Turtles, turtles, and more turtles! Did you know that there are a total of 7 types of sea turtles in the world and 5 of them can be seen in Oman?
The Sultanate of Oman is home to some of the most important turtle nesting grounds in the world. Every year, thousands of turtles migrate from the Arabian Gulf (and beyond) to lay their eggs on the shores of this middle eastern country. The entire length of the Omani coastline is used by turtles for nesting. It includes Musandam in the north to Dhofar in the south. Ras al-Jinz is home to green turtles, Masirah Island is famous for its loggerhead turtles, whilst the Daymaniyat Islands attract green turtles and hawksbill turtles.
A vacation in Oman is perfect for everyone–be it families, couples, friends, or solo. The cherry on the cake, it is a paradise for those who are adventure junkies and breathe thrills in every breath. While holidaying here, including snorkeling in your itinerary is always a great idea as you get to witness the marine life at its best in this Arab country. Snorkeling is one such water activity that lets you experience total bliss under the water’s surface.
Snorkeling with turtles on Daymaniyat Islands
An archipelago of 9 small islands located nearly 25 miles off the coast of Muscat constitutes the Al-Daymaniyat Islands. It is a designated nature reserve and is enveloped by cobalt waters and splendid coral reefs that are ideal for snorkeling. Owing to the unique nature of the island’s biodiversity, it is a UNESCO world heritage site. Thus, the turtle nesting beaches, coral reefs, birdlife, and scenic beauty are conserved here. Green turtles and hawksbill turtles can be spotted easily around the waters of the islands.
Spotting turtles on the Daymaniyat Islands
During the turtle nesting season in Oman, travelers are not allowed to visit the beaches of Daymaniyat’s nature reserves. The only way to maybe get a glimpse of turtles here is by going on a snorkeling excursion on which you can witness various marine life including fish, moray eels, and rays.
Best time to see: From May to August
Prepare yourself
If you want to make the most of snorkeling with turtles in Oman, then improve your swimming. Of course, non-swimmers can also go for this incredible water activity, but knowing it is going to help you a lot. You can take some lessons if your swimming skills aren’t the best. And in case you know it already, then it will benefit you so much in the water. You should focus on freestyle specifically. Under the water, you will be using the kicking technique from that style while snorkeling.
Categories of people not allowed to snorkel
Those who are not allowed to snorkel on the islands are categorized below:
- Pregnant women
- People with heart conditions
- People with breathing difficulties
- People under heavy medication or in need of care
- People having psychological conditions that cause distortion or panic under the water
An extremely rewarding activity, snorkeling is simple! Just grab your mask and snorkel, rather than a heavy bag of scuba gear. A lot more flexibility is offered to you as you can easily carry your snorkeling gear on vacations, unlike tons of scuba gear. Also, since there is a lack of bubbles, you can get closer to aquatic wildlife which can’t happen during scuba diving.
Book your Oman snorkeling trip with us if you want to have an adventure of a lifetime. Get ready to dive!
