Oman Nature and Wildlife

Nature

There are 1,208 recorded plant species found throughout Oman, 78 of which are endemic to the country. Desert shrub and desert grass are the most commonly found fauna in the sparsely vegetated interior plateau. However, in Dhofar and the mountains, vegetation is quite rich during the rainy season. Coconut palms grow within the coastal plains and frankincense is grown in the hills which are covered in oleander and acacia.

Oman has established strict laws banning the hunting of a number of indigenous animals, many of which have become endangered ie the Arabian leopard and Arabian oryx. Nature reserves have been set up to protect the natural habitats of the animals that call Oman home. There are fifteen reserves in total and their main goals are to help conserve biodiversity and the natural heritage of Oman as well as to provide research opportunities, to help educate the population about conservation and to encourage ecotourism. Regulations are in place throughout Oman to ensure that environmental factors are considered before beginning new programmes.

Wildlife

Despite being considered by many to be mainly a desert country, Oman has a varied wildlife both on land and in its surrounding waters. Mammals such as the leopard, the oryx, gazelles, the tahr, the ibex, desert foxes and wild cats. The waters around Oman are home to twenty-two species of whales and dolphins. They also house some of the best dive sites in the world, with the Hallaniyat and Dimaniyat Islands offering opportunities to see many species of colourful tropical fish and unusual hard and soft coral. Sea turtles are also attracted to the shores of Oman and breeding reserves are located at Ras al-Jinz and on the Dimaniyat Islands.

Approximately four hundred bird species have been recorded throughout the year in Oman. Due to the country’s location at the hub of three different geographical land masses, Oman sees large swarms of migratory birds during their seasonal trip between their nesting habitats and the places where they spend winter. Some birds, especially water fowl, travel about five thousand kilometres from places like Siberia. The best places to truly experience the best of Oman’s bird watching are on Al Hikman Peninsula, Masirah Island, the beaches of Al Wusta Governorate and the beaches and springs in Dhofar.

Oman Travel Information

At Goway we believe that a well-informed traveller is a safer traveller. With this in mind, we have compiled an easy to navigate travel information section dedicated to Oman.

Learn about the history and culture of Oman, the must-try food and drink, and what to pack in your suitcase. Read about Oman's nature and wildlife, weather and geography, along with 'Country Quickfacts' compiled by our travel experts. Our globetrotting tips, as well as our visa and health information will help ensure you're properly prepared for a safe and enjoyable trip. The only way you could possibly learn more is by embarking on your journey and discovering Oman for yourself. Start exploring… book one of our Oman tours today!

Extend Your Trip

After your United Arab Emirates tours, why not consider one of Goway's Europe tours.

Book your Oman tour with Goway! 

AfricaExperts is the exclusive division of Goway that specializes in planning and organizing Oman tours and experiences. Choose from a simple city stopover, a stay of distinction, an independent travel model, a small group tour and much more. We want to be your first choice when next you go globetrotting to Oman.