Desert forts, emerald wadis and dramatic mountains above the sea.
Oman has kept much of its traditional character. Muscat's Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque and Muttrah Souq sit between rocky hills and the sea, while inland Nizwa's round fort and old villages lead up to Jebel Shams and the canyon below it. Swimming holes fill Wadi Shab and Wadi Bani Khalid, the Wahiba Sands roll towards the coast, and Musandam's fjords are cut off to the north.
Road trips are the best way to see it, with a 4x4 opening up mountain tracks and desert camps. Hospitality is warm and quiet, often over coffee and dates. October to March is the season for travel; summer heat is severe in the north, though the far south around Salalah turns green under the khareef monsoon from July to September.
Best time to visit Oman
January, February, March, November, December.
Places to visit in Oman
Muscat: Oman's capital, spread along a rugged coast with a grand mosque, a harbour souk and forts.
Nizwa: Oman's old interior capital, with a round fort, a Friday livestock market and mountain villages nearby.
Wahiba Sands: A sea of orange sand dunes in eastern Oman, explored by 4x4 and camel with a night in a desert camp.
Musandam: A rugged peninsula of steep mountains and deep inlets, explored on dhow cruises from Khasab.
Essentials
Currency: Omani Rial (OMR)
Language: Arabic; English widely spoken
Plugs: Type G, 240 V
Driving: Right side
Time zone: UTC+4
Tipping: Not expected; around 10% in upmarket restaurants is appreciated
Getting around: Hire a car, ideally a 4x4 for wadis and mountains; public transport is limited
Entry: Check the official rules for your passport before booking