Joanna James
From ancient villages cradled by rugged mountains to monsoon-kissed oases awash with green, Oman is a diverse tapestry of breathtaking wonders. Explore destinations around the country that beckon every traveller, and discover why Oman is your next holiday getaway.
With marble buildings and coastal roads, Muscat is a timeless metropolis, free from skyscrapers and glitzy entertainment. The port city has retained its authentic charm for generations, seamlessly transitioning into the modern world while preserving its culture and traditions. The Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque is one of the capital's defining landmarks, exuding elegance with its intricate tilework and breathtaking chandelier. The Royal Opera House of Muscat is another masterpiece of architecture and culture, hosting world-class performances within a gleaming white complex. For an enriching dose of everyday Omani life, Muttrah Souq, one of the oldest markets in the region, offers an exhilarating overload of colourful sights and sounds, with its exotic spices, shimmering textiles, and handcrafted silver jewellery.
Known as the "Green Mountain," Jebel Al Akhdar offers a refreshing escape from Oman’s desert landscapes. Perched over 2,000 metres above sea level, this region enjoys a cool climate and is famous for its terraced farms, fragrant rose gardens, and picturesque villages. Hiking through its rugged trails reveals breathtaking views of deep canyons and thriving orchards, bearing the mark of centuries of civilisation. Visitors can also experience traditional Omani hospitality through intimate guided village tours. Learn the art of rose water distillation from village elders, and take in stories of the mountain passed down through generations.
Salalah, the jewel of southern Oman, is an entirely different world. During the Khareef (monsoon) season, the landscape transforms into a paradise of various green hues and trickling streams, complete with mist-covered mountains and cascading waterfalls. Beyond these summer months in Salalah, things to do include visiting golden beaches along the coast, just minutes from resorts like Al Baleed Resort Salalah by Anantara, or tracing the steps of the ancient frankincense trade at Wadi Dawkah. Be sure to peruse through fragrant perfumes at the legendary souqs, and bring home a piece of this southern coastal destination.
Often called the "Norway of Arabia," Musandam is a breathtaking region of rugged mountains and dramatic fjords. The best way to explore this secluded paradise is by dhow cruise, where travellers can sail through the glassy turquoise waters, spotting dolphins and snorkelling in the clear bays along the way. Tucked between the Strait of Hormuz and the Persian Gulf, these desert fjords are cloaked in an atmosphere of serenity, with towering red cliffs and a warmer climate.
Wadi Ghul, also known as the "Grand Canyon of Oman," is one of the country’s most spectacular natural wonders. Towering cliffs and deep gorges weave through a mesmerising landscape that attracts hikers and photographers. One of the best ways to experience the magnificence of Wadi Ghul is along the Balcony Walk, a thrilling trek along the canyon’s edge that offers panoramic views of the dramatic rock formations. This is Oman at its most raw and powerful, a testament to nature’s grandeur.
A true believer that the pen is a mighty weapon, ventures into reaching the minds of every reader with the earnest hope of leaving an indelible stream of thought.
A travel writer who has a passion for fashion and a deep interest in admiring new and exotic attractions around the world.
