40 THINGS TO DO IN SALALAH
Salalah, a city in Oman, is a hidden gem with a very unique charm. It experiences a special rainy season called khareef, making it lush and green from July to September. Many visitors come to escape the summer heat on the Arab Peninsula and enjoy the cool weather in this small paradise.
Salalah has many wonderful historical sites to visit, like Al-Baleed (UNESCO World Heritage) or Wadi Darbat (Canyon with waterfalls) and attractions like the beautiful Sultan Qaboos Mosque. Its pristine beaches offer water activities and a chance to see dolphins.
Salalah is perfect for history enthusiasts, nature lovers, and beachgoers. Now is a great time to visit with new cheaper flights and upscale accommodations popping up everywhere.
Salalah has many wonderful historical sites to visit, like Al-Baleed (UNESCO World Heritage) or Wadi Darbat (Canyon with waterfalls) and attractions like the beautiful Sultan Qaboos Mosque. Its pristine beaches offer water activities and a chance to see dolphins.
Salalah is perfect for history enthusiasts, nature lovers, and beachgoers. Now is a great time to visit with new cheaper flights and upscale accommodations popping up everywhere.
1) WADI DARBAT (Waterfall and Pool)
Wadi Darbat is a canyon located in Salalah. The area is known for its beautiful landscapes, including waterfalls and pools. The area is popular with tourists and locals alike, who come to enjoy outdoor activities such as picnicking and swimming. Wadi Darbat is also home to a variety of plant and animal species, making it a great destination for nature lovers.
Below you will find a map that helps you find the main road that leads along the Wadi. At the end of the road there is a food stand and the opportunity to chug around in small electric boats.
Wadi Darbat is not the only Wadi in the area, but it's the most popular one. There are many other waterfalls and pools.
Below you will find a map that helps you find the main road that leads along the Wadi. At the end of the road there is a food stand and the opportunity to chug around in small electric boats.
Wadi Darbat is not the only Wadi in the area, but it's the most popular one. There are many other waterfalls and pools.
2) WADI DARBAT (Electric Boat Ride)
If you follow the water along the Wadi, you will eventually reach the end of the road. There is a small Restaurant which sells some snacks, tea and drinks. It's also the place where you can find the electric boats. See the map below for the exact location. The picture was taken right before the start of the rainy season, which is why the sky is cloudy and the bushes are not yet as green as in other pictures.
3) MUGHSAIL BEACH + WATER FOUNTAIN (BLOW HOLE)
Mughsail Beach is known for its white sandy beach and clear waters. And, of course, for the blow hole. See the pictures of the blow hole below.
As of 2022, there is only a small, inconspicuous restaurant. In the coming years, the city plans to invest in infrastructure.
In the first phase the government said they will add car parks, a plaza to hold small events and activities, food kiosks, restaurants, and walkway that leads directly to the beach. There will also be gardens and shades. In a second phase they will focus on marine sports, a small adventure park and some options for children’s games,
Pretty near to the Mughsail Beach is the Mughsail water fountain, or "blow holes", located on a high butt with a barred opening that allows a view of the water below. Depending on the swell, the water can whip up and spray out of the shaft like a fountain, showcasing the impressive power of the sea. This sight is enjoyed by visitors of all ages.
If you continue down the road towards Yemen, you will pass a small grove of Frankincense trees on your right. Keep going and you will come to a point on your left where you can turn towards Al Fazayih beach. It is recommended to have a 4wd vehicle to navigate the steep road down to the beach, but the views are worth it.
The beach itself is secluded, with little pockets between the rocks where visitors can feel like they are in their own private world.
So, if you go on a calm water day, you will be rewarded with a peaceful experience at Al Fazayih beach. On a rough day, you can enjoy the dramatic display at the Mughsail blowholes. Either way, you are sure to have a memorable and rewarding visit.
As of 2022, there is only a small, inconspicuous restaurant. In the coming years, the city plans to invest in infrastructure.
