Pink Lagoons.
Just as if in dreams-land, you can wander in a landscape of white sands, Avicennias, the blue sea, and the magical pink lakes. If you are a photographer, welcome to one of the most thrilling spots on this planet.Pink lagoons are a true bucket-list type of experience. Talk about Instagrammable moments that seem to have come straight out of a canvas! These colourful, shallow waters that contrast the typical azure palette may take some time to believe that they actually exist in Oman, but UAE-based photographer Obaid Al Budoor (photo displayed) gives us a view from the top to remind us that they actually do.
Barr Al Hikman (Al Hikman Peninsula).
No other word describes Barr Al Hikman better than ‘magical’. Crystal clear teal waters, white sandy beaches, and the unadulterated view of infinite beauty provide visitors with the feeling of secluded beauty and a pure proximity to nature, which is invigorating.Barr Al Hikman is located in the centre of Oman’s east coast in Al Wusta Governorate (the central region), 500 kilometres south of Muscat. 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. Grey-brown sandpipers, Bar-tailed Godwit, Curlew, Oystercatchers, herons, egrets, the occasional Spoonbill and Flamingos are found here.
According to a book published in 2018, 'Barr Al Hikman - Shorebird paradise in Oman',"In a region dominated by arid landscapes, Barr Al Hikman is a wetland pearl. An oasis for nature that is intricately connected to its history and dynamic natural processes. As well as the national and international significance of the area for birds, turtles, whales and fish, this wetland is of paramount importance for people. Its function as a fish nursery is vital to the region."
Ras Madrakah.
An hour's detour off the main road between Duqm and Shwaymiya is rewarded by the sight of a colourful landscape of rocks in every imaginable hue. These headlands edge the coast and are interrupted with pretty, white-sand bays. Incoming rubbish from the sea is sadly washing up here now but it's still an attractive spot for wild camping.
Khaluf Beach.
Al Khalouf or Al Khaluf is a small village between Barr al Hikman and Sugar Dunes. The place is worth visiting as the port is quite busy and there is an interesting hidden cave best viewed at low tide. Khaluf is a 50 km stretch of sea front located about 450 km south of Muscat and consist of calm protected water, white sugar dunes, rocky outcroppings, and sleepy fishing villages. This beach is popular locally and many are like to camp at this site. ...
Rock Garden.
Scattered across the plain between Hwy 32 and the port, the wind-eroded rocks of Duqm are a striking feature that are well deserving of a visit. The soft sandstone has been whittled away by the wind, leaving curious round boulders, desert mushrooms and formations that appear to defy gravity. Although the area is fenced off, awaiting proper site management, there are several breaches in the perimeter that allow for a closer inspection of nature's remarkable sculpture.
Sugar Dunes.
Oman has long joined the countries with the most exotic landscapes, that comprise beautiful mountain peaks, expansive deserts, and coastlines, with superb ocean views, but there’s something particularly absorbing about this spot that puts it atop the list. Its unmatched geographical qualities combine two of the most enjoyable activities out there: beaching and desert-camping.Located in Al Wusta region, about 450 kilometers south of the capital, the Khaluf area is blessed with 50 kilometers of pristine, powder-white beach that overlooks a bed of endless sugar dunes. With an off-road starting point at Al Khaluf fishing village, nestled on the northern end of the beach, visitors can kick start their desert escapade and ride their 4×4 vehicles into the desert. What makes this place special you ask? It’s an undiscovered gem reserved for the adventurers who enjoy a calm sense of solitude and love to dive into parts unknown and to explore new spots for camping. Given its far-flung location, it’s less frequented by both locals and tourists, making it the perfect getaway.
