Muscat Travel Guide
Modern Capital, Ancient Roots
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With opportunities for desert exploration, mountain walking, discovering Bedouin culture and much more Muscat is most people’s gateway to Omani adventures. A sparkling white low-rise gem strung along the Gulf of Oman and backed by amazing mountains this dramatically-located capital is one of the oldest cities in the Middle East and yet today is cosmopolitan and modern with the traditional right on its doorstep. If it’s desert or mountain adventure you want, Muscat should be high on your list.
With a history linked to the trade of frankincense and records from Greece and Rome dating the city back at least 2000 years Muscat is undoubtedly an ancient city and yet it was only with the coming of Vasco de Gama in the 15th century did it have ‘modern’ contact with Europe. At this time the Portuguese navy lost warships to the Omani Sultan, Sultan bin Saif who established an empire stretching from Pakistan to Zanzibar.
Later centuries saw attacks by the Persians and Wahhabis of today’s Saudi Arabia and the city of Muscat and country in general fell into decline. Unified once again in the mid-20th century the country has had a renaissance becoming prosperous, cosmopolitan and remaining peaceful under the leadership of Sultan Qaboos.
Today Muscat is one of the world’s most overlooked capitals with a staggering amount of activities available for all those who love the outdoor life and exoticism of the Middle East. No wonder Muscat is called "Arabia's jewel”.
Attractions in Muscat
Today travellers come to Oman explore the spectacular landscapes of the Jebel Akhdar Mountains and the Wahiba Sands as well as to dive, discover superb forts, explore remote mountain villages and wander Bedouin markets – and all are possible on day-trips from Muscat. Muttrah’s market or souq is a big attraction and from its harbour trips by dhow can be arranged, whilst the Corniche is great for a promenade at night. The Jalali and Mirani forts flank the Al Alam Palace and there are several excellent museums including the lovely Bait al Zuhair. The Marina Bandar Rowdha has many boat trips on offer, including dolphin-spotting excursions, dhow trips, fishing excursions and much more.
Activities in Muscat
Allow a full day and evening to see the most important of Muscat’s sights, longer if some of the smaller museums are to be included or if you intend to head out of town. In most cases people sightsee on arrival and again just before departure, the time in between spent exploring the dramatic hinterland of mountains forts and deserts. If like most you have limited time a guided city tour can be adapted to show you the main sights and cater for any specific interests you have.
Relaxing
Little can beat a walk along the Corniche in Muttrah, doing a little shopping in the bazaar and then take a dhow trip along the coast as the sun sets.
Getting Around
Taxi is the easiest way to get around what is a long and narrow, somewhat sprawling city. Alternatively if sightseeing on a city tour you won’t have to worry as transport will of course be provided.
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