Sur & Ras al Jinz Turtle Reserve

The area around Sur is most famous for its turtle nesting spots of international repute. It is a haven for some of the rare and endangered turtle species such as Green, Olive and Hawksbill turtles that arrive on the beaches of their birth between June and August to lay their eggs. Throughout this season the sand erupts as thousands of tiny turtles emerge and head out to sea to begin the cycle again.

• Watch the baby turtles as they scurry down the beach into the ocean
  
• Go swimming in the emerald green waters of the Bimah Sinkhole
  
• See the craftsmen of Sur as they make traditional wooden dhows
  
• Explore the gorges and crystal clear pools of Wadi Tiwi and Wadi Shab

Sur itself is a placid coastal town, which has played an important role throughout history, particularly in overseas trade with East Africa. Today the city is used as a natural port and it is still an active ship building centre with dhows constructed directly on the beach.

The deep gorges of Wadi Tiwi and Wadi Shab with their pools of crystal clear water are well worth a visit, as is the Bimah Sinkhole, a 40 metres wide hole that was formed when underground water dissolved the limestone rock above, causing it to collapse.  The emerald green water is a mixture of salt water and fresh water and a nice place for a refreshing swim.