Wadi Shab is one of the most famous and touristy sites in the country - but for good reason. After a short boat ride of about 2 minutes, you’ll walk roughly 30-40 minutes along a scenic canyon path before reaching the first pool. From there, you just swim on!

If you're up for a bit more adventure (and fewer people) - when you reach the cave (what most people consider the “end”), swim through all the way to the end and climb the rope you’ll see (it’s obvious once you’re there). Continue climbing and you’ll reach a more secluded "upper" oasis. When I went, there was no one else up there. Absolutely beautiful!

4x4 Required: No

Good to know

• The boat ride costs 1 OMR for a round trip

• If possible, go early to avoid as much of the crowds as possible

• Bring water shoes - unless you enjoy ice skating on slippery rocks

• I left my stuff behind at the 'entrance', where you get into the water. Everyone seemed to be doing the same thing, and all my stuff was still there when I got back.

• Wear something you can swim in (for the ladies - a swimsuit is fine)