Sun, Sea & Safari: Twin Centre Trips to Oman

Here, the experts at Experience Oman give three twin-centre holiday options, full of striking contrast for a truly rejuvenating holiday.

Oman & The Maldives: Cultural Charm Meets Beachfront Bliss

For those looking to emphasise the soul of Oman – its history, traditions, and hospitality – there is no better starting point than the elegance of capital city Muscat. From the grand marble courtyards of the Sultan Qaboos Mosque and graceful Royal Opera House to the buzz and spice scents of Muttrah Souq, Muscat offers an immediate glimpse into what makes Oman so special. From here, travellers can head inland to see the fort at Nizwa, Oman’s cultural heart, and its Friday goat market, UNESCO World Heritage Site Bahla Fort, and the stunning Jabreen Castle.

Not far from here is the slow pace and crisp air of the Al Hajar Mountains, where travellers can enjoy a luxurious retreat at Hotel Indigo Jabal Akhdar. Perched on the edge of the Hajar Mountains, Hotel Indigo is one of Oman’s newest luxury offerings, fusing boutique charm with contemporary design. In Salalah, travellers can relish sun-soaked days at secluded beaches such as Al Fazayah or visit the famous blowholes at Mughsail. Activities here include dhow cruises, visiting frankincense trails, and walks to ancient trading ports such as Khor Rori.

For the second chapter of the trip, there’s no better contrast than the island paradise of the Maldives. Ideal for a romantic getaway or family retreat, travellers can while away the days snorkelling, indulging in world-class wellness treatments, or simply basking in the sun after the cultural hub and adventure of Oman.

Four nights at Hotel Indigo from 15 February start at £799pp, based on two adults in a Standard Room with King Bed. To book: expedia.co.uk.

Oman & India: Desert Safaris and Rich History 

For those seeking a true escape to nature, remote landscapes and wildlife encounters await in A’Sharqiya Sands, where travellers enjoy a must-do for every Omani adventure: a night under unspoiled stars in luxury camps, complete with dune bashing, camel rides, and authentic dining with Bedouin hosts round the fireside.

Close by are the mountain villages of Hajar Mountains, winding towards Jebel Shams or Jebel Akhdar – dramatic canyons that stretch as far as the eye can see. Between dips in local Wadis and hikes to remote villages, travellers can stay in heritage inns such as Sama Al Khutaim Heritage Home, a remote lodge built in traditional style offering breathtaking canyon vistas and proximity to the ‘Grand Canyon of Arabia’.

For the active sun-seeking traveller, a 3-hour flight to Delhi offers the next stage of adventure and exploration. From the wilderness of Oman to the vibrancy of India, Delhi offers historic and spiritual sites, street art, and delicious cuisine, to continue the adventure with a total change of vibe.

Trailfinders offers a two-week itinerary of India and Oman starting at £2,149pp. Enjoy the treasures of India’s Golden Triangle before relaxing on the pristine beaches of Muscat. 

Oman & Dubai: Wildlife, Wilderness and City Thrills

Oman is evolving into a fantastic wildlife safari destination, home to a stunning diversity of life on land and sea. Marine life such as whale sharks, endangered turtles, and rays can be found at the Daymaniyat Islands off Muscat, while Masirah Island boasts over 300 species of birds and four species of nesting sea turtles. Inland, travellers can track the Arabian leopard or view Oman’s conservation comeback, the Arabian oryx, at Al Wusta Wildlife Reserve. Dolphin sightings and turtle sanctuaries off Muscat’s coast, alongside camel treks across A’Sharqiya Sands, further highlight Oman’s ecological diversity.

Further south, travellers in Dhofar can witness the Khatla – the traditional camel migration. A unique cultural event marked by local gatherings, scenic journeys, and the largest camel gathering of the year, visitors can join parts of the journey and engage with locals. For the eco-conscious traveller, Alila Hinu Bay makes a unique base amongst lush valleys, the once-prominent 17th century trading post of Mirbat, and archaeological ruins of Sumhuram.

For a buzzing city break after immersion in the wilderness, Dubai is just an hour’s flight away, offering world-class shopping, exciting theme parks, and iconic skyscrapers – a luxury city break to round off the trip.

Four nights at Alila Hinu Bay from 26 February start at £799pp, based on two adults in a King Bed Room with Terrace. To book: expedia.co.uk.

Oman Air offers layover packages in Muscat, with customised stays of up to three nights, including a range of 3-5-star hotels, transport, tours, and experiences – perfect for creating a mini-twin centre trip. To learn more, visit https://www.omanair.com/en/stopover-in-muscat. 

Getting there: Oman Air operates daily direct flights from London Heathrow to Muscat International Airport, with a flight duration of approximately 7 hours. Return fares start from £295.

Northern airports can connect via Amsterdam.

Content and images supplied – additional images from Dreamstime