Musandam

Musandam, separated from the rest of Oman by the United Arab Emirates, is the northernmost part of the Sultanate. Due to its geographical position and mountainous terrain it was isolated from the rest of Oman and the region developed at its own pace.

Tucked away into obscurity, overshadowed by the fantastic worldly splendours of Dubai, passed over by shipping routes, Musandam has always been a mystery. Perhaps this lack of knowledge, sprinkled with stories of fjords, mountains rising out of sea and the sultanate’s northernmost settlements has given rise to an almost mythical haze around the region. Not all of it is true.

Graded roads cut across the mountains have now made it more accessible. The grandeur of Musandam can best be explored by sea. There are lotta Mountain Hairy Goat here thus it was necessary to fence up the plant. I even saw some goats climbing TREE!!!

This tour takes us on an adventurous and exciting tour to the capital of Musandam, Khasab, a calm, fishing village and oasis, which overlooks the Gulf of Arabia and the Straits of Hormuz. Watch the traditional lifestyle of the fisherman and the Bedouins. As usual, everyone favourite past time is FOOTBALL!!!

Like Musandam, Khasab simplifies things for you, with very little choice. Chances are you'll find yourself at the Golden Tulip Resort Khasab: it's four-star luxurious, hosts Khasab Tours and Travels and a dive centre. Everything you need for base camp. A double bed room cost us Dhs500 + 17% tax. Damn expensive, I thought next time I would bring my own camping gear, just like last time :P

Your other option could be the Khasab Hotel, but then you would have to do without everything we gorged on at the Golden Tulip: gargantuan burgers with egg and cheese, sinful scoops of chocolate mousse and enough comfort to sink into after a long day in the mountains or at sea.

This is the cheap restaurant we had few of ours cheap lunch here... Is actually indian food. Quite tasty & cheap compare to Tupai.

There are two main experiences in Musandam: the sea and the mountains. There really isn't much in between, and your activities are spread thinly across – dhow trips, dolphin watching, diving, 4WD exploration and a bit of hiking. Although most of Musandam's terrain remains inaccessible.
Cyclone Gonu left trial of destruction like this "Coffee Shop" totally wash out by the storm. This is nothing compare to what Happen to Muscat where all the car piles up.The coast juts into the Strait of Hormuz and extends some 600 kilometres. Due to the Sssstrong Waves, the Beauty is being destroy & the water is muddy. There are some 2feets steps created from the waves.

I guess it will takes months before it restore to it natural state. When I came here almost a year ago, the beaches was pearl white & the water cyrstal clear.

These spectacular fjords have given the area a second name “The Norway of Arabia” The Strait of Hormuz is only 60km wide and does not exceed 60m in depth and is of strategic importance to Oman as 90% of all the Gulf's oil trade passes through this area.

Occasionally from the Road site, you can notice some Hairy Mountain Goatss climbing rocks & Jumping on top of the tree... These are breed goat which shelther is build among the rocks.

Unforgettable day cruising along the “Fjords of Musandam” on board a traditionally decorated Omani Dhow, where you can sit comfortably on cushions and carpets while feasting your eyes on the striking scenery. A Dhow trip to the fjords offers an insight into its fantastic landscape. For most, though, Musandam means the sea, and the only contact they have with land is the rock that rises out of water.During the Dhow cruise you can cruise into the Straits of Hormuz and discover different villages. Beside meeting a Giant (only able to capture the hand), there are small villages nestle along the tortuous shoreline, most of them only accessible by sea, like Lima and Kumzar. The Dhow is anchored at the famous Telegraph Island, where you can swim and snorkel in the clear waters. He is our pro divers (PADI licensed) Raymond from HK teaching evil7 swimming while molesting him. The water is clear but there is no fish :P. There is also the possibility to see dolphins during on the way. And on that day, the captain told us the chances are not that good since Gonu Cyclone has just past by. But we are so lucky to see at least 10 of them with 2 baby... Damn Cute. A buffet Lunch, refreshments, soft drinks and mineral water will be served and is included. And occasionally, you will see some naked guy sunbathing & showing off his body... U Jump... I JUmp... The Arabic wayss! Really cant understand their mentality. Everyone is down to bikini they still cover like winter clothing... :(

Using 4 Wheel Drive vehicles on a panoramic journey into the barren interior; we drive the mountain in Musandam. This tour will give you an opportunity to enjoy the dramatic scenery of Musandam’s mountains, speckled with fossils dating back several million years.This is a calm and peaceful mountain where one can cherish the beauty of Musandam in the plateau.A stunning view overlooking to Indian Ocean side, you will be surprised at the scenery here. Musandam, even up close, remains a bit of a mystery. What is certain is that it has potential, this nether region of forgotten rock rising out of sea. You must go there, even if it's just once, to experience it yourself and put to rest rumours and stories that only seem to come from others. The real story is yours, and Musandam is a blank canvas open to any way you might look at it.