Two Omanis Promote Hiking in Zanzibar

Hamdoon Al Hashmi and Khalid Mohammed, two seasoned Omani travelers, have embarked on a mission to promote hiking in Zanzibar. The duo, who have traveled extensively, wanted to experience the island beyond its beaches. Hamdoon, who has been to Zanzibar several times, suggested they explore the island on foot, venturing into local communities and immersive activities. Their goal is to showcase the island's hidden gems, including caves and forests, and promote adventure tourism.

Unlike traditional tourists who rely on guides and tour agencies, Hamdoon and Khalid opted for a self-guided hiking expedition. They wanted to experience Zanzibar as locals do, without the luxury of air-conditioned hotel rooms and chauffeured transportation. Hamdoon, who speaks Kiswahili, was able to interact with locals, while Khalid used Google Translate to communicate. The duo's experience hiking in Iran and Turkey, where they didn't speak the local language, helped them navigate language barriers.

The Omani duo's hiking expedition took them from Makunduchi to Jambiani, then to Paje and Michamvi, mostly along the coastline and beachside. They covered an average of 15 kilometers per day and plan to create a trail that spans the entire island. Hamdoon believes that hiking in Zanzibar offers a unique experience, with breathtaking views of the coastline and forests. He is confident that tourists will be willing to trade their hotel rooms for a hike under the sun.

Hamdoon and Khalid's expedition aims to unlock new opportunities in the tourism sector by diversifying the already flourishing industry with physical activities. They plan to attract Omani tourists to participate in adventure tourism on the island, leveraging direct Oman Air flights between Oman and Zanzibar. The duo believes that great marketing and cooperation from tourism stakeholders will make adventure tourism a reality in Zanzibar.

The Jozani forests, largely untouched and without professional guides, present an opportunity for locals to serve as guides when hiking begins. Hamdoon and Khalid see this as a chance for locals to benefit from the growing tourism industry. They have not yet reached out to the Zanzibar Government but plan to document their experience and collaborate with the tourism ministry to make future hiking expeditions conducive.

Hamdoon's experience with adventure tourism in Oman has shown him that young people are eager for activities that combine fitness and exploration. He believes that Zanzibar can offer a similar experience, with tourists able to hike along the coast and engage in activities like fishing with locals. The duo plans to replicate a marketing strategy used in Oman, which involved creating a book about the country's trails and culture.

Hamdoon and Khalid are currently sharing videos and pictures of their adventures on social media, building anticipation for their hiking venture in Zanzibar. With Hamdoon's extensive experience in adventure travel, including cycling 700 kilometers across Morocco and climbing the highest mountain in the Arab region, he is well-equipped to promote adventure tourism in Zanzibar.

Key points

• The duo aims to promote adventure tourism in Zanzibar by showcasing the island's hidden gems and creating new trails for hikers.