The Sultanate of Oman is a great destination for families and friends alike and if culture and adventure are what you wish to experience on your next vacation, you should definitely plan a trip to Oman. Here's a great collection of blogs on what to do in Oman, as well as some ideas about how to make the most of your Oman visit. Find the Oman travel articles and blogs right here at the Zahara Tours Blog and make your vacation to Oman a memorable one armed with insider tips and travel ideas.
Part of Oman's rich cultural tapestry is a cherished tradition that embodies the country's history and heritage while honouring the majestic camel- Camel Racing. This time-honoured sport not only embodies the enduring bond between man and animal but also marks the essence of seasonal celebrations that bring communities together in a spirited display of culture and athleticism. In a tradition that dates back centuries, the people continue to celebrate the camel as a symbol of endurance, strength, and grace. Historically, camels have been revered for their significance in Bedouin culture, serving as vital companions for transportation, trade, and livelihoods in the arid desert landscapes. Across Oman, camel racing is not just a sport but an integral part of the annual calendar. The nation comes alive during these events, attracting participants, spectators, and enthusiasts from various corners of the world. If you wish to attend one of the many events happening every year, please reach out to our team at +968 24400844 or inbound@zaharatours.com to organise your tour. The annual camel racing events in Oman are marked by an air of festivity and anticipation. Typically held during the cooler months, these gatherings are vibrant, bustling affairs that showcase the grandeur and excitement of the races. The roots of camel racing trace back to ancient times, wherein it was not merely a sport but a platform to showcasing the prowess of these magnificent creatures. Over the years, it evolved into a formalized sport, interwoven with cultural practices and celebrations. Today, camel racing in Oman is a fusion of tradition and modernity, blending ancient customs with cutting-edge technology. The sport has gained immense popularity, attracting enthusiasts, tourists, and participants from across the globe. One of the key aspects that have propelled camel racing into the modern era is the integration of advanced training techniques. Camels are meticulously trained, following specialized fitness regimes that include diet, exercise, and even high-tech methods like using robotic jockeys. The atmosphere during a camel race is electrifying. The sprawling desert tracks resonate with the thundering hooves of these majestic creatures as they gallop towards the finish line. Spectators gather, their excitement palpable as they cheer for their favorite camels. The races themselves are a spectacle to behold, as these creatures, often adorned in colorful regalia, display incredible speed and agility. The camaraderie among participants and the sheer beauty of these creatures in motion make each race a captivating experience. Camel racing in Oman serves as more than just a sport; it is a conduit for preserving cultural heritage. It embodies the deep-rooted connection between the Omani people and their desert environment. While embracing modern advancements, the essence of tradition remains at the core of this cherished sport. Furthermore, camel racing contributes significantly to the country's tourism sector, attracting visitors who are enthralled by the rich tapestry of Omani culture. Visitors are drawn to the allure of experiencing a tradition deeply rooted in the country's history while witnessing the thrill of the races. The sport continues to evolve, adapting to changing times while holding true to its essence. Camel racing in Oman is not just about athletic competitions; it represents a celebration of the traditional Omani culture and the enduring bond between the Omani people and their beloved camels. These gatherings serve as focal points within the nation's calendar, uniting locals and visitors in a shared appreciation for tradition, sport, and the enchanting beauty of Oman's desert landscapes. With the cultural significance of the annual racing season combined with the thrill of the race, and its role in preserving tradition, camel racing in Oman will undoubtedly continue to captivate hearts and minds, ensuring its continued part in the vibrant Omani cultural tapestry.
