Spend your long weekend at these places
With the long weekend approaching - due to the Prophet’s birthday holiday on Sunday – it is time to recharge your batteries. Enjoy the cool weather and appreciate the beauty of Oman.
Wadi al Arbaeen
Oman abounds with wadis, but one that you must visit is Wadi al Arbaeen. With winding water streams and refreshing pools, this nature’s gift to Oman, attracts both adventure seekers and families. The advantage here is you can drive right up to the water streams in your sedan, but 4WD is recommended to drive to the short gravel road at the end. On Route 17 from Muscat to Sur via Amerat, drive about 80km, just after Dibab, take a right turn at the ‘Wadi al Arbaeen 17km’ sign.
Wadi Hoqain
Situated at a distance of about 40km from Rustaq and 150km from the wilayat of Muscat, this valley is characterised by its year-round flowing streams, springs and beautiful waterfalls. The cool weather will only add to the travelling experience.
Wadi Sireen Reserve
This reserve is located in the eastern Al Hajar Mountains about 45km south of Muscat. Enjoy your day with wild animals such as the Arabian Tahr and deer. Indigenous to the Al Hajar
Mountains, the Arabian Tahr is a unique animal that lives among the mountain cliffs and rocky slopes, and is considered one of the rarest of all these animals. Its presence in the Arabian Peninsula is limited to Oman.
Wakan Village
This enchanting village sits amid the imposing mountains of the wilayat of Nakhal. It draws tourists with its serene natural beauty and the cool weather all year round. Wakan is famous for its lush green palm groves irrigated by underground water channels (aflaj), mountain trails and agricultural terraces where exotic fruits like grapes, apricots and pomegranates are grown. A trekker’s paradise, the village doesn’t fail to fascinate one and all. Interestingly, Wakan lies on the other side of Jebel Akhdar and is part of the wilayat of Nakhal. It is located at a distance of 134km from Muscat.
Trekking
Trekking enthusiasts can make use of this long weekend and enjoy Oman’s wonderful mountainous nature. Decide on the intensity of the hikes and head of.
Wander around Muttrah, or walk around the groove edges of Jebel Shams, a place replete with canyons, wadis and stunning panoramic views. While there, visit Misfat al Abreen village which lies adjacent to Jebel Shams. It is known for its 400 year old mud brick houses, palm fringed natural pools and hot water springs.
Sharqiyah Sands
The majestic sand dunes of Sharqiyah Sands offer a remarkable Arabian experience. The rolling golden dunes provide an excellent place to enjoy desert safari and experience the traditional bedouin lifestyle.
Camping
Camping is and will remain the topmost activity for those mulling a break from the hustle and bustle of city life. The diverse topography of Oman allows many options when it comes to camping. From Qantab in Muscat, to Ras al Hadd in South Sharqiyah, mountain tops in Jebel Shams or Jebel Akhdar in Dakhliyah, campers have a wide choice. The desert in Bidiyah in North Sharqiyah, or the Empty Quarter in Dhofar, Damaniyat Islands in South Batinah, or camping in one of the secluded beaches spread in Musandam too, are ideal locations to take a break from the mundane.
Wadi Bani Khalid
Whether its the cascading clear water, the tranquil atmosphere or the gorgeous natural pools, Wadi Bani Khalid often seems like a natural water park. The place is popular among nature lovers, swimmers and adventurers. It is truly a paradise by all means.
Al Ashkarah
With its turquoise-coloured water, white-coloured sand dunes and cool weather, there is a reason why Al Ashkarah is a popular tourist destination for locals and expats alike. Not only is it a perfect spot for picnics, it is also good for fishing activities. Al Ashkharah is home to different species including turtles and migratory birds.