Completely Unusual and Interesting Things to Do in Oman

The Bimmah Sinkhole (Hawiyyat Najm) in Oman is one of the most picturesque sinkholes in the world, making it a popular visiting spot due to its beautifully formed cliffs, turquoise waters, shape, and how the rocks eroded.

The locals believe that it was formed by a falling meteorite, but it was actually created by a collapse of the surface layer when the underlying limestone dissolved. The irresistible waters and gorgeous location invites people to go down to the sinkhole for a refreshing dip.

Where: Between Bimmah and Dibab, Muscat

One of the largest valleys in Oman, the scenic Wadi Bani Awf is rich in postcard-perfect villages, ancient ruins, and natural sights.

Nestled in this valley is Oman's biggest all-natural water park - Snake Canyon. The area is made of colourful rocks, pools, waterfalls, natural waterslides, and high cliffs, making this the ideal natural playground for anyone who loves the outdoors.

Where: Hajjar Mountains, between Nizwa and Rustaq

Perched on top of the Jebel Shams mountains in Oman, the mud-village of Misfat Al Abriyeen boasts a 300-year history of human settlement, incredible architecture, and agriculture that attracts visitors from around the globe. One of these visitors includes the U.K's Prince Charles himself.

It's a fascinating development of shaded passageways, verdant gardens, historic homes that still have residents, open terraces, and painted gates. An overnight stay at the Misfah Old House in Misfat Al Abriyeen is the closest to an authentic local accommodation.

Where: Misfat Al Abriyeen, Jebel Shams

The peaceful little city of Sur was once the home of Oman's main maritime power during the 19th century, back when the Omani Empire stretched all the way to Pakistan, Mozambique, and Iran. The town is rumoured by to be the birthplace of the famous Sinbad the Sailor.

For a more relaxed trip, Sur the place to go as it's a tranquil location - you can watch the sunset or sunrise over the beach, tour the streets, watch workers craft wooden dhow boats, and climb up the Al Ayjah watchtower for a gorgeous view of Sur's white houses and dhows.

Where: Sur, northeast Oman

During the mid-1800s, British soldiers who were stationed at the now ghostly Jazirat al Maqlab or Telegraph Island were slowly driven mad.

Telegraph Island was once a communication hub that assisted in delivering the telegraphs between the British Empire and India. After telegraphy was decommissioned, British soldiers continued to actively man the outpost and according to reports, every single man completely lost his mind from months of the monotonous routine, the oppressive desert heat, and being isolated from the outside world.

Now, the buildings have long crumbled and the island transformed into a place for Omani locals and visitors to fish or to go snorkeling in.