Province Dhofar

Dhofar, the southern province of Oman, is one of the most unusual places in the Middle East. Most of the Province lies in the path of the seasonal monsoon (moist winds), which blow from June till the end of September. The monsoon season is called the kharifa, which means "autumn". While the rest of the Arabian Peninsula swelters in the searing summer heat, in Dhofar it is fresh and comfortable and the temperatures seldom exceed 30ºC. The wind brings periodical, but plentiful rain, and Salalah, a former capital of Oman and, nowadays, the main city of the Province, becomes green; the rivers in mountains fill with water and cascade through gorges and over impressive waterfalls. Besides this welcome opportunity escape from the heat, one has the chance to go scuba diving or snorkelling to explore the rich underwater world of the Indian Ocean. It is possible to see ancient frankincense trees, as well as the beautiful ruins of the palace of the Queen of Sheba and to visit the tombs of prophets. The coast to the north of Salalah has secluded lagoons with mangrove trees, pink flamingos and cormorants. At the end of the monsoon season you can even hear the nightingale warble!



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