Oman

A year round destination for couples, families, adventure, wildlife, beaches and culture

I love Oman for the sheer variety of landscapes and things to do. It has spectacular mountains, stunning canyons, wild deserts and a beautiful coastline. For first timers to Oman, a circuit from Muscat of the Jebel Akhdar mountains, Wahiba Sands and beautiful coast makes for a perfect 10-day tour.  For those returning to the country and those with a little more time the fjord like coastline of the Musandam Peninsula and the southern province of Salalah are great additions to the tour. Oman has a well maintained and expansive road network so our favourite way to visit the country is on a self-drive holiday. Highlights of Oman include:

  • Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque – one of the largest mosques in the world and a beautiful example of Islamic architecture.
  • The four forts of Nizwa, Bahla (UNESCO-listed), Izki and Rustiq. 
  • Muscat Souk and the Friday cattle market in Nizwa.
  • Hiking the Balcony Walk in the Jebel Akhdar.
  • Visiting the Ras al Jinz Turtle Reserve.
  • Spending a night in a desert camp in Wahiba Sands with a morning walk in the dunes.
  • Snorkelling or diving in the Daymanyat Islands.
  • The Empty Quarter – the largest sand desert in the world.
  • Cruising in a dhow along the coast of the Musandam Peninsula. 
 

Walking in Oman

Some of the most thrilling walking in the Middle East is available in Oman.  Multi-day routes have yet to properly emerge but there are some fabulous day walks in the craggy Hajar mountains, through wadis and along the coast. Our favourite walk in Oman is the Balcony Walk, a trail running from a tiny mountain village along a path on the very edge of the canyon to a now deserted village under the overhang of a cliff face.  It is clearly marked and you need a reasonable head for heights but the views are well worth the effort.  As are the inquisitive mountain goats you will meet on the trail. Elsewhere on the Saiq Plateau you can walk on winding trails through mountain villages. And if you visit at the right time of year you can walk from village to village through the rose plantations growing the roses for the rosewater used in middle eastern cooking.  It is an incongruous sight, delicate English looking roses against a backdrop of craggy mountains and village minarets.  And if you choose to spend some time in Wahiba Sands a walk from your camp in the dunes is a must.  If you take a guide then you won’t get lost!  There are some lovely boutique hotels close to the walking and, whilst it is possible to walk without a guide, (if you are happy to drive yourself around and are feeling a little adventurous), an experienced guide will help you make the most out of your walking. One of the hotels on the Saiq Plateau even has a rock climbing wall and via ferrata for you to try.

Key Facts about Oman

  • Flying time: 7 hours
  • Time difference: +4 hour
  • Currency:Omani Real
  • Best time of year to travel: Year round except June - August

Oman Photo Gallery

Click on an image to launch the slideshow.

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Oman camel
Oman mosque
Oman desert
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Musandam Peninsula
Ships of the Desert
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Ideas for a tip to Oman

Here are some ideas for trips to Oman all of which can be adapted for you and we are always happy to create a bespoke trip from scratch.

From £3995

per person including flights

Oman self drive

Embark on a 15-day self-drive excursion in a 4WD across the enchanting Sultanate of Oman, exploring all of the country's top destinations. From towering mountains and colour-changing deserts to the hidden gems of Oman, most of the falaj walks offer the opportunity to meet and converse with locals who work their lands. The trip is perfect for those looking to experience the perfect blend of culture, nature, and wildlife, as you'll witness the magnificent Grand Mosque, National Museum, and Opera House in Muscat, the ochre-coloured desert of Wahiba, the scenic coastal road leading to the white beaches of Al Khaluf, and fairytale pools in Wadis. You'll also have the opportunity to visit the turtle nesting area of Ras Al Jinz and explore the abundance of choices the country has to offer.

From £4950

Per person including flights

Walking in Oman

This trip will be in the company of a guide, who is also the driver, and is designed to take you to the best walking spots in Oman. The walks range from short strolls to vertiginous walks to a 'hanging village,' and hikes through wadis are often rewarded with fairytale-like emerald pools at the end. You'll find yourself traversing through ochre-coloured desert sand to watch the sunset one day and lounging on the white sandy beaches at Sugar Dunes the next. The vast irrigation networks in the villages offer some great rambling past date and palm plantations, while a visit to places like Nizwa with its fort and market, and the dhow building in Sur, provides a nice break from walking. This holiday can be done with a driver/guide or independently.

From £3070

Per person including flights

Muscat & Salalah

This 7 night trip takes you to the heart of Oman’s cities, deserts and cultural history as you travel between Muscat and Salalah. Take in the wonders of the Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque, Bait Al Zubair museum and Muttrah Souq in Muscat before transferring to Salalah. Here, marvel at the views of the mountains and Mughsail Beach’s blow holes then enjoy the vast wadis and some dune driving at Rub-Al Khali, after a day exploring the excavations at Ubar. Relax on the beach and by the pool in beautiful sunshine, contemplating all that you have experienced over the last few days.

Frequently Asked Questions

Have questions that haven't been answered here? Send your questions to enquiries@shearwatertravel.co.uk and we'll try our best to help.

You will need to obtain an e-visa before you travel online from the Royal Oman Police. For the latest on entry requirements visit the FCDO Oman pages

Ensure your usual vaccinations are up to date and check here for advisory vaccinations.

Women should dress modestly in public areas like shopping malls. Clothes should cover the tops of the arms and legs, and underwear should not be visible. You should not wear swimming attire in public areas, except on tourist beaches or at swimming pools. Women wearing shorts, or tight-fitting clothes, are likely to attract attention.

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