General Information » Getting Around » Walking

Muscat is spread out over a long, thin area between the mountains and the coast, and therefore is not the easiest place to explore on foot. However, if you limit your exploring to specific ‘pocket’ areas, you can cover quite a lot of ground on foot. A walk around Qurm Park or along Qurm Beach is highly recommended for some beautiful sights in this tranquil and picturesque suburb. During low tide hordes of people walk or jog along the stretch of beach between the Crowne Plaza and the Grand Hyatt.

You can also explore the Mutrah area on foot, taking in the corniche, the famous Mutrah Souk and the port. A wander around the old town of Muscat is fascinating for its insight into life in simpler times – the ramshackle houses and narrow streets are a huge contrast to the turquoise and gold splendour of the Sultan’s palace. The roads in this area follow a confusing and convoluted one-way system, so exploring on foot is easier than by car.

If you don’t mind doing some walking of a slightly more serious nature you could always tackle the trekking paths through Oman’s mountains. The Oman Trekking Explorer features 12 spectacular trekking routes of varying degrees of difficulty, and with a little bit of effort (and a good pair of boots), you’ll be rewarded with some amazing views of the country. Most of the routes follow trails through the Hajar mountains, but there is a route from Riyam to Mutrah that is easy to follow.

Obviously the heat in summer, with daytime temperatures of over 40°C, makes walking a sweaty experience. After sunset it does cool down and a walk can be pleasant, but still a bit on the warm side. From October to March the temperatures are perfect for being outdoors.

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