2-Day Local Food, Wine, and Relaxation Tour for Couples in Salalah

Salalah, Oman

2 days

Hawana Resort, Sultanate of Oman
Sultan Qaboos tower
Waterfall
Camels
Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque

About Salalah, Oman

Experience the enchanting beauty of Salalah, Oman's hidden gem. Nestled amidst lush mountains and azure seas, Salalah offers a unique blend of Arabian culture and natural wonders. Explore the ancient ruins of Al-Baleed Archaeological Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, or stroll through the vibrant Al-Husn Souq for traditional Omani handicrafts. Immerse yourself in the city's rich history at the Salalah Museum. Enjoy the cool monsoon season, known as Khareef, transforming the desert landscape into a verdant paradise. Indulge in the region's exotic cuisine, featuring fresh seafood and fragrant spices. Relax on pristine beaches or venture into the mountains for breathtaking views. Salalah is a captivating destination that promises an unforgettable journey.

2-Day Itinerary

Day 1

Exploring the Vibrant Souk and Relaxing at the Beach

Morning

Start your day with a visit to the vibrant Haffa Souk, where you can immerse yourself in the local culture and shop for traditional Omani products such as frankincense, spices, and textiles.

Lunch

Enjoy a traditional Omani lunch featuring local delicacies such as shuwa, a slow-cooked lamb dish, and majboos, a spiced rice dish. Pair your meal with some local date juice or Omani coffee.

Afternoon

Spend the afternoon relaxing at Al Mughsail Beach, where you can enjoy the beautiful turquoise waters and white sandy beaches. Don't miss the blowholes, a natural phenomenon where sea water is forced up through holes in the rock.

Dinner

For dinner, indulge in a seafood feast featuring fresh catch from the Arabian Sea. Try the grilled hammour or the kingfish curry, paired with a glass of local wine.

Evening

End your day with a leisurely stroll along the Salalah Corniche, enjoying the cool evening breeze and the beautifully lit up cityscape.

Morning

Visit the Sultan Qaboos Mosque, a stunning example of Islamic architecture. Don't forget to admire the intricate calligraphy and the beautiful chandeliers inside.

Lunch

Have lunch at a local eatery, where you can try Omani bread with honey and cheese, a popular local snack. Pair it with a refreshing glass of lemon mint juice.

Afternoon

Spend the afternoon exploring the Frankincense Land Museum, where you can learn about the history and significance of frankincense in Omani culture.

Dinner

Enjoy a romantic dinner at a rooftop restaurant, where you can savor Omani cuisine while enjoying panoramic views of the city.

Evening

End your trip with a relaxing visit to the Al Baleed Archaeological Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Take a leisurely walk around the ruins under the starlit sky.

Attractions in Itinerary (6)

Haffa Souk

1
Haffa Souk

A traditional market where you can buy a variety of goods, including textiles, jewelry, and frankincense.

Shopping
Al Mughsail Beach

2
Al Mughsail Beach

Al Mughsail Beach is a beautiful, serene beach located about 40km west of Salalah. It is known for its white sandy shores, clear blue waters, and the dramatic cliffs that border it. The beach is also home to the famous 'blowholes', where sea water is forced up through holes in the limestone rock, creating a spectacular sight.

Beaches
Salalah Corniche

3
Salalah Corniche

A beautiful waterfront promenade offering stunning views of the Arabian Sea.

Attractions
Landmarks
Tours
Sultan Qaboos Mosque

4
Sultan Qaboos Mosque

A beautiful mosque named after the Sultan of Oman, featuring stunning architecture and design.

Religious Sites
Architecture
Frankincense Land Museum

5
Frankincense Land Museum

A museum dedicated to the history and culture of frankincense in the region.

Museums
Cultural Experiences
Al Baleed Archaeological Park

6
Al Baleed Archaeological Park

A UNESCO World Heritage Site featuring the ruins of an ancient city and a museum showcasing Omani culture and history.

Attractions
Cultural Experiences
Monuments

Local Food and Drinks (12)

Majboos

Majboos

A popular Omani dish, Majboos is a spiced rice dish often cooked with saffron and a variety of meats, similar to biryani. It's a must-try for anyone visiting Salalah.

Harees

Harees

Harees is a traditional Omani dish made from wheat and meat, usually chicken. It's a staple during Ramadan and a popular comfort food in Salalah.

Shuwa

Shuwa

Shuwa is a traditional Omani dish where lamb or goat is slow-cooked in an underground sand oven. The meat is marinated with a mixture of Omani spices, making it a unique delicacy in Salalah.

Mashuai

Mashuai

Mashuai is a traditional Omani seafood dish consisting of rice and kingfish served with a sauce made from spices and lime. It's a popular dish in Salalah due to its coastal location.

