Places Of Interest in Oman

Once a thriving and strategically located port and natural harbour, Muscat is the capital of Oman. Many of its buildings date back to the 16th century when Portugal occupied the region. The old town is still surrounded by its ancient city walls which contain within them the Sultans palace.

Once the capital of Oman the oasis city of Nizwa is the regions most popular town. Today it remains a major tourist attraction with its bustling souq, where tourists can buy exquisite copper and silver jewellery, historical buildings and imposing fort built by Imam Sultan bin Saif in 1668 AD.

Just a few kilometres before the heart of Nizwa, at about ten thousand feet above sea level, Al Jabal al Akhdar (The Green Mountain) is undoubtedly one of the highest points in the Sultanate, making it a hotspot for the adventurous.

Lies 25km southeast of Muscat. It is a haven of tidal creeks and sheltered bays fringed in places by mangroves. The bay is a favourite resort for camping, diving and snorkelling or just taking in the wonderful scenery.

Just a few hours drive from the capital and was well known for building dhows, the workhorse ships that sailed the oceans in pursuit of commercial opportunities. The shipyards are located in a vast lagoon separating the town from Ayga and visitors are able to watch the men at work carving the hulls of these ancient crafts.

Sohar was the main city of trade centuries ago and is renowned for its copper deposits. The city is an attractive region for tourists due to its clean, safe beaches and the plethora of archaeological features. Sohar Castle is one of the most prominent features in the city, alongside the magnificent roundabouts and beautiful public parks.

"The Norway of the Gulf" situated at the northern end of the Sultanate and segregated from the rest of the country by the United Arab Emirates.

Capital of the southern Dhofar region and known for its lush vegetation and fertile coastal plain which is fed by the water from its annual monsoon or "harriff". Salalah is today a very popular coastal resort set on the Indian Ocean amidst a backdrop of mountains. Salalah is an ideal spot to visit during the summer months and a must for dive enthusiasts from September to June.