6 Things to see on your next trip to Oman

Following Oman's coastal road south from Muscat, the mountains meet the sea, and it is here that you can find the impressive canyons of Wadi Shab and Wadi Tiwi. Dramatic scenery provides ample opportunity for hiking and photography. Each canyon is home to startlingly blue pools of water - some of which you can swim in - and lush vegetation and palms scattered throughout steep canyon walls. While a moderately strenuous walk is required to reach the best pools for swimming, a peaceful dip in the water is well worth the effort. In Wadi Tiwi you’ll also find a handful of tiny hamlets dotted through the gorge.

Built at the start of the 17th century, Nizwa Fort took 12 years to complete. Standing at 34 metres tall, this impressive fortress is a stunning example of old Omani architecture with a cylindrical tower and numerous viewpoints overlooking the surrounding palm plantations. While it was once a formidable fortress under siege you can now explore this historic landmark, complete with a museum inside the fort housing artefacts and folklore. 

Reaching an elevation of 3,009 metres, Jebel Shams - meaning Mountain of the Sun - is Oman’s highest mountain. While the highest elevation point is occupied as a military base, the South Summit - at 2,997 metres - is an iconic spot for sightseeing over Oman’s spectacular Grand Canyon. For those looking to explore further, the Jebel Shams Balcony Walk follows the canyon rim, with awe-inspiring scenery and ancient abandoned structures along the way.

Image credits: George Turner