Adventure enthusiasts are set for a significant treat as Oman has recently launched a brand new activity in Khasab Musandam- The world's longest zipline over water. This new initiative is sure to draw adventurers from all around the world. A few days ago, the enormous project in Musandam Governate's Khasab Vilayat received its formal opening. The Oman Tourism Development Group (OMRAN) oversees its management and has ensured that it meets internationally safety standards and precautions. The 1800-meter zip line travels from Jabal Fit to an area built close to the Athana Khasab hotel. The zipline begins to descend towards the Wilayat of Khasab's coast as it travels from Jebel Fitt across the Wilayat's coast. Visitors could ride the zipline every day from 9 am to 4 pm. It's noteworthy that Khasab now offers the tallest zipline in Oman. It is set up at a height of 220 metres. All safety measures have been put in place here in compliance with international norms. The sophisticated braking system is one of the more important safety features. For the riders, there are also jackets and helmets. It will let riders to take in the vistas of crystal-clear waters and mountain peaks in both the Khor Qadi region and the Mokhi region. It is the first activity to open at Oman Adventures Centre and is recognised by the Guinness Book of World Records as the longest zip wire over water. One ride can be reserved for 18 OMR, or two rides can be reserved for 25 OMR. During the inaugural celebration of the adventure centre, guests could participate for a little time for just 10 OMR. You can also reserve a viewing ticket if you want to accompany riders to the flying platform or check out the sights from the Adventure Centre. There is no zipline ride included in this rate of 6 OMR. The new zipline in Oman is the longest in the world over water, but it is not the longest in the region. Ras Al Khaimah, which is an hour away from Khasab, boasts of having the longest zipline in the world. Participants travel over 2.83 kilometres in three minutes at speeds of up to 160 kph on the Jebel Jais Flyer. Citizens of 103 countries and those who are residents of the GCC are eligible for a visa on arrival in Khasab, which is conveniently accessible for all. Visitors can also take part in a few additional entertaining activities at this location. The variety of adventure offering here range from thrilling activities out in nature like canoeing, rock-climbing, and caving, to more relaxed activities like padel courts which is like a miniature version of tennis. All in all there is lots for visitors to enjoy here.
Residents and citizens of Oman have started preparing to make the most of their vacation time as the Eid-al-Adha holidays approach. Many people are seeing the appeal of spending the holidays in Oman itself, while some are considering travelling abroad to escape the oppressive weather. Oman is a place of extraordinary habitats and environments, from pristine beaches and coral reefs to soaring mountains and beautiful desert sands. There is no better location to be than Oman to celebrate Eid. Here are some stunning locations to consider if you're thinking of travelling to Oman for Eid to make your vacation absolutely unforgettable.
Each year in springtime, the mountainous slopes of Jabal Akhdar ushers in the spectacular rose blooming season which transforms the surrounding slopes of the renowned ‘Green Mountain’ into a colourful paradise filled with an abundance of the indigenous pink Damask roses found here. The rose blooming season at Jabal Akhdar starts around March and extends well into May every year as these stunning flowers fill the air with fragrance when in full bloom all over the mountainside. While roses are in bloom throughout the area, the rose garden at Jebel Akhdar where they are cultivated from rose water and other products are a must visit. One heads from the Wadi Al Madeen checkpoint covering the 36 km stretch of winding road that takes us to Jebel Akhdar (2000m above sea level) the green giant that towers over it’s other brethren in the Al Hajar mountain range. This stunning destination is one of the unique highlight of the Arabian Peninsula, due to its cool climes as this mountain sits at a very high altitude. Al Jebel Al Akhdar is famed for its fruit orchards and rose gardens typically laid out in a terrace style along the slope of the mountain, watered with natural springs and Aflaj irrigation system. The region is well known for a variety of fruits and blooms which are considered to be among the best in the country. One will cross the villages of Saiq, Wadi Bani Habib (the village of the old houses) & Al Ain on our journey to the rose gardens. These tiny villages look over a stunning view of dramatic peaks, and deep Gorges and Wadis. The roses of Jabal Al Akhdar are a spectacular sight during the blooming season when Damask roses bloom on the surrounding mountain slopes. Visitors can witness these enchanting blooms spread their heady aroma and opt for one of the popular tours of the famed damask rose farms of Jabal Akhdar. These are some of the oldest rose distilleries in the entire region and some still practice the traditional techniques of extracting varieties of pure rose water from the harvest blossoms, a practice that dates back to ancient times. One can meet the families who continue to make rose water in traditional distilleries. See first-hand the way that smoked rose water is extracted and distilled in the homes of the villagers. Visitor to the rose gardens here gain the opportunity to watch the local producers in action as they expertly move through the different stages of rose water production from the rose-pickers harvesting the blooms in a correct manner to the process of shifting huge loads of roses into ‘Al-duhjan’, the traditional mud ovens, for the distillation process. There are a large number of hiking trails and climbing routes which visitors can utilize to explore the mountainside and soak in the gorgeous beauty of the rose bushes heavily laden with the weight of roses in full bloom as the sweet scent of roses wafts through the air. Exploring the oft barren slopes of Jebel Akhdarvisitors will find numerous hidden wadis and terrace farms where apricots, pomegranates, olives, walnuts and roses flourish in the cooler, high-altitude temperatures. Absorb in the mountains’ breathtaking panoramic views, delightful small traditional villages and historic rose-water distilleries. Rose Oil is another famous produce of the region and the rose oil distilled within Oman is largely extracted from flowers that grow on the Jebel Akhdhar mountain. Requiring upto thousands of petals to create a single drop, this fragrant oil remains one of the most widely used oil in perfumeries. It is also used in a variety of other ways including as a fragrance, in cosmetics, and aromatherapy. (It is advisable to wear light comfortable clothing and walking shoes). One can also head to the ruins of the village of Birkat Al Mauz and enjoy a walk through the lush green date plantations there before proceeding to the checkpoint in Wadi Al Madeen Talk to our travel advisors at +968 24400844 or inbound@zaharatours.com to find out the best time to visit the rose plantations at Jebel Akhdar.
