One of Oman’s greatest attractions is the diversity of its landscape from pristine beaches to rugged mountains, from fjords and gorges to sand dunes or the lush southern reaches. Muscat has much to offer, including luxury hotels, but beyond the capital, soft safaris, scenic treks and diving sites promise a taste of adventure Omani style.
Oman Safari Trip, Wadi Bashing and Wahiba Sands
Wadi bashing is a must in Oman, driving in a 4WD through dry river beds, crossing the occasional pool, large or small, and gazing at towering cliffs. Now and then, you come to terraces carved into the slopes where irrigation channels stretch across a lush oasis of date palms.
Close to Muscat are Wadi Shaab and Tiwi, and Wadi bani Awf where the track runs through a spectacular canyon. It’s a great spot for a picnic, not far from the Nakhal hot springs where one can recover from the excitement and visit the impressive fort.
Just over a two hour drive from the capital, the Wahiba Sands offer a true desert experience, the chance to try dune bashing, in a 4WD, or simply scramble to the top to watch the sunset and maybe spot a camel caravan shimmering like a mirage on the horizon. One can camp in the desert and discover the Bedouin way of life with local guides.
Trekking Holidays in Oman, Nizwa and Musandam
On the northern tip of Oman, the Musandam peninsula is accessed by road across the UAE or fast ferry from Muscat. It’s a great place for trekking holidays, with unspoiled villages and wonderful, often dramatic scenery as the Hajjar mountains plunge straight into the sea. Trekking ranges from moderate to strenuous, with stunning views, but a guide is highly recommended.
After a demanding hike, sailing through the Musandam fjords in a traditional dhow is a delightful way to unwind. There are also some great diving sites.
Easily reached from Muscat, Nizwa and the surrounding area offer a range of treks for different abilities. You can climb up to mud villages with not a road in sight, tackle the largest rock face on the Arabian peninsula or explore the Grand Canyon of Oman. Take time to relax in Nizwa, shop for silver and pottery and see the view from the fort.
Diving in Oman and Exploring Salalah
Oman has 1700 km of coastline and some great diving sites, including those around Muscat and from October to May, around Salalah in the deep south. Healthy coral reefs shelter an abundance of marine life. Eagle and torpedo rays, whales, leopard sharks, Moray eels, green and hawksbill turtles may be spotted, as well as angel and parrot fish, barracuda, dolphins and shoals of tuna.
Dhofar, the southern region around Salalah, is unlike anywhere else in Oman, beautifully green thanks to its summer monsoon. It’s a place of mountain streams and waterfalls, frankincense trees, archaeological remains, including the Queen of Sheba’s palace, ancient citadels and unspoiled beaches.
Solange Hando - I am a travel writer, editor and photographer, contributing to a range of publications in the UK and worldwide.
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