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The most famous natural reserves in Salalah… in Oman

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On March 29, 2024

Information about Salalah Nature

Salalah City in the Sultanate of Oman is distinguished by its unique natural diversity and enchanting beauty, as it encompasses many natural reserves that reflect the richness of biological and environmental diversity in the region. From towering mountains to picturesque sandy beaches and lush valleys, these reserves are home to a wealth of wildlife and rare plants. In this article, we will explore the most famous natural reserves in Oman, especially those located in Salalah, which are among the top tourist destinations. Through Salalah Safari Tours, visitors can explore these natural reserves with ease and enjoy an unforgettable experience in the heart of Oman’s stunning nature.

Exploring the natural reserves in Salalah:

Due to the biological diversity and environmental richness in Salalah, there are several natural reserves that are among the most famous in Oman.

Jabal Samhan Reserve

The Jabal Samhan Natural Reserve stands out as one of Oman’s most important natural reserves, according to environmental reports conducted by specialists, owing to its richness in biodiversity, geological resources, and historical heritage that attract tourists. Located in Dhofar Governorate, the Jabal Samhan Natural Reserve is an exceptional site rich in unique environmental diversity. The reserve encompasses a variety of wildlife, rare plants, aquatic organisms, as well as exceptional geological formations of scientific and aesthetic value.

The reserve consists of a series of elevated lands composed of limestone, with a diverse environment ranging from coastal to mountainous and desert. It spans across three states in the Dhofar Governorate, namely Mirbat, Sadah, and Salalah, with a total area of 4,500 square kilometers.

Established to protect living organisms and contribute to biodiversity conservation, including endangered species such as the Arabian leopard, Arabian gazelle, and Arabian oryx, the reserve also aims to provide necessary protection for natural life and its diverse habitats. The reserve is home to numerous plant species, including the frankincense tree, various shrubs, and herbaceous plants. It hosts wildlife such as the Arabian oryx, gazelles, rock hyrax, and Arabian leopard, as well as being a habitat for birds of prey like eagles, hawks, and vultures, in addition to various wild birds. The reserve is considered a distinctive destination for visitors and researchers, where they can explore the rich natural diversity and enjoy the breathtaking scenery and various environmental activities.

Do not forget to try swimming with dolphins with Salalah Safari Tours Company to enjoy an enchanting and unforgettable adventure

Khawr Awqad Reserve

Khawr Awqad is located in Dhofar Governorate, on the outskirts of the ancient city of Awqad. It extends over an area of approximately 16 hectares and is one of the favorite sites for birds throughout the year. It hosts a variety of birds such as herons, kingfishers, hoopoes, and many others, making it one of the most important natural reserves in Oman. Efforts to protect this Khawr aim to preserve biodiversity and explore effective ways to utilize it in the interaction between sea and freshwater in the Salalah basin, in addition to exploiting it for tourism activities. Khawr Awqad is characterized by its suitability for families, where they can enjoy nature, tranquility, and relaxation, as well as being suitable for groups to enjoy social activities and exploration together. It is also suitable for children, providing a safe and exciting environment for exploration and play.

Khawr Salalah Reserve

Khawr Salalah Reserve in Oman is distinguished by its stunning view of the Arabian Sea, giving it a charming natural vista amidst residential areas. The reserve, located in the western region of Salalah Governorate in Dhofar, covers an area of 57 hectares and is a major station for dozens of species of migratory birds during the winter, in addition to providing plants and fish. In 2021, environmental researchers conducted several periodic surveys on the reserve, revealing the presence of about 20 species of wild plants, such as qurm, Arabian sumr, atb, hableem, and sharshir or qutb. They also recorded more than 70 species of migratory and resident birds in the reserve, which is considered a safe haven for them. Researchers believe that human activity and nearby settlements have a relative impact on the biodiversity of the reserve, especially regarding the distribution of some shy birds. Nevertheless, the reserve is considered a unique destination for exploration and environmental learning, and the Environmental Conservation Office seeks to conduct more studies and surveys to document and develop its biodiversity for use in tourism and environmental education.

Khor Rori Reserve

Khor Rori Reserve is one of the largest and most famous natural reserves in Oman, attracting tourists due to its historic significance as well as its natural beauty. It is characterized by the presence of the famous Khor Rori port, known as Sumhuram, and the important prehistoric ruins nearby. Thus, Khor Rori gains great importance as a natural and heritage reserve, being included in the World Heritage List. Before that, it was a dedicated natural reserve to maintain the ecological balance in this Khor , where many fish, birds, and plants live, with some species exceeding a hundred. The Khor is connected to a drainage system in Dhofar, Wadi Darbat, which annually supplies the Khor with millions of gallons of fresh water. An important indicator of the water salinity in some parts of this Khor is the large growth of mangrove plants on its banks, which are an important food source for livestock, especially camels grazing in that area during the autumn period.

