In my last article, From Musandam to the Rooftop of Africa, I wrote about climbing Mount Kilimanjaro. That adventure was made possible by the physical and mental training I did in Musandam’s rugged mountains. Now, I find myself reflecting on another journey—one that took me from the warm landscapes of Oman to the frozen Arctic wilderness of Svalbard.
At first glance, Musandam and Svalbard could not be more different. Musandam, often referred to as the "Norway of Arabia”, is a land of golden cliffs, turquoise waters, and warm, sunny weather. Svalbard, in contrast, is a frozen land of snow-covered mountains, glaciers, and extreme cold. However, despite their differences, both places offer something similar—raw, untouched beauty and a deep connection to nature. Each challenged me in unexpected ways, making me appreciate the diversity of our world and the thrill of exploration.
Svalbard: The Arctic Adventure
My journey to Svalbard was unlike anything I had ever experienced. The first thing that struck me was the cold. With temperatures dropping to -23°C, it was a world completely different from the warm climate I was used to. Despite the freezing weather, I was excited to explore this remote Arctic region.
One of the highlights of my trip was witnessing the northern lights for the first time. Seeing the sky come alive with green, pink and purple lights was magical. It felt like something from another world. During my time in Svalbard, I also experienced the polar night, when the sun does not rise for months. The landscape was covered in snow, glowing under the soft light of the village, creating an otherworldly atmosphere.
To truly experience the Arctic, I set out on a snowmobile adventure across the frozen wilderness. It was an exhilarating experience, racing across endless white landscapes with only the sound of snow crunching beneath me. The silence of the Arctic was overwhelming. It was a place where nature still ruled, untouched by human hands.
Another unforgettable moment was visiting a frozen waterfall. Unlike the waterfalls I had seen before, this one was completely frozen, its water turned to solid ice, suspended in time. It was a breathtaking sight, a reminder of the extreme conditions that shape this land.
I also had the opportunity to explore an abandoned coal mine, a relic of Svalbard’s past. Walking through its dark tunnels, I gained a deep respect for the people who once worked here, enduring the harsh Arctic conditions. It was a stark reminder of the resilience required to survive in such an unforgiving environment.
Hiking under the polar night sky, with only my headlamp and the shimmering aurora to guide me, was a moment of complete solitude and reflection. Stepping outside the village, I came across a sign warning hikers about polar bears—a reminder of the wild nature of Svalbard. This made the experience even more thrilling, knowing that these powerful animals roam the area. To ensure our safety, our tour guide carried a rifle, as the law requires anyone venturing beyond the village to be armed for protection against polar bears. As we hiked, we reached an ice cave carved naturally into a glacier, its blue-hued walls surrounding us in a silent, frozen world.
Despite the harsh conditions, the people of Svalbard were among the warmest and most welcoming I have met. They have a deep respect for the Arctic and a strong sense of community. Their ability to adapt to such an extreme environment was inspiring.
Musandam: Oman’s Hidden Treasure
Before my Arctic adventure, I spent time exploring Musandam, a region of Oman known for its dramatic fjords, rugged mountains, and rich cultural heritage. While the landscapes of Musandam and Svalbard are vastly different, both places share a strong connection between the land and its people.
When I arrived in Musandam, I was eager to learn more about its traditions and way of life. One of my first stops was a local gift shop, where I was searching for a unique souvenir. Among the items on display were traditional Omani knives and axes—tools that had been used for generations. The shopkeeper shared stories about these artifacts, explaining their significance in daily life. It was fascinating to see how history and culture were deeply embedded in everyday objects.
My curiosity led me deeper into Musandam’s mountains, where I began hiking its steep trails. The ancient stone stairs carved into the mountains spoke of a time when people relied on these paths to travel and trade. While hiking to the mountain stairs, I was lucky enough to witness a group of dolphins swimming alongside our boat. It was a magical experience, reminding me of the incredible wildlife that thrives in Musandam’s waters.
The adventure didn’t stop there. As a passionate diver, I was eager to explore Musandam’s underwater world. The moment I submerged into the clear blue waters, I was met with a vibrant world of marine life. Coral reefs teemed with colorful fish, and every dive brought new discoveries. I also had the chance to snorkel at Telegraph Island, a location rich in history and marine biodiversity. The sea around Musandam felt alive, offering endless opportunities for exploration.
My experience in Musandam wasn’t just about hiking and diving—it also included one of the most thrilling activities I’ve ever tried: the world’s longest zip line over water. Standing at the top, preparing to launch myself into the air, my heart raced with excitement. As I soared over the sea, I took in a breathtaking view of Musandam’s rugged landscape. It was a moment of pure adrenaline and freedom.
Two Worlds, One Lesson
One of the most fascinating aspects of my travels is seeing how different landscapes can share similar qualities. Despite being thousands of kilometers apart, both Musandam and Svalbard have rugged terrains that demand respect. Musandam’s golden mountains reminded me of the snow-covered peaks of Svalbard. The same dramatic cliffs that define Musandam’s coastline can be seen in the icy fjords of northern Norway.
In fact, as I flew over Tromsø, Norway, on my way to Svalbard, I was struck by how much it reminded me of Musandam. Though one was covered in snow and the other in sand, both carried the same sense of untouched wilderness. I realized that in a way, this part of Norway could be considered the “Musandam of Europe.”
But the greatest lesson from both places was not just about landscapes—it was about resilience. Svalbard challenged me to adapt to extreme cold, pushing me outside my comfort zone. Musandam, on the other hand, taught me to appreciate the warmth of community, the deep connection between land and people, and the spirit of adventure that exists in every corner of the world.
Would I return to Svalbard? Without a doubt. The Arctic still has many secrets waiting to be uncovered. Would I continue exploring Musandam? Absolutely. There are still hidden corners of this incredible region that I am eager to discover.
Travel, for me, is not just about visiting new places—it’s about experiencing different ways of life, learning from nature, and embracing the unknown. Whether standing under the aurora in the Arctic or watching dolphins play in the waters of Musandam, I am reminded why I travel—to seek, to learn, and to appreciate the beauty of our world’s contrasts.
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