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Nature & Adventure

Oman is the land of adventures, starting from exploring the Hoota Cave, going through the experience of zip-lining in Musandam Governorate, as well as hiking on mountain trails in the Riam Walkway or through metal wires in Wadi Bani Auf. Also, diving into the depths of the ocean to enjoy seeing colorful coral reefs and rare fish in the Daymaniyat Islands, and sailing in kayaks, sailboats, and jet skis, all the way to camping under the star-studded sky in the sands of the East. All of this confirms that your visit to Oman will not be conventional at all. It’s an adventure in every sense of the word.The diverse landscapes of the country and the varied tourism patterns it offers contribute to making your visit to Oman truly meaningful and unique. Witnessing the towering rocky mountains with green terraced fields built by early Omanis, attending camel races on the fringes of the desert, or riding camels, observing sea turtles as they lay their eggs and head towards the sea, and even swimming in the clear waters of flowing wadis (valleys) are experiences that make your journey an endless delight. These are wonderful adventures and experiences that will remain etched in your memory.

Water Sports

Water Sports Oman2

A special connection with the sea

Oman looks back on a proud maritime history, renowned for Dhow building and trading across the seas. As such, Omanis are known to have a special connection with the sea, settling where there are natural harbours and great fishing grounds.

It comes as no surprise that the Sultanate with it’s rich marine life, has become one of the world’s fastest-growing diving spots. Areas such as Al Khayran, Al Fahil Island, Daymaniyat Islands and Al Makbara Bay are incredibly popular with the discerning diver.

Several tour operators specialise in water sports, such as snorkelling, sailing, jet skiing, and kayaking. For those visitors seeking their own water adventures, yachts and boats are also available for hire.

Camel Riding

Gamal Riding Oman2

Comprehensive camel safaris

Historically, camels were used by local Bedouins for transporting goods and people through the desert and around the country. Today, owning camels has become more a sign of prestige, with many Omanis breeding them for racing and beauty contests.

Visitors can still enjoy a taste of the traditional Bedouin lifestyle by setting off on a desert safari in the A’Sharqiyah Sands and Rub Al Khali. Nothing quite beats seeing the sun set while on a camel’s back. Several local tour operators offer comprehensive camel safaris.

Off-Roading

Off roading Oman2

Off-Road adventure

Many of Oman’s stunning attractions are off the beaten track and require a 4WD vehicle. Whether dune bashing in the desert or exploring a wadi, off-roading is one of the best ways to truly experience some of Oman’s most exciting areas.

Some of the best locations for off-roading include Wadi Bani Awf, Al Jebel Al Akhdar and Jebel Shams, as well as many of the other scenic wadis dotted around the country.

Visitors are asked to use caution when venturing off-road, as help is often far away and roads may be dangerous if the driver is not experienced. In many cases, it is best to travel with at least two cars or opt for a guided excursion.

Hiking

Hiking Oman2

Oman has something for every hiker

Hiking routes can be found throughout the country; from short, accessible routes on the outskirts of cities and villages, to longer treks in more remote areas. Oman has something for every hiker, including some combining elements of canyoning and climbing

The Riyam Walk between Muttrah and Old Muscat and the Rim Walk on Jebel Shams are not too demanding and a favourite with visitors. Expert hikers can ascend Jebel Al Akhdar via Wadi Muyadeen, cross from Wadi Tiwi to Wadi Bani Khalid or make it to the summit of Jebel Shams.

Climbing

Climbing Oman2

Stunning spots for mountaineers

From rock climbing to abseiling, Oman offers plenty of stunning spots for more experienced mountaineers. It is recommended to always keep an eye on the weather, wadis and roads can quickly flood in case of rain.

Experienced climbers will know Jebel Misht as a perfect location for some serious alpine-style rock climbing. Easier options are offered on the Via Ferrata routes managed by the Alila Jebel Akhdar Resort & Spa on Jebel Akhdar, which also includes a 22-metre bridge walk across the mouth of a cave, or the Via Ferrata route on Jebel Shams.

