Destinations

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.