In the first phase the government said they will add car parks, a plaza to hold small events and activities, food kiosks, restaurants, and walkway that leads directly to the beach. There will also be gardens and shades. In a second phase they will focus on marine sports, a small adventure park and some options for children’s games,
Pretty near to the Mughsail Beach is the Mughsail water fountain, or "blow holes", located on a high butt with a barred opening that allows a view of the water below. Depending on the swell, the water can whip up and spray out of the shaft like a fountain, showcasing the impressive power of the sea. This sight is enjoyed by visitors of all ages.
If you continue down the road towards Yemen, you will pass a small grove of Frankincense trees on your right. Keep going and you will come to a point on your left where you can turn towards Al Fazayih beach. It is recommended to have a 4wd vehicle to navigate the steep road down to the beach, but the views are worth it.
The beach itself is secluded, with little pockets between the rocks where visitors can feel like they are in their own private world.
So, if you go on a calm water day, you will be rewarded with a peaceful experience at Al Fazayih beach. On a rough day, you can enjoy the dramatic display at the Mughsail blowholes. Either way, you are sure to have a memorable and rewarding visit.
3) BANANA MARKET (FRESH FRUITS RIGHT ON THE ROADSIDE)
Salalah is known for its fertile lands that are suitable for agriculture. While it is mostly dry in the capital city of Muscat, Salalah has a unique climate that is suitable for growing a variety of fruits and vegetables. In particular, the region is known for its papayas, bananas and coconuts, which are grown in abundance thanks to the availability of fresh water.
There are hundreds of small banana sellers who have set up along the roadside in Salalah, with many of them located near the banana plantations. These sellers distribute their bananas throughout the city, offering visitors and locals a chance to try the delicious fruit. Overall, the banana market in Salalah is an important part of the local economy and plays a vital role in the region's agriculture sector. I especially recommend trying the papayas, which are plentiful in Salalah and incredibly delicious.
Trust me! Try the Papaya :)
There are hundreds of small banana sellers who have set up along the roadside in Salalah, with many of them located near the banana plantations. These sellers distribute their bananas throughout the city, offering visitors and locals a chance to try the delicious fruit. Overall, the banana market in Salalah is an important part of the local economy and plays a vital role in the region's agriculture sector. I especially recommend trying the papayas, which are plentiful in Salalah and incredibly delicious.
Trust me! Try the Papaya :)
If you look at Salalah from a bird's eye view, you will see that a mountain range surrounds the city.
During the rainy season, moisture builds up here. The mountains are turning green, the hinterland remains dry.
During the rainy season, moisture builds up here. The mountains are turning green, the hinterland remains dry.
Drawn here is the area of my favorite banana stands. However, the prices and quality are probably about the same in many other places.
4) AL HAFFA BEACH (WALKING ON THE WHITE SANDY BEACH)
You may find it hard to believe, but this beautiful white sandy beach with the feel of the Caribbean is located right in the middle of the city. The beach features a volleyball field, and is a popular spot for picnics and kite flying, especially on Friday evenings. At certain times of the year, migratory birds can also be spotted searching for fish on the shore. Al Haffa Beach is a spacious stretch of beach with stunning coconut palms, offering a perfect spot for relaxation and recreation in Salalah. Please note that sun loungers may not be available for rent at this beach. This means, bring your own towels :)
5) AD DAHARIZ BEACH (SUNSET ON FRIDAY EVENING)
Ad Dahariz Beach is known for its beautiful white shore and clear waters, which make it a popular spot for swimming, sunbathing, and other beach activities. Located on the eastern outskirts of the city, Ad Dahariz Beach is perhaps the most visited beach in Salalah, and is a popular spot for locals to enjoy the sunset, listen to music, and stay up late, especially on Fridays.
There are numerous catering options located just across the street from the beach, offering a range of food and drinks for visitors to enjoy. The district surrounding Ad Dahariz Beach is up-and-coming and is set to be improved with modern infrastructure in the coming years.
The beach is easily accessible by car and is a great place to spend a day relaxing and enjoying the natural surroundings. In addition to swimming and sunbathing, visitors to Ad Dahariz Beach can enjoy a variety of activities, such as picnicking, grilling, and playing beach games. Overall, Ad Dahariz Beach is a must-see destination for anyone visiting the Salalah area.
