As the oldest independent state in the Arab world, Oman, a country perfectly situated on the southeast coast of the Arabian Peninsula, is the perfect destination for those in search of fascinating history, colourful souks, imposing mosques and sun-drenched beaches.

For first-time visitors, the best place to start is the picturesque city of Muscat, a waterside delight backed by mountains, packed with fantastic museums, unique architecture, rich heritage and Omani hospitality. 

Enjoy the following included excursions:

• Half-day Muscat city tour
• Traditional dhow sunset cruise
• Dimaniyat Island excursion for stays of 6 nights 
• Wadi Bani Khalid and the Wahiba Desert excursion for stays of 7 nights 
• Wadi Shab excursion for stays or 8 nights or more 

Please note: some of these excursions are not suitable for pregnant women, people with a history of spinal problems or people with reduced mobility. Please respect the local dress code; bikinis are not considered appropriate.  

Start your tour at the stunning Grand Mosque, featuring sandstone, marble, beautiful handmade Persian carpet, and a Swarovski crystal chandelier. From the mosque, cross to the old part of Muscat, stopping at the Mutrah fish market, and the opera. Next, head to Mutrah Souk, one of Oman’s oldest preserved markets, and discover Oman’s cultural heritage at Bait Al Zubair Museum, showcasing jewellery, weapons, and traditional costumes. Your final stop is the Al Alam Palace and the 16th-century Portuguese forts (outside only). 

Take a shared transfer from your hotel to the marina. Board a 2-hour boat trip (also shared) to watch dolphins along Muscat’s coast. Next, snorkel in a beautiful cove, maybe even spotting some turtles. Water and soft drinks are included on board. After the experience, return to the marina and transfer back to your hotel.

Discover the Dimaniyat Islands, a true paradise for snorkelling enthusiasts, located off the coast of Oman. Enjoy a day of snorkelling in an exceptional setting with crystal-clear waters, vibrant coral reefs, sea turtles and pristine white sandy beaches. A protected natural site, ideal for exploring underwater ecosystems rich in marine life and savouring the unspoilt beauty of this preserved archipelago. An unforgettable experience awaits you.

Depart Muscat for an unforgettable exploration of Wadi Bani Khalid, where turquoise pools and palm-fringed landscapes await. Enjoy a refreshing swim before continuing to the Wahiba Desert, for a thrilling drive through the dunes and a glimpse of Bedouin life.

Set along Muscat’s glittering coastline, Crowne Plaza Muscat by IHG 4* is a refined coastal retreat that blends modern elegance with Omani warmth. Soft tones, natural textures and gentle light fill every space, framing sweeping views of the Gulf of Oman.

Step onto the private beach for a peaceful stroll, feel the sea breeze on your skin, and watch the sun descend behind rugged mountains. Beyond the resort, Muscat’s cultural landmarks, lively souks and waterfront cafés reveal the city’s captivating rhythm, a perfect balance between tradition and contemporary life.

Step into a bright and comfortable retreat overlooking Muscat’s lively cityscape. Soft neutral tones and contemporary furnishings create a calm, inviting atmosphere, the perfect contrast to a day spent exploring or relaxing by the beach.

As evening falls, unwind with a refreshing shower before heading out to discover the city’s vibrant dining scene and warm Arabian nights.

Wake up to mesmerising views of the Gulf of Oman from your elegant retreat bathed in natural light. Contemporary décor and soothing tones create a serene atmosphere, while the gentle sea breeze drifts in through large windows.

After a day of discovery, sink into the comfort of your room and watch the sunset paint the horizon in shades of gold and coral.

This is a bed and breakfast stay.

Choose to upgrade to half board or full board at the next step of the booking process.

Days unfold in a rhythm of pure relaxation and renewal. Float in the infinity pool as sunlight ripples across the water, or retreat to the serene spa where aromatic oils and soothing massages melt away tension. The fitness centre offers a revitalising start to the day, with panoramic views that inspire movement and mindfulness.

Outside, the hotel’s private beach stretches towards the turquoise horizon, its golden sands inviting calm walks and quiet reflection as the waves lap gently at your feet.

Discover Muscat by visiting the Grand Mosque, the Muttrah fish market and the traditional souk filled with Omani treasures. Finish with a visit to the Bait Al Zubair Museum and admire the Al Alam Palace, surrounded by the historic Mirani and Jalali forts.

Enjoy a peaceful 2-hour sunset cruise along Muscat's coast, with water and soft drinks on board. Relax and watch the sunset over the sea before returning to your hotel.

Discover the Dimaniyat Islands, a haven of peace for divers and nature lovers. Explore crystal-clear waters, coral reefs, sea turtles and white sandy beaches in this unspoilt corner of Oman.

Depart Muscat for an unforgettable exploration of Wadi Bani Khalid, where turquoise pools and palm-fringed landscapes await. Enjoy a refreshing swim before continuing to the Wahiba Desert, for a thrilling drive through the dunes and a glimpse of Bedouin life.

Leave Muscat and follow the coastal road towards Sur. The first stop is at Bimah Sinkhole, a natural crater filled with fresh water. Continue to Wadi Shab, set deep in the mountains. Wadis are deep river valleys, and often feature spectacular rock formations and natural pools. 

Stay connected on the move with this exclusive mobile internet offer, perfect for modern travellers. Activate your included eSIM and enjoy connection wherever you go. Easily share your internet connection with friends and family without limits.

