Oman
Bordering the Persian Gulf, Gulf of Oman and the Arabian Sea, Oman is a geologically diverse country situated in the southeastern area of the Arabian Peninsula. This desert nation is also endowed with soaring mountain ranges, flat plains, lush green canyon oases and coastal mangrove swamps, lagoons and afrotropical fog desert. Oman’s endless coast line and immaculate coral reef are brimming with marine life leading to amazing adventures for cruisers and divers.
Renowned for its ancient culture and hospitality, travelers also find charm in Oman’s unspoilt natural beauty and cultural heritage; including fishing villages, endless pristine beaches, forts and castles, and the unique ancient farming methods of Oman’s riverbed communities. Oman also boasts five UNESCO World Heritage sites.
Things to do
- Al Thowarah hot spring
- Tomb of Job
- Ayn-Athum Waterfall Salalah
- Nakhal Fort in Al-Batinah
- Tawi Atair Sink Hole
- Fjords of Khasab
- Al Jabal Al Akhdar Full Moon Hike
- Jebel Akhdar
Best Resorts
- The Chedi Muscat
- Al Bustan Palace
- Intercontinental Muscat
- Shangri-La Al Husn, Muscat
- Anantara Al Jabal Al Akhdar resort, Al Hajar Mountains
- Six Senses Zighy Bay
- Al Baleed Resort Salalah by Anantara
Featured Cities
Situated on the Gulf of Oman, Muscat is a port city surrounded by deserts and mountain ranges. It is filled with history, architecture, and culture for travelers to enjoy.
Muscat is a mixture of contemporary and traditional culture and design. There are many stunning architectural structures to see in the city including the Sultan’s Palace, the Mutrah Fort, the Royal Opera House, and the Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque.
For natural sights, Muscat has much to offer. Visitors can walk along the beach from one part of the city to another, or go dolphin watching off the coast. Just outside of the city lie the Al Hajar Mountains and the Ramlat Tawq Desert.
For shopping, the Mutrah Souq offers everything a visitor could want from traditional jewelry and clothing to furniture and antiques.
Located on the southern coast in the Dhofar region of Oman, Salalah is known for its beaches, banana plantations, and The Kahreef, an annual monsoon.
Salalah is home to breathtaking architecture and interesting history which can be seen at the Taqah Castle, the Al Balid architectural site located on the Sea of Oman, and the Museum of the Frankincense Land.
For outdoor attractions, Salalah will keep any traveler satisfied. Visitors can go to a beautiful white sand beach surrounded by towering mountains, take a boat tour of the region, or stroll the ancient town of Khor Rori, stopping at fruit stands along the way. In July to September, the monsoon season transforms the area into a landscape of lush greenery. Omanis prepare traditional shows to celebrate the season and welcome visitors to the area.
Located in northern Oman, Nizwa is an ancient city that is known for its culture, history, and the mountains that surround the city.
Nizwa Fort is an ancient fort built in the 17th century. Featuring a large cylindrical tower, it is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the country. Near the fort is the marketplace of Nizwa Souq. This is a traditional Omani Souq where visitors can shop or just stroll around, gazing at traditional architecture and unique souvenirs
For a day trip outside the city, visitors can head to the desert for camel rides, or explore the nearby mountains.