There are numerous catering options located just across the street from the beach, offering a range of food and drinks for visitors to enjoy. The district surrounding Ad Dahariz Beach is up-and-coming and is set to be improved with modern infrastructure in the coming years.
The beach is easily accessible by car and is a great place to spend a day relaxing and enjoying the natural surroundings. In addition to swimming and sunbathing, visitors to Ad Dahariz Beach can enjoy a variety of activities, such as picnicking, grilling, and playing beach games. Overall, Ad Dahariz Beach is a must-see destination for anyone visiting the Salalah area.
6) FAZAYAH BEACH (PERFECT PLACE FOR A PICNIC)
Located along a scenic five-kilometer stretch of the Arabian Sea, Al Fazayah Beach is accessed via a winding dirt road over a mountain. A 4x4 vehicle is recommended for the last section of the 72-kilometer route from Salalah city, as the ride can be bumpy. However, the beautiful sight of the sapphire blue water and the serene and peaceful atmosphere at the beach make the ride more than worth it.
The shoreline at Al Fazayah Beach is a mix of sandy and rocky terrain, fringed by natural vegetation. It is often possible to have the beach all to yourself, making it a great place to relax and enjoy the solitude.
The shoreline at Al Fazayah Beach is a mix of sandy and rocky terrain, fringed by natural vegetation. It is often possible to have the beach all to yourself, making it a great place to relax and enjoy the solitude.
7) ZERO GRAVITY POINT
The Gravity Hill Salalah or the 'Zero Gravity Point' as we call it, is a popular tourist attraction near the city of Salalah. It is a location where the optical illusion of a slope uphill appears to be a slope downhill due to the surrounding landscape. This can be caused by a variety of factors, including the curvature of the earth and the way that the human brain perceives perspective.
Experience the optical illusion firsthand by driving your car up the apparent uphill slope in neutral gear. This offers a unusual experience that is sure to be memorable. Gravity Hill Salalah is a perfect for a quick stop on the way to another attraction.
It is always a good idea to follow safety guidelines and instructions when visiting any tourist attraction. In this case, watch out for other cars when outside of your car. The driver should (of course) not leave the car when it is rolling in neutral gear.
Experience the optical illusion firsthand by driving your car up the apparent uphill slope in neutral gear. This offers a unusual experience that is sure to be memorable. Gravity Hill Salalah is a perfect for a quick stop on the way to another attraction.
It is always a good idea to follow safety guidelines and instructions when visiting any tourist attraction. In this case, watch out for other cars when outside of your car. The driver should (of course) not leave the car when it is rolling in neutral gear.
8) VISIT TO THE TOWN OF MIRBAT
The small town of Mirbat is a 50 minutes drive away from Salalah City. Mirbat is known for its narrow streets, charming old town, and rich history.
During the 1970s, Mirbat was one of the focal points of the civil war in Oman, and a famous battle took place in the city. Many of the buildings in Mirbat are in a run-down condition, with some being over 300 years old and having hardly been renovated.
However, the Mirbat Fort has been restored and is open to the public, offering a glimpse into the town's past. Visitors can explore the various rooms and chambers of the fort, which include a watchtower, living quarters, and storage rooms.
Mirbat is also known for its status as an important breeding center for Arabian horses. The entrance to Mirbat is marked with two statues of brown horses, one on either side, which serve as monuments to the town's history. The city center offers a glimpse into the humble daily life of the people of Mirbat, and the port is a popular spot for photographers, particularly when the fishermen are returning with their catch. Overall, Mirbat is a charming and fascinating and a must-see if you stay in Salalah.
During the 1970s, Mirbat was one of the focal points of the civil war in Oman, and a famous battle took place in the city. Many of the buildings in Mirbat are in a run-down condition, with some being over 300 years old and having hardly been renovated.
However, the Mirbat Fort has been restored and is open to the public, offering a glimpse into the town's past. Visitors can explore the various rooms and chambers of the fort, which include a watchtower, living quarters, and storage rooms.
Mirbat is also known for its status as an important breeding center for Arabian horses. The entrance to Mirbat is marked with two statues of brown horses, one on either side, which serve as monuments to the town's history. The city center offers a glimpse into the humble daily life of the people of Mirbat, and the port is a popular spot for photographers, particularly when the fishermen are returning with their catch. Overall, Mirbat is a charming and fascinating and a must-see if you stay in Salalah.
