic, the khareef season actually begins in the height of summer, starting in late June and ending in early September. While much of the Middle East bakes in temperatures averaging 43°C during the summer months, the khareef brings with it cooler climes, averaging the mid-twenties, naturally attracting many regional travellers in search of cooler climes.

Salalah Itinerary: A Practical Travel Guide to Dhofar Region in Oman (+map)

Planning on visiting Salalah and Dhofar region in Oman but not sure where to start? This Salalah itinerary planner will walk you through the best places to visit and things to do in Salalah , how to get to Salalah and around the Dhofar region as well as the best places to stay for any budget, including some great camping spots. Use my Salalah travel guide to easily plan your unforgettable visit to the tropicals of the Middle East. 

Soaring peaks are rising above the clouds, majestic waterfalls are dropping into turquoise rivers gushing through the valleys of verdant rolling hills covered in fog. Wind-swept tall palm trees dot the white sand beaches with hundreds of camels freely roaming around. This is Salalah, the capital of Dhofar, Oman’s largest yet most remote region. It is locally known for the Khareef season- a phenomenal tropical monsoon somewhat similar to the one in Kerala, India. 

While the temperatures are hitting up and over 50 degrees Celsius during the Middle Eastern summer, Salalah in the south of Oman is blessed with mild weather and rain from June to mid-September. This climatic wonderland is where many locals in the Gulf region seek cooler weather and rush to enjoy the lush greenery.  

Although less known to international tourists compared to Muscat and Northern Oman, Salalah is the most magical place you will find in the Middle East.

Based on my Salalah road trip experience, I share practical travel tips on how to visit Salalah and the Dhofar region in Oman . The suggested itinerary includes the best places to visit in Salalah , when to visit, how many days to spend, and other handy tips and interesting facts about the area. 

It is a long post, thus feel free to skip ahead using a table of content. But I recommended going through all of it to learn how to best plan your Salalah trip. 

• For detailed information about driving from Dubai to Salalah, make sure to check my practical guide for Dubai to Salalah road trip . It can be also used if you are driving from Muscat . 
• Planning an Oman road trip? Check my suggested itinerary for a 7-day Oman road trip which covers the Nothern part of the Sultanate.

Disclaimer:  This post contains affiliate links, which means that I may earn a commission if you make a purchase by clicking a link (at no extra cost to you). This helps to keep my blog running and growing by creating more awesome free content for you.

Ultimate Salalah Travel Guide: How to Visit Dhofar Region in Oman

Is it worth visiting salalah and why travel to salalah and dhofar region in oman .

Salalah is unquestionably worth visiting when traveling to Oman. And here is why: 

• Salalah is one of the most distinct areas in Oman and the Middle East rich in the jaw-dropping scenery of dramatic cliffs, wild white sand beaches with turquoise blue waters reminiscent of the Caribbeans, lush banana plantations, and cascading waterfalls. 
• Also known for the abundance of Frankincense trees, Salalah historically was a major trade center along the Incense Trail. That being said, a few important archaeological sites are present to be explored. 
• However, what makes Salalah so unique is the above-mentioned tropical monsoon season locally known as Khareef. Starting in June the climate magically switches from dry to foggy and rainy. This unusual to the Middle East weather allows Salalah’s landscapes to transform into a green misty wonderland which you can witness every year until late September. 

How many days in Salalah? 

When planning my road trip to Salalah, I wasn’t sure how many days do I actually need to visit the area as the sights are spread out all over the place in the Dhofar region. 

There are guides suggesting 1 or 2 days itinerary for Salalah. However, after visiting it myself, I would recommend budgeting at least 3 to 4 days in Salalah . If you can, aim for a week in Salalah to travel slowly and enjoy the best of Dhofar.

The easiest way to plan the logistics is to look at Salalah city as a jump-off point for visiting surrounding areas. Thus, you would need:

• A minimum of 1 day for the west of Salalah;
• At least 1 day for the east side of Salalah;
• 1 day for Salalah city and nearby attractions;
• Add 1 more day if you want to visit Empty Quarter in the north. 

3-4 days would be just a short glimpse into this wonderful region of Salalah. Stay longer if you can. 

• My top picks of Salalah, Taqa, and Mirbat accommodations (more recommendations of different accommodations in the area at the end of this post)
• Grand Flora Hotel – Located in the busy part of Salalah city this hotel offers a reasonable rate to have a clean simple room to sleep in. They also have a cafe and restaurant which is good value for money and an easy choice instead of looking where to eat in the city. Price range: $
• Al Balled Resort by Anantara – Located at the beachfront oasis, this is Salalah’s first villa luxury resort which will provide you with a full-on luxury experience and is the perfect place to stay if you plan just to relax. Price range: $$$
• Havanah Salalah – located 30 minutes east of Salalah city in Havana compound, this studio type of room for up to 3 people has its own kitchenette and terrace and is a convenient base for visiting wadi Darbat and Samhan mountain, as well as Mirbat and Taqah. $$$
• Lovely Beach Apartment – located on Taqa beach, close to Taqa viewpoint, and as the name suggests this self-contained apartment (up to 3 people) offers a balcony with great sea views. $$
• Alila Hinu Bay Resort Mirbat – this gorgeous resort a few kilometers east of Mirbat offers a 5-star experience and getaway. Modern rooms with terraces and private pools, a huge common pool area, a restaurant, and a wild beach close by. Price range: $$$.

The best time to go to Salalah?

Unlike the rest of Oman, Salalah and the south of Dhofar are year-round destinations. Thanks to the rainy Khareef season, the temperatures in the South Dhofar region average 27 degrees Celsius making it possible to travel to Salalah any time of the year.

Summertime brings Khareef and is considered the peak season attracting many local visitors and tourists from surrounding GCC countries (UAE and Saudi Arabia). 

Visiting Salalah during the shoulder season

If you want to see the barren mountains turn green, and chase a few waterfalls, but avoid the Khareef crowds, the ideal time to go to Salalah is around the first week of September to the middle of September. I visited on the last week of September and I still was lucky to catch the fog, and greenery and see a couple of waterfalls (although not at their full capacity). However, this varies year to year depending on the amount of rainfall during monsoon.

The other advantage going in shoulder Khareef season is that there won’t be as much rain and the fog coverage isn’t too dense to be able to admire beautiful landscapes. The downside of the shoulder season is that the temperatures are slightly higher than in summer (around 30 degrees as opposed to around 26) and it is still extremely humid.

Visiting Salalah during the peak Khareef season

Unlike the rest of the middle east, late June, July, until the end of August is the peak of the Khareef season. It is also the time to see the iconic landscapes of Salalah in full bloom. This is the time when local Omanis, as well as residents and citizens of surrounding GCC countries (Saudi and the UAE), rush to Salalah in order to escape the exhilarating summer heat common for the Arabian Peninsula. 

The Arabian monsoon season in Dhofar brings light rain and thick fog. However, it is not extremely windy or stormy as the Asian type of monsoon. For this reason, Arabs really love coming to Salalah in summer. 

If you love the mysterious foggy scene and don’t mind the rain and the crowds following a similar itinerary or would like to visit the yearly Salalah festival held mid-July to late August, then Khareef is a perfect time to go to Salalah. 

Note though that hotels get quickly booked out in Salalah during Khareef months.

Nonetheless, if you are planning on wild camping, this might not concern you. The only thing to have in mind is that it rains a lot, and staying outdoors overnight might not be the most pleasant experience for some. 

Visiting Salalah outside Khareef season (from October to late May) 

Although greenery stays through the autumn, come to Salalah in winter or spring and you will find barren landscapes similar to the rest of the Middle East.  The amount of greenery and prevalence of waterfalls (except for Wadi Darbat which is green all year round) depends on the rainfall during each monsoon season. 

Nonetheless, the weather temperatures in autumn, winter, and spring will be still pleasant to enjoy outdoors. Also, clear skies in winter will allow admiring of impressive cliffs and landscapes which are usually hidden in the mist and clouds during the rainy season. Wild camping, especially on the beach, is also more pleasant in winter. 

If you are planning on exploring the Empty Quarter, on the North side of Dhofar, then winter is the ideal time to do so as temperatures will be lower. 

Post and pre-monsoon times from October to November and May to June sometimes bring turbulent stormy weather to the Salalah area. This is something not to be taken lightly as there were catastrophic natural events in south Dhofar. 

How to get to Salalah? 

The fastest way to get to Salalah is to take a flight from Oman’s capital Muscat or from the UAE. It takes only 1.5 hours from Muscat and 2 hours from Dubai or Abu Dhabi to reach Salalah by air.  Search for affordable flights from any destination using Skyscanner .

Adventurous travelers often choose to go on a long road trip either from Muscat or Dubai (UAE) . The journey requires driving over 1000 kilometers for 10 to 13 hours (depending on where you start from) for the shortest but the most boring route running through the dry desert without any tourist attractions in between. 

Nonetheless, the trip can be parted with an overnight stop in Nizwa- a traditional and culturally rich town in North Oman. 

You can also choose to follow the coastal road which is more dynamic but significantly longer than the inland route. Be ready to drive over 20 hours from south to north of Oman or vice versa. Account for at least 2 overnight stops to reduce the continuous and tiring time by the wheel. 

Before you opt to drive to Salalah, make sure to also read my detailed Dubai to Salalah road trip planner. 

It is possible to reach Salalah from Muscat by bus. The journey takes over 12 hours. The bus station is located in the Ruwi area. Surprisingly, the ticket price for such a long journey is only 10-20 EUR, depending on the bus company and the quality of the bus.

Oman visit visa

As a UAE resident, you no longer need a visa to enter Oman (your residency must be valid for at least 3 months). As a tourist in UAE, you will have to apply for Oman visit visa.  Some nationalities (mostly EU passport holders and the UK, US, and Canada) can also obtain a visa on arrival, although getting it online is recommended.

You can get an Oman visa online via the Royal Oman Police website. Alternatively, you can use ivisa services. Those guys will get the Oman visa sorted for you for an extra fee. 

ALSO READ: You can find detailed information about UAE-Oman visa types and requirements in my Dubai (UAE) to Oman by road post.

Do I need 4WD to visit Salalah? 

4WD is not essential to visit many of Salalah’s attractions. However, it is beneficial if you want to explore more and go offroad, as well as reach some of the secluded beaches. Also, if you are visiting during the Khareef season, some places which were reachable with any car during the dry season will be accessible only in a 4×4 (like Fazayah beach, for example). 

4WD is essential if you are planning to go into the desert (granted you know how to drive in the dunes) and some secret beaches via very bumpy steep offroad. 

If you are flying into Salalah and thinking about what type of car to rent, I would recommend still getting a 4 WD for complete freedom to reach all the places. 

Looking for a great rental car deal? I use those websites to shop for the best car hire rates:

• Check for the best car rental rates in Oman and UAE at Discovercars .
• Also, browse UAE rental car offers with local providers at Localrent .
• I also recommend cross-checking the offers with the biggest car search engine Rentalcars .

Salalah itinerary: the best things to do and places to visit in Salalah

Salalah City serves as a great base for visiting southern Oman. Most of the natural attractions lay outside the city spread in all directions and require 20 min to 2 hours of driving time, depending on the destination. 

For this reason, the best way to plan your Salalah itinerary is to dedicate different days to visit the west, east, central and north areas of Dhofar governorate. 

West of Salalah: best places to visit

Let’s start with the most dramatic area of all – the west side of Salalah. If you only had one day in Salalah, I would strongly recommend heading West toward the Yemeni border. 

The stretch of the coastline to the west of Salalah is the most jaw-dropping featuring high cliffs raising above the clouds, windy roads leading to secluded beaches, and a few sleepy Omani villages which surprisingly had the best specialty coffee in the area. The scenery reminiscing of Jurassic Park in close vicinity to the barren lands is something I found very fascinating.

The most beautiful places in west Salalah that you should include in your Salalah itinerary:

• Al Mughsayl beach and the blowholes (only seen in Khareef);
• Fazayah beach-one of the most beautiful beaches in the area (4WD is a must during Khareef);
• Shaat mountain viewpoint;
• Rakhyut seaside town;
• Dhalkut – the last town before the Yemeni border.

Al Mughsayl beach and the blowholes

Al Mughsayl (Al Mughsail) beach is one the well-known places in Salalah and is an extremely popular destination to visit due to the wonderful landscapes and phenomenal blowholes-the natural water fountain shooting from the ground. Kids especially find this attraction fascinating. Note that blowholes are only in their full power during Khareef season. The rest of the year you won’t see much.

