Al Baleed Archaeological Park and the Museum of the Frankincense Land

Al Baleed, on the seafront of Salalah, preserves the ruins of the medieval port city of Zafar, which traded frankincense, horses and goods across the Indian Ocean. It is part of the Land of Frankincense, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

What to see

• The ruins of the great mosque, the citadel and city walls, with walkways and signs.
• The Museum of the Frankincense Land, with a history hall and a maritime hall covering Oman's seafaring past.
• Gardens and a lagoon with birdlife, pleasant for a walk.

Visiting

The park is open daily; check current hours and tickets. Electric carts help in the heat.

Tips

Visit in the late afternoon, then shop for frankincense in Al Haffa souq nearby. Combine with the other frankincense sites: Khor Rori (Sumhuram) near Taqah and the frankincense trees of Wadi Dawkah.

Staying near and owning a home

Most visitors explore Oman from a base in Muscat. If you are thinking of buying, R2LUX sells homes in the communities where foreigners can own; three current listings are below.