Travel to Oman

Oman: travel with a local agency

A trip to Oman leaves no one indifferent, even though the sultanate is still a well-kept secret. It is therefore a cathartic pleasure to find oneself alone in the world, amidst the magnificent landscapes of mountains, beaches, fjords and deserts. It is as if you have been transported into the heart of the tales of One Thousand and One Nights as you discover the wonders of Oman, a distillation of the Orient set in a magical natural setting. The Omani people, who are Ibadite Muslims, are warm and welcoming, always ready to help others. So, don’t be surprised if you run out of petrol and an Omani offers to tow you for tens or even hundreds of kilometres. Whether you’re looking to get away from it all, explore, hike, dive or dine... whether travelling alone, with family, as a couple or with friends, a trip to Oman is accessible to everyone, whether you’re travelling independently or with a driver, as stability and security are among the country’s major assets.

During your trip to Oman, accommodation – whether a hotel, resort or luxury hotel – offers excellent service. Depending on your preferences, you’ll have the opportunity to spend several nights in upmarket establishments, complete with a swimming pool, spa and more. Across the country, the many restaurants invite you to discover Omani cuisine, with specialities such as shuwa, a dish of slow-roasted meat, or halwa, a pastry flavoured with rose water.

With options to suit all budgets, a holiday in Oman is a unique experience, rich in discoveries and emotions. Feel free to browse the holiday packages and bespoke tours offered by our Oman travel experts.

Tours in Oman: The treasures of Oman

The Sultanate of Oman, nestled in the south of the Arabian Peninsula and bordered by the Arabian Sea, serves as a true bridge between Asia and Africa. Since the mid-18th century, this independent monarchy has been ruled by sultans. Sultan Qaboos bin Said al Said ruled the country for almost 50 years, until his death in 2020, pursuing a policy based on freedom of worship and peace. His successor, Haitham bin Tariq, is following the same guiding principles, making Oman a land sheltered from the wars and conflicts that may arise in the region. The sultanate’s security allows travellers to come and discover its many natural and cultural treasures without worry.

During your tour, you will meet the inhabitants of the Jebel Akhdar mountains in their traditional homes, as well as the desert Bedouins, whose camps are set amidst the vast sand dunes of the Wahiba Sands, then it will be the turn of the turtles on the wonderful beach of Raz Al Jinz to greet you as they lay their eggs. For a vibrant immersion, wander through the colourful alleys of the Muscat souk, and to experience timeless moments amidst fantastic, enchanting nature, set sail into the heart of the Musandam fjords. Whether on a guided tour or exploring at your own pace, the Sultanate of Oman is a magical destination with treasures that are sometimes well hidden, from the mountains to the sea and the desert, enriched by a distinctive culture that endures thanks to its warm-hearted people, who are always ready to welcome visitors. To discover this land of a thousand and one nights, our Oman travel experts are at your disposal, so please don’t hesitate to contact us so that we can work together to create your personalised itinerary in Oman!

Dubai and Musandam Package

Dubai is a blend of tradition and modernity, the perfect destination to begin a journey through the Middle East, combining extravagance with authenticity. From the city’s skyscrapers and luxury hotels to the Emirate’s desert, Dubai offers a wealth of experiences and sights of all kinds. After a few days of non-stop exploration, set off by car towards the Musandam Peninsula, which belongs to Oman but borders the Emirates. Here, a completely different atmosphere awaits you, blending tranquillity with grandeur. You’ll sail in a traditional dhow across the crystal-clear waters of what are known as the Musandam Fjords. Lunar landscapes that are home to large numbers of dolphins, you’ll be amazed by the steep mountains, arid cliffs and turquoise lakes. From Dubai to Musandam, the promise of an enchanting journey in a thousand colours!

Travelling to Oman: which airport should you choose?

The country’s main airport, Muscat International Airport, is located in the capital, Muscat, in the north of the country. This airport is the main entry point for travellers from around the world, offering a wide range of international flights.

From Paris, you can find direct flights to Muscat with airlines such as Oman Air or Air France, which operate regular services. To get the best fares, it is essential to compare different offers online to select a flight that suits your budget. Prices vary depending on booking conditions, and although a cancellable and refundable ticket incurs an additional cost, it proves to be a very convenient option.

Once you’ve booked your flight from Paris, the splendours of Oman await, with iconic sites such as Muscat, Nizwa, Wadi Bani Khalid, Wahiba Sands, Jebel Shams, Salalah and more to explore.

Oman tours: which places to visit?

Set off to discover a magical corner of Arabia on your trip to Oman! During your tour, several key destinations will reveal the cultural and natural treasures of this country with its ‘Arabian Nights’ atmosphere.

