Muscat’s Best Photo Spots & Instagrammable Moments

Full of character, culture and charm, with a serving of glistening oceans, golden deserts and striking architecture, the capital of Oman is a feast for the senses and your Insta stories – as photographer and creator of beautiful content @mgypsea discovered on a recent retreat. If you’re looking to be bewitched by your next destination, then Muscat is the one for you, so join me on a virtual tour through the most Insta-worthy moments in this enthralling city.

Dramatic views

From timeworn fortresses to opulent palaces, and from sprawling deserts to expansive oceans, Muscat is a city of fascinating contrasts, all of which play out delightfully on camera.

#1 ASTOUNDING DESERT

Stretching out to the south of Muscat is one of the world’s most awe-inspiring deserts. With the subtly-changing amber, terracotta and honey hues glowing in the warm sunshine, Wahiba Sands or Sharqiya Sands is a sight to behold and photograph. Experience the sheer expanse of undulating dunes and the curious feeling of leaving civilisation behind to enter a landscape that’s remained unchanged for millennia. The contours of sand rising, falling, rippling and swirling make for stunning pictures. An overnight stay in a Bedouin camp will grant you the spectacular joy of desert sunsets, sunrises and stargazing, all of which you’ll want to record and remember forever.

“This was my first trip to Oman and I was surprised to discover just how much this country has to offer. The Wahiba Sands is the best desert I’ve ever visited.” @mgypsea 

#2 CAPTIVATING COASTLINE

There’s something innately grounding about being beside the ocean. With mile-upon-mile of glorious coastline, Muscat offers a laidback retreat that our bodies and minds crave in today’s hectic and hurried world. Kempinski Hotel Muscat has its own private stretch of beach just steps away from the elegant rooms, suites and pools, so you can lounge in complete seclusion and tranquillity. A sundown boat cruise provides one of the best vantage points from which to marvel at the spectacle of traditional wooden dhows drifting along the Arabian Sea, interspersed with dolphins jumping playfully. A leisurely amble along the Mutrah Corniche, the historic waterfront promenade, also affords alluring views. 

The design of the grand lobby in Kempinski Hotel Muscat is inspired by Al Alam Palace. 

Head to the desert for an unmissable photo opportunity. 

Don’t forget to capture pictures of your special moments. 

Poolside cabanas are the perfect location for a leisurely afternoon. 

Panoramic views complement the stunning sunsets.

The architecture incorporates local and regional references. 

#3 ARCHITECTURAL WONDERS

To add a little depth and variety to your Insta feed, and to punctuate all the breathtaking beach shots, the Old Town provides rich pickings. Spend time gazing at Al Mirani and Al Jalali, twin Portuguese fortresses that have perched in the harbour for more than 400 years. Nestled between them is Al Alam Palace, home to the much-loved Sultan Qaboos during his half-century reign, and embellished with a photogenic blue and gold façade. 

The Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque will also have you reaching for your phone to share the scene with friends and followers, from the gleaming white sandstone exterior to the central dome with five minarets standing proud. The gentle curve of the arches makes a perfect frame for effortlessly artistic shots, as do the distinctive details inside, including the second largest handwoven rug in the world illuminated by a staggering crystal chandelier. This injection of culture and art will elevate your social media to new heights.

“There are so many attractions close to the hotel, from exploring the Mutrah Corniche and watching the sunset from the top of the Fort, to visiting the Royal Opera House.” 
@mgypsea 

Irresistible gastronomy

Muscat is a corner of the world with an array of mouthwatering dishes that deserve to be captured and celebrated on your camera roll.

#1 DECADENT KEMPINSKI CUISINE

Your Insta grid will look like the pages of a delectable high-end cookbook by virtue of the 11 restaurants and bars at Kempinski Hotel Muscat. Devouring Mediterranean cuisine on the shoreline at Zale while sipping mai tais and mojitos is definitely high on the agenda for me. For an inventive take on Indian food that’s worthy of an impromptu photoshoot, head to the show kitchen at Bukhara. The beautifully-presented pastries that form Afternoon Tea at Amwaj Lounge is another must. Here, your gastronomic content will definitely provide food for thought.

