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Ras al Jinz Turtle Reserve
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Landmark
The Ras al Jinz Turtle Reserve, located at the easternmost tip of the Arabian Peninsula, is a world-renowned sanctuary for sea turtles, particularly the Green Turtle. It is one of the few places in the world where visitors can witness sea turtle nesting year-round, with peak activity between June and September. Thousands of female turtles return to the beach where they hatched to lay their own eggs. The reserve features guided nocturnal and dawn tours to watch this natural phenomenon without disturbing the turtles. Guides use special red lights so as not to disorient the animals. The reserve includes a visitor center and museum that educates the public about the life cycle of turtles and the importance of conservation efforts. Revenue from tourism directly supports the protection of the turtles and their nesting habitats. The experience of watching a giant turtle laboriously dig a nest and lay her eggs is unforgettable.
- Location: Oman
- Top sights: Jabal Saffan · Turtle nesting beach · Ras Al Jinz Turtle Reserve
- Nearby: Ras Al Hadd (6 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Jan, Feb, Dec.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | 22 | 23 | 25 | 28 | 30 | 30 | 29 | 28 | 28 | 28 | 26 | 24 |
| Rain mm | 9 | 7 | 12 | 9 | 5 | 14 | 6 | 3 | 1 | 4 | 7 | 8 |
📋 Practical info
Visiting
The reserve is open to visitors, mainly through guided tours organized by the reserve. The beach cannot be visited freely, only with a guide at set times.
Typical hours
Turtle watching takes place at night, typically in two shifts: one around 9 PM, one around 4 AM. Exact times depend on tides and season.
Photography
Photography is allowed during guided tours using red light to avoid disturbing the turtles. Flash photography is strictly prohibited, as is touching the animals.
Time needed
The night tour lasts about an hour and a half, depending on turtle activity. Overnight guests can explore the visitor center during the day, requiring an extra hour.
Combine with
Combine the visit with the nearby town of Sur, which has traditional Omani markets. The beaches of Ras al Hadd are also nearby and worth seeing.
Getting there
The reserve is about 40 kilometers north of Sur along the coast. Best reached by rental car; taxis from Sur are limited.
Insider tip
Book the night tour in advance online, especially during peak season. Wear dark clothing to disturb the turtles less, and sturdy shoes for the sand.
Geography
Facts
- The reserve protects approximately 20,000 nests annually.
- Four species of sea turtles visit Oman's coasts, but mainly Green Turtles nest here.
- The incubation period for the eggs is about 55 days.
- The sex of the hatchlings is determined by the temperature of the sand.
- The reserve was established by royal decree in 1996.
- Light and noise pollution are strictly controlled to avoid disturbing the turtles.
- The survival rate of hatchlings to adulthood is very low, about 1 in 1000.
Explore nearby
Notable places around
Route planner — Car & Motorhome
Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.
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Sights in the town Ras al Jinz Turtle Reserve (4)
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
When can I see turtles?
The peak season for nesting is between May and September.
Do I need to book a tour?
Yes, access to the beach is only allowed through official tours.
Is flash photography allowed?
No, flash photography is strictly prohibited to avoid disturbing the animals.
Are there accommodation options?
Yes, there is a hotel right inside the reserve for a unique experience.
How early should I arrive?
Be there at least 30 minutes before your tour starts.
Ras al Jinz Turtle Reserve: where is it located?
Ras al Jinz Turtle Reserve is located in Oman.
Ras al Jinz Turtle Reserve: what is there to see?
Highlights include Jabal Saffan, Turtle nesting beach, Ras Al Jinz Turtle Reserve.
Ras al Jinz Turtle Reserve: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jan, Feb, Dec.
Ras al Jinz Turtle Reserve: why is it worth visiting?
The Ras al Jinz Turtle Reserve, located at the easternmost tip of the Arabian Peninsula, is a world-renowned sanctuary for sea turtles, particularly the Green Turtle.
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