Joanna James
Many fun adventures await you in the deserts of Oman, from hikes in the mountains to off-road driving, and water sports to camel rides. You will never run of options to explore while holidaying in Oman!
The rugged gorges and mountains are the perfect environment for off-road driving. The interior of Oman and its desert landscape provide many places to explore. Excursions arranged on a four-wheeled drive is perfect to traverse the rugged landscape. Popular routes are the mountain gorges of Jabal al Akhdar, Wadi Bani Awf, and perhaps even travel to Snake canyon for some canoeing! Such off-road trips should be well organised preferably with a trusted travel company, as there are risks involved in driving in arid environments. Essentials like water and phones are mandatory on such excursions.
Oman has some amazing views to offer! The wide-sweeping canyons and ridges have some exciting times ahead for those who love mountain trekking. There are several well-known trails as in Western Hajar. River valley walks (Wadi) are popular trek options as well. If scrambling through gorges and bathing in rock pools is your idea of an adventure, this may be for you. Wadi Shab, Wadi Bani Khalid, Wadi Tawi, Wadi Darabat and the Eastern Hajar Mountains are popular river walks. October to April is considered the best time for trekking. Many hotels such as Al Baleed Resort Salalah by Anantara will gladly organise guided hikes solo or in a group.
It may come as a surprise but Oman has some cool diving spots, that have gone unnoticed by many travellers. On the bright side, unlike other popular diving sites, you will have the comfort of having the place all to yourself. You can opt up for a spot of lessons, as there are several good diving schools all across Oman. Popular dive sites include Bandar Khairan with over 200 species of fish, the wreck site as Al Munassir and Daymaniyat Archipelago has over 20 dive sites.
Camel and horse rides are popular outdoor activities in Oman. The most famous school in Oman for such rides is the Qurm Equestrian Riding School. They offer both camel and horse rides along the beach for experienced riders and novices alike. Their riding centre at Barka offers half-day rides and treks. Many operations offer camel safaris, the one at Bidiyah offer for groups of ten or less.
If you have ever wanted to explore or feel what it is like to live on a deserted island, Masira Island might be it. This gorgeous island has empty sandy beaches, jagged rocky peaks and free-roaming wildlife. An ideal place for a camping trip, although there are few accommodation options available as well.
From all Oman attractions, this is one you cannot afford to miss, especially while travelling from Muscat to the south. According to legend, a falling star created the sinkhole many thousands of years ago. Swimming here will make you feel one with the earth as it is a truly spectacular creation. There is a stairway that leads you to the bottom or if you're a real daredevil just dive in. But exercise caution as the depths of the sinkhole is not accurately known.
A true believer that the pen is a mighty weapon, ventures into reaching the minds of every reader with the earnest hope of leaving an indelible stream of thought.
A travel writer who has a passion for fashion and a deep interest in admiring new and exotic attractions around the world.
