MUSCAT : Driven by a passion for nature, exploration and fitness, hiking groups and adventure companies led by young Omanis are introducing residents and visitors to the country’s mountains, valleys, beaches and historic villages. Organisers say the activity has evolved beyond a recreational pastime into a community movement that supports sustainable tourism, healthy lifestyles and local economies.

Mahmood Al Amri, General Manager of Change Your Routine Adventures, said the initiative began in 2016 as a small group of friends exploring Oman’s mountains and wadis during weekends before growing into an organised adventure community.

Sharing photos and videos of their trips on social media sparked widespread interest, prompting the creation of a structured organisation offering guided hikes with trained leaders, safety equipment, satellite tracking devices and multi-day camping expeditions inside and outside Oman.

“Hiking has become a way of life rather than just a sport,” Al Amri said, adding that it provides an opportunity to disconnect from daily pressures while discovering Oman’s rich natural and cultural heritage.

He said organisers carefully select hiking routes based on terrain, weather conditions, safety requirements and participants’ experience levels, ranging from beginners and families to experienced adventurers.

Adventure enthusiast Ahmed bin Saif Al Shariqi, head of the Sony Mountain Adventures team, said hiking had transformed his lifestyle by improving his physical fitness, discipline and appreciation for nature.

He described trips to Jabal Akhdar, mountain trails, wadis and natural pools as among his most memorable experiences, adding that hiking had strengthened skills such as planning, teamwork, decision-making and environmental responsibility.

Tourism enthusiasts say hiking groups have also become effective ambassadors for domestic tourism by showcasing lesser-known destinations through social media, helping distribute visitor traffic beyond traditional attractions.

Salem bin Yaqoub Al Salti, who specialises in mountain adventures, said documenting hiking experiences has increased interest in several valleys and mountain trails, while encouraging visitors to explore new destinations across the country.

He noted that the growth of adventure tourism is creating economic opportunities for local communities by supporting tour guides, guesthouses, restaurants, handicraft businesses and other small enterprises.

Environmental stewardship remains a central focus of organised hiking activities. Adventurer Ibtihaj bint Mohammed Al Bahri said hiking groups actively promote responsible tourism by encouraging participants to leave no trace, collect litter, stay on designated trails and avoid damaging plants and wildlife.

She said many groups also organise voluntary clean-up campaigns at natural sites to raise environmental awareness and protect fragile ecosystems.

Looking ahead, Amira bint Abdullah bin Salem Al Kharousi, head of the Women’s Committee at the Sports Centre in Al Awabi, said growing public participation reflects strong potential for the sector’s continued expansion.

She called for greater investment in trail infrastructure, safety training, emergency services, signage and visitor facilities to support sustainable growth, while highlighting the role of both government and private sector organisations in developing adventure tourism.

With increasing community participation and greater awareness of ecotourism, hiking and outdoor trekking are expected to play an expanding role in promoting Oman as a destination for adventure travel while encouraging healthier lifestyles and environmental conservation.

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