One place that pleasantly surprised me was Fanja, about a 50-minute drive from Wadi Kabir.
On the way to Jebel Shams, I once stopped at the souq and decided several years later to see what else was there.
It was more than I expected, including a nice wadi walk, the fort, the souq, and a lovely cafe.
Check out the ideas below for how to explore Fanja, Oman.
Wadi Fanja
The easy walk takes you around a beautiful wadi with palm trees on both sides. Some of the path is gravel and sometimes you’ll have to cross the water, but it is not deep.
The water came to my mid-calf in some areas, but the rest was less than ankle-deep.
I was not sure where it would end, so I walked about an hour before deciding to return to my car.
It’s an enjoyable walk and very peaceful. It’s also a good place to have a picnic.
Heritage House & Cafe
The cafe and guesthouse are a five-minute drive from the Wadi. One will notice the heritage shop with clay water pitchers and straw mats hanging outside when walking in.
I went to the cafe and had an Arabic breakfast, which included chickpeas, beans, sweet noodles, and daal.
It was filling and tasty after my hike. I enjoyed eating my food outside while listening to the chirping sounds.
Cost
The Arabic breakfast for one person is 2.5 OMR, or guests can have the Wadi breakfast for 1.5, which includes egg, cheese, Chips Oman, and tea. They also have sandwich options.
The Heritage House also has rooms, so I may have to return and stay here. This is a spot to explore Fanja, Oman.
Fanja Fort
While walking around, it is easy to get lost in the remains of the houses and what appears to be an old settlement.
There’s an excellent view of the city surrounded by palm trees
I did not walk to the top of one of the fort, but I enjoyed wandering around the numerous rooms.
The fort is a ten-minute drive from The Heritage House.
Fanja Souq
Another place to explore Fanja, Oman is the souq. The souq sells traditional Omani items, including pottery water pitchers, straw circular placemats that you can hang on the wall, and clay mugs.
They also sell plant pots, and some shops were selling dried sardines.
Fanja, Oman Revealed
Fanja, Oman, is a great place to visit for a half day, whether you are looking for something to do while in Muscat or a place to pass through on your way to Nizwa or Jebel Shams.
For some Muscat inspiration, check out my post here.