After spending the past few months in the summer, the urge to get out and explore great outdoor activities is becoming stronger with winter fast approaching and temperatures getting pleasant.
It is that time of the year to prepare for camping while enjoying the upcoming cool weather under the stars and making full use of the pleasant climate. However, watch out and do it right, say civic authorities, so hygiene and safety are maintained in public places.
Abdul Ameer al Shaibani, an avid camper, told the Observer that Oman is a very safe country for camping.
"In case of any eventuality, people here are always on hand to help. That is the beauty of camping in Oman. Normally, December to March is always the perfect time to camp, but because people have been indoors for some months now and the weather is cooling down, the urge to go camping gains pace from November and sometimes before," he said.
Al Shaibani assured that wild animals don't tend to approach campsites, except for goats, which might visit you and explore your bags and belongings.
"Being endowed with natural beauty with mountains, deserts and beaches, Oman becomes a destination to explore during the winter," he said.
Organising camping trips in Oman begins by choosing the best place to pitch your tent. To camp in the mountains, Al Jabal Al Akhdhar and Jabal Shams are the top spots for camping in Oman, but for those who prefer spending a beautiful night on the beach, either Ras Al Hadd, Salalah in the south, Al Mughsail in Dhofar or Masirah Island are ideal locations.
For desert lovers, the Rimal Al Sharqiya and Rub Al Khali are the best-known deserts for camping in Oman, where you must spend at least a few days and nights.
Anwar Jamal, another avid camper, said, "Once you have decided where you want to pitch your tent, you'll need to find equipment and tools, including firewood, mattresses if you plan to camp in the mountains and other camping equipment which are available in the big hypermarkets in Oman."
He said that the White Beach in Fins, known for its rocky coastal wall, captivating sea scenery and beautiful white sands, is one of the other best locations for camping. "Ras Al Hadd and Wadi Shab are other ideal camping areas. This is in addition to many camping spots within Muscat," he said.
According to Muscat Municipality, there are rules and conditions for camping in Muscat Governorate. Camping is only allowed in a caravan or tent or sitting for more than 48 hours, with obtaining a prior permit from the competent service directorate.
Also, campers must pay a security deposit of RO 100, valid for seven nights extendable. "In Muscat, camping should be in the places specified by the municipality, leaving a distance between each site of not less than five metres and a minimum distance of 10m between the campsite and the beach," a civic body said.
Also, the camping site should be away from the fishermen and security-restricted areas, and the camping site should be at least 100 metres away from residential neighbourhoods.
According to Muscat Municipality, anyone who violates the requirements shall pay an administrative fine of RO 200 for camping without obtaining a permit and RO 50 for non-compliance with the rules or requirements for camping. Also, the camp or caravan is removed if the violation is repeated.
CAMPING TIPS
Keep the designated site clean
Avoid using unapproved mobile toilets
Avoid damaging agriculture or wild plants
Avoid making sand barriers or modifying the camping site
Avoid burning or backfilling waste
Avoid lighting fires or barbecues in greenery/beach areas
Avoid using the camp for prohibited activity
Avoid causing annoyance to other campers
Abide by the laws, orders and public morals
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