Madrouba

Madrouba

Madrouba is a traditional Omani dish made from rice, chicken, and a blend of spices. It's a hearty and comforting dish that's popular in Salalah.

Halwa

Halwa

Omani Halwa is a sweet, jelly-like dessert made from rosewater, saffron, ghee, and various nuts. It's a traditional Omani treat and a must-try for anyone with a sweet tooth visiting Salalah.

Dates

Dates

Dates are a staple in Omani cuisine and are often served with coffee. They're a common snack in Salalah and can be found in various forms, from fresh to dried.

Sakhana

Sakhana is a thick sweet soup made from dates, molasses, and milk, often spiced with cinnamon. It's a traditional Omani dish that's particularly popular during Ramadan in Salalah.

Kahwa

Kahwa

Kahwa is traditional Omani coffee, often flavored with cardamom and served with dates. It's a staple in Omani culture and a must-try for coffee lovers visiting Salalah.

Laban

Laban is a traditional Omani drink made from fermented milk. It's a refreshing beverage that's particularly popular in Salalah during the hot summer months.

Sharbat

Sharbat is a sweet drink made from fruits or flower extracts, often served chilled. It's a popular refreshing beverage in Salalah, especially during the hot summer months.

Miskat Dhofari

Miskat Dhofari is a traditional Omani drink made from a mixture of milk, sugar, and ginger. It's a unique and refreshing beverage that's popular in Salalah.

Best time to visit

The best time to visit Salalah, Oman is during the Khareef season, which is the monsoon period from late June to early September. During this time, the city transforms into a lush, green landscape with cooler temperatures, making it a unique experience in the Middle East. This is also when the Salalah Tourism Festival takes place, offering a range of cultural and entertainment activities. However, if you prefer less crowd, the months from October to February can also be a good time when the weather is pleasant and perfect for sightseeing.

National holidays

Here you can find the national calendar of all public holidays for the year. These dates are subject to change as official changes are announced, so check back regularly for updates.

DateDayHoliday Name

January 1

Mon

New Year

February 7

Wed

Isra and Mi'raj

April 10

Wed

Eid al-Fitr

April 11

Thu

Eid al-Fitr Holiday

April 12

Fri

Eid al-Fitr Holiday

April 13

Sat

Eid al-Fitr Holiday

June 17

Mon

Eid al-Adha

June 18

Tue

Eid al-Adha Holiday

June 19

Wed

Eid al-Adha Holiday

June 20

Thu

Eid al-Adha Holiday

July 8

Mon

Muharram

September 16

Mon

The Prophet's Birthday

November 18

Mon

National Day

Please note that during national and public holidays, opening hours for establishments, museums, etc. may vary. Don't forget to check in advance!

How to get around

Renting a car is a popular option for getting around in Salalah. There are several car rental companies available at the airport and in the city. An international driving permit is required along with your home country driving license.

Taxis are readily available in Salalah and are a convenient way to get around. They can be hailed on the street or booked in advance. Most taxis are metered, but it's always a good idea to confirm the fare before starting your journey.

Ridesharing services, such as Uber, are not currently available in Salalah. However, there are local apps like Marhaba Taxi that offer similar services.

Public buses run by the Oman National Transport Company connect Salalah to other cities in Oman. Within Salalah, there are local bus services that cover most parts of the city. Buses are a cost-effective way to travel, but they may not be as convenient as taxis or car rentals.

Salalah is a bike-friendly city with dedicated cycling paths in some areas. There are several places in the city where you can rent bicycles for the day.

Salalah is a walkable city, especially in the cooler months. Many of the city's attractions are located close to each other, making walking a viable option for getting around.

For a more comfortable and hassle-free experience, you can hire a private driver. This can be arranged through your hotel or through private tour companies. The driver can also serve as a guide, providing valuable insights about the city and its attractions.

While we strive for accuracy in our "How to get around" section, the information may not always be up-to-date or 100% accurate; we highly recommend cross-checking with local resources before your travel.

Important information

Currencyر.ع.‏ OMR

Time zoneUTC+4

Driving sideRight

Emergency phone999

Drinking waterYes

Power sockets

Power socket type G

Voltage240 V

Things to know about Salalah, Oman as a first time visitor

1

Salalah, Oman experiences a unique monsoon season known as the Khareef from June to September, which results in lush, green landscapes.

2

The official language is Arabic, but English is widely spoken in Salalah.

3

The local currency is the Omani Rial (OMR). Credit cards are accepted in most places, but it's advisable to carry some cash for smaller establishments or markets.

4

Oman is a Muslim country, and Salalah is no exception. It's important to respect local customs and dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites.

5

The Sultanate of Oman is a safe country with a low crime rate. However, it's always wise to take standard precautions with your belongings.

6

The standard voltage in Oman is 240 V, and the frequency is 50 Hz. The power plugs and sockets are of type G.