Tip: if you want to skip the crowds you should visit Al Mughsail blowholes first thing in the morning. Together with Al Marneef cave in the same area, Mughsail is one of the most visited places in the west of Salalah. 

Before you reach the popular spot of Mughsail, you will pass an incredibly beautiful stretch of white sand beach with soaring rocks in the distance. To me, this part of Mughsail beach was more exciting than the tourist spot with blowholes and the cave. Although you can’t deny the beauty of the area, it is just too commercialized to my liking. Thus, I didn’t spend there much time. 

Continuing further west, you will start ascending Jabal Qamar taking some serious hairpin roads until you reach the turn-off point to Al Fazayah beach. 

Al Fazayah beach

The wild turquoise blue Fazayah is one the best beaches in Salalah and Dhofar governorate. Composed of the main beach and several secluded coves, Fazayah is accessible through a windy dirt road with mind-blowing views all around. 

You should have a 4WD if you are visiting during the rainy season. However, sedans with stronger engines also can manage driving slowly when it is dry. 

Shaat mountain viewpoint

At 1000 meters above sea level, suspended in the clouds Shaat mountain and a village of the same name are yet another impressive sight in West Salalah. 

The Shaat viewpoint is often covered in clouds and you will need some luck to get a clear view of the far-stretching high cliffs. It is very unlikely to get an opening between the clouds during Khareef season, but during the dry season in winter you should definitely be able to see some of the most amazing coastline views. 

Shaat secret beach (4 WD is a must) 

Another adventurous spot in the Shaat area is Shaat secret beach accessible only in 4WD. It is a small piece of paradise reachable within a steep offroad drive with a 1000-meter drop in elevation. Visiting Shaat hidden beach for safety reasons is advisable only during a drier season.

IMPORTANT: there is a military checkpoint before you reach Shaat viewpoint. Make sure you carry your passport, driving license for the driver, and car registration documents. The process is quick and straightforward- you will be asked where you going and that is it-officers are friendly.

Rakhyut fishing town

A quaint Rakhyut fishing village is situated midway from Shaat to Dhalkut. The drive to Rakhyut offers some of the most scenic vistas. The village itself is mysterious featuring a large beach with high cliffs around it. Account for 45 minutes one way when descending to Rakhyut from the main road. You can stop for lunch at one of a few local restaurants and get some great coffee in a kiosk next to Rakhyut wadi. 

Dhalkut – the last town before the Yemeni border

The last sleepy village even more strange than Rakhyut town is Dhalkut. It is also the last settlement before the Yemeni border and you will pass one more military checkpoint. 

The road leading to Dhalkut is sort of trilling-windy, steep and at the same time extremely scenic. 

We found a group of camels chilling in the sea-a scene I was always dreaming to photograph, thus the long drive was definitely worth it. 

Make sure to try the yummiest pistachio latte sold in a lonely kiosk at the very end of the main street which runs along the beach.

You can also stop at the ages-old baobab tree on your way in or out of Dhalkut.

TIP: If you want to visit all the above-mentioned places as a day trip from Salalah town, you must start extremely early with the sunrise or even before, and only spend a short time in each location. Trust me I tried doing them all in one day starting late at 9 AM and had to skip Al Fazayah beach because we ran out of daylight. 

The drive to the farthest point which is Dhalkut town is 2.5 hours. Detour to Rakhyut village adds another 45 minutes one way (1.5 hrs down and back up). You would also need at least 30 minutes to go down to Al Fazayah beach (1hour round trip).

Ideally, I would recommend sparing two days for visiting the west side of Salalah. You could go to the beaches of Mughsayl and Fazayah, as well as the Shaat mountain viewpoint on one of the 2 days, drive all the way to Dhalkut, and trace back with a stop at Rakiuyt on the second day.

Or if you are planning on camping, you could start from Dhalkut and move backward towards Salalah with an overnight stop in Rakhyut, or Shaat. Camping at Fazayah beach is also a great option during the drier season. 

East of Salalah: best places to visit

None of Salalah’s itinerary would be complete without visiting at least one of the wonderful waterfalls which are at full flow during the Khareef season. Some of the most beautiful waterfalls can be found on the East side of Salalah. Also, unmissable is Samhan mountain which rises above the sea of clouds, the antigravity point, and some characteristic fishing villages. 

The main attractions to visit in the East side of Salalah:

• Ayn Athum waterfall;
• Travertine Curtain Waterfall and Wadi Darbat;
• Jebel Samhan;
• Anti Gravity Point;
• Mirbat fishing town;
• Khori Rori (Sumhuram) archeological site.

Ayn Athum waterfall

Located in Jabel Qara, around 30 minutes drive through verdant hills east of Salalah City Ayn Athum waterfall (Ayn in Arabic means waterfall) is present during Khareef season. This gorgeous waterfall is cascading 15 meters down the rock and fills up a turquoise water basin. 

The accessibility of the Ayn Athum makes it one of the most popular waterfalls in the area. Arrive early in the morning if you want to enjoy yourself in peace. 

Travertine Curtain and Wadi Darbat waterfalls

Located in a year-round green gorge, Wadi Darbat waterfalls are the most famous in Salalah. Although undeniably beautiful but way too popular for my taste. One of the reasons is that Wadi Darbat waterfalls are easily accessible by any car. It is the most commercialized waterfalls area, where you can even find food stalls, and hire a small boat for paddling in the river. This makes it a very popular destination for families.

Note: swimming in the river is not permitted. 

Nonetheless, the most impressive and my favorite is the Travertine Curtain waterfall or Darbat Cascading Waterfall. It is more secluded than Wadi Darbat, although can be spotted from afar when driving the main road from Salalah to Taqah.

To reach the waterfall you must hike for around 15 minutes alongside the river via a rough path, parts of which require climbing up the boulders. For this reason, only the fit visitors attempt to get there, while families choose the more popular Wadi Darbat. 

You can also access Travertine Curtain by climbing up the hill via a dirt road which you can spot before reaching the car park. The elevated views of the waterfall are also beautiful. You can then descend to the waterfall through the bushes following a dirt path.

Note that as tempting as it looks, the Travertine Curtain water basin is not suitable for swimming due to strong currents. 

Jebel Samhan viewing point

Part of Jabel Samhan Nature Reserve, Mount Samhan is a massif literally rising above the clouds. Home to the endangered Arabian Leopard, Jebel Samhan is part of the highest mountain range in the Dhofar region and also the most striking place you will visit east of Salalah. 

The viewing point of Mount Samham is accessible by 2WD. You can also stroll above the clouds following a well-laid path for around 100 meters which later continues as an unpaved narrow mountain path following the edge of the cliff.

Anti-Gravity Point

Following the windy mountain road from Jebel Samhan towards Mirbat, you will come across the most mysterious place in Salalah, Oman. This is Antigravity Point or Magnetic Point. Here you can watch your car in neutral gear and see it moving uphill.  

I did not believe it until I tried it myself- indeed we set the gear to N and watch the car moving up. So, what is the science behind it, or is it really a supernatural phenomenon? Apparently, it is some sort of optical illusion. The road due to the surrounding landscape appears going uphill while in reality, it is a slight downhill. 

Mirbat fishing town

Once a prosperous frankincense port, the quiet Mirbat fishing town on the east side of Salalah is worth a visit if you love photographing local rugged places and fishermen at work. A strange town reverberating with cries of seagulls doesn’t seem to see that many tourists around. Nonetheless, Mirbat offers a unique setup with worn-out houses and colorful fishing boats lining up the port. I definitely enjoyed my short evening photo journey around the area.

Mirbat is located 1-hour drive from Salalah and could be a good overnight option if you are en route back to the North of Oman via the coastal road.

Khori Rori (Sumhuram) 

A river running through Wadi Darbat makes its way to the sea at Khori Rori located near Taqah town where you will find an important archaeological site – Sumhuram. It contains ruins of an ancient city that used to be an active harbor between the 4th century BC and the 4th century AD. Historically an important frankincense trade port, Sumhuran is prescribed to the UNESCO heritage list. 

If you have more time those are the other points of interest in the area:

• Ayn Tabrook Waterfalls;
• Tawi Atair (Sinkhole);
• Taqah Castle;
• Taqah Viewpoint.

Best places to visit in Salalah city

Salalah is the second biggest city after the capital Muscat, although just a quarter of its size. Outside of less striking Salalah functional districts, the most exciting part of the city can be discovered in frankincense-infused alleyways of the old souq, palm-fringed white sand beaches reminiscing of Zanzibar and Bengali fresh fruit stalls lining up against the lush banana plantations. 

Places to visit in the city of Salalah:

• Salalah City beach (Al Haffa beach);
• Al Husn old Souq at Haffa;
• Coconut Huts;
• Al Baleed Archeological Park.

Salalah City beach (Al Haffa beach)

White sand Haffa beach lined with wind-swept tall skinny palm trees reminds more of the Caribbeans than the Middle East. 

Right at the center of Salalah City, it stretches for several kilometers east end west and offers some of the most spectacular sunsets. Locals flock to enjoy their evening at the beach. The downside is that people bring their cars as close to the sea as they possibly can. Nonetheless, it is still an interesting sight to witness in Salalah town.

For those of you keen on swimming, note that the sea is very rough during the Khareef season. However, if you come in winter and decide to have a beach day out tanning and swimming, make sure to wear shorts and a t-shirt as the beach is frequented by locals. Omani culture is conservative and it would look and feel awkward laying down on the public beach in a bikini. 

If you are aiming to suntan, the best is to stay at one of the wonderful Salalah resorts which are more tourist-oriented, or find some secluded empty beaches on the west or east side of Dhofar. 

Al Husn old Souq at Haffa Beach

A traditional Omani market just steps away from the shores of the palm-fringed beach of Salalah city is a place to wander around and shop for what Salalah has best to offer-frankincense. The Old Souq is quite small as many vendors ventured to the newer area in Haffa. Nonetheless, wandering those few alleys offers a unique cultural experience. You can even see women vendors covered in veils-something I haven’t seen in any other Souqs in Oman. 

In Al Husn souq, apart from frankincense incense, you can shop for traditional Omani attire, spices, tourist souvenirs, and Arabic oud (perfume). 

Opening times: daily, might be closed from 12 PM to 4 PM.

Coconut Huts

Lush banana, mango, and papaya plantations cover a considerable area of Salalah city. Driving on Sultan Qaboos street eastwards from Al Husn old Souq, you will find many coconut huts. Those Bengali-run fruit stalls sell fresh mangoes and coconut juice, sweet bananas, and papayas. This place definitely makes you feel like you are somewhere in a jungle of Asia. Make sure to stop and grab refreshing fresh coconut juice for as little as 1 EUR (around 300 Baisas). 

You will find more of the coconut huts located around the farms and the Al Haffa area. 

Al Baleed Archaeological Park

Another UNESCO heritage site and open-air Al Baleed Archaeological Park is what used to be Zafar-an ancient city of Salalah. It used to be an important frankincense port that flourished between the 8th and 16th centuries with the biggest trades happening between Africa, China, and India. Inside Al Baleed park you will also find the only museum in Salalah- a Land of Frankincense museum where you can grasp more information about the history of the area. 

Did you know that: Frankincense, also called desert tears, is a resin extracted from the Boswellia Sacra tree? Frankincense has been an inseparable part of Salalah’s everyday life and culture since ancient times. It used to be the most valuable commodity which earned Dhofar region and Oman a fortune before the oil was discovered. Virtues attributed to frankincense are several: medicine for digestion, tooth cleanser, perfume, magical incense, and even an aphrodisiac. 

North West of Salalah City

Ayn khor waterfall.

Ayn Khor is one the most popular seasonal waterfalls located in the northwest of Salalah. It appears only during the strong monsoon season, and thus might not be present every year. To reach it, you will need a 4WD car, or you can hike through the riverbed for a couple of kilometers. Arrive early to avoid the crowds. 

Did you know that? Dhofar region in Oman has the largest camel population in the world. I have never seen so many camels gazing and freely roaming around the streets and beaches like in Salalah and around Dhofar. They are also some of the luckiest ones in the Middle East feasting on the lush green plants, unlike their brothers and sisters that live in the barren desert areas. 