Please note: 3GB of internet data represents around 30 hours of web browsing/audio streaming or 3 to 4 hours of video streaming/social networking/video calls.

Explore the oasis of Nizwa, its historic fort, bustling souk and famous silver jewellery and khanjars. Continue your journey with Bahla Fort and the magnificent Jibrin Castle, a masterpiece over 300 years old.

Explore the Bimah Sinkhole and hike through the magnificent Wadi Shab, famous for its rock formations and natural pools. End your adventure with a dip in a secret world accessible through a famous keyhole.

Depart Muscat for an unforgettable exploration of Wadi Bani Khalid, where turquoise pools and palm-fringed landscapes await. Enjoy a refreshing swim before continuing to the Wahiba Desert, for a thrilling drive through the dunes and a glimpse of Bedouin life.

Explore the historic town of Nizwa with its iconic fort and bustling souk, ideal for buying traditional souvenirs. Then discover the Oman Across Ages Museum, a modern immersion in the country's history, from the first inhabitants to the Oman of today.

Set off by 4x4 to discover Wadi Al Arbeieen and the Bimmah Sinkhole, while enjoying a picnic in a unique natural setting.

Explore Oman's natural and cultural wonders on a 4x4 adventure, with stops at Barka, Wadi Bani Awf and Bilad Sayt, one of the country's most beautiful villages. Enjoy a picnic amidst the spectacular scenery of Wadi Al Arbeieen and Bimmah Sinkhole before returning to Muscat.

Explore Nizwa, its historic fort and traditional souk, before heading to Jebel Shams for a breathtaking view of the ‘Grand Canyon’. Finish with a visit to the village of Al Hamra and its mud houses, returning to Muscat at 5pm.

Discover Nizwa, its historic fort and vibrant souq, then visit Birkat Al Mouz and its UNESCO-listed irrigation system. Finish the excursion at Jebel Akhdar, the ‘Green Mountain’, famous for its terraces, fruit and rose water production.

Enjoy a peaceful 2-hour sunset cruise along Muscat's coast, with water and soft drinks on board. Relax and watch the sunset over the sea before returning to your hotel.

Discover the Dimaniyat Islands, a haven of peace for divers and nature lovers. Explore crystal-clear waters, coral reefs, sea turtles and white sandy beaches in this unspoilt corner of Oman.

Set off on a 4-hour dhow cruise to Bandar Khayran with snorkelling, a secluded beach and maybe even a sighting of dolphins.

Oman is the Arabian Peninsula at its most authentic, an untouched tapestry of dramatic coastlines, rugged mountains, and desert silence, where ancient traditions still shape everyday life. This peaceful and welcoming land is a true hidden gem for travellers seeking something different.

From whitewashed villages clinging to canyon cliffs to winding souks echoing with the scent of frankincense, Oman offers a window into a world long shielded from mass tourism. Here, adventure is matched with warm hospitality, and every wadi, fort and winding road tells a story older than time.

Must-sees:

• Nizwa Fort: A magnificent 17th-century stronghold with sweeping views and a lively souk famed for silver jewellery and spices.
• Wadi Shab: A lush oasis nestled between cliffs, offering a refreshing trek through pools, waterfalls, and hidden caves.
• Jebel Akhdar: Known as the Green Mountain, this highland plateau bursts into bloom in spring and offers cool air and scenic hikes.
• Bahla Fort: A UNESCO-listed site, this vast mud-brick fortress is one of Oman’s finest examples of medieval Islamic architecture.
• Salalah & the Dhofar region: Visit during the khareef (monsoon) to see Oman turn green, with misty hills, waterfalls, and banana plantations.

Culinary culture:

Omani cuisine is as rich as its landscape. Begin your meal with dates and kahwa (spiced coffee), then dive into shuwa, marinated lamb slow-cooked in an underground oven for up to 48 hours. Savour mashuai, grilled kingfish with rice, or try majboos, a fragrant rice dish with meat or seafood. Halwa, a sweet gelatinous dessert flavoured with rosewater, saffron, and nuts, is an unmissable treat. In villages and cities alike, meals are often shared, symbolising the deep-rooted culture of hospitality.

Dive deeper:

To truly connect with Oman, go beyond the cities. Camp under a sky blazing with stars in the Wahiba Sands, or drive the serpentine coastal road from Sur to Salalah for jaw-dropping sea cliffs and hidden coves. Explore lesser-known ruins like Manah’s ghost town or take a moment in a remote mountain village where life moves at a gentler pace. Omanis take great pride in welcoming strangers, and a simple conversation may lead to a spontaneous invitation for tea or even a home-cooked meal. 

Good to know:

Oman is best visited between October and April, when temperatures are cooler and perfect for outdoor exploration. The local currency is the Omani rial (OMR). Arabic is the official language, but English is widely spoken in towns and tourist areas. Dress modestly, especially in rural areas, and always ask permission before photographing people. Driving is the best way to explore Oman’s vast landscapes, with well-maintained roads and ample signage, just be sure to carry water and a full tank for remote areas.

Leave Muscat and follow the coastal road towards Sur. The first stop is at Bimah Sinkhole, a natural crater filled with fresh water. Continue to Wadi Shab, set deep in the mountains. Wadis are deep river valleys, and often feature spectacular rock formations and natural pools. 

Enjoy a hike through caves, plantations, cliffs and gradients that change with every step. At the end of Wadi Shab, swim through the famous keyhole into a secluded natural paradise. Lunch is included in your tour.