Thursday, March 28, 2024 | Ramadan 17, 1445 H
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EDITOR IN CHIEF- ABDULLAH BIN SALIM AL SHUEILI

Three extreme adventures you should give a try at least once

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Instagram: @rumpa_mitra


Extreme sports are called as such because of the high-degree of risk involved and trust me, for someone who has done a few of them, they are not for the faint of heart.


In Oman, extreme outdoor adventures usually include speed and stamina while others require a total absent of fear of height of high physical exertion.


Of why some people would do extreme adventure is attributed to the physical high it provides and for the adrenaline junkie, it definitely fits into what they are looking for.


Extreme tourism overlaps with extreme sport, and this is also becoming one of the reasons why the Sultanate of Oman is getting popular as a tourist destination. Apart from the beautiful scenic places, coastlines across the country and UNESCO heritage sites, Oman, if you know the country well, is an all around country offering different activities.


A well-known Youtuber who visited Oman recently shared in local media that, “Oman will be one of his favorite destinations reason being it not only offers untouched beauty but also doesn’t cost you compare to other parts of the world.”


We've round up a few extreme sports that you can do while in Oman and as we have warned earlier, these are not for the faint of heart so always make sure that you inquire about all the safety requirements before you even consider doing it.


Seventh Hole


The Salmah Pleatau offers multiple access points in to one of Oman’s largest cave network. Untouched for millions of years, these vertical caves only became accessible with the invention of caving equipment and with high level caving guidance. This trip will take you beyond normal human limits, into the heart of the earth. The sights are amazing and prior caving experience or skills required to attempt this life changing adventure. From my experience, the hike took us approximately 7-8 hrs to complete but also, it depends upon the group size and the participant's capability and stamina.


The 7th hole is located at the wilayat of Quriyyat. Approximately 200 mtrs below the top of the highest entrance, one needs to do 3 abseilings ranging between 30-40 mtrs each to reach the main dome under the ground. Most of the cave is dark and therefore has become home to bats. Sunlight comes only through the holes and creates dramatic scene from within. This high level sport is not for all, especially not for people who are afraid of heights. Even if you are good at outdoor activities, still you need to go through certain training session before you decide to attempt this one. In Oman, many professional teams offer trip to this cave. Because of the level of difficulty and challenges along the way, it is highly suggested to get known professionals to ensure your safety.


Tanuf Arch


I would call this place a beauty adventure. It can give you an extreme adrenaline rush but the initial fear is worth it because this makes up for an amazing Instagram post.


This beautiful mountain arch is located in Nizwa province discovered by a Omani adventurer Ahmed ( @Ahmed_nizwa) who said that he tried it first in 2020 and has since become a sensation.


Ahmed has also introduced a couple of activities for people to do while in this arch. The main adventure is abseiling from the top to the bottom and its 300 metres height is quite a challenge while it may look easy on picture. Ahmed has also since introduced the swing options for those who might not be able to do the abseiling.


To reach the base of the arch, one need to hike about 1.5 metres but due to steepness can become exhausting. When I first tried it, we had to walk on top of the narrow arch without any support. It added an extra risk factor but nowadays, Ahmed had already put safety mechanisms.


Wind can be a big factor in this activity. While on top of the arch, be ready for that big gust of wind so make sure you are tightly secured to the rope.


Via Ferrata


Oman offers at least 5 via ferrata options with varying degree of difficulty and these adventures are usually found in Jabal Shams and Jabal Akdhar. If you're not familiar of the concept, just think of it as walking on cliffs or cables supported by the iron ropes. For this type of adventure, you should look into proper gears, from sturdy and reliable ropes to harnesses and climbing equipment usually provided by hotels or adventure groups arranging trips to these different locations.


The Jabal Shams Via ferrata challenges you to climb a height of 2500 metres overlooking the deep Grand Canyon of Oman. Every bend at via ferrata is challenging and possibly, what attracts adventure lovers to this activity is that hanging by these steel ropes and dangling on cliffs kinda put all your senses at high alert.


Overall, all of these extreme adventures are definitely doable but it is highly advisable to get the help or support of professionals. For professional teams who can help take you on these trips,follow the following Instagram accounts: @ahmed_nizwa, @rawahna_adventures, @wadi.adventure @cyr_adventure


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