Paragliding

Paragliding Oman2

A growing adventure tourism scene

Paragliding is a newer addition to Oman’s rapidly growing adventure tourism scene, adding to an already impressive suite of outdoor pursuits in the country. Several tour companies offer beginner, intermediate, and pilot courses for anyone interested.

Golf

Golf Oman2

World-class golf clubs in Muscat

Golf has a history in the Sultanate dating back to 1970s. With world-class golf clubs in Muscat – the Al Mouj Golf Club, Muscat Hills Golf and Country Club, Ghala Valley Golf Club, and the Ras Al Hamra Golf Club – perfect golfing weather is usually experienced between September and May, and during the evenings in Summer.

Stand up Paddle Boarding

Stand up paddle Boarding Oman2

Paddle Boarding has gained momentum in Sultanate

Taking off as a new leisure activity in the early 2000s, Stand Up Paddle Boarding has gained momentum in Sultanate, quickly earning itself a reputation as a great SUP location thanks to its over 3,000km long coastline.

Shatti Beach and other beaches in Muscat are some of the best starting points for an unforgettable SUP session, depending on the paddler’s level of fitness and comfort.

Local companies manufacture paddle boards to international standards right here in Oman, while others offer equipment hire and lessons if required.

Caving

Caving Oman2

The second largest cave chamber in the world

Home to the second largest cave chamber in the world (Majlis Al Jinn on the Salmah Plateau) and numerous others, the Sultanate has plenty of caves to explore.

Some, like Al Hoota Cave near Al Hamra or the Muqal Cave in Wadi Bani Khalid, don’t require specialised equipment and can be explored by visitors with average fitness levels.

However, the caves at Majlis Al Jinn are for experienced cavers only and also require additional equipment and permissions.

Camping

Desert nights Camp 5

Stunning camping locations for visitors

From the white pebble sand beaches of Fins and Sur, to rocky outcrops above the clouds on Jebel Samham in Dhofar, Oman has hundreds of stunning camping locations for visitors to choose from.

While wild camping is a favourite pastime in the Sultanate, campers must ensure they are not on private land or damaging land or livestock. That includes disposing of rubbish in designated bins only. Those looking for more comfortable camping options, can book one of the available desert camps or join a local tour operator that offers organised camping trips.

Kite Surfing

Kite Surfing

Exhilarating sport enjoyed by many in Oman

A fantastic combination of surfing and paragliding makes for an incredibly challenging, yet exhilarating sport enjoyed by many in Oman. In fact, the Sultanate is known around the world as an up-and-coming kitesurfing destination.

Particularly popular on Masirah Island, kite surfing there is best enjoyed in the summer months, when temperatures are around 25℃ and the island receives some of the monsoon winds that bring rains to Dhofar and turn it into a green wonderland.

Local tour and rental operators provide training and gear hire, with qualified professionals to ensure a safe and exciting experience for all visitors.

Royal Oman Police

ROP Emergency Number
Generally
9999
Muscat Governorate Police Headquarters
Muscat
(968+) 24648007
Dhofar Governorate Police Headquarters
Dhofar
(968+) 23234599
Musandam Governorate Police Headquarters
Musandam
(968+) 26730299
Al Buraimi Governorate Police Headquarters
Al Buraimi
(968+) 25650099
Al Dakhiliya Governorate Police Headquarters
Al Dakhiliya
(968+) 25414899
Al-Batinah North Governorate Headquarters
Al-Batinah North
(968+) 26859499
Al-Batinah South Governorate Headquarters
Al-Batinah South
(968+) 26875099
A’Sharqia North Governorate Police Headquarters
A’Sharqia North
(968+) 25570099
A’Sharqia South Governorate Police Headquarters
A’Sharqia South
(968+) 25545070
Al Dhahirah Governorate Police Headquarters
Al Dhahirah
(968+) 25650099
Al Wusta Governorate Police Headquarters
Al Wusta
(968+) 23436099