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Blog

Visit the Bike and Hike Oman Blog to stay updated with the latest cycling and hiking trends. Here we bring you lots of interesting blogs related to hiking or biking in Oman.

Hiking Tours

The Best Places to Go Hiking in Oman

Ambika Verma|Sat, 29 Feb 2020

While traditional architecture, well put together cities and vast deserts are what usually come to mind when you think of Oman, these wonderful things are not the only things that are signatures of life in Oman. The amazing natural beauty and fantastic hiking spots in the region are often overlooked by many. The stunning desert landscapes of Oman are peppered with sand dunes and majestic mountain ranges. All across the Middle East, it is fairly common to see ‘Wadis’, which are similar to canyons or valleys, with a riverbed of flowing water. Oftentimes these Wadis are present in the form of a dry riverbed that makes for the perfect hiking trail. For most serious hikers, climbing these trails will definitely be a milestone to celebrate. To ensure that nobody hiking in Oman misses out on any of these exciting opportunities, here is our list for the best hikes in Oman! The Al Hajar Mountains range is our first overall pick for hiking in Oman, as this range combines everything you can expect from a fantastic trek; It is a tourist hotspot with an abundance of archaeological sites and off-road explorations, and some interesting options in adventure sports for adrenaline junkies, including rock climbing and trekking. This beautiful stretch of rocky mountains starts from Northern Oman, spanning through Muscat, before finally coming into the UAE. This mountain range offers adventure seekers all kinds of hiking trails from easy to difficult hikes and that too with a variety of lengths and durations with some suitable for overnight camping. Jabal Shams whose name translates as the ‘Sun Mountain’ is the highest point in the Al Hajar Mountains, rising to an altitude of 3,009 metres above sea level and a climb atop here lead people to the famous balcony walk, which gives thrill-seekers an unbelievable view of the cavernously deep Wadi Ghul that lies alongside it. The straight-sided Wadi is often referred to as the Grand Canyon of Oman or the Grand Canyon of Arabia, as it fissures abruptly between the flat canyon rims, exposing vertical cliffs of over 1000m. The Jebel Akhdar is another popular hiking area that lies in Ad Dakhiliyah Governorate of Oman. Jebel Akhdar itself refers not actually to a mountain, but to an area that encompasses the great Saiq Plateau, at 2000m above sea level. The labyrinth of wadis and terraces here make for a great hiking trail and the cooler mountain air and greater rainfall encourage scented Damask roses hikers will be lucky enough to witness during springtime in March as well as the other fruits like pomegranates, apricots and such that grow here in abundance. There are many other beautiful hikes to tiny mountain-side villages like Misfat Al Abriyyin among others that make for a pleasant and culturally enriching hike while still taking those routes that are a challenge for those looking for one. All in all with the Hajar Mountains being the highest mountain range in the Arabian Peninsula, the views on all these hikes are absolutely breathtaking. One thing to be noted is that if you choose trails on the Hajar Mountains most hikes here are only a few hours from the countrys’ capital, Muscat, however, it should be noted that parts of the mountain range fall within the UAE and some enthusiasts may wish to head out on longer hikes across international borders. We recommend that you carry all necessary documentation with you including visas and passports and anything else that is required if you intend to cross over on longer treks. Some final tips before you go hiking in Oman While hiking trips are exciting, but you need tips and preparation for a memorable experience. Hikers should also bring along all the necessary equipment for the trip, especially enough supply of food and water to sustain you through the challenging climb. If you are camping overnight make sure to also pack other essentials, including blankets and jackets as the temperature can drop quite a bit during the evenings and nights. There are many hiking trails in Oman that is why you need to have a guide and a plan to avoid getting lost. Before leaving your hotel in Oman, or choosing a hiking trail, you ought to check your fitness capability. Do you have experience hiking and camping outdoors? Do you have any medical conditions that could hinder this activity? Answering these questions helps you to determine if you are ready for the trip. The best months to visit are between November and April when the temperatures are conducive and not too hot. High temperatures, exhaustion, sun exposure, poor preparation can lead to negative consequences. When enjoying the hiking trails in Oman, it is advisable to have a map and plan your route carefully. Tell someone about your trip and don’t rely on your phone signal. This helps in case you get lost so people can organize search parties to find you. Eat a healthy meal before leaving and drink enough fluids, preferably water, to stay hydrated, and as we’ve mentioned before do remember to pack salted snacks, fruits, and water for sustenance. All hiking trails in Oman require you to dress appropriately for the activity. Sunglasses, comfortable clothes, and thick-soled sneakers are suitable for this terrain. Also, do keep in mind the variation in the weather before setting out on your trip. Finally do remember to take the opportunity to explore the region’s many hiking trails during the cooler months. From mountains to wadis, deserts to dams, there are plenty of places to go to escape the city and learn more about the culture and heritage of Oman on foot. Not only is hiking a wonderful way to see more of the landscape, but it’s also a fun way to be active in a place where we are all more inclined to use four wheels rather than two feet. You can speak to some of our experts at (968) 97233189 or reservations@bikeandhikeoman.com to find out about the best hikes to try in Oman from beginner level to advanced.