Muscat:

Located in the north of the country, Muscat, the capital of Oman, has successfully preserved its traditional identity. Nestled between the sea and the mountains, the city charms visitors with its relaxed pace of life and a way of living that is both authentic and forward-looking. From the Sultan’s Palace to the Grand Mosque, the Royal Opera House and the Muttrah Souk, the city is brimming with remarkable sights. It’s also the perfect opportunity to spend a night in a luxury hotel, where you can enjoy exceptional comfort.

Nizwa:

The former capital of Oman, Nizwa is famous for its iconic souks and its 17th-century fort. The city’s location makes it an excellent base for exploring the Jebel Shams and Jebel Akhdar mountains.

Wadi Bani Khalid:

This wadi (or ‘oued’ in French) is a breathtaking, canyon-like oasis. Wadi Bani Khalid reveals a vast network of natural pools and caves, offering an idyllic setting to relax and swim under the country’s glorious sunshine.

The Hajar Mountains:

In northern Oman, not far from Nizwa, stand the majestic Jebel Shams and Jebel Akhdar, the two main ranges of the Hajar Mountains. Jebel Shams is often dubbed ‘the Grand Canyon of Arabia’ due to its commanding presence over the surrounding mountains. Each village nestled in the heart of these mountains offers breathtaking views and a unique opportunity to explore authentic Omani mountain life.

Wahiba Sands:

Just a three-hour drive from the capital, Wahiba Sands offers an unforgettable experience thanks to its immense sand dunes, which can reach heights of up to 200 metres. You can spend a night in a Bedouin camp amongst the dunes, a chance to experience Bedouin hospitality, witness a magnificent sunset and then gaze at the stars.

Salalah:

Located in southern Oman, on the shores of the Indian Ocean, the city of Salalah owes its fame to the exceptional quality of its frankincense. Salalah is distinguished by its lush palm groves, snow-white sand and frankincense plantations. Take the opportunity to relax on a paradise beach and explore the local archaeological sites.

Tailor our Oman tours to suit your preferences: choose your accommodation, whether it’s a family-run hotel, a luxury resort with a spa and swimming pool, or a palace. Tailor your trip to Oman by adding or removing an activity, omitting an included lunch or dinner, or even a night’s stay, or by opting for a guide or a private driver. Feel free to explore the tour suggestions from our Oman travel experts to discover what is included in each proposed itinerary. Bear in mind that every tour is fully customisable, depending on your preferences, budget and the length of your stay.

Travel to Oman: the most popular tourist activities

Visiting historic sites

Oman has a long and rich history, reflected in its many historic sites. Travellers can visit forts, palaces, mosques and other monuments dating from different eras. Among Oman’s most popular historic sites are:

• Bahla Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage Site
• Nizwa Fort, also a UNESCO World Heritage Site
• The Grand Mosque of Sultan Qaboos
• The city of Salalah, known for its many historical and archaeological sites

Exploring nature

Oman is a magnificent country with a diverse natural landscape. Travellers can enjoy the beauty of the mountains, deserts, beaches and wadis (or canyons). Among the most popular nature-based activities are:

• Hiking and trekking in the Hajar Mountains
• Safaris in the Wahiba Sands desert
• Diving and snorkelling in the crystal-clear waters of the Indian Ocean
• Boat trips in the fjords of Musandam

Discovering the culture

Oman is a welcoming country with a rich and diverse culture. Travellers can discover Omani culture by visiting souks, museums and festivals. Among the most popular cultural activities in Oman are:

• A visit to Muttrah Souk, Oman’s largest souk
• A visit to the National Museum of Oman, which traces the country’s history
• Attending the Salalah Festival, held every October

In addition to these popular activities, Oman also offers other tourist attractions, such as:

• Relaxing on the beaches
• Discovering Omani cuisine
• Enjoying water sports
• Wildlife spotting

Oman, a paradise for outdoor activities

With a wide variety of stunning landscapes and diverse flora and fauna, Oman is an ideal destination for lovers of outdoor activities.

Hiking and trekking

The Hajar Mountains offer hiking trails for all levels, from gentle walks to multi-day treks. The Jebel Shams cliff trail offers breathtaking views of the Wadi Ghul valley, whilst the trail to the summit of Jebel Akhdar allows you to discover Oman’s traditional villages.

Climbing

Oman offers climbing sites suitable for all levels, from rock faces to caves. The Jebel Shams cliff is a must for climbing enthusiasts, as is the Wadi Bani Khalid climbing site.

Diving and snorkelling

Oman’s coastline boasts crystal-clear waters and a rich marine life. The diving and snorkelling sites at Musandam, Bandar Khayran and Ras Al Hadd are among the most popular.

Other activities

Oman offers a variety of other outdoor activities, such as mountain biking, kayaking, rafting, camping and birdwatching, as well as turtle and dolphin spotting.