9) HAWANA SALALAH - THE PREMIUM DESTINATION
Located just 20-30 minutes east of the airport, Hawana Salalah is a small city within the city of Salalah that offers a variety of attractions and activities. Visitors can explore the many shops, cafes, and restaurants in the marina or on beach side. In the evenings and weekends there are many special events and entertainment happening. The city is also home to Oman's first water park that is hugely popular for kids.
The beaches of Hawana Salalah are also a popular destination, offering a range of water sports activities, as well as Horseback riding in the sunset. There are tennis, paddle and a paintball area to be discovered. With its excellent infrastructure and fantastic restaurants, Hawana Salalah is the premium destination of the region and caters to travelers of all ages. Guests can stay at one of the 4 or 5 star hotels, an eco-lodge or rent one of the affordable apartments, for example mine: airbnb.com/h/salalah
The beaches of Hawana Salalah are also a popular destination, offering a range of water sports activities, as well as Horseback riding in the sunset. There are tennis, paddle and a paintball area to be discovered. With its excellent infrastructure and fantastic restaurants, Hawana Salalah is the premium destination of the region and caters to travelers of all ages. Guests can stay at one of the 4 or 5 star hotels, an eco-lodge or rent one of the affordable apartments, for example mine: airbnb.com/h/salalah
10) WATER PARK IN HAWANA SALALAH
Oman's first water park has 12 different slides. These range from snake slides to mega waves, a wave pool, a family area and a water play area for children. In total, the park offers adventures on 65,600 m² as well as a food court (fast food, coffee shop, ice cream), mini market and souvenir shop. It's a must-see place for families travelling to Salalah.
12) THE MUSEUM OF THE FRANKINCENSE LAND
The Museum of the Frankincense Land in Salalah is a museum dedicated to the history and cultural significance of frankincense in Oman. Frankincense, a fragrant resin obtained from trees in the Boswellia family, has played an important role in the history and economy of Oman for thousands of years. Oman exports about 7000 tons per year. The museum showcases the history and cultural significance of frankincense in the region, as well as the process of harvesting and trading the resin. It also feature exhibits on the history and culture of Salalah and the surrounding region.
13) SULTAN QABOOS MOSQUE
The Sultan Qaboos Mosque, the largest mosque in Salalah, is located right in the city center.
Non-Muslims can also visit the mosque, but not at prayer time. There are five prayers every day. The mosque is not open to visitors on Friday. The mosque is open to non-Muslim visitors in the mornings from Saturday to Thursday. Visiting hours are from 8:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. There is a dress code to enter the mosque. Full length trousers are highly recommended. Ladies must cover their whole body and wear a headscarf. Children under the age of 7 are not allowed to enter the mosque.
Shoes are not allowed inside.
Non-Muslims can also visit the mosque, but not at prayer time. There are five prayers every day. The mosque is not open to visitors on Friday. The mosque is open to non-Muslim visitors in the mornings from Saturday to Thursday. Visiting hours are from 8:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. There is a dress code to enter the mosque. Full length trousers are highly recommended. Ladies must cover their whole body and wear a headscarf. Children under the age of 7 are not allowed to enter the mosque.
Shoes are not allowed inside.
15) TAQAH CASTLE
Taqah Castle is a castle located in Taqah, a small town in the Dhofar Governorate of Oman. It is a historical and cultural landmark and is a popular destination for tourists visiting the region. The castle is thought to have been built in the 19th century and was used as a residence for the local rulers of the area. It is now a museum that displays a collection of artifacts and exhibits that tell the history of the region. The castle is a unique and interesting place to visit, offering a glimpse into the history and culture of Oman.
16) FUN STATION for Kids (@ Salalah Grand Mall)
This brand-new fun park opened in late 2022 and features virtual reality gaming areas, bowling alleys, an adventure park and soft play areas. Families can also enjoy the private party rooms and many other gaming zones located at the mall’s first floor.
It's actually "Oman’s largest indoor entertainment hub".
