Make the most of four days in Dhofar during Khareef

Oman’s Ministry of Tourism has released a four-day itinerary for tourists who come to Dhofar to experience the Khareef Festival. Thousands of people from both inside and outside Oman visit Dhofar during the summer to get a glimpse of its monsoon season, when temperatures drop to the mid-20s, while the rest of the region swelters in the summer heat.

During Khareef, the Governorate of Dhofar is noted for lush greenery, mists over the mountains, and waterfalls, as well as the continuous pitter-patter of rain.
 

“You can begin your trip by visiting the Land of Frankincense Museum and Al Baleed Ruins, to learn about the rich history of Dhofar. This will help to explain why, two thousand years ago, the Roman scholar Pliny the Elder described the Al Baleed Ruins as one of the richest archaeological sites in the world. Then, drive back to the city and stop for a snack at the numerous shacks selling refreshing coconuts, bananas and sugar cane and explore Al Hafa Souq which offers a wide range of local goods and accessories,” said Oman’s Ministry of Tourism.

The ministry added: “Spend the second day touring the rugged western regions of the governorate. The roads will lead you to Mughsayl Beach, where you will find Marneef Cave and the famous blowholes at the western end of the beach. Continue along the main road where you will enjoy some of the great scenery until you reach Rakhyut where you will discover small fishing villages and some great spots for a picnic.”
 

The ministry’s guidelines also included trips to Taqah on the outskirts of Salalah as well as Wadi Darbat, where plenty of waterfalls can be found.“On the third day drive to Taqah and visit the historic castle, where you can learn about the history of the region, and then head to Wadi Darbat where you can find lush reserves and waterfalls,” said the Ministry of Tourism. “Explore the wadi and drive up the nearby mountains, which offer panoramic views of Dhofar. From here head back down to the coast and discover the Khor Rori ruins, where you can wander freely and even watch archaeologists at work.”

“On the last day of your short tour of the Dhofar Governorate, drive north from Salalah, up into the mountains and find your way to Wadi Dawkah where you can see and touch the frankincense trees. Enjoy the incredible scenery on your way back and then head to the Salalah Gardens Mall where you can find authentic Omani handicrafts, which make amazing gifts and also help support local artists and crafts people,” explained the ministry.