Chris, a friend of Vicky and Steve’s took us out for a big outing today. John and April (Vicky’s uncle and aunt) and I were lucky enough to experience Chris’ knowledge of the area and bird life.
We travelled east of Salalah in his 4WD to several springs (yes, in the desert) where birdlife was abundant. From these springs were traditional irrigation channels or falaj.
We then travelled to the coast near Khor Rouri … a beautiful inlet with flamingoes. This was once one of the most important ports on earth, during the days of the frankincense trade.
Steve’s knowledge of the area was just so amazing … we also went to a gigantic blowhole, cave paintings and a lookout point.
While everything looks arid now, during the Salalah monsoon (which is largely misty rain), the whole countryside is green!
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- The nests of weaver birds. Like Xmas decorations!
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- Channels for irrigation (falaj) are fed by spring water.
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- Goats enjoying the spring water.
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- Bird drinking from the tap at the spring.
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- Fishermen at the beach at Taqah.
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- Fishermen at the beach at Taqah.Fishermen at the beach at Taqah.
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- Near Taqah and Khor Rouri.
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- The town of Taqah, near Khor Rouri.
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- Near Taqah and Khor Rouri.
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- Khor Rouri is an inlet with flamingoes. It has a nice beach too and was once an important port on the frankincense trail.
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- Wildlife in the distance.
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- Going to see some cave drawings.
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- Cave drawings.
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- In the cave.
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- View from the hills.
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- View from the hills.
