Why Oman? A country of impressionable beauty, rugged mountains that tell a tale of ancient traditions and secret treasures. Each morning, your senses are aroused by the smell of freshly brewed coffee infused with a hint of rosewater.
~ Stepping foot in Oman the heat is oppressive, the excitement, anticipation and first impressions make way for a land rich in culture, ancient history, amazing diversity and areas of stunning beauty. The warm welcoming and friendly smiles of the Omani people instantly has you feeling at home.
~ The interior city of Nizwa showcases Nizwa Fort and Omani traditions from as far back as the 1st century AD. The architectural designs and resemblance to a bygone era are fascinating, intriguing history on how dates play a large part in Omani culture.
~ The interior city of Nizwa showcases Nizwa Fort and Omani traditions from as far back as the 1st century AD. The architectural designs and resemblance to a bygone era are fascinating, intriguing history on how dates play a large part in Omani culture.
~ Ancient ruins scattered over a dramatic landscape are with a sense of remoteness, silence fills the air imagining how life would have been. Pristine roads make driving easy in Oman from the stunning Hajar Mountains to the desert of Wahiba Sands.
~Bedouin culture is vastly different in contrast to the mountainous north. Islam is the official religion and Arabic the main language with English, Kiswahili and Indian widely spoken.
~Bedouin culture is vastly different in contrast to the mountainous north. Islam is the official religion and Arabic the main language with English, Kiswahili and Indian widely spoken.
WHEN TO TRAVEL
Travelling in Oman is better done in the cooler months of the year, days are more temperate and comfortable. Mountainous regions are accessible all year round and provide relief from the oppressive summer heat.
The best time to visit Oman is in the winter months from October to April with daily temperatures averaging between 25 - 35 degrees celsius. The rugged mountainous landscape around Jebel Shams features an arid climate, with an altitude of 2000m that brings pleasant temperatures in the winter months. Summer sees temperatures soar to 50 degrees celsius and are predominately hot and dry, the terrain is diverse with most rainfall occurring in winter months.
The desert interior of the country remains hot and dry with minimal rain falling annually. During the summer months Muscat is affected by the Sharmal Winds, bringing a haze of dust lasting until the night. The southern area in and around Dhofar is very different to its other counterparts and has its own climate known as the 'Khareef'. The monsoon season brings relief from the summer heat from July - September enticing tourists to escape to the stunning region.
REGION FOCUS
Oman's geography and diverse terrain is simply stunning in it's appearance and attracts geologists from all over the world. Earthy rock patterns, ancient formations are fascinating to the eye and how they were formed many centuries ago.
This beautiful country is made up of eight regions all offering a totally different experience, whether your preference is for romance or adventure Oman has it all. Contrasting scenery from the rocky mountains to green inland oasis's in the south create a spectacular backdrop. Ancient history, culture and traditions play an important role in everyday Omani life, from frankincense, rose water and the infamous date palm.
With each region having its own attraction or adventure you can't help notice how the new modern day naturally blends in with the old. Impressively in each area that you visit there is a sense of pride and cleanliness and old iconic watch towers are intriguing as you move through each province. On the southeast coast the small town of Sur is home to the traditional dhow builders and the ancient trade port to East Africa.
Ancient cities, dramatic mountains to an enclave of hidden paradise.
The region of Al Dakhiliah famous for its towering forts and some of Oman’s most rugged terrain. Local handicrafts, pottery and silverware are stunningly beautiful as you venture through the countries most colourful souq’s.
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Heading out of the city of Muscat you just can't help but notice how well and wide the paved roads are. The two hour journey towards Nizwa is full of dramatic rock formations and colourful small towns. This ancient city was once the capital of Oman back in the 6 - 7th century. Famous for its historical monuments and handicrafts Nizwa Souq is simply full of colour. In the market you will see an array of fruit and vegetables, spices, silverware, pottery and the smell of freshly brewed coffee.
Situated at the base of the Western Hajar Mountains, Nizwa in ancient days was a major crossroad for Muscat and Dhofar. The fort built in the 1650's offers spectacular 360 views and an insight to the ruling seat of the Al Yar'uba dynasty.
Situated at the base of the Western Hajar Mountains, Nizwa in ancient days was a major crossroad for Muscat and Dhofar. The fort built in the 1650's offers spectacular 360 views and an insight to the ruling seat of the Al Yar'uba dynasty.
A short drive from Nizwa is the town of Bahla infamous for its traditional ceramic pieces. The most reputable piece is the Omani water jug which decorate many an entrance way today. Surrounding the town is the old rock wall which partially still stands today and the UNESCO world heritage site Bahla Fort. The fort is currently being restored back to its original glory. Myths and magical legends make Bahla an intriguing little town to visit.
Outside of the town of Bahla is the Castle of Jabreen, this impressive castle in all it's beauty instantly commands your attention. The perfectly placed decor and architecture tell a story of the Home of the Imams. Like many of the Omani forts the special rooms set out for long term storage of dates were simply fascinating. Using the thick syrup as a form of defence in the event of an attack, would be at boiling point ready to pour on unsuspecting enemies.
Outside of the town of Bahla is the Castle of Jabreen, this impressive castle in all it's beauty instantly commands your attention. The perfectly placed decor and architecture tell a story of the Home of the Imams. Like many of the Omani forts the special rooms set out for long term storage of dates were simply fascinating. Using the thick syrup as a form of defence in the event of an attack, would be at boiling point ready to pour on unsuspecting enemies.
The 400 year old ancient village brings back an uncanny resemblance to the island of Zanzibar. Driving through the tranquil oasis and narrow village streets it is like taking a step back in time. Date palms grow tall and are still fed by the old traditional water canals. Beyond the village in the barren mountain terrain is the hidden paradise of Misfat Al Abriyeen. This traditional Falaj still supplies remote communities with water today.
Where magnificent mountains meet desert sands an area known as the “empty quarter”.
Drawn to this region at the foot of the Hajar mountains are endless desert sands and archeological treasures. Old stone walls surround a palm fringed oasis and ancient settlement.
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Full of wonder and history is the town of Ibri a traditional caravan route nestled in between the magnificent Hajar mountains and desert sands of Rub Al Khali. The colourful town includes the Ibri Souq famous for its wares and the old ruins of Silayf.
East of Ibri is Bat one of Oman's UNESCO world heritage sites. The archaeological history provides an insight to how human settlements were as far back as early BC.
East of Ibri is Bat one of Oman's UNESCO world heritage sites. The archaeological history provides an insight to how human settlements were as far back as early BC.
“East of Oman” Sharqiah an ancient gate way for India and East Africa.
Distinct in contrast this area is stunning from the desert dunes to the ancient trade town of Sur. The Indian Ocean hugs the coastline and the green like oasis of Khalid softens a somewhat harsh landscape.
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The town of Sur is fascinating with its traditional building of Dhows that stand tall before you. The area is split up into three areas of desert, the Indian coastline and the city of Sur. Raz Al Jinz home to the sea turtle and are fascinating to see in breeding season.
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