Outdoors… That’s the call of the winter. Shake off that summer ennui, get out into the open and breathe in the fresh winter air. Take a cue from the following feature and set out on an exploration/camping trip in the nature-soaked landscapes of Oman.
Its time to blow away the dust from your tent bag and pull out the camping gear from its summer hibernation to enjoy the weather outdoors. Make the most of the two-day weekend this season with a camping trip at one of the popular tourist spots in the country.
While beach is your best bet if you are looking for camping sites closer home, with Muscat boasting a host of picturesque shorelines that are both inviting and easily accessible, it is the mountains and the desert that are beckoning. In fact, some of the destinations, like Jabal Shams and Jabal Akhdar, have camping facilities that are just right to cater to your needs, whether with family or friends.
Jebel Shams 
Jabal Akhdar
The popular Wahiba Sands, or the Al Sharqiya Sands, also has several camping options for those looking to get close to the desert this winter. Although desert safaris are best undertaken with guides from travel agencies, adventure seekers can find avenues to explore the enchanting vistas of the golden sand dunes and camp in the wilderness.
Other camping spots to explore are the Dibab Lake Park to experience its breath-taking sink hole; Yiti for a tryst with nature; Ras Al Hadd for the green turtles; Wadi Tiwi for the rock pools; and Mirbat to explore the landscape, among other exciting destinations around the country.
The Daymaniat Islands in Al Batinah South Governorate and the secluded beaches of Musandam Governorate, which is famous for its attractive fjords, are also perfect to explore this winter. You could either pitch your own tent or camp out in those created by the Tourism Ministry in specific areas.
If you check the Oman’s Tourism Ministry portal (http://www.omantourism.gov.om/) you will find the following destinations listed under experiences for camping activities (some of them might need prior permission from the Ministry, though):
Bandar Khayran Reserve
Located within the precincts of Muscat, this reserve is about half an hour away from Bandar Al Rawdha Marina by boat. It has several attractions – from the dolphins bobbing alongside the boat to the coral reefs, which has been a great lure for divers. There are more than 20 diving locations here, each with its own charm and beauty.
Al-Dimaniyat Islands Nature Reserve
Al-Dimaniyat Islands Nature Reserve, located about 18 kilometres off the coast of Barka and 70 kilometres west of Muscat, is made up of nine islands.
Its attraction lies in its pristine beaches and the rich natural heritage replete with several kinds of coral reefs. The reserve features pristine beaches; it has a rich natural heritage and is replete with several kinds of coral reefs.
Barr Al Hikman
Barr Al Hikman in Al Wusta Governorate is a beautiful sanctuary for birds and fish. This island is considered one of the most important bird migration stations both in Oman and Southeast Asia. Many birds congregate here, especially water birds coming from as far as Siberia’s northern shores.
Khawr Al Maghsayl
The lagoon at Khawr Al Maghsayl in the Governorate of Dhofar is a perfect destination for bird watchers and photography buffs.
Important species of indigenous and migratory birds inhabit the lagoon; while some migrate from Africa, Europe and from India, others are permanent residents of the lagoon. The area of this lagoon is about half a square kilometre.
Wadi Shab
Spend your weekend swimming in clear water pools in Al Sharqiyah. This wadi attracts both locals and expats for its beautiful cave, waterfall, and easy access by car.
