One Week in Salalah, Oman: A Monsoon Dream in the Arabian Desert

When I told people I was going to Salalah in southern Oman, the reaction was mostly the same: “Where?” or “Isn’t it just desert?” Well, here’s the truth: Salalah is Oman's best-kept secret a land where the desert blooms, waterfalls roar, and camels graze in fog-covered meadows. I spent seven unforgettable days exploring this magical region during the Khareef (monsoon) season and here’s everything I saw, felt, and loved. 

Day 1: Arrival and the First Breath of Mist

Flying into Salalah in July is surreal. One moment you’re over arid plains, and the next, green hills stretch out beneath you. Humid, misty air greets you like a warm hug. I checked into the Al Baleed Resort by Anantara, a luxury haven tucked between the sea and a palm-lined lagoon. After a quick sunset walk on the beach and some spicy Omani shuwa at the hotel restaurant, I fell asleep to the sound of waves and monsoon winds.

Day 2: Waterfalls & Wadis – Nature’s Welcome

This day was all about Wadi Darbat, one of Salalah’s crown jewels. The fog hadn’t lifted by noon, giving the entire valley a mystical vibe. Waterfalls gushed over cliffs, and families picnicked near the riverbanks. I took a short boat ride through the lush wadi and even spotted camels just wandering around. If there’s ever been a moment where I questioned whether I was still in Arabia, this was it. Later, I stopped by Ayn Athum, another waterfall hidden deep in the mountains. The road there, carved through fog-draped cliffs, felt straight out of a fantasy movie.

Day 3: Culture and Frankincense

You can’t visit Salalah without diving into its ancient frankincense trade history. I visited the Land of Frankincense Museum and the nearby ruins of Al Baleed Archaeological Park—both UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Walking among the ruins, smelling the sweet, earthy aroma of frankincense trees, I imagined the ancient caravans that once passed through this land.

In the evening, I explored Al Haffa Souq, where I bought pure frankincense, handmade incense burners, and a beautiful Omani silver bracelet. The souq is relaxed, not overwhelming, and full of kind smiles and warm greetings. 

Day 4: Mughsail Beach and Marneef Blowholes

The weather was cloudy (as usual during Khareef), but that only added to the drama of Mughsail Beach. Long stretches of untouched shoreline met crashing waves and moody skies. At the Marneef blowholes, sea spray exploded high into the air nature’s own geysers! Afterward, I took the winding cliff side drive toward Shaat, a viewpoint so high up in the Dhofar Mountains that the clouds gathered below me. It was like being on top of the world.

Day 5: Exploring the Mountains of Jebel Samhan

Today was all about altitude and adventure. I joined a local guide and drove into Jebel Samhan, home to Arabian leopards and dramatic mountain vistas. The hike was light, but the scenery was jaw-dropping—sheer cliffs, swirling fog, and endless green. We ended the day with Omani coffee and dates at a small roadside stall, chatting with a shepherd about how life changes during the monsoon. Peaceful, quiet, and deeply moving.

Day 6: Day Trip to Mirbat – A Historic Fishing Town

On day six, I took a road trip east to Mirbat, once a key port in the frankincense trade. I visited the Tomb of Bin Ali, explored an old fort, and wandered along the fishing harbor lined with traditional boats called dhows. The highlight? A spontaneous grilled fish lunch cooked fresh by a local fisherman, served with rice, lemon, and a smile. On the way back, I stopped by Ayn Razat a peaceful spring and garden area ideal for a late afternoon walk.

Day 7: Spiritual Farewell and Quiet Reflection

For my final day, I headed to the Tomb of Prophet Ayoub (Job). The air was chilly and damp, with low-hanging clouds clinging to the mountain ridges. Whether you're religious or not, there's something powerful about the peace there. I took one last slow drive along the coast, watching Salalah’s wild landscapes roll by—the ocean on one side, green hills on the other. The city faded into mist as I returned to the airport.

 

Final Reflections: Salalah Stays With You

Salalah isn’t just a destination—it’s a feeling. A place where the desert turns green, waterfalls tumble through ancient hills, and the scent of frankincense lingers in the air like a quiet blessing.

Over the course of one week, I found peace in fog-draped mountains, awe at the edge of roaring blowholes, and connection in the smiles of locals offering coffee and stories. It’s a region that moves slowly, but deeply—reminding you to pause, breathe, and just take it all in.

Whether you're a nature lover, a culture seeker, or a traveler craving something different, Salalah will surprise you. It’s not loud, it’s not flashy—but it stays with you long after you’ve left.