The Royal Balloon Company has been granted permission by the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) of the Sultanate of Oman to begin operating hot air balloon rides in the Sharqiyah Sands on January 24, 2023, as part of the government’s tourism campaign. Sheikh Ali bin Ahmed Al Shamsi, the Governor of North Sharqiyah province, launched commercial operations of Royal Balloon, a Turkish company that operates hot air balloons in Al Wasel, Bidiya. Getting to see Sharqiyah Sands and its beautiful landscape, mystical vibe, and shimmering sands is pretty incredible on its own. However it gets even more captivating when you witness it from a hot-air balloon flying thousands of feet above the dunes. Within minutes of taking off from the ground visitors will find themself drifting over the serene sands as the takeoff point becomes smaller and smaller in the distance. Watching from the basket of a hot air balloon as the rising sun sets the sky ablaze can be a surreal experience. Hot-air ballooning has just been launched in Oman as the Sultanate of Oman's Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) has given the permit to Royal Balloon Company to start operations of its hot air balloon ride in Sharqiyah Sands in January, 2023.This is in line with government's campaign to boost tourism and to support sources of economic diversification in the civil aviation sector while also providing a unique way to experience the wonders of Oman. The project is a partnership between an Omani company in collaboration with a Turkish company specialised in the field of hot air ballooning around the world with Oman becoming the fifth country it has started operations in. They are said to be starting operations with two balloons this season in the North Sharqiyah region, only a fraction of their international fleet which supposedly totals to more than 22 hot air balloons. The balloons have a capacity of 12 people per balloon, costing OMR 80 per person, per ride. The balloon ride will take place for 40 to 60 minutes during sunrise reaching a height of 600 metres above desert level. There are supposed to be discounted prices available for Omani residents and citizens, said to start from OMR 59 per person. The hot air ballooning should run from October to April of each year, during the tourist season in the Sharqiyah Sands as long as safe climatic conditions are available. The company intends to expand into additional areas in the future. As the hot-air ballooning occurs at sunrise, one is required to report at the designated area pre-dawn which would require ballooners to wake-up pretty early, possibly around four in the morning while stars still blanket the sky. On reaching the takeoff point one may see part of the lengthy process to get a hot-air balloon up and running from their arrival, spreading them out, filling up with air, starting them up, and finally getting them in the air. The pilot uses repeated heat blasts to lift the balloon into the air, which results in a lot of noise during takeoff. But once you rise to your cruising height the flame burners are cut, and you drift in sudden, enthralling quietness. This is disturbed only when the pilot needs to light the burner for injecting more hot air into the balloon. Some even describe the experience as near-spiritual. After the first 20 minutes, the scenery changes. It’s still quiet, but starkly different from taking in the sights on land. There are no fixed routes in ballooning. The direction of your rise will be decided by the direction of the wind.. After the time has passed the balloon will land in the landing area. Ready to take to the skies? Remember to consider the following: Hot-air ballooning is heavily weather dependent. Be ready for cancellations if weather conditions are not suitable with rains or strong winds. Balloon baskets aren’t very roomy. There is some space, but not a lot. Finding your place and staying there would be the best. The pilot turns the balloon so you can view everything from every angle. Limit what you carry along. When the basket is full, it is difficult to put your belongings at your feet. The basket hardly sways. So, you can relax. Dress appropriately because getting out of the basket may require a small jump and some jostling. Take a camera with you, but perhaps leave the DSLR at home. The best camera for hot air ballooning is a GoPro. Don’t forget the sunblock. With the launch of commercial balloon rides in Oman, anyone who wishes to try this exciting activity can book their hot air balloon ride above the Sharqiyah Sands. Talk to our travel advisors at +968 24400844 or inbound@zaharatours.com to book your hot air balloon ride today.
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