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January
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February
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March
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April
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May
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June
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July
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August
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September
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October
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November
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December
Visiting Oman in January
Though hot throughout the year, January is one of the cooler months in Oman with temperatures remaining in the mid-twenties. A visit during this month can involve plenty of active exploring. This can be a great time for visits to some of Oman’s UNESCO World Heritage Sites. You may choose to roam the historic streets of the Ancient City of Qalhat, visit the striking ruins of Bahla Fort or examine a range of fascinating archaeological sites.
Towards the end of January, you can spectate (or participate in) the Al Mouj Muscat Marathon which attracts thousands of runners from around the world.
Visiting Oman in February
Pleasant temperatures continue throughout February. The coasts are awash with fantastic hotels for families, where relaxing half-term beach breaks can be interspersed with entertaining daytrips. Discover Muscat’s magnificent museums, behold the Grand Mosque and Sultan’s Palace, and enjoy a spectacular performance at the Royal Opera House Muscat (book well in advance).
Muscat Festival lasts through most of the month. Watch live traditional dances, wander round a replica Omani village and browse a mesmerising range of traditional foods and colourful fabrics.
You may also cheer on your country at the annual Tour of Oman cycling race.
Visiting Oman in March
Throughout March, temperatures begin to rise steeply. A trip to the wadis of Shab or Bani Khalid will reveal Oman at its most beautiful. These spectacular valleys hide the country’s greenest scenes as the flora benefits from shelter and a regular water source. As well as being home to much Omani wildlife and a picturesque setting for hiking, you can also learn about local life here and discover how ancient communities managed to beat the heat.
For an unmissable cultural spectacle, you can witness an authentic Omani camel race in March.
Visiting Oman in April
With Oman’s scorching summer beginning and the peak season ending, now is a great time to visit Jabal Akhdar. One of the country’s most vital agricultural regions, Jabal Akhdar sits deep within the Al Hajar Mountain Range. Visit vast fields of roses used to produce Oman’s famous smoky rosewater, said to have a variety of health benefits as well as its delightful taste. A warm welcome here may even include being sprayed with a small amount of this fragrant product. Here, you can experience an exclusive outdoor cooking class with skilled local chefs.
Visiting Oman in May
Come between May and June to experience Ramadan. While you should prepare for limitations on alcohol consumption and alfresco dining, as well as opening times at museums and some attractions, it can be well worth witnessing this exciting religious month. Watch the markets get hectic as families prepare for nocturnal feasts. Enjoy a vibrant and cheery atmosphere as all routines change for this holy month. You will also find many of the beaches and natural attractions completely deserted.
Visit the beach of Ras al Jinz during May to see green sea turtles as they begin to nest.
Visiting Oman in June
From June to August, the country is at its hottest with temperatures often exceeding 40 degrees. Visitors to Oman can find milder temperatures in the region surrounding Salalah, where many of the country’s fruits and vegetables are grown. The city itself, influenced by years of trading with East Africa, is full of artistic character. Explore lush gardens, bustling markets and historic buildings which showcase the best of Arabian architecture.
Visiting Oman in July
With fewer visitors during Oman’s summer, beach breaks can be full of bliss so long as you bring high-factor sun cream and you’re conscious of time spent out of the shade. Nature lovers may also wish to prioritise periods of wildlife abundance over a comfortable climate, in which case the next generation of young green sea turtle can be found on Ras al Jinz beach and the waters nearby.
Visiting Oman in August
Another scorching month, August is a great time to visit the Al Hajar Mountains. Here you can enjoy fantastic hiking, full of dramatic panoramas, and a chance to observe some endemic flora species and many rare birds. Explore deep canyons and donkey tracks which have been in use for thousands of years. The mountains are also home to several pre and protohistoric archaeological sites including the ruins of impressive monumental towers, intriguing agricultural settlements and haunting necropolises.
Visiting Oman in September
September is the last month in which the country’s extreme heat may hamper active itineraries. As the weather begins to cool, you may wish to celebrate Oman’s autumn harvest festival. At this time, many iconic delicacies are ready to be enjoyed – explore markets and the stalls at harvest festival events to sample walnuts, dates, peaches and pomegranates, as well as plenty of fresh honey. Visits to the vibrant bazaars in Jebel Akhdar and Nizwa are popular choices.
You can come face to face with the ocean’s gentlest giants as the annual whale shark migration passes by Oman’s coastlines.
Visiting Oman in October
With average temperatures coming back down to the thirties, the peak visiting season commences once more. The perfect answer to a miserable winter, Oman is a destination that should be booked in advance. You may wish to enjoy a variety of experiences. Enjoy ideal weather for beachside relaxation, exciting water sports and sensational snorkelling and scuba diving. Visit ancient cities where insightful tours lead you through narrow streets which provide plenty of shade. You may also wish to glimpse the harsh desert landscapes, marvelling at the few species of bird, beast and reptile that manage to survive here.
Visiting Oman in November
Head into the expansive desert region of Wahiba Sands, traversable only by camel or 4x4, to experience its desolate beauty. Spend dreamy days exploring whitewashed villages and verdant oases, before brilliant scarlet evenings which make for perfect sundowner moments. Nights spent in a remote desert camp offer the chance to be dazzled by a piercing night sky, guided by an experienced stargazer. You may also meet modern Bedouin communities to enjoy unparalleled hospitality and learn the secrets to surviving in the desert.
Visiting Oman in December
Temperatures are a little cooler in December, making for an ideal time to explore all the attractions of Muscat. Browse traditional Omani produce at the souks, and visit the high-end shopping districts. Alternatively, head to Sur and take a trip on a dhow boat after learning how these traditional crafts are constructed. Visit the Daymaniyat Islands and dive deep beneath the waves in search of dolphin and other marine life. You may also wish to drink in the serene scenery of Masirah Island, a hotspot for kitesurfing and marine wildlife watching.
