Exploring the Hidden Gems of Musandam: A Journey Through Oman's Unspoiled Peninsula

Musandam is located in the very north of Oman and was hardly accessible to tourists until a few years ago. The Omanis in Musandam are still very traditional and Arab in contrast to the other inhabitants of Oman. Musandam is located on the Strait of Hormuz. The peninsula with almost 2000km² area divides the Gulf of Oman and the Persian-Arabian Gulf. The many bays, similar to the Norwegian fjords, have earned Musandam the nickname "Norway of Arabia".

The peninsula is characterized by high mountains, some of which drop steeply directly into the sea. The highest mountain is the Jebel Harim with 2087 meters. There in the mountains, there are high plateaus from which you can enjoy brilliant views. In clear weather, you can see up to the Iranian coast, about 60 km away. One of these plateaus is closed once a year for a few weeks and is well guarded. You can see a big tent up there. Then the stone-rich ruling family of Abu Dhabi is visiting. The family makes camping holidays at the highest level.

Khasab is the capital of Musandam. Khasab Castle is a treat for museum lovers. Here the history of Oman, Musandam, and Khasab is wonderfully illustrated. The museum is richly stocked and in very good shape. A highlight is the dolls in traditional national costumes. The port is definitely worth a visit. A lot of activity is created thereby smuggling boats from Iran. The Iranians bring sheep and goats, which they exchange for cigarettes and electronic devices. From the Omani side, this trade is legal. Many excursion boats also depart from the harbor. 

These are mostly converted dhows. In the past, these were the traditional merchant ships in the Arab world. With the dhows, you can observe dolphins, some of which are very trusting. However, mainly diving trips are undertaken from these boats. The intact underwater world around the Musandam peninsula fascinates more and more divers. There are huge schools of fish that sometimes pass by the divers for minutes. Completely intact coral reefs, turtles, reticulated moray eels, barracudas and seahorses can be observed in the various diving areas. During night dives you can see lobsters, an immense number of lionfish, nudibranchs, and much more. The water temperature is always about 23°C. The currents are well-known to the dive guides and are usually bypassed. As a result, diving in Musandam is also possible for beginners.