Sur & Wahiba Dunes Famed for the shipyards where traditional dhows have been built for centuries, Sur is the nearest town to the turtle nesting beaches of Ras Al Junayz and Ras al Haad, attracting the largest number of Green turtles in Oman. There are conservation projects close by which can be visited. The nearby spectacular dunes of Wahiba Sands, which extend for some 180kms, provide extraordinary contrasts of colour and lights, especially at sunrise and sunset.

Musandam: Khasab Separated from the rest of Oman by part of the UAE, the Musandam peninsula, bordering the Strait of Hormuz in the north of the country, offers breathtaking coastal scenery comprising 600kms of spectacular cliffs, coral reefs and deserted beaches. Khasab is the regional centre and a lovely place to visit for a couple of days.

The Dhofar Region: Salalah Renowned in ancient times for its lucrative frankincense trade with Babylon, Egypt and Mesopotamia, the Dhofar’s main attraction today is the garden city of Salalah which stands on a vast sub tropical plain where coconut, banana and mango trees flourish. Some of Oman’s best beaches line the coast hereabouts, whilst Salalah itself is the main departure point for trips to the Qara mountains and the archaeological site of Sumhuram, legendary palace of the Queen of Sheba.

Sohar Ancient capital of Oman and birthplace of Sinbad the sailor, Sohar is located on the lush Batinah coast and is lapped by the calm waters of the Gulf of Oman. A visit to the fish souk is a must for visitors. Early morning and early evening fishermen beach their boats at the market and disgorge their catch. The town retains its old fashioned charm with a labyrinth of streets and alleyways and at its heart lies a beautiful restored fort, and a magnificent Corniche sweeps the coast.

Nizwa This oasis city, set against a backdrop of high mountains, is the medieval capital and cultural centre of Oman. Visit the renovated citadel, with its 17th century fort and adjacent golden-domed mosque. A highlight here is the spectacle of the Friday morning market which attracts thousands from far and wide. Also close by are the Al Hoota Caves, located at the foot of Jabal Sams. The lower part of the cave has become an environmentally sound tourist attraction. One of the largest cave systems in the world, it was only opened to the public in 2006.

Hajar Mountains To the north and west of Muscat, narrow gorges lead up into the scenic Hajar mountains where fortified towns and villages stand guard over valleys and mountain passes. Foremost amongst these are the forts at Nakhl and Rustaq, whose crenellated towers and ramparts dominate the surrounding palm groves.

Muscat The capital city of Oman, Muscat is a wonderful city. Standing in a fine natural harbour it is flanked by mountains, which plunge steeply to the sea. Visit old Muscat, still surrounded by its original ramparts and protected by twin 16th century forts, with its old merchant houses and colourful souks. There are many beautiful hotel/resorts in Muscat and a few days relaxing and sightseeing here are highly recommended.



Al Sawadi Beach Resort *** Set on its own on Sawadi beach, in a completely un-commercialised area just 90 kms north west of Muscat, this is the perfect place for outdoor types who can choose from water-skiing, wind surfing, jet-skiing, sea fishing and, above all, diving (aro . . . More...

Hilton Salalah ***** Set by itself in landscaped gardens bordered by swaying coconut palms, this lovely hotel distinguished by 5 star luxury, is set on an endless, white sandy beach in a tranquil, secluded location. From the domed lobby with its mirror like marble floo . . . More...

Six Senses Hideaway Zighy Bay ***** Six Senses Hideaway Zighy Bay is located on the northern Musandam Peninsula in the Sultanate of Oman. The setting of the accommodations and private marina is dramatic, with mountains on one side and a 1.6-kilometer sandy beach at Zighy Bay, on the . . . More...

Radisson SAS Muscat **** This intimate boutique style first-class hotel is situated in the heart of the select Al Khuwair area of Muscat. Offering 156 rooms and suites furnished to exceptionally high standards. There are several food and beverage outlets with nightly live . . . More...

Crowne Plaza Muscat **** A friendly and stylish hotel situated on a rocky promontory with commanding views along the whole length of the sandy Mina Al Fahl beach. With 30 steps down to the beach, this four star hotel stands in delightfully landscaped gardens against the im . . . More...

Grand Hyatt Muscat ***** Elegance and quality on a grand scale, the Grand Hyatt Muscat is located in the diplomatic centre of Muscat, overlooking the azure waters of the Gulf of Oman. One of Muscat's world-class hotels it is set back from a sandy beach 18 kms from old Musc . . . More...

InterContinental Muscat ***** The InterContinental is set in extensive sub-tropical gardens bordering a vast beach with gorgeous views over the Gulf of Oman. The stylishly original interior, open from atrium to basement has galeried landings around its perimeter. Also featuring . . . More...

The Chedi Muscat ***** Designed in traditional Omani style, this hotel offers breathtaking views of the Gulf of Oman. The Chedi Muscat features a choice of 161 modern Superior and Deluxe Rooms and Private Suites. With full hotel services, there are two swimming pools, t . . . More...

Shangri-La Barr Al Jissah Resort and Spa ***** Exclusively located on the private, idyllic bay at Barr Al Jissah, the Shangri-La nestles against the dramatic backdrop of the rugged interior mountains and the spectacular waters of the Gulf of Oman. Comprising 3 hotels: Al Waha which is ideal for . . . More...

