Snake Canyon (VF2): Snake Canyon is located near Balad Sayt in Wadi Bani Awf. This via ferrata route offers an exciting series of traverses and zip line crossings that are up to 100 metres above the canyon floor. The climb takes around four hours. Bandar Khayran (VF3): Located on the Western Island at Bandar Khayran this via ferrata is accessed by sea from the mainland. A short walk across the island leads to great coastal views and the start of the via ferrata. This features a two-hour cliff traverse, 40 metres above the sea.
Via ferrata pointers Users should always be equipped with
a helmet, appropriate shoes, climbing harness, and a special tether used for attaching the climber onto the cable to protect against falling rocks and for some routes, additional equipment is needed. Gloves are also useful and in Oman, water, sunscreen and a first aid kit should also be considered as essential items when partaking in any outdoor activity. Those trying the sport for the first time should always start under the supervision of a professionally-trained guide and even experienced via ferrata climbers should go with someone who knows the way.
THE MOUNTAINS
With the Hajar Mountains dominating the landscape in the north of Oman, there are plenty of opportunities to organise some strenuous incentives and team-building challenges involving climbing and trekking. The Ministry of Tourism has sponsored the installation of several via ferrata routes in Oman. From the Italian, literally meaning 'iron way', via ferrata are mountain routes with fixed wire cables, metal rungs, and ladders. These allow adventurous walkers and climbers to ascend steep rock faces in relative safety while reducing the amount of climbing equipment required. Via ferrata were originally developed in the Italian Alps during the first world war to assist troop movement in difficult mountain terrain. Nowadays climbing via ferrata routes as a
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combination of trekking and climbing activi- ties has become a popular adventure sport. It is highly advisable to arrange a guided via ferrata tour/trek to ensure your group is safe. Many Oman-based DMCs, including Oman Air Holidays, can arrange such treks. There are three via ferrata in Oman: Grand Canyon (VF1): Starting along trek- king path W6 at the village of Al Khitaym, the route involves a high level balcony walk to the abandoned village of Sab Bani Khamis and takes around one hour and features stunning views of the Grand Canyon. After Sab, an uphill walk leads to the start of the climb. The lower part is a medium to difficult 80-metre vertical ascent. Following a short walking traverse, the easier upper climb leads out of the canyon via a wadi. The climb itself takes around one hour.
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