Attractions

Here is a brief selection of Oman's rich experiences. Most can be arranged by the tour company at your hotel.

Beaches

All the hotels listed have sections of private beach, with the Chedi and the Al Bustan being far superior. Away from the hotels, there are some stunning stretches of deserted white sand. On a day out either by hire car or on a tailor made tour, you could well spend hours by yourself on a glorious beach.

Snorkeling and Diving

The best place to dive and snorkel is the Dimaaniyat Islands Nature Reserve around 10 miles off the coast from Muscat. Because of the abundance of coral reefs, turtles, birds and other wildlife, you will need a permit to visit. Your tour company in Oman will advise.

Good snorkeling and diving can be had right off the coast. For example the Al Bustan hotel runs boat trips to excellent spots for snorkeling, and the Oman Dive Centre company is just beyond the hotel.

For the very best snorkeling experience, take the 3 hour round trip to Bandar Khiran with spectacular underwater life and a wide variety of corals and fish. Just 20km from Muscat, the large number of mangroves form a special sanctuary for lobsters, shrimps and many other fish in the crystal clear waters.

Desert

A visit to Oman would not be complete without a trip into the desert. Most trips involve driving over the dunes in jeeps before watching the sun go down. You may even choose to overnight at one of the traditional bedouin camps staying in Barsti tents and perhaps enjoying a camel ride.

Souqs

The most famous traditional market is the Muttrah Souq just off the Cornish in the heart of Muscat. Here you can wander back in time as you take in the aromas of frankincense coming from many of the small shops.

Wadis

Wadis are a combination of oasis, waterfalls, caves and waterpools, and many are simply stunning. For example Wadi Bani Khalid takes you on a 20 minute stroll through the falaj - the irrigation system used in rural Oman. You will pass donkeys, pools, palm trees and breathtaking scenery before reaching the deep blue waterhole for a refreshing swim, or just to sit on the rocks. And a little further on is a cave system, although you can's go very far in without torches.

Forts

There are over 500 forts in Oman and several have been beautifully restored. For example Jabrin Fort is one that is possible to see on a day trip from Muscat, and commands stunning views over the surrounding plains.

Jabrin is one of the most magnificent forts of Oman with its painted ceilings, dungeons, and hidden passages. You will notice the irrigation system used, plus courtyards, various rooms containing household furnishings and a tomb.

Turtles

To watch the amazing spectacle of 13,000 turtles coming to nest, you will have to take a tour to Ras Al Jinz and wait for nightfall when they appear on the beach. Several tour companies run trips from Muscat, although the best time of year to watch them is Autumn.

Muscat

As well as a stroll along the corniche and a visit to the souq (see above), there are several museums and a park that are well worth seeing.

The Bait al-Zubair museum of Omani heritage has a re-creation of a typical Omani village including a souq, irrigation system and wadi. There is also the Oman Museum with displays of arts, culture and shipbuilding. You can also visit a children's museum and the Natural History museum complete with botanical garden.

A good place to start your walk is at the Fish market at the western end of the corniche, and to finish in the Al Riyam park which as well as amusement rides boasts a huge incense burner statue and great views.

Dhow Cruising

From your hotel, get picked up and taken on a 2 hour cruise on a traditional Omani Dhow, passing the yacht club, a fishing village, the natural harbour of Muscat, the ancient forts of Jalali & Mirani forts which guard the Sultan's palace and sail past Al Bustan Palace Hotel, Oman's premium hotel. The tour company supplies dates on board.

Sunset Cruising

Unwind after a hard day by taking a cruise around Muscat's spectacular coastline as the sun goes down. The serene sights and sounds of a city slowing down for the night are magically felt from a boat. Watch the hills disappear with the setting sun, then to be backlit by the stars and the moon.

Dolphin Watching

A 7am start from your hotel for a magical 2 hour cruise to see the dolphins in search of tuna, mackeral and sardines . The boat company serves drinks and a light breakfast on board.

Scenic Tours

Jebel Akdhar is the roof of Oman, and visitors here will notice the much cooler weather on the plateau. Tours usually include luch in a local restaurant as well as several photo stops. A walk through the 'hanging gardens' along the falaj will be a lasting memory.

Oman's own grand canyon is found at Jebal Shams and like Jebel Akdhar the weather is much cooler here. You will also see the abandoned persian ruins at the old village of Ghul, as well as a stop at Nizwa, the old capital of Oman.

Deserted Island Experience

Swim, snorkel or just laze about on your own tranquil beach on the island of Bandar Khiran. Escape from all civilisation for a day before being collected at sunset.

Professional Game Fishing

You can spend either half or a full day fishing for barracuda, marlin, sailfish and monster tuna with the experienced crew. Alternatively, why not try traditional handline fishing, Omani style, using hand held lines and hooks. Again, the experienced crew will know the best locations.