7

Oman's weekend falls on Friday and Saturday. Many businesses and government offices are closed on these days.

8

Tipping is not customary in Oman, but it is appreciated. A tip of 10% is considered generous.

9

The time zone in Salalah is Gulf Standard Time (GST), which is 4 hours ahead of Coordinated Universal Time (UTC+4).

10

The drinking age in Oman is 21, and alcohol is only served in licensed hotels and restaurants.

11

Public displays of affection are frowned upon in Omani culture. It's best to avoid such behavior to respect local customs.

12

The tap water in Salalah is generally safe to drink, but most visitors prefer to drink bottled water.

13

The climate in Salalah is tropical. The average temperature ranges from 68°F to 86°F (20°C to 30°C).

14

Omanis are known for their hospitality. Don't be surprised if you're invited into a local's home for coffee and dates.

15

Public transportation is limited in Salalah. Renting a car or hiring a taxi is the most convenient way to get around.

16

Healthcare facilities in Salalah are of a high standard. However, it's recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical expenses.

17

Oman has strict laws against drugs. Possession, use, or trafficking in illegal drugs is a serious crime and can result in a long jail sentence and heavy fines.

18

During Ramadan, eating, drinking, and smoking in public during daylight hours is considered disrespectful.

19

Photographing government buildings, military installations, and ports is prohibited.

20

Oman has strict laws on public decency. Offensive language, gestures, or behavior can lead to fines or imprisonment.

Basic Arabic to know as a first time visitor

English phrase

Native phrase

Pronunciation

When to use it

Hello

مرحبا

Marhaba

Greeting someone

Goodbye

وداعا

Wadaeaan

Leaving someone

Please

من فضلك

Min fadlak

Requesting something

Thank you

شكرا

Shukran

Expressing gratitude

Yes

نعم

Naam

Agreeing with someone

No

لا

La

Disagreeing with someone

Excuse me

عفوا

Afuwan

Getting someone's attention

I'm sorry

أنا آسف

Ana asef

Apologizing

Do you speak English?

هل تتحدث الإنجليزية؟

Hal tatahadath al'ingleziyya?

Asking someone if they speak English

I don't understand

أنا لا أفهم

Ana la afham

When you don't understand what was said

Where is the bathroom?

أين الحمام؟

Ayna alhammam?

Asking for directions

How much does this cost?

بكم هذا؟

Bikam hadha?

Asking the price of something

I need help

أحتاج إلى مساعدة

Ahtaj ila musaeadah

When you need assistance

Can I have the menu, please?

هل يمكنني الحصول على القائمة، من فضلك؟

Hal yumkinuni alhusul ealaa alqaimah, min fadlak?

At a restaurant

I would like to order

أود أن أطلب

Urid an atlub

At a restaurant

Water

ماء

Maa

Asking for water

Food

طعام

Taam

Talking about food

Help!

مساعدة!

Musaeadah!

In an emergency

Call the police

اتصل بالشرطة

Itasil bishurtah

In an emergency

Good night

تصبح على خير

Tusbih ealaa khayr

Before going to bed

Packing List

  • Clothing

  • Lightweight clothing

  • Underwear

  • Socks

  • Sleepwear

  • Swimwear

  • Comfortable walking shoes

  • Flip flops for the beach

  • Hat for sun protection

  • Sunglasses

  • Light jacket or sweater for cooler evenings

  • Toiletries

  • Travel-sized shampoo and conditioner

  • Body wash or soap

  • Toothbrush and toothpaste

  • Deodorant

  • Razor and shaving cream

  • Sunscreen

  • Lip balm with SPF

  • Hand sanitizer

  • Travel-sized first aid kit

  • Prescription medications

  • Contact lenses and solution (if needed)