North of Salalah : best places to visit

Traveling up north from Salalah will bring you back to the vast desert lands. No more greenery or Khareef here, but the desert landscape is far from flat. 

It is an Empty Quarter (Rub al Khali) – the largest sea of sand dunes in the world covering an area of no less than 650 000 square kilometers. It is shared between Oman, Yemen, Saudi Arabia, and the UAE. An important cultural attraction at the edge of the Empty Quarter is the Lost City of Ubar which you can also visit on the way to the dunes.

Dedicate a full day or, even better, an overnight stay under the stars. It takes two hours of driving to get to the Lost City of Ubar and the Empty Quarter up North of Salalah. 

Lost city of Ubar

Discovered only in 1992 at the edge of the Empty Quarter, the Lost City of Ubar used to be yet another important trade center of frankincense. Moreover, it is believed to be the Iram of the Pillars, a lost city mentioned in the Quran.

Today you can visit the unearthed ruins of the Lost City of Ubar. 

Empty Quarter

To properly explore the magnificent sand dunes of the Empty quarter you need a 4×4 vehicle and an experienced driver who is skilled to navigate the vast desert and drive over the 100 meters tall shifting dunes. If you do not know how to drive in the desert you can drive to the edge of the Empty Quarter to catch a glimpse of it.

However, the best way to experience the Rub Al Khali desert is to actually drive into the dunes. I have not visited the Empty Quarter in Dhofar because I have been to the one in Liwa, in the UAE.

Nonetheless, if you have never visited a desert with massive sand waves before, don’t miss the opportunity to join a safari tour. Overnight camping will take your experience to another level. You will be able to see the desert at its best during the sunset and sunset hours. 

Click to check overnight Salalah desert tours on Viator:

Places to visit in Greater Dhofar Region

Driving east from the fishing village of Mirbat you will be blessed with some of the most unspoiled landscapes in the area. Empty wild white sand beaches are lining the coast and are easily accessible from the main road. While on the other side of the road you have towering rugged mountains.

Note that there are no big towns or villages after you leave Mirbat. Thus, if you need to stop for a night, your only option will be camping as the next nearest town with accommodation will be Duqm (6-7hours away from Salalah). 

Hasik beach (made up name) 

We camped on this beautiful beach where the white sands meet the mountain. I called Hasik beach as the nearest town driving eastwards is a tiny Hasik village. 

Wadi Suneik (or Suniq)

A lush green oasis nestled between barren rocks and the river stream flowing into the sea-Wadi Suneik is a little miracle in the middle of the dry terrain. 

You can access Wadi Suneik from the main road. If you are traveling during cooler months, you can even choose to camp there. Otherwise continuing up north, the steep windy road will take you above the expansive canyon with several viewpoints worth stopping at. 

Note that this 150 kilometers stretch from Mirbat to Wadi Suneik is the most picturesque on the coastal road. The section from Wadi Suniq to Sur is nice but not as impressive. Thus, only if you have plenty of time, should you take this road. Otherwise, you can drive the coastal road until wadi Suniq and then come back to Salalah making it a long day trip. 

READ MORE: Dubai to Salalah road trip planner .

Best places to stay in Salalah and South Dhofar

Most of the accommodation options are clustered in Salalah City and that is where visitors usually choose to stay. Taqah has a few accommodation options, mostly self-contained apartments, while Mirbat town has plenty of choices to rent villas and apartments, which are perfect for bigger groups.

Alternatively, you have plenty of ground to camp. You can choose to pitch a tent above the clouds in the mountains, or at the beach. Wild camping in Oman is allowed and very common. Please refer to the map where I pointed out good options recommended by other travelers. 

• Salalah accommodation suggestions
• Belad Bont Resort – located on the West side of Salalah, this resort offers a terrace, swimming pool, modern rooms, and a restaurant with a well-rated breakfast. Price range: $$
• Taqah accommodation suggestions
• 2-bedroom apartment – simple but a new apartment in Taqa town can host up to 6 people. Price range: $
• 1-bedroom apartment – Very basic but spacious self-contained apartment is suitable for a group of 4. Price range: $$
• Mirbat accommodation suggestions
• 3-bedroom villa – massive villa in Mirbat town can host up to 6 people. Price range: $
• 2-bedroom chalet – this apartment is suitable for 6 people, is a few kilometers outside Mirbat town, and offers a private pool. Price range: $$

Salalah and Greater Dhofar Map

How to use the map: Click on the map image above to open my maps in a new window and locate all the places mentioned in this Salalah travel guide. Click the tab in the top left-hand corner to open the layers (points of interest, accommodation, driving routes, etc.). You can save this map on your Google Maps account by clicking on the small star icon next to the name of the map. To open the saved map on your phone or laptop, open Google Maps, then click the menu button, go to “Your Places”, and click maps where you will see this map saved on your list.

I hope you are enjoying my free travel guides & tips. If yes, please consider supporting my work by buying me a coffee so I can continue creating more useful content from my favorite coffee shop in town. Thanks!

Oman travel essentials

• RENT A CAR : The best way to explore Oman is by self-driving. Rent a car at the best rates at Discover Cars .
• FLIGHTS: Use Skyscanner to find the cheapest and fastest flights to Oman from your location.
• VISA: Apply for an Oman visa easily at iVisa .
• ACCOMMODATION: book your perfect hotel stay on Booking .
• TRAVEL INSURANCE: get 5% off your insurance by using my link on Heymondo , a travel insurance provider.
• GUIDED TOURS: book the best-rated guided tours and day trips in Oman on Viator .
• Local SIM Card: Get a tourist pack of local data and calls at Muscat airport. Omantel provides the best coverage.
• Flight got canceled or delayed? You might receive compensation if you depart from an EU country. Consult and receive assistance from Skycop if you are eligible for compensation.

More blog posts about Oman

• Driving to Salalah? Make sure to also read my Dubai to Salalah road trip planner .
• Plan your Oman visit with my  1-week Oman road trip itinerary .
• Renting a car and driving in Oman: everything you need to know.
• Traveling from UAE to Oman by road or vice versa? Check useful information about  UAE-Oman land border crossing using this guide .
• Plan your visit to  Wadi Shab-one of the most beautiful natural attractions in Oman .
• Plan your visit to Musandam with my detailed  Musandam from Dubai road trip guide.

Hi! I am a freelance photographer & videographer as well the creator of www.theroadreel.com. Born in Lithuania, and currently residing in the UAE, I have been traveling around the globe independently for over a decade. I created The Road Reel to share my passion for travel and photography through detailed road trips and city itineraries, and hiking guides, along with regular and drone photogragraphy tips.

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PLACES TO VISIT IN SALALAH, OMAN

Scribbled by Claire   |   03 Mar 2023  |  MIDDLE EAST   |  OMAN

◊ Salalah, Oman’s second city, isolated on the far-south coast near the Yemeni border, feels a world away from, well, anywhere. It could be an independent nation, surrounded by the utterly inhospitable Rub al Khali desert, the vast oil plains of central Oman and thousands of kilometres of entirely empty, breathtaking coastline. If you choose to travel via the desolate, 1000-plus-kilometre trail from Muscat, Salalah’s impact is especially significant.  Despite this description, Salalah, the foremost city in the governorate of Dhofar, has plenty of things to do for any visiting tourist – its diversity is astounding. The city itself, unlike much of Oman, is covered in fruit trees rather than date palms. During the Khareef summer season, the surroundings are a deep, fertile jungle green, with waterfalls spilling over melting travertine cliffs. In the winter, Salalah is perfect for camping and outdoor adventures, with clear skies and some of the best beaches on the planet. The Dhofar Mountain landscapes are as spectacular as the  Hajar range  in the north, with craggy, precipitous ridges jutting up against the remarkable turquoise of the Arabian Sea. For the most intrepid, the deep, almost glowing, burnt orange of the Rub al Khali desert sports some of the largest sand dunes on the planet. Although Salalah often comes up second fiddle to Muscat, receiving significantly less visitors than its capital to the north, this does not do justice to the city’s beauty. Having spent many weeks in the region over three trips, this is our exhaustive, enthusiastic list of the best places to visit in Salalah, Dhofar. ◊

Hajar Mountains

Beehive Tombs

IN THIS GUIDE //

Places to visit in Salalah, Oman

WHY VISIT SALALAH? GETTING TO SALALAH – DRIVING FROM MUSCAT TO SALALAH — THE SCENIC ROUTE – MUSCAT TO SALALAH BY BUS – MUSCAT SALALAH FLIGHTS – DUBAI TO SALALAH WHERE TO STAY IN SALALAH BEST TIME TO VISIT SALALAH MAP: PLACES TO VISIT IN SALALAH PLACES TO VISIT IN SALALAH – PLACES TO VISIT IN SALALAH CITY – PLACES TO VISIT IN SALALAH – OUTSIDE THE CITY FINAL THOUGHTS – PLACES TO VISIT IN SALALAH

WHY VISIT SALALAH?

Salalah is simply a little different to the rest of Oman. Even if you’re well-acquainted with the northern part of Oman, it is worth revisiting the country to experience the uniqueness of its southern coast. Here are some reasons: ◊ There is a heavy Yemeni influence in the region – it feels like entering an entirely new country (it’s still wonderfully Omani though!). A resident we met there was explaining how, in the south, they even speak a different, pre-Arabic language. ◊ Khareef season and Salalah Tourism Festival – if you are visiting in the summer months of late June to early September, the monsoon season really puts on a show, with temporary waterfalls flowing ubiquitously and the scenery turning an uncharacteristic green. The tourism festival has a range of events on throughout the summer in the city. ◊ Exquisite camping locations – we think that some of the  best wild camping  in the world can be found in the region surrounding Salalah. ◊ Frankincense trade history – the UNESCO recognised locations in Oman were some of the most important and oldest caravan trade routes in the ancient world. ◊ Lack of tourists – Salalah has so few international tourists. We’ve never spent time at the best places to visit in Salalah with other tourists, unless they were Omani. ◊ Diverse landscapes – for outdoor enthusiasts, it’s all about the deserts, beaches, mountains, waterfalls and coastlines. All of which are spectacular.

GETTING TO SALALAH

Salalah is a small, isolated city with a population of around 450,000. It is situated on the southern Omani coast in the governorate of Dhofar (the largest in Oman), bordering Yemen and Saudi Arabia. This governorate is made from ten wilayats, or provinces, including the wilayat of Salalah. To reach this region, the options are to drive, take a bus or fly.

DRIVING FROM MUSCAT TO SALALAH

The distance from Muscat to Salalah is around 1000 kilometres, when taking route 31, the fastest highway through central Oman. This can be driven in one long day and takes around 9.5 hours. It’s an easy, comfortable drive, mostly frequented by lorries. Often, during certain sections, you’ll have miles and miles of road all to yourself (if you discount the camels!). This is the quickest way to travel from Muscat to Salalah by road. There are services along this route, including gas stations, bathrooms and shops. The journey can be begun from the beautiful ancient city of  Nizwa  too, which cuts off an hour or so of the total travel time. Oman is not a particularly public transport-friendly country so we’d suggest renting your own vehicle, plus Oman is  very safe  and easy to drive in. Check out our guide to  driving in Oman  for more information.

THE SCENIC ROUTE

It is also possible to drive the Muscat to Salalah coastal ‘scenic’ route. This will take, at minimum, several days but is well-worth the detours if you have the available time. The route can include as many of the following as you’d want: the coastline before and after Sur, Ras al Jinz, Masirah Island, Duqm, Ras Madrakah, Miji, Ash Shuwaymiyyah, Hasik, Sadah and Mirbat. Including all these stops is time consuming, but for the ultimate Oman adventure, we’d absolutely recommend it!

CAR HIRE FOR YOUR SALALAH TRIP

We always rent our vehicles all over the world, including our recent trips in Oman, Saudi Arabia, Tunisia and Morocco, with Discover Cars . They’re often the most affordable, plus they paid out immediately on an insurance claim we made when our car took some heavy damage in Sicily. We fully recommend them. If you book through the link below, we make a small profit, at zero cost to you, which helps us write these posts with no advertising! We only endorse products and companies we actually use regularly. For more information, read our position on affiliates . –

TAKE A LOOK BELOW OR CHECK CAR RENTAL

MUSCAT TO SALALAH BY BUS

To travel by road from Muscat to Salalah, another option is the public bus. It is then simple to rent a vehicle in Salalah directly if you don’t want to drive the 1000-kilometre journey yourself! Buses run from Muscat to Salalah using the Mwasalat service. These are decent quality intercity services, run by the Omani authorities. As of mid-2023, the intercity route 100 operates between Muscat and Salalah three times a day at 07:00, 18:00 and 19:30. A single ticket costs 8 OMR (about £16) and a return ticket is 12.5 OMR (about £25.50). Tickets are reservable online via the website (when the website works) and the timetable can be found on the  Mwasalat website . The journey takes around 13 hours. 