Biking Tours

Top Cycling Trails in Oman

Bike and Hike Oman|Mon, 27 May 2019

If you’re searching for the top cycling tours in Oman, you’ve landed at the right place. We’ve collected a list to the best biking tours in Oman for you so you don’t have to spend unnecessary time doing research about which circuits to take and how to arrange for the details of the tour. Oman is blessed with the ideals landscape for those interested in cycling tours with a variety of different types of paths, trails and weather while the people are considerate of cyclists as a novelty factor since the country is not yet a cycling hotbed. While it may be too hot during peak summer time to head out for a cycling tour without risking a heat stroke with careful consideration of the weather and trails chosen, it is no wonder that many believe that this is the next destination for cycling tours in the Middle East. So, take a look at these four routes that made to the top of our list of cycling tours in Oman.

Hiking Tours

Everything You Need to Know Before Going Hiking in Oman

Ambika Verma|Fri, 17 May 2019

Heading out on a hike unprepared can have serious consequences. We are offering some tips and guidance for a safe and enjoyable hike in Oman. The many trails across the region cannot be taken lightly, and should not be attempted without hikers having done some basic research about trails, proper equipment and supplies. Although there is much ground to cover in the region, there are many risks involved when hiking unprepared or without a guide – people have had to be air rescued from the rugged terrain of the Hajar Mountains and have even lost their lives. Although the government has started marking numerous hiking trails across the country including a feature marking the difficulty of the hike, it is still considered ideal that for the first few times people go out with experts.

Hiking Tours

10 Health Benefits of Going Hiking Regularly

Bike and Hike Oman|Tue, 23 Apr 2019

Hiking is something that can be enjoyed by men, women and children of all ages and fitness levels. It gets you outside where you can enjoy your natural surroundings. All while offering a chance to breathe in fresh air, discover nature’s wonders, and get some exercise that will have you feeling motivated and energised. Regular hiking offers a range of health benefits, from boosting fitness, to improving mental wellbeing and even helping us in our social lives. We’ve listed some of the amazing benefits of hiking below so that next time you’re heading out into the wilderness on a hike, you will not only feel fantastic, but will also know why:

Biking Tours

Cycling Tours: A New Way to Explore Your Destination

Bike and Hike Oman|Tue, 02 Apr 2019

In a world where people are searching for fresh new experiences, outdoor enthusiasts have discovered a brand new way of experiencing destinations— through cycling tours. At the heart of these tours lies the idea that travelling by bike gives you the chance to experience a country, even those you have visited before, through a news lens giving cyclists a different and deeper perspective. To journey with local people and freewheel into some of life’s most unexpected moments; Can there be any greater joy?