Category: Adventure

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.

Popular in the Sultanate

Cycling and mountain biking has risen in popularity in the Sultanate, with both amateur and professional cyclists appreciating the country for its stunning diverse landscapes and the new challenge that riding in Oman presents.

The Tour of Oman, a professional road race, has become an annual event since its inaugural race in 2010, drawing many spectators from the region and generally instilling an interest in cycling into the local population. The Haute Route is coming to Oman for the first time in 2019 and is sure to capture the imagination of cyclists from around the world.

Visitors can experience Oman on two wheels by booking any of the road or mountain biking excursions offered by a local tour operator. Alternatively, adventurers can find their own path in areas such as Al Hamra, Al Jebel Al Akhdar, Jebel Shams, Musandam and Yiti.

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-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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.