As far back as 5,000 BC Frankincense merchants have navigated their way through this fascinating region whilst more recently Omani trading dhows have plied the coasts of Africa. This rich and prestigious trading history still influences life today. You’ll find it hard to resist the Souks (markets) with their enticing Middle Eastern delights and exotic wares.

Divers and snorkellers are lured by the pristine underwater reserves teeming with all manner of marine life including dolphins and whales, whilst the rare sight of turtles returning year after year to nest on the wide sandy beaches attract others. In-land travellers can explore one of the many historic Forts, visit the Oryx Sanctuary near Hajmah, drive a 4 x 4 on the rolling dunes at Wahiba Sands or take a Camel trek through the desert, ending with an Omani feast under the clear night sky.

Muscat, known as ‘Arabia’s Jewel’ and flanked by sea and mountains, is the country’s enchanting Capital. The old port area known as Muttrah is the site of His Majesty the Sultan’s Palace and the most famous of the City’s souks. Attractive old forts and walled gateways can be viewed from the seafront Corniche, ideal for an evening promenade. In contrast, The Grand Mosque, found on the road to Seeb, is an imposing example of modern Islamic architecture. The carpet in the prayer hall, the biggest in the world, took four years to weave.

In The Musandam Peninsula, a striking enclave on the northern tip of Oman facing the Straight of Hormuz, arid mountains plunge in to the warm waters of the Persian Gulf. Due to the presence of blue fjords, this region is often known as the ‘Norway of the Middle East’ whilst in Salalah, Oman’s second largest City in the South, the beaches of soft white sands fringed by swaying palms are more reminiscent of India than Arabia. Located in the Dhofar region, visitors flock here during the Khareef (the Summer Monsoon from June – September) to escape the dry heat experienced elsewhere and witness the transformation of the landscape in to a lush green canvas. Whilst we can recommend some hotels for travellers interested in visiting this region now, plans are also underway for the establishment of a first class marina including hotels and restaurants.

Accommodation

Since coming to power in 1970, Sultan Qaboos bin Said has transformed Oman’s infrastructure, enabling travellers to explore this fascinating country.  The Sultan’s world renowned commitment to conservation has also ensured that the cultural and environmental impact of some stunning new luxury hotels which incorporate a real flavour of Oman has been kept to a minimum.

For details about the lodges in this region, please see our Oman accommodation selection page.

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