Fun Station is located inside Salalah Grand Mall which is worth a visit anyways. It's recommended to clime to the top of the mall to enjoy the view from the terrace. There are a few restaurants and cafes there as well.
It's actually "Oman’s largest indoor entertainment hub".
Fun Station is located inside Salalah Grand Mall which is worth a visit anyways. It's recommended to clime to the top of the mall to enjoy the view from the terrace. There are a few restaurants and cafes there as well.
17) DOLPHINS TOUR
It is possible to go on a dolphin tour in Salalah, Oman. The Arabian Sea is home to a variety of dolphin species, including bottlenose dolphins and spinner dolphins. Dolphin tours in Salalah typically involve a boat trip to a location where dolphins are known to frequent, such as near the coast or around offshore islands. Tour operators may provide information and education about dolphins, as well as the opportunity to observe and possibly interact with the animals in their natural habitat. Some dolphin tours in Salalah may also offer additional activities, such as snorkeling or whale watching. It is recommended to research and choose a reputable tour operator that follows ethical and sustainable practices when going on a dolphin tour in Salalah.
18) RESTAURANT L’AVENUE PARK (IN THE CITY CENTER)
One of the best restaurants in town. High quality. Exceptionally friendly staff. Great ambiance.
https://goo.gl/maps/1VFZBtVSuTEQa6Ur5
https://goo.gl/maps/1VFZBtVSuTEQa6Ur5
19) PURCHASE TRADITIONAL OMANI CLOTHING
In Oman, traditional clothing for men and women is known as a dishdasha and abaya, respectively. The dishdasha is a long, loose-fitting garment that is worn over a shirt and pants. It is made of lightweight fabric, such as cotton or linen, and is typically white or off-white in color. The dishdasha is fastened with a cord at the waist and has long sleeves. It is worn by men for formal occasions, as well as for everyday wear.
The abaya is a long, loose-fitting garment that is worn over clothing. It is made of lightweight fabric, such as cotton or polyester, and is typically black in color. The abaya is fastened with a cord or button at the neck, and has long sleeves. It is worn by women as a form of modesty and is often accompanied by a headscarf or veil.
In addition to these traditional garments, many people in Oman also wear other types of clothing, including Western-style dresses, skirts, and suits. The traditional clothing of Oman reflects the country's rich cultural heritage and is an important part of its national identity.
The abaya is a long, loose-fitting garment that is worn over clothing. It is made of lightweight fabric, such as cotton or polyester, and is typically black in color. The abaya is fastened with a cord or button at the neck, and has long sleeves. It is worn by women as a form of modesty and is often accompanied by a headscarf or veil.
In addition to these traditional garments, many people in Oman also wear other types of clothing, including Western-style dresses, skirts, and suits. The traditional clothing of Oman reflects the country's rich cultural heritage and is an important part of its national identity.
20) DIVING
Diving in Salalah, Oman is an exciting and diverse experience that is best enjoyed during the months of September through May, when the weather is sunny and the ocean is warmer. During this time, divers can take advantage of the clear waters and excellent visibility to explore the underwater flora and fauna of the region. The pleasant ocean breeze adds to the overall diving experience.
In Mirbat, located about 45 minutes from Salalah, dive sites can be easily accessed from the shore and offer a variety of marine life, including Nudibranches, Flat Worms, Shrimp, Clownfish, Octopus, Morays, Stonefish, Rays, Turtles, and Barracudas. The clear water and abundant sunlight allow for the growth of vibrant coral gardens.
Dive sites in Salalah are located off the coast west of the fisherman's port, which is a short drive from the city. Dive boats depart from the port, allowing divers to explore the diverse underwater world of the region. Dive sites in this area have depths ranging from 7 to 30 meters, offering a variety of topographies and marine life that changes with the seasons. Among the marine life that can be found in Salalah's waters are various species of morays, crocodile fish, cuttlefish, frogfish, and turtles, as well as large stingrays and schools of sardines being hunted by trevally or mantas. As you dive, keep an eye out for the occasional huge turtle or gigantic stingray, which can reach up to 2 meters in size.
