Oman

Jebel Akhdar, a limestone mountain surrounded by rugged terrain, sits at the heart of the Al Hajar Mountain Range located in northeast Oman. Extending up to Saiq Plateau, the region is home to lush wadis or valleys and terraces that make for a rustic getaway in the cool mountain air.

Jebel Shams, Oman’s highest mountain at about 3,000 meters, is situated north of Al Hamra town. Set close to Jebel Akhdar, it offers stunning views of Wadi Ghul, also known as Oman’s Grand Canyon, as well as Al Nakhr canyon.

Khasab, the capital city of the Musandam province, is where the ancient maritime history of Oman comes alive. Dotted with picturesque dhows or local wooden boats, the Khasab Harbor is a popular starting point for scenic cruises past the Strait of Hormuz.

Ringed by majestic mountains and the ocean, Muscat is an ancient port city that justly means ‘safe anchorage’. Check out 16th century Portuguese forts like Al Jalali and Mirani that perch on clifftops, while looking out on the bustling harbor below.

The former capital city of Oman, Nizwa continues to bustle with the commercial significance of an ancient trading center. Indeed it was to defend the city’s position on a major trade route that Nizwa Fort, a castle marked by an imposing cylindrical tower, was built in the 17th century.

Ras Al Jinz, with its dramatic cliffs and beautiful sandy beach, is the easternmost tip of the Arabian Peninsula. Situated in the Ash-Sharqiyyah district of Oman, it is close to the village of Ras al Hadd.