Khawr Al Dahareez Reserve

Khawr Al Dahareez Reserve shares its location and importance with Khawr Awqad Reserve, as it is located at the eastern entrance of Salalah city and intersects with the waters of the Salalah basin, including the wells along the coastal strip. This reserve is a narrow body of water, rising about 3 meters above sea level, surrounded by dense vegetation, making it an ideal breeding ground for many bird species. Khawr Al Dahareez Reserve has relatively important features in biodiversity, being a significant habitat for migratory birds that flock to it in large numbers, with multiple species reaching counts exceeding hundreds in some years. Khawr Al Dahareez Reserve is considered one of the most important natural reserves in Oman, serving as a distinctive tourist destination due to its vast area and convenient location for excursions away from the city hustle and bustle. Among the features of Khawr Al Dahareez Reserve is its suitability for families, groups, and children as well, where families can enjoy nature, tranquility, and relaxation, groups can enjoy recreational activities and exploration together, and it provides a safe and exciting environment for children to explore and play.

Activities You Can Do When Visiting Salalah

Salalah, the beautiful coastal city in Oman, is one of the prominent tourist destinations known for its stunning natural beauty and rich cultural heritage. Here are some distinctive activities you can do while visiting Salalah:

Dolphin Watching: Salalah is home to a variety of dolphin species, including bottle-nose dolphins and spinner dolphins. You can book a boat tour to enjoy seeing these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat.
Coastal Tours in Salalah: Salalah’s coastlines are known for their stunning beauty, sandy beaches, magnificent cliffs, and clear waters, making it an ideal place for swimming, diving, and enjoying relaxation on the beach.
Visit Salalah Gardens Mall: This modern shopping center is a fantastic shopping destination, featuring a variety of international brands as well as restaurants and cafes offering a comprehensive entertainment experience.
Explore the Salalah Museum: This museum features a collection of exhibits reflecting the history and culture of Salalah and the surrounding area, including traditional crafts, agriculture, and fishing.
Visit Wadi Darbat: Wadi Darbat is characterized by a beautiful oasis with fresh water, featuring a waterfall, natural pools, and lush green spaces, making it an ideal place for hiking and enjoying nature.
Explore Jabal Samhan Natural Reserve: This natural reserve is known for its stunning mountain views and biological diversity, providing an exceptional opportunity to observe wildlife such as Arabian leopards, hyenas, and foxes.

Climate Nature in Salalah

Salalah boasts an exceptional climate heavily influenced by the monsoon season locally known as autumn . Here are some details about the climate in Salalah:

The Khareef season in Salalah is a distinctive period typically extending from late June to early September. During this time, the city experiences heavy rainfall, accompanied by dense fog that gives the area a lush green appearance and refreshing atmosphere, with temperatures ranging in the mid-twenties Celsius.
Throughout the rest of the year, Salalah has a hot and dry climate, with average temperatures reaching the mid-thirties Celsius during the day and dropping to around 20 degrees Celsius at night.
Overall, Salalah has a warm and humid climate, with an average annual temperature of around 27 degrees Celsius, and the autumn season offers a unique experience for visitors, allowing them to explore the green landscapes of the city and enjoy refreshing rains.

General Questions

How to Get Around in Salalah?

You can get around various areas of Salalah using taxi services, buses, or by renting a car. Taxis are usually available at the airport, and you can book them through the hotel where you plan to stay. Official taxis are typically orange and white, and while some have meters, they are limited in number. You should negotiate the cost with the driver before starting the journey. Additionally, you can make use of public bus services and shared minibusses to navigate the city. Alternatively, you can rent a car from one of the car rental companies available in the area, provided you have a valid international driving license and are at least 21 years old.

What’s the Best Trip to Explore Jabal Samhan Reserve in Salalah?

Salalah Safari Tours offers exciting trips to explore Jabal Samhan Reserve in Salalah. Jabal Samhan Reserve is one of the most important natural reserves in Oman, known for its stunning ecological diversity and breathtaking landscapes. The company offers carefully designed exploration trips to enable visitors to enjoy the beauty of nature and discover the unique biodiversity in the area. The trips include guided nature walks with specialized guides who explain about local plants, animals, and the history of the area. They also include opportunities to observe wildlife such as Arabian leopards, hyenas, and foxes that inhabit Jabal Samhan. Additionally, participants have the chance to enjoy the stunning views of Jabal Samhan’s mountains and capture memorable photographs. Exploring the most famous natural reserves in Oman, we find that Salalah has the lion’s share of these reserves. This charming city is characterized by a unique ecological diversity and stunning natural beauty, making it an ideal destination for nature lovers and adventurers. Salalah includes several natural reserves such as Jabal Samhan Reserve and Khor Rori Reserve, which reflect the beauty of the natural environment and the diversity of wildlife in Oman. With numerous options for exploration and adventure, visitors can take advantage of the services provided by Salalah Safari Tours, which offer carefully designed trips to explore these natural reserves with specialized guides. The company provides a unique experience that combines adventure, learning, and interaction with the enchanting nature of Salalah. In conclusion, visiting these natural reserves in Salalah is an unforgettable experience that gives visitors the opportunity to enjoy the beauty of the stunning nature and discover the unique biodiversity in Oman.