During the low season from June to September, diving in Salalah may be limited due to the Indian Ocean climate and heavy monsoon rains. These rains can wash out many dive sites and cause the underwater flora to change from vibrant coral fields to dense kelp forests. The strong winds and limited visibility during this time make diving difficult. However, during other times of the year, diving in Salalah is an exciting and rewarding experience.
In Mirbat, located about 45 minutes from Salalah, dive sites can be easily accessed from the shore and offer a variety of marine life, including Nudibranches, Flat Worms, Shrimp, Clownfish, Octopus, Morays, Stonefish, Rays, Turtles, and Barracudas. The clear water and abundant sunlight allow for the growth of vibrant coral gardens.
Dive sites in Salalah are located off the coast west of the fisherman's port, which is a short drive from the city. Dive boats depart from the port, allowing divers to explore the diverse underwater world of the region. Dive sites in this area have depths ranging from 7 to 30 meters, offering a variety of topographies and marine life that changes with the seasons. Among the marine life that can be found in Salalah's waters are various species of morays, crocodile fish, cuttlefish, frogfish, and turtles, as well as large stingrays and schools of sardines being hunted by trevally or mantas. As you dive, keep an eye out for the occasional huge turtle or gigantic stingray, which can reach up to 2 meters in size.
During the low season from June to September, diving in Salalah may be limited due to the Indian Ocean climate and heavy monsoon rains. These rains can wash out many dive sites and cause the underwater flora to change from vibrant coral fields to dense kelp forests. The strong winds and limited visibility during this time make diving difficult. However, during other times of the year, diving in Salalah is an exciting and rewarding experience.
21) GARDEN WITH THE AMAZING BAOBAB TREES
The beauty of the location is breathtaking, but it is important to remember to use mosquito repellent before going out as there are a large number of small flies that can be a nuisance and potentially ruin your trip. Taking preventative measures can help ensure that you fully enjoy your time in the area. A short hike leads to a nearby natural water pool. Also, a great viewpoint looking at the sea.
22) THE TAQAH PLATEAU
If you are in Salalah, you should definitely go to the Taqah Plateau near Mirbat and enjoy the beautiful view of the city of Taqah and the Jebel Mountains in the background.
22) UNESCO World Heritage Archaeological Park (Al-Baleed)
Al-Baleed Archaeological Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site located in Salalah, Oman. It is home to the ancient city of Z̧afār, which was a major port for the frankincense trade during medieval times. The park contains the ruins of the city as well as the Museum of the Land of Frankincense. The city, which was also known as Saffara Metropolis in Roman times, was visited by many famous travelers such as Marco Polo and Ibn Battuta. It declined in the 16th and 17th centuries due to various factors, including the closing of the lagoon and invasions by the Portuguese, Turks, and Mamluks. The site was rediscovered in 1992 by a team led by Nicholas Clapp and Juris Zarins.
23) AL HUSN SOUK AT HAFFA – THE FRANKINCENSE SOUK OF SALALAH
Al Husn Souk, also known as Al Haffa Souq or Haffa Souk, is an old market in Salalah, the largest city in Oman located in the south. It is named after its location in the Haffa District and its main commodity, frankincense, and is also known as the Frankincense Souk of Oman, Luban Souk, or Bakhur Souk. The souk is located on Sultan Qaboos Street and is open in the morning, evening, and night. It is especially busy during the winter months when European tourists visit the city and in the evening and night during the Khareef season in July and August, when makeshift shops are set up to accommodate the influx of visitors. The souk is closed in the afternoon from 12 pm to 4 pm.
24) AIN GARZIZ (WATER AND HIKING AREA)
There is only water in the monsoon season.
25) SUNSET HORSE RIDING (HAWANA SALALAH)
In Hawana Salalah you can ride a horse on the beach at sunset. A great experience for young and old.
27) FISH MARKET
Open in the morning.
