“Discover Oman’s natural wonder at Ras Al Jinz Turtle Reserve.”

Exploring Oman’s Sur and the Ras Al Jinz Turtle Reserve: A Guided Tour of Endangered Green Turtles’ Nesting Process

Oman is a country that’s often overlooked by travellers when compared to its neighbours. However, this Middle Eastern nation has so much to offer that one cannot afford to miss. One such place is ‘Sur’, a coastal city located in the Sharqiya region of Oman. Sur is well-known for its shipbuilding industry, which dates back centuries. In addition, Sur is also a famous spot for turtle watching, thanks to the Ras Al Jinz Turtle Reserve.

The Ras Al Jinz Turtle Reserve is a protected area located in the easternmost part of the Arabian Peninsula. The reserve is home to the endangered green turtles, which are one of the rarest species of sea turtles in the world. The reserve offers guided tours to witness the nesting process of these turtles, which is a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

The reserve is a vital breeding ground for the green turtles, which travel long distances to lay their eggs on the beach. The nesting season begins in May and lasts until September, during which the reserve provides guided tours to visitors to witness this natural phenomenon. The tours are conducted at night to avoid disturbing the turtles, and visitors are advised to follow strict rules to ensure the safety of the turtles and their eggs.

The guided tours take visitors through the reserve to observe the nesting process of the green turtles. The tours start at the visitor centre, where visitors are briefed on the rules and regulations of the reserve. The guides provide visitors with a wealth of information about the turtles, their nesting process, and their life cycle. Visitors are then taken on a short walk to the beach, where they can witness the nesting process.

The nesting process is a spectacular event to witness. The female green turtles come ashore at night and dig a hole in the sand using their flippers. They then lay their eggs, which can range from 100 to 200 eggs per nest. Once the eggs are laid, the female covers the hole and returns to the sea. The eggs take approximately 60 days to hatch, after which the baby turtles emerge from the sand and make their way to the sea.

The guided tours of the Ras Al Jinz Turtle Reserve provide visitors with a unique opportunity to witness the nesting process of the green turtles. The tours are an excellent way to learn about the importance of conservation efforts to protect these endangered species. The reserve also provides visitors with an opportunity to experience the natural beauty of Oman’s coastline and the Arabian Sea.

Aside from the turtle watching experience, Sur is a charming city that’s worth exploring. The city’s shipbuilding industry is a significant attraction, with a long history dating back to the 6th century. Visitors can witness the traditional shipbuilding techniques used by local craftsmen to build ‘dhow’ boats. The city is also home to several historical landmarks, such as the Sur Fort, which was built in the 16th century and offers stunning views of the city.

Sur is also famous for its beautiful beaches, which offer a range of activities such as swimming, snorkelling, and diving. The beaches are ideal for relaxation and provide a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. The beaches are also a great spot for watching the sunrise and sunset, which is a breathtaking sight.

In conclusion, Oman’s Sur and the Ras Al Jinz Turtle Reserve are treasures that are worth exploring. The reserve provides visitors with a unique opportunity to witness the nesting process of the endangered green turtles, which is a truly unforgettable experience. The reserve’s conservation efforts are commendable and provide a valuable lesson on the importance of protecting our planet’s biodiversity. Sur’s shipbuilding industry and historical landmarks add to the city’s charm, while the beaches provide visitors with a peaceful escape. Oman may be an underrated travel destination, but it’s a country that’s sure to leave a lasting impression on any visitor.