FLIGHTS FROM MUSCAT TO SALALAH

Direct flights from Muscat to Salalah operate multiple times daily with SalamAir and Oman Air. These cost from around 30 OMR (about £60) each way and take around 1.5 hours. We use  Skyscanner  to research and book all of our flights.

DUBAI TO SALALAH

There are no direct buses from Dubai to Salalah, Oman. Two buses are needed to travel the Dubai to Salalah route by public transport. First, take the Al Khanjry  bus from Dubai to Muscat , then the Mwasalat service from Muscat to Salalah. This could potentially mean an overnight stop in Muscat.  It is also possible to fly directly from Dubai to Salalah with Flydubai or Emirates. Emirates often costs double the price of Flydubai. If you are looking for the cheapest flights possible from Dubai to Salalah, consider flying from Abu Dhabi instead. Wizz Air fly directly from Abu Dhabi to Salalah, often for as little as 100 AED or 11 OMR one way (about £21). Check all the routes mentioned in this section on  Skyscanner  – it’s the cheapest place to book flights and the only site we personally use and vouch for.

WHERE TO STAY IN SALALAH

Salalah has a myriad of accommodation options depending on your budget. There are numerous upscale, luxury resorts along the beaches and coast, budget apartments within the city and affordable business-style hotels in the centre. For a mid-range business hotel that we have stayed in a few times, we recommend the Salalah Gardens Hotel. It’s in a mall with an attached Carrefour hypermarket and is near a Lulu hypermarket. The hotel is central, has tonnes of free parking, access to shops, the rooms have small kitchenettes and there is an exceptional breakfast. Another fantastic budget option is to wild camp. There are so many incredible spots with unimaginable views; it’s truly a camper’s dream. To learn more about camping, take a look at our guide to  camping in Oman , plus our  favourite camp sites  across the country. – IS OMAN EXPENSIVE TO TRAVEL?    |    22 THINGS TO DO IN NIZWA

BEST TIME TO VISIT SALALAH

Salalah can be enjoyed all year around, although daytimes are always hot, between 28 and 35 degrees throughout the year. The nights in Salalah are more moderate during the winter months, perfect for camping, with no rain and clear skies. Khareef (monsoon) season | this runs through the summer months of June to September. In other countries, many would avoid the monsoon season, but it’s actually the most popular time to visit Salalah. The verdant landscapes and incredible waterfalls are only present during this time. Temperatures drop significantly during July and August too, making outdoor pursuits tolerable! Winter | personally, we love visiting Salalah during the winter months of December to February for its clear blue skies, lack of rain and warm temperatures. This season is also perfect for camping, diving and dolphin and whale spotting from the coast. After March, until around the Khareef season in June, the day and night-time temperatures rise to the low-thirties and upper-twenties respectively. 

PLACES TO VISIT IN SALALAH – MAP

Below is a saveable Google Map of everything around Salalah mentioned throughout this post. Yellow markers are beaches. Blue are wadis and waterfalls. Other items are orange. Places within Salalah are purple. To save this map, click the star icon next to the title.

PLACES TO VISIT IN SALALAH

Places to visit in salalah city.

The city of Salalah is where most people will base themselves on a trip to southern Oman. It has all the normal mod-cons such as malls, cinemas, hotels, supermarkets, plus an international airport. The city also boasts the biggest seaport on the Arab peninsula, so expect to see some industry! To counter this, it has manicured, palm lined boulevards, beautifully crafted roundabouts and is frankly just an incredibly attractive city!

Salalah is home to some  exceptional beaches  that were always empty when we visited (despite being in the centre of a city!). They are low-key, lined with coconut palms and what felt like endless space to park and drive on the sand. Further east, Dhareez Beach is lined with small restaurants and shady cabanas, ideal for families (and great for bird watching!).

SULTAN QABOOS MOSQUE

Named for the former leader of Oman, Sultan Qaboos, who was originally from Salalah, this central Salalah mosque is exquisite and allows visitors between 08:00 and 11:00 each day but Friday.

AL BALID ARCHAEOLOGICAL SITE (OR AL BALEED)

Al Balid, part of the UNESCO designated ‘Land of Frankincense’ site, is an easy-to-access archaeological site containing the remnants of an ancient city that prospered after the decline of Kohr Rori. As with its predecessor, Al Balid was known for the proliferation of Frankincense. There are even informative signs in English, a rarity in Oman! Also on-site is the ‘Museum of the Land of Frankincense’ which is worth spending some time at to learn more about why this site is significant, although mostly it seems to be about the maritime history of this region of Oman. The entry fee is 2 OMR per car and the site is closed on Fridays and Sundays. There is also a nearby beach too.

BUY SOME FRUIT

It’s a weird one, but everyone visits the fruit markets along As Sultan Qaboos Street, the main road running parallel to the beach. Driving along here, you’ll see a tonne of thatched little stalls with many bananas hanging from them. We bought a load of fruit and also got to try some raw tamarind, which was a first for us!

PLACES TO VISIT IN SALALAH – OUTSIDE THE CITY

Surrounding Salalah is some of the most scenic landscapes across the entire of the Gulf, in our opinion. It’s striking, dramatic and no matter what time of year, you’ll find something memorable to see and do! Here, in no particular order, are the best places to visit in Salalah. If a four-wheel drive vehicle is necessary, we’ve mentioned it, plus any fees and the distance from central Salalah.

WADI DARBAT

This is possibly the  best wadi in Oman , despite having relatively few visitors when compared with places like  Wadi Shab  and Wadi Bani Khalid in northern Oman. Wadi Darbat, around a half-hour drive east of Salalah, is easy to access by paved roads and even has facilities like cafes and bathrooms (an extreme rarity in Oman!). The outrageously blue-green waters and immense waterfalls will astound you, even during the dry season (this wadi runs year-round). We’ve written a detailed up-to-date  guide for Wadi Darbat , so if you’re interested in visiting, check it out.

Car:  2WD Cost:  free Distance from Salalah:  46 kilometres

BEACHES IN SALALAH

There are so many absolutely epic beaches in and around Salalah. If you are looking for some jaw-dropping coastline, the best sandy strips and scenery in the entire of Oman are found in the Dhofar region. There are different types of beaches in Salalah for every kind of traveller. From family friendly ones like Mughsail Beach and Dhareez Beach, to isolated four-wheel drive only beaches like Shaat Hidden Beach and the multiple Fazayah beaches. In Dhalqut, there are white, sandy beaches without a single footprint on them, accompanied by crystal-like turquoise waters, offering views of Yemen’s mountains. No matter what beach you are looking for, Salalah has it in droves. Have a look at our dedicated post on the most  beautiful beaches in Salalah  for more information.

Car:  2WD/4WD dependent on choice Cost:  always free Distance from Salalah:  various

WADI AYUN (AIN AYUOON)

This is a less well-known, all-year  wadi in Oman  that will almost certainly have you exploring some pools completely alone (apart from some oversized dragonflies). Wadi Ayun is an easy to access valley (on a gravelly road), less than an hour inland from Salalah, which makes for an amazing half day of exploring. It’s not particularly suited for young kids though as there are quite a few cliff edges and uneven paths. The 20-minute hike from the carpark is only mildly intrepid, having to find your way to the bottom of a gorge where the beautiful blue pools sit, enclosed by small patches of tall grass (somehow both times we visited we got lost though). If you perch on the overhangs at the valley top, you can watch birds swoop in and out of openings in the cliffs opposite, while listening to the call to prayer echoing from miles away. There are no facilities anywhere near the site either, so bring food, water, a hat and sunblock (there is very little shade!).

GPS:  17.248528, 53.887546 Car:  2WD Cost:  free Distance from Salalah:  56 kilometres

DHALQUT (DHALKUT)

We mentioned Dhalqut above in relation to beaches, and this little town has one of the best beaches in Oman. It’s also pretty much as far as you can drive without passing the border into Yemen! Dhalqut is a small place, but has a lovely beach, some stunning scenery and even a crashed helicopter on the beach. Half the fun of visiting is the outstanding scenic drive – the journey to Dhalqut is worth it for this alone. It is also possible to visit Wadi Sayq (just off the road) en-route, plus the beaches mentioned in the ‘beaches in Salalah’ section above.

Car:  2WD Cost:  free Distance from Salalah:  158 kilometres

Once the capital of southern Oman, the ancient city of Mirbat is just under an hour east of Salalah, past  Wadi Darbat . Historically, it was well-known for Arabian horses and the frankincense trade. As a traditional southern Omani town, it’s worth checking out the harbour, with its traditional dhow boats and Yemeni-style merchant housing. Mirbat, as with everywhere along the Dhofar coastline, is also home to some empty white sandy beaches. Mirbat Castle, the site of a well-known battle in 1972, is also worth a visit but is currently under renovation (in 2023).  Our favourite thing to do near Mirbat is off-roading to the east of the city, towards the tiny town of Sadah. The entire area has superb coastal views, exquisite mountains, birdwatching and even camping. It’s a nature-lover’s playground.

Car:  2WD (4WD for off-roading) Cost:  free Distance from Salalah:  70 kilometres

KHOR RORI AND THE FRANKINCENSE TRAIL

An estuary at the mouth of Wadi Darbat, Khor Rori is an attractive stretch of water (‘Kohr’ means ‘fresh-water outlet’), bound by a sand bar during low tide and home to the ruins of the historic fortified trading city of Sumhuram. Founded around the 4th century BCE, Sumhuram has historical trading connections to Yemen, India and even as far as the Mediterranean. It is regarded as one of the most important trading posts in ancient Arabia as a result. A UNESCO World Heritage Site since 2000 (as part of the ‘Land of Frankincense’), it’s worth visiting just for the views alone (even if you’re not into the Frankincense Trail history). This is a fascinating stop, perfect for a day trip twinned with a visit to Wadi Darbat. They are connected geographically and located off the same highway junction.

Car:  2WD Cost:  entry to Khor Rori/Sumhuram – per vehicle 2 OMR Distance from Salalah:  41 kilometres

UBAR AND THE RUB AL KHALI DESERT

The lost city of Ubar (or Wubar or Shisr), although technically part of the Frankincense Trail UNESCO World Heritage site, is probably not worth driving all the way out to the desert for (it’s far!). This city was a major stopping point on the caravan trade routes across Arabia and historically a very significant site, however is not super exciting to visit nowadays. As much as I’m a big fan of solitude and adventure, it’s only partly excavated and there’s not much known about the site.  However, it’s worth heading to Ubar if you also intend to check out the world-class dunes of the Rub al Khali desert, by following the road onwards towards ‘Fasad’. From there, the tracks lead to the desert, but please don’t go without adequate preparation, such as extra fuel, food, water and driving in a convoy. You’ll need to have experience driving on sand too. If you want to go but aren’t comfortable with the risks, consider taking a tour, such as this  tour with Viator .

Car:  2WD/4WD essential for sand dunes Costs:  entry to Ubar: vehicles 2 OMR each Distance from Salalah:  170 kilometres

AROUND HASIK

East of Sadah, and a lengthy two-hour drive east of Salalah, is the tiny town of Hasik. This unassuming little town is surrounded by some of the most unbelievable scenery. It is backed by dramatic peaks and fronted by wide stretches of sand, punctuated with small fishing boats. We would recommend camping as it is a bit of a drive to get here and back in a day from Salalah. However, if you can’t camp, we’d still recommend a visit – the drive may be long, but the scenery is utterly epic! There is also the option to stay in Mirbat, which cuts the driving time in half. A few places we recommend visiting in the area include: ◊ Wadi Al Nakheel  17.599463, 55.253040 ◊ Canyon View Point  17.730869, 55.312311 ◊ Dolphin and whale watching (in the dry season) – common between Hadbeen and Hasik ◊ Prophet Saleh’s Tomb (PBUH)  17.312315, 55.257969 ◊ Natif Waterfall (during the rainy season) ◊ Waterfall at Ash Shuwaymiyyah  17.935166, 55.526805

Car:  2WD Cost:  free Distance from Salalah:  187 kilometres

The biggest highlight of a trip to the pretty little coastal town of Taqah, a little east of Salalah, is Taqah Castle. This 19th century fortification turned museum shows off tools, weapons and more from ancient Oman. It’s compact, with beautiful architecture and stretching views from the top of the steep steps up. The castle was closed the last time we visited, so check ahead. It’s also worth popping up on the cliffs to the east of the town (‘Taqah View Point’,  17.031892, 54.409972 ) for some exceptional views of the even more exceptional beach. If you have a four-wheel drive vehicle, continue further along the coast to the east and check out ‘Taqah Hidden Beach’ and alternative views of the Kohr Rori sand bar ( 17.031234, 54.434247 ).

