Plane tickets – use your favourite flight search engine. If you don't have a favourite, try kiwi.com. The low-cost airline SalamAir has somewhat frequent flights to Oman. We used their services for a flight to and from Prague and it was a hassle-free experience.
Car rental – there are a number of car rental companies at the airport. But first it's important to think about what type of car to rent. For this specific vacation we recommend a 4x4 offroad car, that way you can drive safely and get anywhere. Specifically, you may go for TOYOTA FORTUNER, TOYOTA LAND CRUISER. Alternatively choose another kind of a 4x4 like Kia Sorento or RAV 4 – these will get you to most places, but you should avoid the more extreme and difficult roads. A car without a 4x4 is NOT suitable for the route we have suggested, as you will not get to the Balcony walk or Jabal Al Akhdar. We had a good experience with the international company Europcar. Beware of mileage restrictions when renting; you will drive about 1500 km. CAUTION: a credit card is required to rent a car, a debit card will not suffice. And if you want to plan your own route, rent a 4x4 offroad with a roof tent. Try renting from Active Oman.
Driving – the roads in Oman are in perfect condition, they are also well signposted (all signs are always in English too). There are speed cameras on the highway, the fines are quite high. You can also get a fine for having a dirty car, so don't hesitate to visit car washes – they are very cheap. If the road is marked for 4x4s only, take it seriously! Keep in mind the restrictions that car rental companies have in their terms and conditions; it is best to discuss the route you want to take with them beforehand (this applies particularly to off-road routes or desert journeys).
Visa requirements – check your visa requirements.
Safety – Oman is one of the safest countries in the world. You don't need to worry. Follow the dress code of Muslim countries. Women don't have to cover up completely, but you shouldn't be dressed too provocatively.
Hikes – there are not that many marked hikes, but there are more and more being created. If they are marked, then the signposting and navigation are very good. Be careful on your hikes, sometimes the roads are not as secure as a European would expect.
Prices at the destination – prices in ordinary restaurants and cafés are very reasonable. Accommodation tends to be a little more expensive. Fuel costs no more than 50% of what it costs in Europe. Calling and data – international roaming is very expensive. Buy a data card at the airport and you can have cheap internet access. Signal coverage is more than good. Use the services of Ooredoo.
When to go – travel in northern and central Oman is possible from October to April. Temperatures soar above 50°C in the summer.
Money – you can exchange money directly at the airport, but keep in mind that the fee is quite high. There are also ATMs at the airport so you can withdraw cash. You can pay by card in most restaurants and shops. However, some small hotels or restaurants outside the more populated areas require cash payment.
Niky Malečková