  • Travel documents and essentials

  • Passport

  • Driver's license or ID card

  • Credit and debit cards

  • Cash in local currency

  • Travel insurance documents

  • Hotel and transportation reservation confirmations

  • Emergency contact information

  • Electronics and gadgets

  • Smartphone

  • Charger for smartphone

  • Headphones

  • Camera

  • Charger for camera

  • Universal power adapter

  • Portable power bank

  • Miscellaneous items

  • Travel pillow

  • Earplugs

  • Eye mask

  • Snacks

  • Water bottle

  • Books or e-reader for entertainment

  • Travel guide for Salalah, Oman

  • Notebook and pen

  • Reusable shopping bag

Weather Conditions

Salalah, Oman, is a unique destination with a tropical climate that stands out in the arid Middle East. The weather here is generally divided into two main seasons: the Khareef, or monsoon season, and the dry season. The Khareef season, from June to September, is a special time to visit Salalah. During this period, the city experiences a cool, misty and green climate, with temperatures typically ranging between 77°F (25°C) and 86°F (30°C). The city is transformed into a lush, green landscape, a phenomenon that's quite rare in this region. However, it's worth noting that this is also the peak tourist season, so expect larger crowds and higher prices. Don't forget to pack a light raincoat or umbrella as you may encounter light drizzles. The dry season, from October to May, is characterized by clear skies and warm temperatures. During this time, temperatures can range from 68°F (20°C) in the cooler months to 95°F (35°C) during the peak of the dry season. This is a great time to visit if you're interested in beach activities or exploring the desert. Remember to pack lightweight, breathable clothing, a hat, sunglasses, and plenty of sunscreen to protect yourself from the sun. Regardless of when you visit, staying hydrated is crucial due to the generally arid climate. Always carry a bottle of water with you. Also, keep in mind that Oman is a conservative country, so dress modestly out of respect for local customs. In conclusion, Salalah offers a unique weather experience in the Middle East. Whether you're drawn by the cool, green Khareef season or the warm, clear skies of the dry season, you're sure to have an unforgettable trip.

MonthHi / Lo (°C)Weather Overview

January

29° / 19°

January is a pleasant month to visit Salalah, with mild temperatures and little rainfall. It's a great time for outdoor activities.

February

30° / 20°

February continues the pleasant weather, with slightly warmer temperatures. It's an excellent time for beach activities and exploring the city.

March

33° / 23°

March sees a rise in temperatures, but it's still comfortable for sightseeing. Early mornings and late evenings are particularly pleasant.

April

36° / 26°

April is the start of the hot season, but the heat is still bearable. It's a good time to visit indoor attractions and enjoy the local cuisine.

May

39° / 29°

May is quite hot, but the coastal breeze makes it manageable. It's a good time to visit the beaches and enjoy water sports.

June

40° / 30°

June is the start of the monsoon season, bringing cooler temperatures and rain. It's a unique time to experience Salalah's greenery and waterfalls.

July

37° / 27°

July is in the middle of the monsoon season, with lush landscapes and cooler temperatures. It's the perfect time to explore the mountains and enjoy nature.

August

36° / 26°

August continues the monsoon season, offering a respite from the heat. It's a great time to visit the city's parks and gardens.

September

35° / 25°

September marks the end of the monsoon season, with temperatures starting to rise. However, the city remains green and beautiful.

October

34° / 24°

October is a comfortable month to visit, with moderate temperatures and clear skies. It's a good time for outdoor activities and sightseeing.

November

32° / 22°

November sees a drop in temperatures, making it a pleasant time to visit. It's an excellent time for exploring the city and its surroundings.

December

30° / 20°

December is a cool and comfortable month, perfect for enjoying all that Salalah has to offer. It's a great time to visit the beaches and enjoy water sports.

Did you know?

Did you know that Salalah, Oman is known as the 'perfume capital of Arabia' due to its extensive frankincense trade?

1 of 10

Places near by Salalah, Oman

Al Baleed Archaeological Park

Al Baleed Archaeological Park

A UNESCO World Heritage Site, it is an open-air archaeological site that provides a glimpse into the region's trade history.

20m
15 km / 9.3 mi
How to get there
Taqa Castle

Taqa Castle

A 19th-century fortification that offers panoramic views of the Arabian Sea and the surrounding town.

40m
35 km / 21.7 mi
How to get there
Khor Rori

Khor Rori

The ruins of the ancient city of Sumhuram, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, located on the edge of a lagoon.

1h
50 km / 31.1 mi
How to get there
Wadi Darbat

Wadi Darbat

A beautiful valley with waterfalls, lakes, and caves. It's a perfect spot for a picnic.

45m
30 km / 18.6 mi
How to get there
Mirbat

Mirbat

A coastal town known for its old merchant houses and the Battle of Mirbat site.

1.5h
75 km / 46.6 mi
How to get there
Al Mughsail Beach

Al Mughsail Beach

A stunning beach with blowholes and a bird sanctuary.

1h
45 km / 28.0 mi
How to get there
Frankincense Land Museum

Frankincense Land Museum

A museum dedicated to the history and production of frankincense in the region.

15m
10 km / 6.2 mi
How to get there
Jebel Samhan Nature Reserve

Jebel Samhan Nature Reserve

A nature reserve known for its high cliffs and deep canyons. It's a habitat for the Arabian leopard.

1.3h
50 km / 31.1 mi
How to get there
Prophet Ayoub's Tomb

Prophet Ayoub's Tomb

The tomb of Prophet Ayoub, known as Job in the Bible, located on a hilltop.

50m
35 km / 21.7 mi
How to get there
Al Fizayah Beach

Al Fizayah Beach

A secluded beach with crystal clear waters and white sands, perfect for relaxation.

1.5h
60 km / 37.3 mi
How to get there