Bordered by the towering Dhofar Mountains on one side and the sparkling Arabian Sea on the other, Salalah doesn’t scrimp on scenery. The subtropical city is heavily influenced by the khareef, an annual monsoon that keeps the terrain wonderfully green. Soak up the sun on palm-fringed beaches, motorbike through banana plantations or explore the rugged mountains.

Things to do

Hugging the seafront, the Al Haffa historic district offers a glimpse at old-world Oman. It’s hard not to be lured into the winding alleyways of Al Husn Souk, where you can pick up everything from fresh dates and juicy kebabs to handcrafted perfumes and local frankincense.

Head down to the waterfront to find a stunning stretch of sand spanning down to the ancient city of Zafa. Today it’s known as the Al Baleed Archaeological Park. It showcases a host of treasures, including beautifully crafted Omani boat models dating back to 3000 BC.

Salalah is known for its frankincense and has been producing the essential oil since the Middle Ages. If you’re infatuated by the scent, the Frankincense Land Museum offers a fascinating overview of Salalah’s essential oil legacy.

Salalah is famous for its plantations, with bananas, coconuts, and papayas all dominating its landscape. A walking tour of the plantations is a fun way to immerse yourself in the greenery and stock up on local produce.

Getting around

Al Haffa is a compact and easily walkable destination. If you’re heading to Al Baleed Archaeological Park, a leisurely stroll down the beach is a great way to stretch your legs. There are also plenty of taxis available throughout the area.