Start our adventure with two popular trails offering stunning views of the bay and the city - the Wadi Al Kabir Hiking Trail and the C38 Hike Start.

The Wadi Al Kabir Hiking Trail is an excellent option for those who appreciate a variety of landscapes and a moderate level of difficulty. Rated 4.7 on a 5-point scale, this trail offers unforgettable views of Al Bustan Bay and the surrounding hills. The trail is mostly paved, making it ideal not only for hikers, but also for mountain bikers and off-road motorcycle enthusiasts. One hiker describes: 'Level 1 hiking trail. neat and clean, with great views of the sea and Qantab. paved to the end. Can be driven, but requires a very experienced driver. It is worth noting that there is convenient parking at the beginning of the trail, making it easy to access for families with children.

On the other hand, the C38 Hike Start, also highly rated (4.6/5), is for those looking for a bit more of a challenge. This route goes from Muttra High Street to Riyam, offering spectacular views of the sea and the old city along the way. As one tourist describes: 'A beautiful hike on the outskirts of Matrah. Great views and a walk of about two hours. However, it is worth remembering that the last stretch can be challenging, especially after rain. This trail is an excellent choice for those who want to combine physical activity with learning about Muscat's history and culture.

Comparing the two trails, Wadi Al Kabir seems to be a better choice for families with children or less experienced hikers, due to its paved surface and easier terrain. The C38, on the other hand, offers more of a challenge and is ideal for those looking for a more intense adventure. Both trails have one thing in common - breathtaking views of the Gulf of Oman and the surrounding mountains.

Keep in mind that whatever route you choose, it's a good idea to bring enough water, comfortable trekking shoes and protection from the sun. The best time to trek is during the cooler months or early morning hours, when temperatures are friendlier. With these trails, you can actively explore the capital of Oman, combining the pleasure of hiking with admiring the unique landscapes of this fascinating region.

Continuing our tour of Muscat's most interesting hiking trails, we can't miss two unique trails that combine natural beauty with the region's rich history - the Fanja Stairs Trail and the Old Muscat Trail.

Fanja Stairs Trail is a true gem among Oman's trekking trails. Rated at an impressive 4.6/5, this trail offers an unforgettable experience for outdoor enthusiasts. As the name suggests, the main attraction here is the stone staircase - some 600 steps leading to the top of the mountain. One tourist describes: 'An amazing experience full of fatigue and, in the end, the joy of reaching the top.' The route begins with a 1.5-kilometer off-road drive, followed by a kilometer-long hiking section, then the aforementioned stairs and the final climb to the summit. The whole thing takes about an hour one way.

It is worth remembering to properly prepare for this route. Hikers recommend taking at least a liter of water, good trekking shoes, sun protection and snacks. The route is challenging, but offers amazing views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. It is an excellent choice for those looking for a challenge and wanting to enjoy the rugged beauty of the Omani landscape.

The Old Muscat Trail (مسار مسقط القديمة), on the other hand, is for those who want to combine physical activity with learning about Muscat's history and culture. This route, also rated 4.7/5, takes you through the old city, offering a unique look at the traditional architecture and daily life of the locals. As one tourist describes: 'The Old Muscat Path is an old path taken by Omanis to shorten the distance between Muscat, Riyam and Muttrah.'

The Old Muscat Trail is not long, but it offers a fascinating experience. It leads through mountainous terrain, providing a sense of isolation from the hustle and bustle of the city, while offering beautiful views of the Riyam area and the Sultan Qaboos port in Muttrah. Interestingly, this route connects to the Riyam-Muttrah trail, offering a variety of options for completing the trek.

Comparing the two trails, the Fanja Stairs Trail is definitely more physically demanding and offers an intense trekking experience. It is ideal for those seeking an athletic challenge and spectacular views. The Old Muscat Trail, on the other hand, is easier and more accessible, ideal for families with children or those interested in Omani history and culture. It offers a unique combination of physical activity and exploring the city's cultural heritage.

Regardless of the route chosen, both trails guarantee an unforgettable experience and the opportunity to get to know Muscat from a completely different perspective. Remember to be properly prepared - comfortable shoes, water, protection from the sun are the absolute minimum. It's also a good idea to plan your hike in the cooler hours of the day, especially for the more challenging Fanja Stairs Trail. Thanks to these trails, you can not only spend time actively, but also gain a deeper understanding of the beauty and diversity of Oman's capital.

At the end of our journey through the hiking trails of Muscat, we would like to introduce you to a real gem - Sidab Trail. This scenic route, rated 4.6/5, offers a unique combination of mountain scenery and breathtaking views of Oman's coastline.

Sidab Trail is for those looking for a moderately difficult route with elements of adventure. As one hiker describes: 'Our recent hike was an amazing experience! The trail is fairly easy, although it can be slippery in some sections, so be sure to bring appropriate hiking shoes.'' The trail offers a remarkable variety of landscapes, from rocky paths to scenic beaches, making it unique from other trails in the area.

One of the Sidab Trail's main assets is the spectacular views of the Gulf of Oman and the surrounding mountains. Hiking this trail allows you to admire the contrasts between the rugged beauty of the mountains and the blue of the sea. As another tourist notes: 'We only achieve the effects of our climb when we reach the beach from there. I enjoyed it very much.

It is worth noting that the Sidab Trail also offers a unique natural experience. A variety of flora and fauna can be encountered along the route, and some hikers even mention dolphin sightings from vantage points along the trail. At the end of the trail, a reward awaits in the form of a hidden cove with a sandy beach, perfect for rest and relaxation after the hardships of the hike.

Comparing the Sidab Trail with the previously discussed trails, we can see that it offers a unique combination of mountain hiking and coastal scenery. Unlike Wadi Al Kabir or C38, which focus mainly on urban and mountain views, the Sidab Trail allows for closer exposure to the natural beauty of Oman's coastline. It is slightly more challenging than the Old Muscat Trail, but less intense than the Fanja Stairs Trail, making it an ideal choice for intermediate level hikers.

When preparing to hike the Sidab Trail, keep in mind a few important points. First, the trail can be slippery, especially after rain, so good trekking shoes with a non-slip sole are essential. Secondly, due to the proximity of the sea, it is advisable to bring not only water and snacks, but also a bathing suit - you never know when the opportunity for a refreshing swim will arise! Finally, the best time to hike is in the early morning hours, when temperatures are cooler and the views are particularly picturesque.

The Sidab Trail is the perfect culmination of our journey through the hiking trails of Muscat. It combines elements of all the previously described trails - scenic views, a variety of landscapes, the opportunity to commune with nature, and a moderate level of difficulty. It is ideal for those who want to experience the full beauty of Oman's nature in one fascinating hike.

To summarize our journey through the hiking trails of Muscat, it is worth noting that each of the described routes offers unique experiences and views. From easier, family-friendly trails like Wadi Al Kabir, to the historic Old Muscat Trail, to the challenging Fanja Stairs Trail and scenic Sidab Trail, Muscat has something to offer for every outdoor enthusiast. Regardless of the route you choose, one thing is certain - an active tour of Oman's capital is a guarantee of an unforgettable experience and an opportunity to see this fascinating country from a whole new perspective.