Road Trip: Introduction to Oman

Ringed by majestic mountains and the ocean, Muscat is an ancient port city that justly means ‘safe anchorage’. Check out 16th century Portuguese forts like Al Jalali and Mirani that perch on clifftops, while looking out on the bustling harbor below. Browse through Omani arts and artifacts at the Bait Al Zubair Museum where the country’s cultural heritage comes alive. The marble-built Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque, on the other hand, is a modern marvel, topped by a 50-meter dome that dominates the city skyline. Spend lazy afternoons lounging on white sandy beaches or chasing sea turtles in picturesque lagoons just outside the city. Watch the last rays of the sun slant into exquisite gardens of the Royal Opera House and if possible, catch a show in this elegant arts complex. As the dusk spreads across the desert sky, the glittering lights of its shopping malls and restaurants invite you to sample Muscat’s bustling nightlife.

Sur, the capital city of Ash-Sharqiyyah South Governorate, is located along the coast of the Gulf of Oman. This ancient port city makes for a pretty picture with the azure sea on one side and the majestic Hajar Mountains in the backdrop. Once a hub of dhow-building, the city is now a popular tourist destination given its sandy beaches and bustling souqs. Ancient forts, a lighthouse, and a splendid corniche add to the charm of the place. With a modest selection of cafes and restaurants, it’s easy to soak up the local vibe while savoring authentic Middle Eastern cuisine. Exotic sweetmeats from cozy bakeries make for the perfect end to a delicious meal! The turtle reserve at Ras Al Jinz and the attractions of Tiwi are just an hour’s drive away. Only a 45 minute drive away is Ras Al Jinz, with its dramatic cliffs and beautiful sandy beaches. Apart from the lure of its sun-drenched shorelines, the possibility of watching endangered sea turtles nesting up close is what draws visitors to the region. The turtle reserve here is a protected site and entry of visitors is restricted to escorted groups with a limited number of people. An ancient castle and a museum that underscores the love for turtles dating back decades are the main attractions in this laidback region. That apart, soaking in the sun on the picturesque beach and a refreshing dip in the waters of the Arabian Sea are must-do activities in Ras Al Jinz!

Enjoy an exciting turtle-viewing experience in the coastal wilderness of eastern Oman. Arrive at the protected shores of Ras Al Jinz, considered to be the largest turtle nesting site at the Indian Ocean. Follow your specialist marine guide to find turtles and their nests on the beach. Learn about the many species of turtles, including the olive ridley and the endangered hawksbill and green Turtles, which frequent Omani waters. Your guide will give you plenty of information about the various stages of a turtle’s life and its nesting behavior. If you’re lucky, you’ll spot turtle hatchlings break out from eggs and slowly make their way to the Arabian Sea. Wrap up with a visit to the state-of-the-art interactive museum that houses research laboratories, educational displays, and archaeological exhibits. (Duration: 2h; Morning or Evening; Shared Activity; No Transfer; Fitness level: Easy)

The Wahiba Sands is an undulating expanse of shimmering sand that seems to stretch endlessly along the eastern part of Oman. Situated in the Ash-Sharqiyyah region, the beautiful sand dunes promise you a desert experience like no other. Exciting off-road safaris in 4x4 vehicles across the shifting dunes guarantee an adrenaline rush. Guided walks across the soaring dunes and leisurely camel rides as the sun goes down make for cherished memories. Remote villages amid the arid landscape offer a glimpse into the traditional Bedouin way of life that is fast becoming a rarity. Overnight camping trips under the starry sky, be it in indulgent desert camps or in rustic tents, leave you with the experience of a lifetime. Those short on time can have just as much fun with a sumptuous picnic at one of the camps. Top it off with live cultural performances for the ultimate desert holiday!

Climb golden sand dunes and meet wandering Bedouins on this adventure in Oman. The Wahiba Sands, or Ramlat al-Wahiba, is a vast sand sea that covers 4,800 square miles in Eastern Oman. Here the dunes can rise over 400 feet and change color from pale gold at noon to a coppery orange when the sun starts to set. Set out in a 4x4 vehicle to cross the sands. Try your hand at sand boarding - surfing the dunes as if they were waves in the ocean - or simply shoot down the sides of the dunes on makeshift sliders. As you explore the landscape, you may come across Bedouin families that still live here. On the way back, stop at Wadi Bani Khalid Pools & Cave for a refreshing dip in the water. (Duration: full day; Self explore activity; No guides; No transfers; Meals and entrance fees are not included; Fitness level: easy)

Ringed by majestic mountains and the ocean, Muscat is an ancient port city that justly means ‘safe anchorage’. Check out 16th century Portuguese forts like Al Jalali and Mirani that perch on clifftops, while looking out on the bustling harbor below. Browse through Omani arts and artifacts at the Bait Al Zubair Museum where the country’s cultural heritage comes alive. The marble-built Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque, on the other hand, is a modern marvel, topped by a 50-meter dome that dominates the city skyline. Spend lazy afternoons lounging on white sandy beaches or chasing sea turtles in picturesque lagoons just outside the city. Watch the last rays of the sun slant into exquisite gardens of the Royal Opera House and if possible, catch a show in this elegant arts complex. As the dusk spreads across the desert sky, the glittering lights of its shopping malls and restaurants invite you to sample Muscat’s bustling nightlife.

Take a drive through the city of Muscat and discover its many highlights. Stop at the Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque and notice the intricate design as well as the amalgamation of various architectural styles. Proceed to the Royal Opera House, built by the same architects as the Sultan’s Palace. Stay to admire the striking design and marble work, or plan ahead to catch a show. If you’re fascinated by the city’s past, then there’s nothing more delightful than roaming around the Old Town. Explore ancient 16th century forts overlooking the Gulf of Oman and capture panoramic views of the city from the top. Drop by the National Museum to delve deeper into the heritage of the past. Then drive on towards the Mutrah Souk, one of the oldest Arabian markets in the world. Enjoy the heady sights, scents and sounds as you navigate the narrow lanes and bylanes, picking up interesting souvenirs to carry back. When you can’t resist the delicious aromas of Arabian food on offer at the stalls, then stop to savor a bite before driving back. (Duration: Half Day or Full Day; Self-explore Activity; No guides & transfers; Fitness Level: Easy; Please note that you may need to walk some distance; Please bring comfortable walking shoes, sunglasses & hats; Don’t forget to bring your camera.)