Al Bustan Palace ***** A unique and exclusive experience – the luxurious Al Bustan Palace Hotel in Oman will more than exceed your expectations. Set against a dramatic backdrop of rugged mountains, the hotel lies amid an emerald green oasis with 200 acres of lush beach . . . More...



Empty Quarter From £520pp An escorted 4 day / 3 night tour with 3 days off road to the Empty Quarter and desert boarders between Saudi Arabia, Yemen and Oman - on its own or as an extension to the coastal caravan. . . . More...

The Magic of Oman From £2995pp A fascinating 12 day / 11 night fully escorted tour of northern Oman. From Muscat to the Straits of Hormuz, from desert landscapes to the Hajar Mountains, this unique tour includes the best of northern Oman's splendid coastal scenery and historic s . . . More...

Discover Salalah From £490pp A 4 day / 3 night fully escorted tour of the sub tropical Dhofar region of Oman. . . . More...

Coastal Caravan From £2265pp A fascinating 9 day/8 night expedition from Muscat to Salalah. Including both internal and international flights. An exciting overland camping adventure following the full length of Oman's spectacular coastline south, through breathtaking scenery, . . . More...

Oman Excursions - From £269pp Two and three day excursions from Muscat, Oman. See more of Oman by prebooking one of these short excursions. 4WD vehicles and off-road tracks are used to explore desert and mountain landscapes and colourful local communities. . . . More...

Images of Oman - From £1,599pp   Tailor-made Holidays to OmanExperience culture and adventure on this wonderful 6-night tour of Oman. You will begin the trip in Muscat for a few days before travelling off road to the coast in 4x4's. See the turtles at the Ras al Jinz beach a . . . More...

Useful Information for Oman

PASSPORTS

Please ensure that your passport is valid for six months after your return date.

VISAS

All visitors require a visa to enter Oman. Visas can be obtained on arrival: either a single entry ‘Visit Visa’ for a stay of up to a month, or a multiple entry visa, valid for a year.

Visa forms are no longer required for entry into Seeb International airport, Muscat, Oman for passengers travelling on a British passport. On arrival at the airport proceed to the Travelex Money Exchange Counter located in the immigration hall where you will be required to pay by cash or credit card. With the receipt proceed to the Immigration counters where the visa will be stamped in your passport. The Oman visa is free of charge for passengers who have stopped over in Dubai and have a Dubai visa in their passport (not applicable if only transiting in Dubai).

If you are flying to Abu Dhabi / Dubai first before driving by road into Musandam / Muscat you will be able to obtain an Oman visa on arrival at the border before entering Oman. This must be paid in cash. This unfortunately cannot be arranged prior to travel. Please note: If crossing at the Hatta border with a Dubai entry stamp/visa in your passport, Oman visa is free of charge.

There are new restrictions on liquids, aerosols and gels in carry-on luggage, which must be placed in a re-sealable plastic bag and not exceed 100ml.

DRIVING IN OMAN

A UK driving licence can be used to hire a car in Oman. Driving is not permitted on beaches. Driving is on the right in Oman.

ROAD NETWORK IN OMAN

Oman has an excellent network of international grade highways and secondary roads linking all major towns and regional capitals. Traffic speeds vary between 50kms in the cities to 120kms on the highway. Some off-road drives should only be taken in a 4-wheel drive vehicle with a driver in attendance, as it is unsafe to travel unaccompanied in those areas due to steep terrain and flash floods. Driving at night outside of Muscat can be dangerous as camels stray onto the roads.

CLIMATE

The best time to visit Oman is from October to April. The coolest months in Muscat are December and January when the nights are cool and daytime temperatures rarely go above 30°C (86F). From May to September it is hot and humid except in Dhofar where it rains during the monsoon. July and August are the hottest months with temperatures sometimes hitting 50°C (122F).

INNOCULATIONS & HEALTH IN OMAN

Clients are advised to seek current information from NHS Direct: Tel No: 0845 4647 or contact your local GP. Information is also provided online at: www.fitfortravel.scot.nhs.uk

No vaccinations are compulsory however as a guideline; polio, typhoid and hepatitis are recommended. Yellow fever is necessary if travelling via an infected country.

Anti-malaria tablets are suggested only for the remote rural areas of Oman in the provinces of Musandam and North Batinah – medical advice should be sought two weeks before travelling.

MEDICAL FACILITIES AND HEALTH INFORMATION IN OMAN

A number of modern medical facilities and Western pharmaceuticals can be found in Oman. Hospital emergency treatment is available if needed although doctors and hospitals often expect cash payment for health services.

DRESS

Light loose fitting cotton clothing. Oman is a predominately Muslim country and visitors should respect religious and cultural sensitivities, particularly in the matter of dress and public conduct. Ladies should cover their elbows and knees and men should wear short or long sleeved shirts and long trousers. Shorts or beachwear should not be worn except at the beach or pool area. When visiting mosques clothing to the wrist and ankle may be expected, so please be prepared for this and women should always have a scarf to cover their head.

SAFETY IN OMAN

For the latest information contact the Foreign & Commonwealth Travel Advice Unit www.fco.gov.uk or www.britishembassy.gov.uk/oman or by calling the ABTA Department on 0901 201 5050 (calls charged at 50p per minute).

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