Oman’s only train was the target of the Environment Society of Oman as we travelled to enjoy Hoota Cave and Bait Al Safah near Al Hamra.
The cave is certainly dramatic and well displayed with charming guides to escort visitors. One of many caves that are scattered through Oman’s northern mountains this has been made accessible through creating a massive new entrance away from the original that was more than a scramble to get through.
We then went on to Bait Al Safa, which organized a special visit for us where they gave demonstrations of traditional methods of food preparation and herbal medicine. The house, perhaps the oldest in its town, is an ancient 300-year-old mud brick construction, still in good order with an atmosphere of smoke and spice that added to what was an excellent day’s turnaround from Muscat.