28) DESERT SAFARI (OVERNIGHT IN THE RUB AL-KHALI DESERT)
The Empty Quarter, also known as the Rub al Khali, is a massive desert in the Middle East that covers parts of Oman, Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, and Yemen. It is known for its vast sand dunes and is a popular destination for adventure seekers who want to experience its unique natural beauty. The desert is located around 200 kilometers north of Salalah in the Dhofar Governorate in Oman, and covers an area of over 500,000 square kilometers. It is a must-see attraction in the region, and visitors can enjoy a variety of activities, such as off-road safaris in vehicles like Toyota Land Cruisers and Nissan Patrols, to fully experience the natural wonders of the Empty Quarter. Rub al Khali is known for its vast expanses of sand dunes and extreme temperatures, with little rainfall and vegetation. The desert is also rich in oil and gas reserves and is home to a number of Bedouin tribes.
Video on Youtube
Video on Youtube
29) FLYBOARDING SALALAH
From this season you can try this new water sport activity in Hawana Salalah.
30) SINKHOLE TAWI ATAYR
The Tawi Atayr is considered the third largest sinkhole (doline) in the world and is one of the most beautiful manifestations ever. It is one kilometer long and 200 meters deep. Literally translated as "Fountain of Birds", Tawi Atayar is one of the most enchanting places in Salalah. However, getting a guide is recommended.
31) JEBEL SAMHAN
Jebel Samhan is one of the main mountain ranges in Dhofar Governorate. Its maximum height is 2100 meters. Jebel Samhan is one of the most visited game reserves in Salalah. It is surrounded by majestic mountains and enchanting meadows. This protected land is home to the Arabian leopard, an endangered species. It's not entirely always open to the public.
32) MAKE A PHOTO OF THE PALACE WALLS (AL HOSN PALACE)
You can't enter the palace, but if you're already in the city, it's worth taking a quick trip to the main gate. There is said to be a beautiful mosque within the palace walls, but you only get a glimpse over the walls. By the way, when the flag is flying, the sultan is at home.
33) ZIG-ZAG-ROAD
Passing Mughsayl, the road meanders through blasted gorges about 5km up the mountain.
35) PAINTBALL FUN WITH FAMILY IN HAWANA SALALAH
If you're looking for an exciting activity for your family, consider visiting Hawana Salalah. It's only a 25-minute drive from the city center. There, you can play paintball, a game that is similar to tag and hide and seek, but with paint guns and special equipment.
Players use obstacles and buildings for cover and play different types of games like capture the flag, elimination, and team deathmatch. Paintball requires strategy, teamwork and quick thinking making it a physically and mentally challenging sport. The Paintball Park in Hawana is fairly new with professional and friendly people running it. The activity can be combined with a visit of the Hawana Water Park that is literally just next to it.
Players use obstacles and buildings for cover and play different types of games like capture the flag, elimination, and team deathmatch. Paintball requires strategy, teamwork and quick thinking making it a physically and mentally challenging sport. The Paintball Park in Hawana is fairly new with professional and friendly people running it. The activity can be combined with a visit of the Hawana Water Park that is literally just next to it.
36) FLAMINGOS IN THE LAGOON OF KHAWR AD DAHARIZ
Khawr Ad Dahariz is a coastal lagoon located near the city of Salalah in Oman. It is about 2km long and broadens as it goes inland, fed by freshwater inflow from a nearby wadi. The lagoon is separated from the sea by a sandbar, but this is sometimes breached. The water surface is partly open, with rocky and vegetated margins, as well as some open sandy and grassy banks. The east side of the lagoon is used for sardine drying, and the site is surrounded by developed or fenced land. The marginal vegetation is heavily browsed by camels. The site is known for its bird biodiversity, with key species such as Greater Flamingos and Lesser Crested Terns. Other notable species include the Bubulcus ibis, Ardea cinerea, Circus aeruginosus and Larus ridibundus. The site is also home to many species of waterbirds, and a total of 189 species have been recorded. Additionally, the site also has a variety of non-bird biodiversity, including at least three species of flora that are endemic or near-endemic to Oman.
37) TAQA OPEN AIR MUSEUM (CLAY HOUSES)
Located in Taqa, this location is home to former "clay houses". It is a beautiful place to visit, with its coastal setting providing a serene and peaceful atmosphere. In addition to its natural beauty, the location is also a tourist and archaeological area with a rich history. It is home to the Khor Roroi and castle archaeological areas, as well as a fishing boat used in times past. These historical artifacts provide insight into the region's past and the way of life of its inhabitants. The location is also a popular spot for national events and festivals, including the Taqah Festival and the Annual Energy Festival. These events showcase the local culture and traditions, making it a unique and exciting destination for tourists and locals alike.
