Dhofar in southern Oman stands apart in the Gulf for its khareef, when monsoon winds bring fog and drizzle that turn the mountains green. Jabal Samhan Nature Reserve holds Arabian leopard, Nubian ibex and gazelles, though leopard sightings are very rare.
- Country
- Oman
- Type
- Mountains
- Best time
- July to March
- Suggested stay
- 3–5 days
- Main gateway airport
- Salalah International Airport (SLL)
- Malaria
- None
Why go to Dhofar
- Wadi Darbat's lakes and waterfalls during khareef
- Al Mughsail blowholes and beach
- Museum of the Frankincense Land and frankincense tree sites
- Baobab trees around Mirbat
- Jabal Samhan and its nature reserve
Best time to visit Dhofar
Based on average weather and wildlife seasons, the best period to visit Dhofar is July to March.
Khareef, roughly mid-June to mid-September: fog, drizzle and cloud turn the mountains green and Wadi Darbat's falls run, with temperatures of about 20–27°C.
Peak visitor numbers from across the Gulf; book accommodation and cars early.
Sarb season: clear skies, mild weather and lingering greenery.
Dry, stable weather with warm days, suited to beaches and frankincense sites.
| Month | Temp (°C) | Rain | Experience | Crowds |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| January | 19–27 | mostly dry | ★★★★★ | busy |
| February | 21–28 | mostly dry | ★★★★★ | busy |
| March | 22–29 | mostly dry | ★★★★★ | moderate |
| April | 25–31 | mostly dry | ★★★★★ | quiet |
| May | 27–32 | mostly dry | ★★★★★ | very quiet |
| June | 27–31 | mostly dry | ★★★★★ | moderate |
| July | 25–28 | some rain | ★★★★★ | peak season |
| August | 24–27 | some rain | ★★★★★ | peak season |
| September | 24–28 | mostly dry | ★★★★★ | busy |
| October | 23–30 | mostly dry | ★★★★★ | quiet |
| November | 22–30 | mostly dry | ★★★★★ | moderate |
| December | 21–28 | mostly dry | ★★★★★ | busy |
What you can see
Wildlife you may see in Dhofar includes camels, ibex, gazelles and birdlife.
Things to do
Getting there
Salalah airport is in the city and has regular domestic flights from Muscat. Sites such as Wadi Darbat, Al Mughsail, Taqah and Mirbat are 30–90 minutes by road; some wadis are closed temporarily during heavy rain.
Trips to Dhofar
No trips are listed for this destination yet. Send a request and we will check with providers.
Plan by travel style
- Dhofar for families
- Dhofar for a honeymoon
- Dhofar for photographers
- Dhofar for a first safari
- Dhofar on a budget
- Dhofar for luxury travel
Compare with
- Dhofar vs Ras Al Jinz
- Dhofar vs Sharqiya Sands
- Dhofar vs Hatta
- Dhofar vs Edge of the World
- Dhofar vs Al Marmoom
- Dhofar vs AlUla
Travelling to Dhofar from
Frequently asked questions
When is the best time to visit Dhofar?
Generally July to March. Khareef, roughly mid-June to mid-September: fog, drizzle and cloud turn the mountains green and Wadi Darbat's falls run, with temperatures of about 20–27°C.
How many days do I need in Dhofar?
Most visitors spend 3 to 5 days there, not counting travel days.
How do I get to Dhofar?
Salalah airport is in the city and has regular domestic flights from Muscat. Sites such as Wadi Darbat, Al Mughsail, Taqah and Mirbat are 30–90 minutes by road; some wadis are closed temporarily during heavy rain.
Sources: Experience Oman – Dhofar · Oman Observer – Wadi Darbat comes alive as Dhofar Khareef visitors return · Weather Spark – Salalah climate
Figures are approximate averages and vary from year to year.