This trade has been a long tradition of Khasab, and the additional income is generally welcomed by the locals. Tourist numbers are slowly creeping up too - partly thanks to a brand new highway that links up with Dubai in the East - and the old town centre has plenty in the way of attractions to keep the day trippers busy. Historical souqs still stand as the main places to do some bargain hunting, and popular boat trips cruise along the picturesque rocky shoreline around the Musandam Peninsular.
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Perhaps the most popular activity for tourists here are cruises; several well-established companies run full and half day trips, making their way along the pretty coastline and around Oman’s far eastern peninsular. Most of the companies can be found advertising around the port area and depart twice daily.
This 17th-century castle was built by the Portuguese, and has been home to everybody from Sultans to prisoners over the last 300 years. Recently, the impressive stone structure was given a much-needed makeover and transformed into a regional museum. The building is open to all and a ticket costs 0.50 Rials.
Whether you’re coming to board a cruise, chill out at one of the waterside eateries, or just find curiosity in the city’s thriving pirate trade (whereby US cigarettes are smuggled over the water in exchange for Iranian goats), Khasab’s buzzing port is a must-visit for all.
Outside the city, the surrounding Khasab landscape is quite spectacular, offering a range of sizeable mountains that can only really be tackled off-road. Fun 4x4 tours depart the city regularly, heading to popular spots such as the rocky Jebel Harim region that lies almost 7,000 feet above sea level.
The Musandam coastline has some excellent conditions for both diving and snorkeling, with the latter being the preferred choice for tourists. Clear and calm waters allow you to see the rich marine life below the surface; just grab a snorkel set from one of the local beachside vendors and head out either by yourself or from a departing boat.
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With Remote Lands you'll travel with people who have made Asia the solitary focus of their own lifelong adventure. As our guest, you'll discover Asia on a journey that is completely, authentically your own, adapted from our own remarkable experiences and adventures over the years.
With Remote Lands you'll travel with people who have made Asia the solitary focus of their own lifelong adventure. As our guest, in the continent that our north American founders Catherine and Jay have adored and explored for decades, you'll discover Asia on a journey that is completely, authentically your own, adapted from our own remarkable experiences and adventures over the years.
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Smugglers run goods to Iran, oil tankers rest on the Strait of Hormuz, and dolphins swim bright, coral waters surrounded by arid cliffs. This is Khasab.
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From Doha to Dubai and from Abu Dhabi to Muscat, a private dhow cruise is a must-do for the Middle East aesthete: transport from centuries ago and luxury for today.
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