Salalah Heritage & Frankincense Trail

Embark on a journey through Salalah’s rich history and cultural treasures on this four-hour tour. Our first stop is the Al Balid Archaeological Park, one of Oman’s most significant historical sites. Here, we explore the Al Balid Museum of the Frankincense, which has been showcasing Oman’s archaeological and maritime heritage since its opening in July 2007.

Next, we step back in time to the ruins of Al Balid, once part of the ancient city of Zufar. This legendary city, visited by Ibn Battuta and Marco Polo, was described as a grand and noble center of the Middle East. We then continue to the Sultan Qaboos Mosque, the largest mosque in Salalah, with a capacity of over 5,000 worshippers. Driving through lush green roads lined with coconut and banana trees, we reach this architectural masterpiece.

Our cultural journey leads us to the Gold Souk, where we admire exquisite Dhofari-style jewelry before exploring the Haffah Souk, renowned for its frankincense, traditional decorations, and vibrant marketplace atmosphere. Along the way, we pass by historic Dhofari houses adorned with caravan-style windows and doors, and catch a glimpse of the Sultan’s Residential Palace. The tour concludes with a visit to the old souk of Frankincense, where local traders offer cosmetics, traditional Dhofari attire, and fragrant incense crystals—a perfect way to experience the essence of Salalah’s rich heritage before returning to the hotel.