Oman

Welcome to Oman, the oldest independent state in the Arab world. Nestled on the south-eastern coast of the Arabian Peninsula, this emerging tourism destination provides mesmerising history, charming towns, desert adventure and friendly locals. It’s a country of spectacular diversity, and tourist numbers are still few.

Oman is an excellent place for scuba diving with brand new opulent resorts and stunning coastland. Ancient forts dot the landscape while in the season you can see baby turtles hatch. It boasts the highest mountain on the peninsula, enchanting cities, fabulous shopping and a sparkling sea, deep canyons and fiords.

With a rich maritime heritage, Oman has been a key trading post for hundreds of years. Towns hold traditional charms and Bedouin values. It’s easy to discover the warmth of the people over a customary kahwa – the local rather strong coffee flavoured with cardamom and served with dates.

Travel to Wahiba Sands and discover the dunes by 4WD or on a camel. Camping under the stars that extend from horizon to horizon is one option for accommodation. Venture into the mountains and hike along donkey paths, unearth a fossil or two, climbers check out the cliffs that rise vertically from the ocean. While below the sea you'll find some of the world’s best scuba diving. A country of many exotics faces, the Omanis are considered some of the friendliest people. They always have a warm smile and exhibit an exceptional pride and generosity to those that come to see their beautiful country.

The Omani culture is the richest in the Arab region, and that continues today. There is immense pride in dress, jewellery and tradition with generations keeping age-old customs making for fabulous souvenirs for the keen shopper. The food is delightful from freshly grown fruits to spicy tantalising local dishes.

Don’t miss some of the beautiful natural sites in the mountains and of course, you have to sample a sweet and freshly picked date. Then there are festivals to partake in or appreciate the sweet smell of frankincense. Travellers will love Oman and its revelations.

Best time to visit Oman

Summer between June and August can be sweltering, however, outside that any time is suitable. October through to April the temperatures decrease and is the peak season. Rain is mostly experienced in January and February as short, sharp showers so really if the summer heat does not worry you it is an all-year-round destination.

The climates can vary for example on the south coast, Salalah has a very different environment with a monsoon season, called the khareef from June to September. Perfect for the ripening of the locally grown tropical fruits.