38) THE OLD CITY OF SAMAHRAM (KHOR RORI) & ARCHAEOLOGICAL GALLERY
This remote archeological site of a city from the first century A.D. features a museum & sea views.
Khor Rori, also known as Khawr Rawrī, is a barrier island estuary located in the Dhofar Governorate of Oman. It was a major breeding ground for birds and served as an important harbor for frankincense trade in the past. The area is home to the ruins of the ancient Sumhuram, a fortified port city that was founded in the 3rd century BC by the kingdom of Ḥaḍramawt as an outpost for the production of frankincense.
The city was later occupied by the Kingdom of Ḥimyar and abandoned in the 5th century. There are also ruins on the eastern and western promontories at the mouth of the estuary, with the eastern promontory, also known as Inqitat Mirbat or Khatiya, having a settlement history dating back to the 8th century BC.
The site was excavated by the American Foundation for the Study of Man in the 1950s and by the Italian Mission to Oman since 1994. It has been part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site "Land of Frankincense" since 2000.
Khor Rori, also known as Khawr Rawrī, is a barrier island estuary located in the Dhofar Governorate of Oman. It was a major breeding ground for birds and served as an important harbor for frankincense trade in the past. The area is home to the ruins of the ancient Sumhuram, a fortified port city that was founded in the 3rd century BC by the kingdom of Ḥaḍramawt as an outpost for the production of frankincense.
The city was later occupied by the Kingdom of Ḥimyar and abandoned in the 5th century. There are also ruins on the eastern and western promontories at the mouth of the estuary, with the eastern promontory, also known as Inqitat Mirbat or Khatiya, having a settlement history dating back to the 8th century BC.
The site was excavated by the American Foundation for the Study of Man in the 1950s and by the Italian Mission to Oman since 1994. It has been part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site "Land of Frankincense" since 2000.
39) DHOFAR BOWLING
40) Bowling (@ Salalah Grand Mall)
There seem to be three facilities in the city:
Salalah Grand Mall (inside Fun Station):
https://maps.app.goo.gl/HxYdxu8pQ19WvuxB8
(Pictures above)
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Dhofar Bowling Center:
https://goo.gl/maps/Y1hNbpu38tuz5RzY8
Dhofar Bolwing Saada:
https://goo.gl/maps/yahrL6bap4H6ygbH8
The bowling alley at 'Dhofar Bowling Center' location has a good number of lanes and there are also two billiard tables available for use. Prices for bowling are per person and cost 1.500 Omani Rial, while billiards for 1 hour also costs 1.500 Omani Rial.
Salalah Grand Mall (inside Fun Station):
https://maps.app.goo.gl/HxYdxu8pQ19WvuxB8
(Pictures above)
***
Dhofar Bowling Center:
https://goo.gl/maps/Y1hNbpu38tuz5RzY8
Dhofar Bolwing Saada:
https://goo.gl/maps/yahrL6bap4H6ygbH8
The bowling alley at 'Dhofar Bowling Center' location has a good number of lanes and there are also two billiard tables available for use. Prices for bowling are per person and cost 1.500 Omani Rial, while billiards for 1 hour also costs 1.500 Omani Rial.
41) Ain Sahlounout
Located in Salalah, Ayn Sahalnoot, also known as Sahalnoot Spring or Wadi Sahalnoot, is appreciated for its natural beauty. I visited during the off-season, and it was still stunning. During the rainy Khareef season it could be even more beautiful. The spring, surrounded by mountains and lush greenery, offers clear water and a tranquil setting perfect for picnics and relaxation with your family. You can take beautiful photographs here, capturing the serene environment.
42) Ayn Khor
Ayn Khor, located in Salalah, is known for its freshwater spring that flows into turquoise pools surrounded by greenery and rock formations. Also referred to as Ain Koor, it is a popular seasonal spot in the Dhofar Region. The area is accessible via off-road trails and attracts visitors looking to relax and take photographs.