As Oman’s weather cools, its breathtaking terrains call adventurers to explore the magnificent and diverse landscapes. From climbing rocky mountains that reveal 360-degree views of our beautiful country to sliding down the wadi waterways into stunning aqua blue pools, Oman offers a variety of places and experiences to ignite your adrenaline and thirst for adventure.
Imagine dangling on an abseil, gazing into the cool blue below — that deep breath in before cliff jumping into the water, with your friends waiting to cheer you on in solidarity and team spirit as you seek your thrill.
However, the rewards of adventure come with considerations in terms of health, fitness, courage, and, crucially, safety. Hiking can be risky without proper preparation. To help ensure safe and enjoyable adventures, two seasoned hiking experts have shared their insights: Ahmed Al Abri, a Ministry of Tourism-licensed guide and founder of Rawahna Adventure Tours, and Jenny Pinder, a UK-qualified outdoor instructor with extensive international experience.
To keep yourself safe during hikes, first check the local weather forecast and adjust your plans if necessary. Emergencies on the trail can occur, and knowing how to respond is essential. Ahmed recalls a challenging situation in which a hiker sustained serious injuries in a remote location. By providing immediate first aid, keeping the injured person stable, and coordinating with local authorities, the group successfully evacuated the hiker.
Preparation is key to staying safe on the trails. Wearing inappropriate clothing and footwear, carrying insufficient water or food, and failing to manage time properly can lead to dehydration, exhaustion, or getting stranded in the dark.
Both experts emphasise the importance of bringing emergency equipment such as a head torch, spare batteries, a first aid kit, and an emergency blanket. Common mishaps include not preparing adequately — for instance, not carrying enough water or food, or wearing inappropriate clothing or footwear, which can result in dehydration, sunburn, hypothermia, or exhaustion.
They stress the importance of informing someone about your plans and establishing an agreed time for a search to begin if you do not return.
While technology, such as GPS devices and apps, can be helpful, relying solely on these tools can be risky if they fail. Hikers should always carry physical maps and understand basic navigation techniques.
A well-stocked backpack is essential for any hike, containing items such as water, spare food, sun protection, a first aid kit, an emergency blanket, a whistle, a head torch with spare batteries, weatherproof clothing, navigation tools, and any personal medication required, such as an asthma inhaler.
Physical preparation is equally important, as regular exercise can help build stamina for hiking and enhance the overall experience. Mentally, careful planning of routes with emergency exit points and consideration of daylight hours are crucial for being prepared for unexpected challenges.
He explained the importance of fitness: “Regular exercise will make hiking more accessible and enjoyable. It’s important to plan hikes suitable for your fitness level and to build up your endurance gradually. By exercising, you will also be more mentally prepared, as you will feel more comfortable.”
Planning appropriate routes with emergency exit points, and access to accommodation and refreshments, will further ensure that you are mentally prepared for your adventure.
Oman’s rugged terrains present hazards such as loose rocks, slippery paths, and wadi crossings. Both Ahmed and Jenny advise careful route planning and adaptability. They recommend avoiding wadi crossings during rainfall, and if crossing is unavoidable, choosing narrow, open sections of the wadi. When navigating loose rocks, proceed cautiously and maintain a safe distance from others to avoid accidents. If you become separated from your group, staying calm is critical. A whistle can be useful for signalling for help, while bright clothing or reflective items enhance visibility. It is advisable to rely on maps or a GPS to navigate to a known landmark if possible. Hydration and shelter are also crucial while waiting for assistance.
Ultimately, hiking safely in Oman requires preparation, awareness, and respect for the environment. Experts like Ahmed and Jenny stress the importance of checking weather forecasts and adapting plans accordingly. Whether hiking alone or in a group, sharing responsibilities and understanding safety protocols can make all the difference. As the hiking season commences, adventurers are encouraged to take these tips to heart, ensuring that their exploration of Oman’s stunning trails is both safe and unforgettable.
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