“At the hotel, the food was delicious and there was so much choice, especially at breakfast.” @mgypsea

#2 LOCAL SPECIALITIES

Positioned along ancient trading routes with influences from Africa, Persia and India, Muscat is all about rich flavours, so your taste buds are in for a treat. One of my favourite dishes is shuwa – lamb marinated in spices, slow cooked to perfection and served with rice. There’s also the exquisite simplicity of flatbread and hummus, along with sweet delights including halwa, a sugar, nut and rose water creation that pairs well with strong Omani coffee. The coast in Muscat isn’t just a picturesque background for photo opportunities, it’s also home to sublime seafood, so prepare yourself for platters piled high with tuna, prawns and lobster. 

#3 SENSATIONAL SOUKS

If you’re hoping to inject a kaleidoscope of colour into your grid, and some tantalising flavours into your culinary repertoire, then a trip to one of Muscat’s souks is a must. Here you’ll discover, smell and taste the very essence of the Middle East. Deep within the labyrinth of alleyways teeming with handicrafts and jewellery, you’ll find aromatic spices, from chilli and cardamom to clover and cumin. As well as snapping some vibrant shots, this is a chance to replenish your spice cupboard and sample other delicacies including dates and dried lemons and limes.

Special moments

An indulgent escape is about far more than simply the views or the food. It’s a tapestry of moments, some of which will be so powerful that they’ll stay with you forever, both in your memory and camera reel. 

#1 UNDERWATER WORLD

As transfixing below water as above, Muscat has an incredible marine life. Invest in a waterproof case for your phone and discover turtles, whale sharks and rays amidst the corals and wrecks on a snorkelling or diving trip. A haven for water sports including kayaking, paddleboarding and waterskiing, you can also capture action shots to raise the tempo on your Insta stories. 

#2 LUXURIOUS SURROUNDINGS

The moment you arrive at Kempinski Hotel Muscat, you’ll step into the most invitingly sleek and chic setting. The centrepiece in the light-flooded lobby is a series of flared columns inspired by lilies floating on a pond. The vast floor-to-ceiling windows look out over the spectrum of colours as the sea meets the sky. Here you’ll want to linger a while and pose amidst the sophisticated and serene backdrop. 

“Even the lobby is a standout moment – it felt like being in an art gallery and every time I passed through I wanted to take a photo!” @mgypsea 

#3 SPELLBINDING SUNRISES

I’ve always found that there’s something ethereal about watching the sun make its slow ascent, bathing the world in light and bringing forth another day filled with adventure. Compelling yourself to leave your sumptuous bed is a challenge, but you won’t be disappointed when you witness the day breaking over a mesmerising infinity pool with the ocean on the horizon. If you miss sunrise, you’ll still feel a tranquil aura wash over you whatever time of day you visit one of the pools. Lounge on the plush sunbeds, sip cooling drinks and, once you’ve recorded the moment, put the camera down and truly savour every special second in this paradise.

“The sunrises by the infinity pool were definitely worth the early start! Whenever I stay on the coast, I love to go walking by the water.” @mgypsea 

Pottery is one of the most ancient industries in the country. 

With a choice of pools and a sandy beach, everyone can find their perfect spot. 

Golden deserts are an unmissable part of any trip to Muscat. 

Head to the coast for long walks and beautiful pictures. 

Local markets are a treasure trove of souvenirs.

The infinity pool looks out over the turquoise waters. 

Your magical moments

Share your own Instagrammable moments by mentioning @kempinski and tell us about the highlights of your trip, whether it’s hiking in High Tatras or snorkelling in Soma Bay.

If you enjoyed this, why not start planning your trip to Muscat with the help of Rachel Morris’ destination guide?