Located in the north-western part of the Sultanate of Oman, Wadi Al Arbeieen Bidbid is a stunning landscape of rugged mountains, lush green valleys, and a vast desert. This area is home to some of the most breathtaking natural wonders in the country, making it a must-visit destination for any outdoor enthusiast. Whether you’re looking for an adventurous hike, a relaxing picnic, or a cultural experience, Wadi Al Arbeieen Bidbid has something to offer everyone. Here are 10 of the top things to do in Wadi Al Arbeieen Bidbid, Oman.
1. Explore the Wadi Al Arbeieen Canyons
One of the most iconic sights in Wadi Al Arbeieen Bidbid is the Wadi Al Arbeieen Canyons. These canyons were formed by centuries of water erosion and are now home to a variety of wildlife, including ibex, foxes, and hyenas. To get the full experience, hike through the canyons and take in the stunning views of the rugged landscape.
2. Visit the Bimmah Sinkhole
The Bimmah Sinkhole is a natural wonder in Wadi Al Arbeieen Bidbid that is definitely worth a visit. This deep pool of blue-green water is surrounded by limestone cliffs and is believed to have been formed by a meteorite strike thousands of years ago. Take a dip in the cool waters of the sinkhole, or admire the beauty of this natural formation from the shore.
3. Go Sandboarding in the Desert
The vast desert in Wadi Al Arbeieen Bidbid is the perfect place to go sandboarding. This extreme sport involves riding a board down sand dunes and is an adrenaline-filled way to explore the area. You can rent sandboards at local shops or join one of the many guided tours that offer this activity.
4. Visit the Ancient Forts
Wadi Al Arbeieen Bidbid is home to a number of ancient forts that date back hundreds of years. The most impressive of these is the Al Jalali Fort, which was built in the 16th century and is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Explore the fort’s maze of tunnels and defensive walls, and learn about the region’s history and culture.
5. Go Camping in the Desert
One of the best ways to experience the beauty of Wadi Al Arbeieen Bidbid is to go camping in the desert. Pitch a tent in the sand and spend the night under the stars, or join one of the organized camping tours that offer additional activities such as camel riding and sandboarding.
6. Take a 4x4 Safari
If you’re looking for an adventurous way to explore the area, take a 4x4 safari. These guided tours take you off-road into the desert, where you can spot wildlife and admire the stunning landscapes. Most tours also include a stop at a local village, where you can learn about the traditional culture of Oman.
7. Visit the Local Villages
Speaking of local villages, Wadi Al Arbeieen Bidbid is home to a number of small settlements that are well worth a visit. Here you can learn about the traditional way of life, sample local cuisine, and pick up some souvenirs.
8. Go Birdwatching
Wadi Al Arbeieen Bidbid is a great spot for birdwatching, with a variety of species inhabiting the area. Look out for eagles, falcons, and other birds of prey as they soar through the sky, or spot smaller species such as the Omani warbler and the Arabian babbler.
9. Visit the Dhow Shipyard
The Dhow Shipyard in Wadi Al Arbeieen Bidbid is a fascinating place to visit. Here you can watch as traditional wooden boats, known as dhows, are built by hand using traditional methods. The shipyard is also home to a small museum, where you can learn about the history of the area and the importance of the dhows.
10. Go Rock Climbing
The rugged landscape of Wadi Al Arbeieen Bidbid is a great place for rock climbing. There are a number of routes to choose from, ranging from easy to difficult. If you’re a beginner, join one of the guided rock climbing tours that are offered in the area.
Wadi Al Arbeieen Bidbid is an incredible destination with a wide range of activities to enjoy. From hiking and camping to birdwatching and rock climbing, there’s something for everyone. So don’t miss out on the opportunity to explore this stunning area and all it has to offer.