Unique experiences in the Omani desert

Oman is a country home to a wide variety of landscapes, including the desert. The Omani desert is a unique place, with its ochre sand dunes, lush oases and diverse flora and fauna.

Travellers can enjoy unique experiences in the Omani desert, such as:

• A 4x4 safari: This is the most popular activity in the Omani desert. Travellers can explore the sand dunes, oases and Bedouin villages in a 4x4.
• A night under the stars: Sleeping under the stars in the Omani desert is an unforgettable experience. Travellers can enjoy the beauty of the starry sky and the silence of the night.
• A camel ride: A traditional way to discover the Omani desert. Travellers can ride through the sand dunes or visit a Bedouin village.
• A Bedouin tea tasting: The Bedouins are experts when it comes to tea. Travellers can enjoy a traditional Bedouin tea in a desert camp.

Oman Tour: When is the best time to see turtles?

This is a question many travellers ask themselves before planning their trip to Oman. The Sultanate of Oman is a multifaceted country, offering countless possibilities for activities. Among these, turtle watching is undoubtedly one of the most memorable experiences you will have during your trip.

The ideal time for turtle watching is from May to September, when the turtles come ashore to lay their eggs on the country’s beaches. Ras al Jinz beach, the Daymaniyat Islands or the coastal town of Sur are all places where you can observe these marine creatures.

Choose one of our tours that includes a visit to a turtle-watching site, or ask us to add this activity to one of our other itineraries. Make the most of this unique experience to share a memorable moment with your family, children, partner or friends.

Travelling in Oman: where are the best places to see dolphins?

Discover the wonders of Oman and enjoy an unforgettable experience by choosing a trip to Oman to watch dolphins in their natural habitat. Oman’s crystal-clear waters are home to several species of dolphins. Among the most popular spots for dolphin watching are Muscat Bay, the Daymaniyat Islands, Salalah and the breathtaking fjords of Musandam.

Set sail from the Omani coast and marvel at the beauty and grace of these majestic marine creatures. Children and adults alike will be enchanted by this captivating adventure. Don’t forget to bring your camera to capture these magical family moments.

A trip to Oman: must-see shopping spots

Muscat, the capital of Oman, is a must-visit destination for shopping enthusiasts. The Muttrah Souk is one of the oldest markets in the whole country. Visitors can wander through its narrow streets, where stalls offer a variety of local handicrafts, such as jewellery, pottery, traditional clothing and spices.

The city of Nizwa, the former capital of the Sultanate, is also home to a traditional souk tucked away within its ramparts. Here you can find incense and dates, pottery and local handicrafts. Take this opportunity to treat yourself to a unique souvenir, such as an authentic Omani dagger, a testament to the country’s rich heritage of craftsmanship.

Omani cuisine: a culinary journey between East and West

Omani cuisine is rich and varied, reflecting the country’s history and culture. It is influenced by the cuisines of the Middle East, India and Africa.

Traditional dishes to try on a trip to Oman include:

• Harees, a dish made with lamb, rice and chickpeas, cooked together for several hours. It is a hearty and comforting dish, often served at celebrations and ceremonies.
• Shuwa, a dish of lamb or chicken, marinated for several days and slow-roasted in the oven. It is a flavourful and aromatic dish, often served with rice or bread.
• Machboos, a dish of rice, vegetables and meat, cooked together in a tagine. It is a colourful and spicy dish, often served with dates or fresh fruit.
• Biryani, a dish of rice, vegetables and meat, cooked together in a spicy sauce. It is similar to machboos, but is generally spicier.
• Shawarma, a sandwich made with grilled meat, vegetables and tahini sauce. It is a popular dish in Oman’s souks and restaurants.

Omani cuisine is also known for its desserts, such as:

• Halwa, a sweet made from semolina, sugar and milk. It is a soft, creamy dessert, often served with tea.
• Kunafa, a cake made with filo pastry, cheese and sugar syrup. It is a sweet and rich dessert, often served at celebrations.
• Dates, a fruit emblematic of Oman. Dates are often served as a dessert or snack.

To sample Omani cuisine, we recommend visiting the souks and traditional restaurants. The souks are bustling places where you can find numerous stalls selling traditional dishes. Traditional restaurants offer authentic Omani cuisine, prepared with fresh produce.

Omani cuisine is a delicious and authentic cuisine that is well worth discovering. During your trip to Oman, do try the country’s traditional dishes. You won’t be disappointed!

Discover the wonders of Oman on a holiday with family, friends or as a couple. Enjoy a road trip, or spend a few nights in a hotel with a swimming pool... and discover the cultural, historical and natural riches of the sultanate. Oman is a true example of the preservation of nature and heritage, offering a warm welcome renowned throughout the world. You’ll be amazed by its splendours and will leave a piece of your heart there.