Skip to content

Watch out for Whales! Traditional Geocache

This cache has been archived.

Camel Master: Alas, the hiding spot remains inaccesible for the general public

More
Hidden : 10/12/2014
Difficulty:
2 out of 5
Terrain:
2.5 out of 5

Size: Size:   small (small)

Join now to view geocache location details. It's free!

Watch

How Geocaching Works

Please note Use of geocaching.com services is subject to the terms and conditions in our disclaimer.

Geocache Description:

A regular cache hidden in an observation tower with magnificent views over both Muttrah harbour and Riyaam fishing village


The seas surrounding Oman are of great economic importance. With over 1500 km of coast line located strategically on the south-eastern corner of the Arabian peninsula the sea has played a major role in the history of Oman right from the dawn of civilization. It allowed Oman to be an important maritime nation benefitting from trade and international relations. Muttrah harbour visible from this location is an important manifestation of this aspect. The sea also provided a bountiful harvest of fish and crustaceans, and seafood forms an important part of the Omani cuisine. The fishing village of Riyaam is a demonstration of this activity. In the past 30 years tourism is a major source of income for Oman and the recently created cruise ship harbour which during the high season is often filled by multiple cruise ships, points this out.

Finally the seas are a sanctuary for maritime wild life. There are 12 species of whale present in the waters surrounding Oman along with 11 types of dolphins. Boat tours from local marinas are a favourite pass time and nearly always will encounter dolphins and on occasion a whale or two. However, it is possible to observe these animals standing on the coast and what better location to do this than this particular vantage point with its sweeping views over the sea. Patience and a good set of binoculars are recommended though to spot a passing whale.

One last anecdote about this cache location: looking around the immediate area one can spot quite a few bits of mangled rock and damaged shore fortification. On this very location there used to be one of Muscat's best fish restaurants where the fish was always fresh and meals delicious with the views equally stunning as from GZ. However, in 2006 Oman's coastline was hit by hurricane Gonu and the fish restaurant built in this exposed location was totally destroyed, demonstrating that the sea can be bountiful but on occasion utterly destructive.

The cache is a small container hidden on one of two distinctive objects found in the observation tower. Because of its amazing views this location can be full of muggles, particularly on week-ends and holidays. Please be as discreet as possible and search with maximum stealth so that geocachers coming after you also have the chance to find the box. Enjoy the hunt and the views!

 

Additional Hints (Decrypt)

Jngpu bhg sbe junyrf juvyr lbhe svatref qb gur jbex...

Decryption Key

A|B|C|D|E|F|G|H|I|J|K|L|M
-------------------------
N|O|P|Q|R|S|T|U|V|W|X|Y|Z

(letter above equals below, and vice versa)