Al Hoota cave
We have tried to visit this cave since 2016 and never succeeded until now. And it was a total coincidence - we were driving around the neighborhood, Finn noticed that a car turned up to the road leading to the cave, decided to follow and to our biggest surprise the gate was open!
Estimated to be over 2 million years old, Al Hoota cave is located at the foot of Jabal Shams. The total length of the cave is around 5km of which the first 500m is accessible to visitors. It has a rich and unique ecosystem and four lakes, three smaller and one larger one with 15m depth. This lake is the home of the rare blind fish. Besides the fish, there are many other animals, like spiders, bats, snails, water beetles and some other.
Like many other caves and sink holes in Oman, Al Hoota cave was formed by the dissolution of limestone by acidic water. Every 100 years the water dissolves through 10mm of rock only! Stalagmites and stalactites are formed by mineral deposits and only our imagination is the limit to notice deliberate forms and shapes like the famous lion head.
There is an easy walk path established through the public part of the cave - it takes around 1 hour to make the round. A local guide accompanies you who shares lots of interesting details.
At the time of our visit the entrance fee for non-Omani adults was 7 OMR and 3.5OMR for kids.
It is absolutely worth to visit - since the temperature inside is around 20 degrees, it is a perfect summer destination. There is an interesting geological exhibition as well. Together with Nizwa fort and Birkat Al Mouz and Misfat Al Abriyyin it can be a an interesting weekend trip.
Salon car is OK
Kids: Toddler friendly
Summer friendly
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