Al Hoota Cave: Oman’s Underground Natural Wonder
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S Panda
- . April 9, 2025
- . Update: April 9, 2025 2:52 pm
Al Hoota Cave is located near Al Hamra in Oman’s Ad Dakhiliyah Governorate. It is a marvelous natural wonder that is more than two million years old. Being approximately 5 kilometers long, the cave offers tourists an entry to a 500-meter section with amazing stalactites, stalagmites and flowstones.
Among the unique objects within the cave is a singular ecosystem of more than 100 animal species including bats, arthropods and even a rare Omani blind cave fish (Garra barreimiae) which have adapted to the cave’s darkness.
Travellers can visit the cave through a tourist guide. The guide will tell the cave’s history for approximately 45 minutes with both English and Arabic options available. The tours give information regarding the formation of the cave, its discovery and the multi species present within it. The temperature within the cave ranges around 25 degree celsius with approximately 85% humidity so tourists can wear dresses and protective footwear accordingly.
Situated next to the cave is the visitor center with a geological museum that has interactive exhibits on Oman’s geological past, fossils and cave formations. There is also a restaurant and a souvenir shop at the center which further adds to the overall experience.
Al Hoota Cave operates on Saturday to Thursday and opens from 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM and Fridays and public holidays off. The entrance fees are 6.5 OMR for adults and 3.25 OMR for children from 6 to 12 years, and children below six years enter free of charge. It is best to visit the official website or call the visitor center to confirm the operating hours and reservation of tickets for the latest update.
For anyone interested in geology, biology or anyone who is looking for a special adventure, Al Hoota Cave provides an experience into Oman’s underground wonders that will never be forgotten.