Car:  2WD Cost:  free Distance from Salalah:  34 kilometres

EFTALQUOT (OR IFTALQOOT)

Eftalquot, for some completely unfathomable reason, isn’t a place you’ll see popping up on most travel blogs for Salalah. It’s a large cliff side region just to the west of Salalah’s port area and, if you’re willing to wander down the steep cliffs, presents you with a wide stretch of beach. There is a massive, rusting, abandoned ship at the bottom of the cliffs, just sitting there in the perfect green-blue ocean. Aside from this, the most fantastic views and zero other visitors, there’s also some seriously fun off-road tracks if you have rented a four-wheel drive vehicle.  We spent one of our favourite days in Salalah here, and it was only supposed to be an hour!

Car:  4WD Cost:  free Distance from Salalah:  41 kilometres

GRAVITY HILL

This is a weird, quirky stop, a little off the main highway east of Salalah. It’s a spot on the road where if you put your car in neutral, it will appear to be rolling up hill against gravity due to the surrounding terrain. You can try it out – just keep an eye out for the sign ‘Location of Gravity’. It’s weird, but a little bit of weird fun.

GPS:  17.041226, 54.612730 Car:  2WD Cost:  0 Distance from Salalah:  59 kilometres

WATERFALLS AND SPRINGS DURING THE KHAREEF

The monsoon season brings a lot of rain to Salalah (and strangely, tourists). Normally, excessive rain would be a downer, but in the case of Salalah it’s a huge draw. This is the busiest time of year in the city as most tourists visit to see the ayns (meaning ‘springs’) or waterfalls. The Salalah Tourism Festival, running from mid-July to the end of August, coincides with the Khareef season, holds various events across the city. Here is a list of a few springs and waterfalls you might consider checking out: ◊ Ayn Jarziz – a lovely green spot with some waterfalls, very close to Salalah ◊ Ayn Sahlounout – pretty pool, close to Salalah ◊ Ayn Razat – some nice pools and caves ◊ Ayn Athum – very cool waterfalls and an amazing travertine cliff

Car:  2WD Cost:  free Distance from Salalah:  various

FINAL THOUGHTS – PLACES TO VISIT IN SALALAH

Salalah is often missed off an Oman itinerary due to its distance from Muscat. However, we love the city of Salalah and have returned on each and every visit to Oman. It’s an absolute banger and rarely gets visitors from outside the Gulf states, which is a shame. We feel that you could easily spend a week or more exploring the best places to visit in Salalah and the surrounding Dhofar region. If you get the opportunity, definitely consider it for your next trip! Whether you are visiting for waterfalls and lush greenery, soaring cliffs,  pristine sandy beaches , off-road adventures, ancient history or otherworldly sand dunes, Salalah and surrounding Dhofar will not disappoint. We hope this is helpful, have an amazing trip!

Hi, thanks for visiting our blog! If this post has been of help to you, or you’ve just enjoyed our random ramblings and musings, say thank you by  buying us a coffee ! It helps keep The Restless Beans blog up and running without ads. Thank you, Claire + Nick

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Hey thank you for the nice summaries. It really helps with our planning. Do you guys also know about snorkeling spots in Dhofar? Thank you!

Hi, thanks for your message! We’ve never been snorkelling in Dhofar but know it’s best around Mirbat, to the east of Salalah. There are a few hotels in that region who you could message that might know more specific details. We also met up with a whole bunch of divers who were (scuba) diving off Shaat Hidden Beach west of Salalah too, but I don’t know how decent it would be for snorkelling. If you find somewhere particularly good, let us know – I’d love to snorkel there on our next visit! Hope you have a great trip 🙂

Hello, we are thinking of coming for 8-9 days to salalah in october 2024. We’ve already done Oman (Muscat and around) and we loved it ! We did a lot of off road and camping … I am wondering if it’s really worth renting a 4×4 for salalah or 2WD is enough for seeing already nice place ? what would you recommend ? or share half of the week with 2WD and rest with 4×4 as the distance seems not so long …

Hello, just came back from Salalah 3 wks ago, rented a 2WD and completely regretted it. Salallah has too many off road off shoots so recommend 4WD

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Top 19 Tourist Attractions in Salalah,Oman: Get to Know Them!

• March 19, 2024

Salalah in the Sultanate of Oman is considered one of the unique tourist destinations that combine the beauty of nature with rich cultural heritage. This region is rich with breathtaking landscapes and enchanting sandy beaches, making it an ideal destination for travelers seeking a unique and distinctive tourist experience. In this article, we will take you on a tour to explore the best tourist attractions in Salalah, Oman, getting to know them closely, as we unveil the beauty of nature and the diversity of tourist sites.

Salalah shines with exceptional places that reflect its cultural and environmental diversity, but among these places, some stand out particularly as fantastic tourist sites. Achieving this exciting tourist experience can be more enriching in collaboration with specialized companies, including Salalah Safari Tours. The company offers a unique opportunity to explore the best places in Salalah, to enjoy unforgettable activities and experiences.

Let’s start together on this enjoyable journey to explore the best places in Salalah, going on a unique trip that blends natural allure with rich culture.

Best Places to Visit in Salalah

There are many tourist attractions that attract visitors from all over to the city of Salalah, and here are some of them:

Ayn Razat shines in this city with its exceptional location adjacent to the Razat Cave and the towering mountains covered with greenery. The place is characterized by the gathering of beautiful colorful birds, with clear water flowing through a valley that springs from the spring. The site also features a nearby garden and proximity to government farms and other government buildings.

This place is considered one of the best places in Salalah worth visiting for adventure enthusiasts, where they can take wonderful photographs, ride small boats in the spring, and enjoy the presence of water facilities, prayer rooms, and stalls offering local products for tourists. The visit to Ayn Razat is a unique and comfortable experience for anyone who enjoys the beauty of nature and tourist trips.

Sultan Qaboos Mosque

It is one of the most magnificent mosques in Oman, located in the heart of the city and characterized by its unique architectural design. The mosque features two large domes and two minarets that add to its unique beauty, in addition to its splendid golden decorations adorning its walls. Upon entering the mosque, you will find beautiful chandeliers and stunning artistic decorations on the walls, while the green carpet elegantly covers the floor.

The mosque is a distinctive tourist destination, as it opens its doors daily from 8:00 am to 11:00 am, allowing visitors to explore and enjoy its artistic beauty. The mosque also includes a library and a lecture hall, characterized by its design that combines architectural and mural arts, such as Moroccan zellij and Mongolian murals.

The intricate details in the corridors, domes, minarets, spacious gardens, and water fountains are evident, using various materials such as wood, marble, stained glass, and copper ornaments. The mosque occupies an area of over 416,000 square meters and was inaugurated under the patronage of Qaboos bin Said, Sultan of Oman, on May 4, 2001.

Taqah Castle

Taqah Castle is one of the prominent cultural and historical landmarks in the area, being one of the best places in Salalah worth visiting to explore its architectural beauty and capture wonderful souvenir photos. This castle was built in the 19th century as a residence for the leader Sheikh Ali bin Taman, who is considered a grandfather to Sultan Qaboos, and the site features its beautiful and unique design. It has been converted into a museum displaying weapons and archaeological pieces used by ancestors.

The castle, located 33 kilometers from Salalah, embraces beautiful green spaces, and you can explore various towers and rooms in the castle, where the story of Omani life and history is narrated to you. In addition, you can visit the cemetery adjacent to the castle, which includes a tomb for the mother of Sultan Qaboos, making the visit a unique cultural and historical experience.

Wadi Darbat

Wadi Darbat, located in the city of Salalah, Oman, shines as one of the most beautiful and magnificent tourist destinations in the country. This charming valley is characterized by unique natural diversity that brings together its flowing waterfalls, enchanting lakes, towering mountains, deep caves, and natural springs, all coming together in this wonderful place. Additionally, it features a stunning natural park filled with greenery and trees, which hosts some local wildlife.

In autumn, Wadi Darbat turns into a stunning natural display, with water from the valley descending from breathtaking heights, and the valley is characterized by its stunning natural beauty and lush vegetation, in addition to the presence of natural springs and several caves. The cave rooms are filled with water flowing from the valley, and the best times to explore this charming site extend from early July to the end of September each year.

Sumhuram City

The history of building Sumhuram City dates back to around 100 BC, and it is now one of the prominent tourist attractions in the Sultanate of Oman, as it hosts the ruins of the ancient city of Sumhuram, including a castle dating back to an ancient period, and also includes some historical buildings built of stone, which make Sumhuram a water corridor that allows visitors to wander and enjoy the beauty of the ancient ruins. These ruins are located east of Salalah, on the shores of Khawr Rori.

The historical city of Sumhuram is characterized by a rich diversity of artifacts, including a large collection of sculptures, stone inscriptions, and coins dating back to different eras. It also hosts remnants of ancient stone houses and ancient walls that have become ruins today. The area is rich in history and culture, and is characterized by its proximity to the charming natural sites in Salalah, such as Ain Athum, Ain Razat, and the enchanting shores of the Arabian Sea.

Al-Rawas Mosque

Al-Rawas Mosque in Salalah is one of the oldest and most famous mosques in the region, characterized by its vast area that highlights the beauty of Islamic architecture. Its walls are adorned with artistic engravings and stunning Islamic decorations, creating a beautiful scene that you should interact with closely and capture photos of this elegant religious art.

The mosque serves as a vital center for religious lessons, offering many courses and Quran memorization sessions, in addition to having a comprehensive Islamic library where visitors can find a wide range of religious sources.

The mosque enjoys a strategic location in the center of the Salalah region in Dhofar Governorate, bordered by Al-Nahda Street from the east and Al-Muntazah Street from the north. Due to its large and spacious structure, this mosque is a key place for performing prayers and religious communication, occupying an area of 1316 square meters, with the internal area of the sanctuary extending over an area of 1080 square meters, providing a spacious place for about 1400 worshipers.

This tour highlights the rich diversity and natural beauty that Salalah offers, making it a unique destination for tourists seeking to explore the wonders of Oman. Whether you’re interested in history, culture, or nature, Salalah has something for everyone to enjoy and explore.

Enjoy a one-of-a-kind adventure in Salalah and explore its captivating natural destinations with the team at Salalah Safari Tours, where every experience turns into an unforgettable memory.

Cave Al Marnif

Located in the area of Al Mughsail Beach, Cave Al Marnif is one of the prominent tourist destinations in Oman, attracting tourists and visitors throughout the year. The cave is characterized by the presence of natural fountains from which water flows upwards, creating a charming sight that captures attention and is worth visiting and enjoying the view.

The cave is a favored destination for millions of foreign tourists and local residents from all over Oman. It is equipped with all amenities for comfort and relaxation, including resting areas, protective fences, and a beautiful wooden bridge connecting the cave to the beach.

As you stroll around the cave from the outside, you will enjoy the magnificent view that combines the beauty of the cave and the stunning nature, with charming green landscapes and the chirping of birds. Therefore, this cave is one of the best places in Salalah that you must visit if you go to Oman.

Al Fizayah Beach

Al Fizayah Beach is one of the most magnificent beaches in Salalah, stretching along long stretches of soft sand, surrounded by stunning mountain scenery. This beach features a beautiful moderate climate and breathtaking natural landscapes, with a gentle golden glow extending along the beach.

It also features something unique from other beaches in Oman, as it is surrounded by a large number of fabulous hotels that offer excellent service to guests. Moreover, there are a variety of tourist resorts nearby that cater to all budgets and suit all economic classes. Therefore, this beach is the favorite of all families seeking to spend quality time and enjoy the beauty of nature and excellent tourist services.

