Musandam Peninsula, Oman

We will explore the fjords of Musandam and camp in the remote and mountainous environment. If conditions allow we will paddle in the more exposed Strait of Hormuz as well.

Experience required:

Parts of this area is remote and isolated, so our participants need to meet certain standards. The weather will decide if we go for plan A or plan B. Safety comes first and the weather is always the deciding factor.

We require that you have passed a 2 star sea kayak course and that you have experience camping out of your sea kayak.

The conditions we will paddle in are not challenging and even if you are a beginner you should be able to handle the conditions.

We also ask that you are a contributing member of the group. We need all the members of the group to contribute where they can, whether at sea or on land. We will be isolated at times and it’s therefore important that everyone assist each other whenever possible.

Medical Advisory

Ensure that all standard vaccinations are up-to-date. This includes measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) and diphtheria, tetanus, and polio (DTP).

Travel advisory for the UK:

fitfortravel.scot.nhs.uk

Travel advisory for Norwegians: 

https://www.fhi.no/

Recommended Vaccinations:

• Hepatitis A: Recommended due to potential exposure through contaminated food or water.
• Hepatitis B: Advised, especially if there's a possibility of contact with blood or bodily fluids.
• Rabies: Consider if you plan to have contact with animals or will be in remote areas where medical care might be delayed.
• Tetanus: Ensure your tetanus vaccination is current, particularly given the nature of outdoor activities.
  
  

Yellow Fever: While there's no risk of yellow fever in Oman, a vaccination certificate is required if you're arriving from countries where yellow fever is prevalent.

Health Risks

• Dengue Fever: Present in Oman; transmitted by mosquitoes. Use insect repellent and wear protective clothing to minimize risk.
  gov.uk
• Middle East Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus (MERS-CoV): A viral respiratory illness reported in the region. Practice good hygiene, such as regular handwashing, to reduce exposure.
  gov.uk
• Extreme Heat: Oman can experience high temperatures, leading to risks like dehydration and heat exhaustion. Stay hydrated, wear appropriate clothing, and avoid excessive sun exposure.
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Medical Facilities

Healthcare in Oman is of good quality, comparable to Norwegian standards. However, foreign nationals are required to use private healthcare services. Ensure you have comprehensive travel health insurance that covers medical treatment and potential repatriation. Be aware that without insurance or the means to settle medical bills, you may face restrictions on leaving the country until debts are paid.

Additional Precautions

• Medication: Some medications available in your own country may be controlled substances in Oman. Carry a copy of your prescription and ensure medications are in their original packaging.
  
  
• Travel Insurance: Confirm that your insurance policy covers all planned activities, including sea kayaking and any other adventure sports.

By adhering to these medical guidelines and taking necessary precautions, you'll be well-prepared to enjoy a safe and memorable sea kayaking expedition in the stunning Musandam Peninsula.

Equipment required:
- For paddling: Shorts, long sleeved rash guard or a thin wool  sweater (must be long sleeved to protect against the sun), sandals or wet-shoes, hat, sunglasses, buff or something to cover your neck
- Warm clothing for the evenings and morning, waterproof jacket in case of rain
- Hiking shoes 
- Sunscreen
A hat to protect yourself from the sun 
- Tent, sleeping mat (both foam and inflatable), summer sleeping bag. The foam mat goes under your tent to protect the tent from sharp rocks
- Gas stove (we will provide gas cannisters that fit the standard European gas stoves)
- Fork, spoon, plate or your preferred camping utensils
- Something to boil water in with your stove
- A foldable camp chair
- A small camp knife
- Personal first aid kit. We will bring a larger group kit

- Personal hygiene kit
- Regarding water. You can choose to pack your kayak with standard plastic water bottles. You can also choose to bring a dromedar or water bag if you want. This is, however, not a must. We will be resupplied with water during the trip. Expect to drink 3-4 liters of water per day. We will give the group a separate briefing about drinking water.
- Diving mask and snorkel. The waters are warm and clear and great for snorkelling

Environmental considerations:
We like the term “leave nothing but footprints, take nothing but photographs”. We will bring out all garbage with us. Campfires will be made on a bed of rocks to leave no trace. We will bring a small shovel to to dig small holes and cover any human waste. 

The desert rocks are sharp. Plants are sharp as well. Proper hiking shoes is a must. 

Insurance:
Travel insurance is always recommended. You are responsible for having the appropriate accident and travel insurance for sea kayaking on a remote coastline for several days. Call your insurance agency if in doubt. We recommend booking a return flight which includes cancellation insurance.

Facts About Oman

General Information

• Official Name: Sultanate of Oman
• Capital: Muscat
• Population:  4,5 million (2024 estimate)
• Official Language: Arabic (English is widely spoken)
• Currency: Omani Rial (OMR)
• Government: Absolute monarchy, ruled by Sultan Haitham bin Tariq
• Religion: Islam (Ibadi Islam is the dominant sect, unique to Oman)

Geography & Climate

• Location: Southeastern Arabian Peninsula, bordering the UAE, Saudi Arabia, and Yemen.
• Coastline: Over 3,000 km along the Arabian Sea and Gulf of Oman.
• Landscape: Deserts, mountains, and coastal plains.
• Climate: Hot desert climate, with cooler temperatures in mountainous regions.

Culture & Traditions

• Hospitality: Omanis are known for their warm hospitality and often welcome guests with Omani coffee (kahwa) and dates.
• Traditional Dress: Men wear a dishdasha (long white robe) with a kumma (embroidered cap) or turban, while women wear colorful dresses and headscarves.
• Music & Dance: Traditional Omani music and dance reflect influences from Africa, Persia, and India due to Oman’s long history as a trading nation.
• Frankincense: Oman was historically a major exporter of frankincense, a prized aromatic resin used in perfumes and religious rituals. The Frankincense Trail in Dhofar is a UNESCO World Heritage site.

Economy

• Key Industries: Oil & gas, tourism, fisheries, and agriculture.
• Diversification: Oman is reducing its dependence on oil through Vision 2040, focusing on tourism, technology, and logistics.
• Tourism Growth: With its stunning landscapes, eco-tourism, diving, and cultural heritage, Oman is becoming a top travel destination in the Middle East.

Wildlife

• Sea Life: The waters around Oman are home to dolphins, whales, sea turtles, and vibrant coral reefs.
• Desert & Mountain Wildlife: Sand gazelles and leopards roam the deserts and mountains.
• Birdwatching: Oman attracts many migratory birds, including flamingos and ospreys.

Interesting Facts

• One of the world's oldest independent states, Oman has a history dating back over 5,000 years.
• Unlike many Gulf countries, Oman has no skyscrapers in its major cities, preserving its traditional architecture.
• The country has a long-standing maritime history, with Omanis historically being great traders and sailors, reaching as far as China and East Africa.