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Oman is dotted with ancient forts, many of which have been well restored. Two of the most famous forts, Jalali and Mirani, guard the entrance to Muscat bay. Although these cannot be visited, many others can. West of Muscat are the imposing towers of Nakhal and Rustaq castle, both easily accessible as a day trip from the capital, whilst inland is the Unesco site of the 12th-century Bahla castle and the immense circular fort in Nizwa, one of the oldest castles in Oman.
There are a number of desert camps in Sharqiya Sands which allow you to experience a night spent beneath desert skies amid spectacular scenery. The sunset and sunrise over the dunes are also unmissable.
Ras Al Junaiz beach, an hour’s drive outside of Sur, offers a rare opportunity to see giant turtles laying their eggs at night. Under the careful supervision of qualified rangers, visitors can witness each turtle laying up to 100 eggs.
Traditional dhow boat excursions are a great way to explore the coastline of the Musandam peninsula. You may spot dolphins along with a variety of other marine life. Snorkelling in the rocky inlets is also a great way to see the wildlife beneath the waters.
Further inland from Salalah, and accessible only by 4 x 4, lies the ‘Lost City of Ubar’. Said to have been buried by sand due to the wickedness of its ancient inhabitants, it was rediscovered using Nasa satellite technology in the 1990s. Also worth visiting are the old town of Mirbat, where you can see 1,000-year-old, mud-brick houses, and the dramatic blow holes at Mughsayl.
11 days 10 nights
From £6,295
Discover Oman’s highlights while enjoying the comfort and superb facilities of luxury accommodation high in the mountains, deep in the desert and by the sea in Muscat