Ayn Jarziz is located in the Dhofar Governorate in Oman and is one of the charming ancient springs. This spring is characterized by the presence of beautiful rest areas and stunning natural landscapes, making it an exciting tourist destination during the autumn season.

Ayn Jarzir is located in the Atin area, 14 kilometers from Salalah, and extends over a wide area in the plains, containing a beautiful water canal that enhances the beauty of the area.

Mughsail Beach

Mughsail Beach is one of the most magnificent tourist destinations in Salalah, located west of the city, and is characterized by its turquoise waters and unique soft sands, surrounded by dark-colored rocks that enhance the beauty of the view from both sides.

Mughsail Beach is among the top ten beaches in the world and is known for providing comprehensive tourist facilities, including fully equipped resting areas and family sessions in the form of stone cottages complete for barbecue parties.

The beach is one of the most important tourist attractions in Salalah, attracting millions of tourists annually from foreign tourists and local residents, especially during holidays and weekends. Along the beach, there are several ideal cottages for families or friends, making the experience of visiting this wonderful beach more complete and enjoyable.

Sultan’s Palace

Sultan’s Palace in Salalah is a unique architectural masterpiece, situated in a quiet area surrounded by vast gardens. It opens its doors to visitors for touring, enjoying the magnificent views, and capturing stunning photos.

The palace overlooks the sea, where yachts dock, adding to its additional charm. The palace shines with its unique architecture that combines beauty and luxury, characterized by its calm and pleasant atmosphere, making it an ideal place to enjoy a unique experience.

Tayq Cave is one of the largest caves in the world and represents a unique destination that every tourist should visit to enjoy its charming geographical formation that impresses anyone who sees it. It is among the best places in Salalah that attract visitors from all over.

This cave covers an area of approximately 300 million cubic meters, making it 75 times larger than the Majlis Al Jinn Cave between Sur and Quriyat, and 57 times larger than the Sarawak Cave in Malaysia, which was known as the largest cave in the world before the discovery of Tayq Cave.

The cave was discovered in 1997 by a team of Slovak explorers and features six entrances. The size of the cave is sufficient to accommodate a building of 70 floors, meaning its height exceeds 70 meters, which is higher than the tallest pyramids in Giza, Egypt.

Waterfalls in Salalah

The city of Salalah is characterized by the presence of a group of stunning waterfalls that sparkle with their extreme beauty, especially in the autumn season. Waterfalls such as Ain Athum, Wadi Ayun Waterfall, and Khawr Waterfall, located on the western side of the city, are part of this magnificent natural charm. Salalah hosts a group of prominent waterfalls during the autumn season. Ain Athum Waterfall shines on the eastern side of the city with its charming view, in addition to the waterfall located in Wadi Ayun and Ain Tabruk, and Khawr Waterfall, which is characterized by magnificent natural landscapes and the beauty of the surrounding mountains and greenery.

Marbat Area

This area is one of the most beautiful entertainment places in Salalah, combining stunning natural landscapes and beautiful sandy beaches. Marbat Castle cannot be ignored, adding an extra charm to the place. You can climb it to take the best souvenir photos, enjoying its wonderful view of the sea. It is among the best places in Salalah recommended to visit to ensure the best tourist program in the city.

Ain Sahalnoot

Ain Sahalnoot in the Sultanate of Oman is located in the Salalah Plain, about 15 kilometers away from the center of Salalah city. This spring includes a guard center like other springs in the province, where area residents are assigned to guard and protect it. Ain Sahalnoot is characterized by its beautiful location in the Salalah Plain, which stretches between the city and the green mountains covered with trees and greenery. This area is one of the most beautiful places in the Dhofar Governorate, characterized by the beauty of trees, green hills, and mountains covered with green grass. The residents of the province call the natural pure springs “water eyes,” and Ain Sahalnoot is a beloved destination for visitors who enjoy the beauty of nature and the breathtaking scenery.

Jebel Qamar

Jebel Qamar is one of the most charming and beautiful areas in Salalah, serving as a haven for hikers seeking to enjoy the enchanting natural beauty and relax in the embrace of the mountains, as well as the opportunity to capture wonderful photos. In the spring and autumn seasons, clouds approach to give the area surreal atmospheres. If you dream of capturing nearby clouds, this is the perfect opportunity to do so in this unique location.

Frankincense Farms

The Salalah region is known for cultivating frankincense trees. You can visit the farms to explore the depth of planting these significant trees, whether economically or historically, in the Sultanate of Oman. Frankincense, a unique natural product, is used in various fields such as medicine, perfume industry, and body care, in addition to the incense industry for which the Sultanate is famous. Frankincense is an integral part of Omani heritage. In ancient times, the “Frankincense Road” was an important trade route for caravans laden with incense, where the Sultanate was famous for producing incense extracted from the frankincense tree. Several sites along the Frankincense Road are listed on the UNESCO World Heritage List, including the Al Balid Archaeological Park and the Samharam Archaeological Park (Khawr Rawri), which was one of the most famous incense export ports in the ancient world, as well as the Al Baleed Archaeological Site (Shisr), and the Wadi Dokah Frankincense Tree Reserve.

Wadi Nahiz, located in the heart of Jebel Al Qara Mountains in Salalah city, is a wonderful tourist destination about 12 kilometers away from the city. This valley is characterized by a unique cave nestled among the limestone rock formations dating back to the beginning of the Triassic period. The valley’s attractive columns and descents make it a unique wildlife diversity habitat, where various creatures such as insects, bats, and others can be found. There is also a cave that adds a touch of aesthetic beauty and unique attraction to Wadi Nahiz, making it an ideal destination for nature lovers and environmental diversity explorers.

Jebel Samhan Reserve

Jebel Samhan Reserve occupies a special place in the heart of the mountains near Salalah, characterized by its wonderful environmental and natural diversity. This protected area is located in a stunning mountain range outside Salalah city and is one of the leading environmental sites in the Sultanate of Oman. Jebel Samhan Reserve is characterized by its rugged terrain and towering mountains, which enhance the beauty of the area. This reserve provides an ideal environment for many wild creatures and includes a variety of local plants and animals. The reserve offers distinctive walking trails and bike rides stretching through the mountains, giving visitors the opportunity to explore this natural beauty comfortably. Among the animals that visitors may see in this reserve are deer and local birds living in this unique mountain environment, where environmental diversity in Jebel Samhan is a source of pride for maintaining ecosystem balance.

Thanks to its natural beauty and environmental diversity, Jebel Samhan Reserve is an ideal destination among the best places in Salalah to attract nature lovers and adventurers, where visitors can enjoy watching birds and exploring the breathtaking natural landscapes in this wonderful location.

Best Places to Stay in Salalah

There are several outstanding hotels in Salalah, including:

Al Baleed Resort

This luxurious resort, boasting a stunning beachfront view, offers spacious rooms and villas with private pools to provide a luxurious stay experience. Additionally, the resort provides a variety of amenities, including a spa center, multiple pools, and a diverse range of restaurants to meet the needs and preferences of guests.

Hilton Resort

This beachfront resort features spacious rooms and suites, along with a variety of amenities, including several restaurants serving delicious cuisine, a spa resort for relaxation experiences, and multiple swimming pools to ensure a luxurious and distinctive stay experience for guests.

Salalah Gardens Hotel

This 4-star hotel offers comfortable rooms and suites, along with a range of amenities that include a restaurant for dining, a spa for relaxation experiences, and a swimming pool to add a refreshing touch to your stay experience.

Fanar Residences

This beachfront hotel offers comfortable rooms and apartments with beautiful sea views. It features a variety of dining options and a swimming pool to enhance the stay experience, making it one of the best places in Salalah to stay during your visit to the city.

Hawana Marina Resort

Enjoy your dream stay at Hawana Marina Resort in Salalah, located just 25 minutes from the city center, offering you a unique stay experience that meets all your needs. The resort features sea-view rooms with flat-screen TVs with satellite channels and air conditioning systems in each unit. The fun isn’t limited to just the stay; the resort offers additional features like a mini-market, café, and shops to enhance your comfort and ease of stay. Choose Hawana Marina to make your vacation in Salalah unforgettable and enjoy all the comforts it offers to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable stay.

Best Restaurants in Salalah

There are several must-visit restaurants in Salalah:

Lebanese House Restaurant

This restaurant in Salalah is one of the excellent dining venues, offering a delicious experience for lovers of Lebanese cuisine. It features a diverse menu including Lebanese delicacies like tabbouleh and grilled meats, with excellent customer service and reasonable prices. The restaurant is known for its high cleanliness standards and exceptional service, opening its doors daily from 8 AM until midnight, allowing visitors to enjoy a wonderful dining experience at flexible times.

Dolphin Beach Restaurant

This restaurant is one of the most beautiful restaurants in Salalah, boasting its unique location on the beachfront, providing special seating overlooking the sea horizon. It is among the upscale restaurants in Salalah, offering a variety of dishes ranging from Italian and Lebanese cuisine to the finest steaks and fresh seafood dishes. The restaurant is distinguished by its excellent service level and high cleanliness, while maintaining acceptable prices for visitors.

Saffron Restaurant

This Indian restaurant in Salalah Marriott Resort offers a variety of delicious curry dishes and tasty Indian cuisine. Additionally, the restaurant features a beautiful outdoor seating area, providing a dining experience amidst nature and under a clear sky.

general questions

What is the climate like in salalah.

The weather in Salalah is characterized by its diversity, as the climate is influenced by the monsoon season during autumn, which typically extends from late June to early September. Salalah experiences heavy rainfall and dense fog during this time, giving the area a charming green appearance. Temperatures during this period range between 20 and 30 degrees Celsius.

During the rest of the year, the climate in Salalah is dry and hot, with average temperatures reaching the mid-thirties Celsius during the day and dropping to around 20 degrees Celsius at night, known as the dry season.

Overall, Salalah’s climate represents a mixture of warmth and humidity. The city’s attractiveness is showcased during the autumn season due to its natural scenery and refreshing rains, making that period unique and appealing to visitors.

What are the best activities to do in Salalah?

Salalah, the beautiful city of Oman, is renowned for its diverse activities that cater to various interests of visitors. Here are some of the best activities to enjoy in this unique city:

Dolphin Watching : A unique experience awaits you in the waters of Salalah, where you can book a boat tour to see a variety of dolphins, including bottle-nose dolphins and spinner dolphins, and enjoy watching them in their splendid natural environment.

Coastal Tour of Salalah : Enjoy the beauty of Salalah’s enchanting beaches and rocky cliffs, take advantage of swimming and diving in its clear waters, and relax on its peaceful beaches.

Explore Salalah Gardens Mall : Experience shopping and entertainment at this modern shopping center, offering a variety of brands, restaurants, and cafes.

Visit Salalah Museum : Learn about the history and culture of the region through the exhibits, which include traditional crafts, agriculture, and fishing.

Swimming in Wadi Darbat : Enjoy the beauty of Wadi Darbat oasis with its fresh water, natural waterfalls, and charming green spaces, relax in this perfect swimming and hiking spot.

Explore Jebel Samhan Nature Reserve : Embark on an exploration trip in this natural reserve, offering breathtaking mountain views and teeming with diverse wildlife, providing a unique experience for nature lovers.

In conclusion, as we explore the best attractions in Salalah, we find that this city is rich in unique diversity and exceptional natural beauty, combining its charming beaches, green mountains, and enchanting oases. From Salalah Waterfalls to the beauty of Mughsail Beach and passing through the history of Sultan Qaboos Castle, Salalah offers unforgettable adventures for every visitor.

While enjoying discovering the best places in Salalah, don’t miss the opportunity to tour with Salalah Safari Tours, the company that adds a touch of excitement and professionalism to your experience, offering carefully designed trips to explore the best tourist attractions in Salalah. Thanks to its continuous efforts, the company provides unique and enchanting experiences for travelers heading to this wonderful city. You must experience visiting Salalah and exploring these wonderful places for yourselves!

“The Best 19 Tourist Attractions in Salalah, Oman: Get to Know Them!” is your perfect guide to delve into the charm of this enchanting city, and Salalah Safari Tours will be the perfect companion on this exciting journey.

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Salalah Tourist Attractions: A Complete Salalah Oman Travel Guide

Salalah in the south Dhofar governorate of Oman and popularly known for it’s mystic and beautiful Khareef (Monsoon) season is a natural marvel that homes centuries-old Frankincense traditions and Arabian customs. The city of Salalah is the second largest city of Oman after Muscat, which similar to the rest of the country owns a versatile landscape of ocean and mountains.

