women trekking in oman

I've spent a lot of time out in the mountains, very often without a man attached, and fairly often on my own, and have never had any issues with personal safety. I've had a couple of situations where I've been a bit nervous about how things might develop, but I've never felt actually threatened.

I am a lot more careful when I'm alone, because the potential for misconceptions is huge. This means that I sometimes feel obliged to refuse an offer of hospitality from the local villagers. I wont go into houses unless there is a woman involved in the invite, and I would be uncomfortable if I'm joined by a large group of adult men. But family groups are never an issue, and if I'm with another person, male or female, then I would have no concerns at all.

If you're trekking in the Hajar, chances are you will get multiple offers of hospitality, and even if you have no common language, it can be a brilliant experience, not to mention the best way of getting some fabulous photos.

hi
thanks for your reply. i am one of the above mentioned 3 women. we have so many questions: would you recommend renting a car and if so - must it be a 4WD? can you suggest a reliable rental place? any suggestions on an itinerary? we like hiking and outdoors but not overly strenuous, and would love to explore villages and local hospitality . would have around 2 weeks.
any suggestions for hostel/inexpensive accommodations on arriving at Muscat airport?

Hi there

There are many options for hiking - Jebel Shams and Jebel Akhdar are two mountains with many hikes. The thing is many are not marked - or not that well marked - so it's not that easy to necessarily find your way. This website http://www.trekkingoman.com/ lists the marked routes - the guides are also available in a pack to buy, but the maps are really not that useful.

There are 2 easy ones that you can do - one on Jebel Shams is the balcony or rim walk - around the rim of the canyon that leads to a deserted village improbably nestled way out of sight. And there is the village walk on Jebel Akhdar that links 3 villages together. These are well-known and easy to find and do.

If you want to hike on Jebel Akhdar, I can recommend an Omani guide who I and several friends have come to know (we are based in UAE). He now only does guiding on weekends, but he knows many places and will also help you with organising camping if you wanted to do that. Let me know and I'll put you in touch.

For a vehicle - it depends where you plan to go. For Jebel Akhdar, by law you do need a 4WD, for Jebel Shams it's not required but it would be better if you did have one if your budget will stretch that far.

There are several inexpensive hotels in the Muttrah area of Muscat, near to the souq, which is a nice area to stay.

Have a great trip!

Hi, I am Omani and I used to go for short hiking in Muscat with mixed international group.
also I have experienced in hiking around Hajar mountains as I am from there.
The places are safe you can enjoy as you are three.
If you want more help please don’t hesitate.

thanks all repliers, we have postponed the trip. will get back to you when it is relevant!