Oman, with its diverse and exotic offerings, unveils a tapestry of unique experiences waiting to be explored. Journey to the lively and vibrant Sinaw Souq in Northern Oman, a central gathering place for Bedouin communities where camels, goats, and calves are auctioned and traded. Here, you'll encounter Bedouin women in traditional attire, including the distinctive metallic face-mask known as a burqa, trading alongside men. Some silver shops still showcase traditional Bedouin silver jewelry.
Delve into the opportunity to witness turtles laying eggs and observe hatchlings making their way to the sea. Ras Al Hadd, once a refuge for pirates, is strategically located for this purpose. Traverse the intricate network of streets in Sur, where you'll discover well-preserved old houses adorned with intricately carved doors and arabesque windows.
Explore enchanting wadis, with deep pools ideal for a refreshing swim, and then visit the laid-back capital city of Muscat. Muscat is characterized by its whitewashed buildings and is home to the magnificent Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque, clad in exquisite marble. These are just a few of the captivating facets of Oman, waiting to be uncovered.
Jebel Shams: Oman's highest mountain, Jebel Shams, offers breathtaking views into the deep Wadi Ghul that runs alongside it. This dramatic wadi is often referred to as the "Grand Canyon of Arabia" due to its straight-sided cliffs and remarkable landscapes, providing endless opportunities for stunning photographs.
Nizwa: Known as Oman's cultural capital, Nizwa is home to the impressive Nizwa Fort, featuring a massive Circular Cannon Tower. Wander through the traditional Nizwa Souq to discover exquisite silver jewelry, intricately crafted Khanjars (daggers), copperware, weaving, and various handicrafts.
Ras Al Jinz Turtle Reserve: A sanctuary for these ancient creatures, the reserve offers visitors an intimate experience with turtle nesting without disturbing their natural habitat. You can explore an interactive museum, research labs, and educational facilities to learn more about these magnificent animals in a family-friendly environment.
Wadi Bani Khalid: This hidden gem nestled among arid mountains is one of Oman's most stunning wadis, featuring deep blue pools of crystal-clear water. Year-round water flow from a natural spring sustains lush vegetation, making this wadi an oasis of natural beauty.
Wahiba Sands (Sharqiya Sands): This vast expanse of red and white sand dunes, reaching up to 200 meters in height, extends as far as the eye can see. The ever-changing patterns of these dunes make it a paradise for photographers and a unique desert landscape to explore.
The ideal time to visit Oman is during the pleasant and temperate months, which generally span from October to March. It's worth noting that southern Oman experiences a unique monsoon season from June to September.
Currency: Omani rial
Language: The official and most predominant language is Arabic. English is a second language that is widely used, especially by the tourism industry
What makes it special: We love the unique opportunity to immerse ourselves in Arab culture. Oman's towns maintain their traditional charm with low-rise architecture. The country offers a diverse range of activities, from exploring its seas to venturing into the deserts. The beautiful beaches are perfect for swimming, and you might even spot sea turtles laying eggs between July and October. Oman boasts vast deserts, including the Rub al Khali, also known as the Empty Quarter, shared with Saudi Arabia, Yemen, and the United Arab Emirates. These deserts provide incredible opportunities for desert excursions.
Weather: The best time to visit Oman is during the temperate months from October to March. Southern Oman stands out due to its monsoon season, which occurs from June to September.
Social customs: Omani culture is closely linked to the Islamic faith, with the majority of the population practicing Ibadi Islam, a unique form of the religion that originated in Oman. Respect and dignity are highly regarded in Omani culture. When visiting Oman, it's essential to adhere to the customary rules of etiquette for Muslim countries. Women should dress modestly, covering their shoulders and legs, particularly outside modern hotels, while men are expected to wear trousers and sleeved shirts. Omanis are known for their humility and down-to-earth nature, making visitors feel welcome and valued.
