Ras Al Jinz Turtle Reserve

Location: Oman's Deserts & Mountains | Oman

Price guide: $$$$$ $100-$200 per person per night

With Oman’s star steadily on the rise, its varied wildlife on both land and sea is revealing itself as one of the country’s many assets, with the shores of Ras Al Jinz a top place to spot the endangered sea turtle. Based in the centre’s eco-friendly accommodation, you’ll have the once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to see the turtles nesting and even perhaps a baby hatchling making a break for the open water.

Perfect forEco-tourists and families looking for an up-close-and-personal encounter with local wildlife.

In the knowAn average of 30,000 turtles nest on the beaches of Ras Al Jinz every year.

Recommended for...

Wildlife & Nature
Off the Beaten Track
Beach
Eco-tourism

Hotel Overview

Sense of Place

The Ras Al Jinz Turtle Reserve is in the fishing village of Ras al Jinz on the eastern shores of the Arabian Peninsula, nestled in a beautiful setting surrounded by pristine shorelines, golden deserts, lush green oases and rugged mountains.

Rooms at Ras Al Jinz Turtle Reserve

Stay in the heart of a prime wildlife-viewing spot in a comfortable room or a luxury eco-tent – these are our personal favourite and are the definition of glamping. The Carapace rooms are ideal for families and groups, with twin/double rooms and bunk-bedded rooms, while the sturdy eco-tents are on a hillock nearby and are wind and rain-proof, and are ideal for couples and families seeking a unique experience. All are air-conditioned, and come with LCD TVs and private bathrooms.

Food & Drink

The restaurant serves up a wide array of classic international and local dishes and oriental-inspired fare all day, so there's sure to be something to suit all tastes.

Facilities

You should check out the museum/visitor centre during your stay (free for guests), which is specifically dedicated to the sea turtle's life cycle as well as to the 6,000-year old archaeological findings at Ras Al Jinz.

Activities at Ras Al Jinz Turtle Reserve

The reserve was established to help protect and conserve the turtles and their nesting process. The beach at Ras Al Jinz is world-renowned for its endangered green turtles, and is one of the most important turtle nesting sites on the Indian Ocean. This is the only official place where the public can watch the nesting process, and the protected area stretches over 120 square kilometres, with a massive 45-kilometre-long coastline.

There are two expert guided trips out to see the turtles at 9-11pm and then 4-6am. For families, the early morning is probably the best as the younger ones get tired at night, and in the morning the early light means you can usually see the turtles laying their eggs and returning to the sea, as well as some baby turtles hatching. This is also the opportunity to take photographs (without the flash, which can blind the turtles) as this is not allowed at night. Or you can do both to make sure you get the full experience and don’t miss a thing!