Along with the highly diverse topography, Salalah is also blessed with natural water springs and waterfalls which flow in its full glory during the Khareef season. Here I have listed down the most splendid Salalah tourist attractions you should definitely go to in this lesser visited paradise of the Gulf.

Visiting Salalah during the Khareef season? Check out my Photo Guide Of Celebrating ‘Khareef’ (Monsoon) In Salalah

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Salalah Tourist Attractions – Al Baleed Archeological Site and Museum of Frankincense Land

Salalah has a thriving history of the Frankincense land as it was the center of the civilization ages ago. Now, the remains of the Frankincense civilization have been preserved at the Al-Baleed Archeological site , which is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The entrance to the site costs OMR 2 per car (as of October 2018) , which goes towards the maintenance of the site. Tourists can either take a self-guided tour by walking around the site, which is marked with markers. Snippets of history can be found written all across the site. The other option is to take a guided tour, which is a 15-minutes golf cart ride costing 0.500bz per person (as of October 2018) .

Adjacent to the remnants of the ancient city is the Museum of Frankincense Land. Free to enter, the museum homes some really interesting artifacts of the Frankincense land. History of how Islam was introduced in the region and the past civilizations is also displayed in the museum. A dedicated section of the museum also showcases Oman’s maritime history and traditional Omani vessels (dhows) are put on display. Al Baleed Archeological Site and Museum of Frankincense Land is one of the top Salalah tourist attractions and definitely worth a visit.

Also Read: 10 Awesome Things To Do In Muscat, Oman

Salalah Tourist Attractions – Mughsail Beach & Al Marneef Cave

Al Mughsail beach about 40 km from Salalah city center is one of the most popular beaches in Salalah and perhaps one of the top Salalah tourist attractions. Located towards the border of Yemen in the south of Salalah, Al Mughsail offers a long pristine coastline which eventually connects with limestone cliffs towards the end of the beach. The popularity of Al Mughsail beach is the natural blowholes in the cliffs that splash water from the ground whenever a strong wave strikes the cliff. The beach can get really crowded during the Khareef season and public holidays so an early morning visit would be perfect to avoid the crowd. Picnic huts, food stalls, and ice cream trucks, everything can be found at Al Mughsail beach for a perfect beach day!

The limestone cliffs at the beach that were long back submerged in the water are called the Marneef Cave. The cave is just hollow spaces in the cliffs, wide enough for a person to sit or barely stand in it. A perfect view of the limestone cliff cave can be achieved by walking down all the way to the blowholes with the cave in the background. Needless to say, it is quite a picturesque picnic spot and definitely and a must-visit place in Salalah.

Salalah Tourist Attractions – Sumhurum (Khor Rohri)

Sumhurum in the Khor Rohri area of Salalah is around 28 km from the main center of Salalah. It is an ancient site stuck back in the time. The artifacts at Sumuhurm are as old as 2000 years ago.  Now, a UNESCO World Heritage site, Sumhurum is one of the top Salalah tourist attractions. The entrance to the site costs OMR 1 (as of October 2018). Visitors can take a self-guided tour by walking across the site and seeing the remnants and artifacts of the older civilizations which had stayed in the area centuries ago. It is an archeological site, where artifacts such as clay pots, old boats and even ancient inscriptions engraved on the bricks can be found. Also, as a bonus, there is a small deserted beach to walk along one of the oldest historic remains existing in Oman.

Salalah Tourist Attractions – Taqah Castle

The Taqah Castle is one of the most popular castles in the Dhofar governorate of Oman. It is located in the old city of Taqah, 33 km away from Salalah city center. The castle was initially a residence of the governor of the old city of Taqah, which have now been transformed into a museum. It displays old weapons and lifestyle materials that were essential to the old Omani lifestyle and custom. The architectural design and ancient contents of the castle make it an interesting tourist attraction of Salalah.

Salalah Tourist Attractions – Hawana Aqua Park

The Hawana Aqua Park of Salalah is a recently constructed waterpark in the city and one of the biggest in Oman. The park was initially accessible only by the hotel guests in the area. The entrance fee costs OMR 7 per adult and OMR 3 per child. The state of the art water park is built on a huge area, with many development phases still undergoing. This new Salalah tourist attraction includes water slides, leisure pools, a children pool, pool-front cabins, sliding swimming pools, wave pools, and the main tower.

Salalah Tourist Attractions – Salalah Coconut Market

Salalah is a fertile land with the highest production of banana and coconuts in the country. Unlike the rest of Oman where you will find ample date trees everywhere, Salalah is the only region in the country with no dates tree but coconut! Due to the abundance of coconut in the city, there is a dedicated street of coconut market near Ad Dahariz beach in Salalah. The street gets jammed pack with cars as soon as the sun sets, which clearly shows its popularity among the locals. Along with coconut, banana, sugarcane juice, and dry fruits are also being sold the coconut street market.

Salalah Tourist Attractions – Ad Dahariz Beach

Many tourists termed Salalah as the hidden gem of the Middle East . Most of the tourist destinations in Salalah are far from the main city center but Ad Dahariz beach and undoubtedly one of the most picturesque beaches in Oman lies right in the heart of the city. It is a beautiful sandy beach with a lighted walkway for walking and jogging, which makes it really popular among the locals. The beach is surrounded by an array of palm trees which gives it a surreal look during the golden hour. It is highly recommended to visit Ad Dahariz beach at least once and indulge in the beauty and calm of the place.

Salalah Tourist Attractions – Husn Souq

Al Husn Souq also known as Al Haffa Souq in Salalah is the main traditional old market similar to the Muttrah Souq in Muscat. The souq is located at the beachfront adjacent to the marvelous Sultan Palace. The shopping district is spread over small congested but pedestrianized alleys. Souvenirs from the Frankincense land are widely available at Al Husn Souq . Also, do not forget to grab your hand at the Omani fragrances of ‘Bukhoor’ and ‘Attar’. It is also a great place to see the making of traditional Omani caps.

Salalah Tourist Attractions – Anti-Gravity Point

Nothing fancy here but surely interesting. The Anti-Gravity point in Salalah near Tawi Atair (exact coordinates here) is a point where cars go uphill at a speed of 40 to 60 km without an acceleration in neutral gear. This is a natural phenomenon of magnetic pull created because of many big mountains in the proximity. Surprisingly, it is one of the top Salalah’s tourist attractions and people line up their cars to witness the natural phenomenon.

Here Are Some Not-To-Be-Missed Tours To Take In Salalah!

Confused on where to stay in salalah compare prices and read reviews:.

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35 comments

Fantastic post. Your shots are amazing. I really want to get to Oman. Maybe that will this coming winter’s destination. I need to do some serious thinking. ??

Thank you so much! Yeah, winter is the best time to visit Oman, you should certainly consider visiting Oman in winter

Thanks, it’s quite informative

[…] largest city in the Dhofar governate of Oman, Salalah is popular for its mystical and beautiful Khareef (monsoon) season. From July to September, the […]

The place is such a perfect gateway, a beautiful land and its history.

All the pictures are so amazing.This place looks so rich in culture and filled with architectural genius.

Thank you, Corina!

Wow!Such a wonderful place to visit, great review. So stunning photos. Great shot!

Thank you 🙂

This is such a great round up of Information. Do you have something similar about Dubai & Abu Dhabi? Let me check through the archives.

Hey Trisha! I’m sorry as of now I have drafted the guides for Dubai and Abu Dhabi. However, I would let you know once I am done publishing Dubai & AD destination guides. Thank you

Wonderful place where I spend 18 years of my life from 1978 to 2006. Would love to go back someday and see how Salalah is now!

I have never been there but it looks like a nice destination getaway for my family and I am sure they will really enjoy this place.

Wow! Never even heard of this place before but it looks like a great place perfect for adventure.

The coconut market sounds like the kind of place I’d like to see! Curious if they have coconut sweets as well. It’s one of my favorites.

Is there a good time of the year to go?

The perfect time to visit Salalah is the Monsoon season (Mid-July to September). Do check out my guide about the Monsoon season ‘Khareef’ in Salalah. Thank you 🙂

There’s something for everyone! Number one on my list would be the castle. I love visiting old residences and wondering what life was like for the people who lived there.

That sounds like you should definitely plan a visit to Salalah soon!

Those are some great pictures of the tourist attractions in Oman. I think my family would enjoy the water park as well as the beach. Thank you for the great visuals

Thank you, Dwight! I am so happy you liked it. Oman is a great place to visit with family

Such a comprehensive and helpful review! I am a history lover and am fascinated by antiquity. This sounds like a place I must visit.

Thank you, Lindsay! You should definitely visit Oman if you’re into history. You won’t be disappointed from this country at all 🙂

This place looks so rich in culture and filled with architectural genius .There are even castles! Have never seen one before!

Never even heard of this place before but it looks absolutely amazing! Definitely going on the bucket list…

This is such a comprehensive list. Thank you for sharing. I would need to save this for my own future travels!

Thank you so much! I am happy you find it useful.

I have never been to Oman before but I have always wanted to visit, it looks so beautiful

It is very beautiful undoubtedly!

Wow, these places are incredibly beautiful. Thanks for sharing.

Beautiful Tourist Attractionsyou’ve got there. Thanks for sharing.

THIS IS THE TYPE OF PLACE I LIVE TO GO TO !!!!! Loveeee exploring ruins and such and learning about their histories!

That’s wonderful Gigi! I would definitely want you to visit Oman soon 🙂

Hi. Oman isnt a very famous turism destination here in Portugal but, i allways wanted to know. Your post made me want even more. It’s for sure in my “must do” list. And i want to trie the Anti-Gravity point in Salalah so much!! It must be great.

Thank you so much! I’m glad to know you find my post useful. And I’m even happier that now Oman is in your bucket list! Happy traveling 🙂

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Things to do

• Travel Ideas

15 Things to do in Salalah, Oman in 2024

Last Updated: July 30, 2024

A city of 454,000 residents offering a mingle of antiquity and natural escape, Salalah is one of the unique places to visit in the Middle East. Famous for banana plantations and Arabian sea adventures, Salalah is located in the southern part of Oman, boasting a range of activities for both adventure seekers and casual wanderers. Visitors to Salalah can explore ancient trade routes, visit UNESCO World Heritage sites, and walk by long coastlines. It is famous for its local souks, where the scent of frankincense mingles with spices and traditional Omani handicrafts.

Best Time to Visit Salalah

The best time to enjoy Salalah activities is from June to September, the Khareef season. Unlike the common perception of arid and lifeless deserts associated with the Middle East, Salalah transforms into a verdant paradise during the Khareef season, when monsoon rains cover the region in lush greenery, roaring waterfalls, and misty mountains.

Things to Do in Salalah

Situated adjacent to the Razat Cave, about 30 kilometers northeast of Salalah, Ayn Razat is a peaceful tourist place where you can revel in the serenity of nature. Famous for its rejuvenating springs, fed into a series of small pools, Ayn Razat creates a beautiful landscape with seating areas. Unwind by the slender river flowing through the valley, hear the chirping birds, and take plenty of pictures. Also, take the boat rides, bask under the tall trees, and plan a family picnic.

Mughsail Beach

At 45 minutes west of Salalah, Mughsail Beach is a six-kilometer white sand coastline. The beach looks right out of heaven, surrounded by off-white mountains, glistening with sky-blue waters, and dotted with frankincense trees. In summer, it is layered with yellow flowers, creating an eye-catching display.

The Frankincense Land

As mentioned above, Salalah is popular for frankincense, an aromatic gum resin. The Frankincense Land takes the obsession to another level. This place is a UNESCO World Heritage site located in Al Baleed Archaeological Park, hemmed in by the Wadi Dawkah frankincense trees. It is home to Khor Rori and Al Shisr (Ubar) trading ports. Thanks to its unique climatic conditions and soil types, it also helps to grow Boswellia trees.

Sultan Qaboos Mosque

The Sultan Qaboos Mosque in Salalah is not just a place of worship but a legendary architectural landmark that reflects Oman’s heritage and culture. This masterpiece, created in 2009, was claimed to be one of the largest and most beautiful mosques in Oman. It has a grand dome, elevated minarets, and knotty white marble carvings.

