A few suggestions to get the holiday planning process started
Sleep in desert tents, spot dolphins in the Gulf, hurtle down sand dunes and swim in natural pools in family-friendly Oman
9 days, from £2,345 to £3,300
Explore the sultanate's major natural and cultural sites, including millennial city, wadis, desert and impressive mountains
9 days, from £2,975 to £4,020
Stay on the side of the canyon or by the sea in one of Oman's two most beautiful hotels
9 days, from £4,020 to £5,625
Drive along the Gulf of Oman, stopping to explore palm groves, wadis and traditional villages
13 days, from £4,070 to £5,040
Explore remote mountain villages with a local guide
18 days, from £4,200 to £6,100
Return to Oman and relax on the beaches of Salalah, in the little-known region of Dhofar
10 days, from £4,730 to £7,550
Discover the vibrant cities and luxuriant nature of two beautiful Middle Eastern destinations
11 days, from £4,770 to £6,260
Discover Muscat from north to south: the must-sees of Muscat and the Gulf, the Rub Al Khali desert and the beaches of the Arabian Coast
14 days, from £5,085 to £6,780
Practical advice and inspiration to help you prepare for your holiday
Practical guide
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Sandwiched between the Hajar Mountains and the shores of the Gulf of Oman, the city of Muscat is aesthetically pleasing right from the off. You’ll find serenity and authenticity in its peaceful, beautiful beaches, pretty fishing harbours, emerald parks and treasure-filled souqs. There’s plenty of history to sink your teeth into as well; stroll around the city’s old town and learn about the impressive rise of Oman in The National Museum, then keep walking until you reach Bait Al Zubair Museum, which houses a superb collection of centuries-old weapons, jewels and ceramics that offer a window into Oman’s gripping history. Muscat’s Royal Opera House is another must-see - whether you have tickets to a dazzling show or not - as its magnificent white form is an architectural wonder. First and foremost though, Muscat holidays are known for the surrounding landscapes – craggy mountains on one side and lapping seas on the other provide plenty of opportunity for dreamy day trips. Traverse the steep Hajar Mountains by 4x4, bed down in a Wahiba Sands desert camp for a night under the stars or relax on some of Muscat’s pristine beaches during your tailor-made tour of Muscat. The upscale neighbourhood of Shatti A Qurum is home to the city’s liveliest stretch of coast and it’s the ideal place to kick back in a shisha lounge as the sun sets.
Muscat holidays are well known for their connection to the great outdoors, so they’re perfect for anyone looking for adventure. Snorkel along the rugged coastline, hike dusty mountains, buckle up and go dune bashing in the Wahiba Sands, or sail the high seas as spinner dolphins splash around you. The nearby Daymaniyat Islands are a marine reserve and one of the best diving destinations in the Middle East, where you can introduce yourself to whale sharks and turtles as you swim among the coral reefs.
One of Muscat’s most remarkable constructions, the Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque is a dazzling monument of epic proportions. Its striking white marble exterior is just the beginning; it has mammoth archways, a huge golden dome that glints in the sun, immaculate gardens and houses an immense chandelier that’s one of the biggest in the world.
Get lost in the labyrinth of alleyways of Muttrah Souq as you hunt for souvenirs. The market is a wonderful, absorbing maze of traders hawking piles of gleaming jewellery, wooden camels, vibrant glass lanterns, huge containers of frankincense, Persian rugs, pottery, leather, soaps and oils.
Holidays in Muscat are well-suited to seasoned divers, with the Daymaniyat Islands located just to the west of the capital. The uncrowded nature of the dive sites and unspoilt nature of the coastline are the major draws for diving during Muscat holidays, and this uninhabited archipelago offers an excellent alternative to the often overpopulated waters of the Red Sea. Its waters also boast an impressive array of sea life, featuring fish, dolphins and turtles. Stay in a luxury resort in Muscat and head out on diving excursions from here, or opt for a luxury liveaboard yacht for a truly immersive tailor-made dive trip.
Holidays to Muscat are best enjoyed during the autumn and winter months (from October to March), when temperatures are warm but have not yet reached scorching. This time of year is ideal for all outdoor activities, as well as exploring the city’s souqs and markets. Average temperatures remain between 17°C and 35°C at this time of year, however can soar well above 40°C in June, July and August (hence why they’re best avoided). Rainfall is fairly scarce in Muscat, although February is generally the wettest month, while May is the driest.
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