Wadi Darbat

One of the favorite things to do in Salalah is explore the Instagramworthy Wadi Darbat. The Wadi feels ethereal with mini waterfalls, fluffy lakes, and lush vegetation, making it a popular spot for picnics, hikes, and boat rides. The flawless landscape and natural beauty of Wadi Darbat make it a perfect place to loosen up and enjoy the outdoors.

Taqah Castle

Feel the historical richness and heritage of Dhofar by visiting Taqah Castle. Built in the 19th century and inspired by traditional Omani architecture, this castle served as a residence for the local governor and a defensive fort. The castle’s architecture reflects the typical features of Omani forts, with its thick walls, small windows, and defensive towers designed to stand against sieges and attacks. Today, you can explore this castle-converted museum for deeper insights.

Sumhuram City

Dating back to 100 BC, Sumhuram City is one of the must-visit places in Salalah. This old port city perched on the edge of the Arabian Sea houses the preserved ruins. Take a dip in the fascinating history of this UNESCO World Heritage site. Sumhuram, also known as Khor Rori, was founded around the 3rd century BCE and thrived as a major port city for several centuries. It was strategically located at the mouth of Wadi Darbat, allowing it to control the trade routes for frankincense, one of the most valuable commodities of the ancient world. Its museum has pottery, tools, coins, and other artifacts.

Jebel Samhan Nature Reserve

Located in the Dhofar region of Oman, at approximately 2,100 meters above sea level, Jebel Samhan Nature Reserve is spread across 4,500 square kilometers. Its varied topography includes steep cliffs, rocky plateaus, and lush valleys, offering breathtaking views and untouched wilderness. Walk through the spread of vegetation and wildflowers. Besides this, get the chance to admire the wildlife, such as the Arabian Leopard and other endangered species.

Al Haffa Souk

Get a taste of local culture by browsing the souks in Salalah. Buy the handicrafts and souvenirs at the Al Haffa Souk. You can explore aromatic frankincense, traditional jewelry, and a wide variety of local goods. You’ll find excellently crafted items such as silver jewelry, woven baskets, pottery, and textiles. Also, haggling is welcome, so enjoy the bustling atmosphere at a cheap price.

Tawi Attair

Another tourist location near Salalah, Tawi Attair, is a bird’s haven and the largest sinkhole in the Middle East. This hollow space was created due to limestone’s dissolution over thousands of years. It’s a rare phenomenon, which is 100 meters wide and 211 meters deep. It is a picturesque spot where visitors can view the sinkhole from the rim. The combination of rocky cliffs and lush meadows creates a picturesque setting that is perfect for nature lovers and photographers.

Al Rawas Mosque

On booking one of the guided Salalah tours, visiting the mosque is important. Al Rawas Mosque is an aesthetic religious place with giant dome in the centre flanked by smaller domes. The spacious prayer hall is designed to fill in a large number of worshippers and is decorated with exquisite chandeliers, embellished carpets, and 3d calligraphy.

Al Fizayah Beach

Another significant beach in Salalah besides Mughsail is Al Fizayah. Walk on the soft sands and let the turquoise waters awash your feet. The dramatic mountains in the backdrop and the gentle breeze make it all worthwhile. You can book a room with a view from one of the nearby hotels. Combining scenic beauty and natural phenomena makes Al Fizayah Beach a must-visit destination. If interested, you can extend your trip and revel in similar exciting things to do in Musandam , around 14 hours away from Salalah.

Nestled in Dhofar Governorate in Oman, Ayn Jarzir is one of the hidden places in Salalah. It is a picturesque oasis with attractive springs. The abundant water grows a rich variety of plant life, making the area a vibrant and refreshing haven. It is best to visit in the autumn season when the place explodes with greenery and flowers. Waterfalls flow down the mountainsides, and the air is filled with the scent of fresh rain.

Jebel Qamar

Plan a 4-hour trip to the most dramatic “Mountain of the Moon,” Jebel Qamar. It is a part of the larger Al Hajar Mountains and offers visitors a concoction of natural beauty, rich biodiversity, and cultural significance. The limestone formations, diverse habitats, and spiritual vibe of the mountain make you feel relaxed and revived. If you are looking for high-octane adventure, there are several trails of varying difficulty. The trails take you through scenic landscapes, including valleys and peaks, offering a chance to experience the natural beauty up close.

Marneef Cave

Located near Al Mughsail Beach, the cave features rocky cliffs, limestone formations, and dreamy coastal scenery. Watch the tales engraved on the walls, breathe in the fresh air of Mughsail beach, and go rock climbing. Do not miss the blowholes—these natural geysers shoot seawater high into the air through openings in the rock, creating a spectacular display, especially during high tide.

How to Visit Salalah?

To plan a trip to Salalah, you require an Oman visa. Follow the proper guidelines, submit the application, contact the Embassy, and wait for approval. You can get a tourist visa on arrival, depending on your nationality. Most international travelers fly to Salalah International Airport, a well-connected airport to major cities in Oman and other countries. You can also choose a scenic road trip from Muscat if you have more time on your hands. So, prepare yourself with things to know before apply for Oman visa , and have fun.

FAQs About Salalah

Q. is salalah, oman worth visiting.

Salalah offers unique experiences, unlike other Middle Eastern places. Enjoy a long weekend in this beautiful city in Oman, from its incredible natural escapades to historical ruins.

Q. Is Salalah safe for solo female travelers?

Q. what are the must-visit beaches in salalah.

Salalah boasts stunning beaches. Some of the most popular ones include Mughsail Beach (famous for its blowholes), Al Fazayah Beach, and Wadi Darbat Beach.

Q. Is it easy to get around Salalah?

Q. what is the khareef season in salalah.

The Khareef season is Salalah’s monsoon period that transforms the city into a green fairytale with lush greenery, waterfalls, and a cooler climate.

Salalah is an underrated gem in the Middle East. If you want to try a destination other than Dubai, Abu Dhabi, or Riyadh, we highly recommend visiting Salalah, Oman. With this guide, you would have hopefully planned an entertaining itinerary.

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Shaheen Taj

Shaheen Taj is a freelance travel writer by profession. She is particularly fond of traveling and loves to jot down her experiences and cultural diversities of different countries.

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Salalah, the capital of the Dhofar region, is a colourful, subtropical city that owes much of its character to Oman’s former territories in East Africa. Indeed, flying into Salalah from Muscat, especially during the khareef (rainy season), it's hard to imagine that Oman’s first and second cities share the same continent.

Attractions

Must-see attractions.

Al Baleed Archaeological Park

Well-labelled and atmospherically lit at night, the ancient ruins of Al Baleed belong to the 12th-century trading port of Zafar. Frankincense was shipped…

Plantations

Salalah is famous for its plantations of coconuts, papayas and bittersweet, small bananas. Stroll through the plantation roads near the corniche (2km from…

Sultan Qaboos Mosque

This newly completed, single-dome mosque with two minarets is a gift from His Majesty to the people of his mother's hometown, Salalah. It's open to…

Sultan's Palace

This enormous palace complex, with villas and landscaped gardens along the beach front, is home to the family of Oman's ruler, Sultan Qaboos Bin Said…

Latest stories from Salalah

Jul 3, 2018 • 5 min read

Frankincense, an aromatic resin harvested from the sap of scraggly desert trees, has been treasured for thousands of years for its distinctive fragrance…

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10 Things To Do In Salalah- Oman’s Hidden Paradise

Winter is here and we can’t wait to explore the outdoors. However, folks associate the Middle East with desert landscapes and mountains. But we tell you there is so much more! In Oman, is the hidden natural wonder of Salalah. Salalah has a unique monsoon season paving the way for lush green sceneries and landscapes around it. Nevertheless, this beautiful city is also home to a lot of tourist destinations and historical sites, which makes it such an experience of its kind. With temperatures lower than the rest of the region, Salalah makes for a perfect winter getaway in Oman. It’s proximity to the UAE, allows it to be a popular escape from the Emirates too! So what are the 10 things you must do to your visit to Oman’s Salalah? Heres the list:

1) Soak The Beach At Mughsail Beach

This beach is a stunning stretch of emerald waters with white sand surrounded by mighty cliffs. You are sure to forget you are in this part of the world, with the picturesque landscape around this beach.

2) Get Spiritual At Sultan Qaboos Mosque

This is the largest mosque in Salalah named after the Sultan of Oman. It beautifully crafts in the Arabic and modern architecture while the interiors exude grandness and tranquility. Even the non-muslims can visit this site and breath in the spirituality.

3) Get High On Jebel Samhan

This attraction burrows itself in the hills and lush green pastures of the Dhofar region. While the mountain itself is enclosed within the wildlife reserve of Jabal Samhan , there is a permit issued so that the visitors can enjoy flora and fauna in its complete glory.

4) Visit The Taqah Castle

Taqah is a fishing village town 33kms east of Salalah. This beach town is renowned for its sandy beaches and holds the historical 19th century Taqah castle . The Taqah castle is now home to several museums giving a glimpse of the old Omani lifestyle.

5) Time Travel At Al Baleed Archaeological Park

A trip to Salalah is incomplete without visiting this UNESCO world heritage site at Al Baleed. This open archaeological site has ruins of an ancient city in Salalah mesmerizing and intriguing the history enthusiasts. Also, the site has information signs allowing the people to read and get informed of the site.

6) Get Spooked Out At Mirbat

This one is a stretch of desolate land in Mirbat like no other. Imagine your car moving while in neutral gear while you are surrounded by a blanket of fog thanks to the area’s hilly terrain. Spooky right? This stretch is an anti-gravity spot where cars move forward at the speed of 35 kmph on neutral gear. While the scientists have their explanations, the visitors sure do get spooked out with this phenomenon.

7) Shop At Al Husn Souq

Now this one is a souq styled market place where you can get your hands on great souvenirs to carry back home! From clothes to food, there is plenty of shopping to do over here! Its proximity to the Sultan’s place makes it a hotspot for tourists and visitors.

8) View These Natural Fountains at Al Marneev Cave

The Marneev Cave is located close to the Al Mughsail Beach in Salalah. Take a seat at one of the benched and enjoy these natural fountains spraying sea waters through the sea caves. This site is a picturesque amalgamation of mountains, caves, and fountains adding to its glory.

9) Picnic At This Valley

Oman is famous for it’s many Wadis or Valleys. Wadi Darbat is another beautiful one! Wadi Darbat is a lush green valley for the families and friends to picnic at! With small caves surrounding the lush pastures, the adventure enthusiasts can take a hike to the caves too. With small stalls and restaurants around, this lush valley is a great tourist and picnic spot.

10) Experience This Sinkhole

Past the Wadi Darbat lies this beautiful sinkhole of Tawi Atayr that translates to “Well Of The Birds”. This is one of the most magnificent sinkholes and also the world’s third-largest one. Honeycombed with limestones, this is a site that is worth taking a stroll to.

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Salalah tourism.

Home to the Sultan of Oman, Salalah is a beautiful city with rich culture, history and magnificent beaches! Famous for its Arabian Peninsula and unique climate, this town is full of lush mountains and greenery that comes alive during the monsoon season. Its stunning beaches offer many snorkelling and diving opportunities. Located on the coast of the Arabian Sea, its cuisine is delicious and savoury, with wonderful seafood choices as well. 

Salalah is known for its unique Khareef (monsoon) season, which transforms the landscape into a verdant paradise from June to September. The monsoon rains bring lush greenery, cascading waterfalls, and blooming flowers, creating an oasis-like atmosphere. This season is celebrated with the annual Khareef Festival, featuring cultural performances, traditional crafts, and local delicacies. The city is also steeped in history, with roots dating back to the ancient incense trade. The Al Baleed Archaeological Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site, showcases the remnants of the ancient port city of Zafar, which was once a thriving center for the frankincense trade. Salalah’s natural attractions are equally compelling. The pristine beaches along the Arabian Sea, such as Al Mughsail Beach, offer stunning views and serene settings for relaxation. The nearby Wadi Darbat is a popular spot for picnics and hiking. Full of Islamic culture and tradition, the stunning mosques call its residents to pray with chants that can be heard throughout the city. The rich history and culture of Salalah are evident in its museums, forts, mosques, and souks. Truly a sight to behold, it is unlike any other city in Oman.

Places To Visit In Salalah

Mughsail Beach

Wadi Darbat

Sultan Qaboos Mosque

Sumhuram Archaeological Park

Taqah Castle

Marneef Cave

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