Discover Oman’s Hidden Secrets: Kumzar and Telegraph Island
When most people think of Oman, they picture endless sand dunes, majestic forts, and lively souqs filled with the scent of frankincense. But there’s another side to Oman that feels completely different — quiet, untouched, and almost otherworldly. Let me take you to two of my favorite hidden gems: Kumzar Island and Telegraph Island.
Kumzar Island: The hidden village beyond the fjords
Imagine a tiny fishing village so remote you can only reach it by boat. No roads, no cars, and definitely no crowds — just raw, untouched beauty. Welcome to Kumzar, one of Oman’s best-kept secrets.
Kumzar sits at the northern tip of the Musandam Peninsula, tucked among towering cliffs and dramatic fjords. Getting there is an adventure in itself. As your boat slices through the bright turquoise water, sharp rocky mountains rise around you — it almost feels like Oman’s own version of Norway.
When you arrive, colorful houses line the rocky shore, and if you’re lucky, cheerful children might run up to greet you with waves and big smiles. The people here speak Kumzari, a rare language blending Arabic, Farsi, Hindi, and Portuguese — a living reminder of Kumzar’s long history of seafaring.
Life in Kumzar is simple but rich in tradition. Most villagers rely on fishing, and as you wander through the narrow paths, you might smell fresh fish drying under the sun. The locals are known for their warm hospitality — don’t be surprised if someone invites you in for a strong cup of Omani tea and stories of the sea.
Best time to visit
The best time to visit Kumzar is between November and March, when the weather is cooler and more comfortable for boat rides and exploring the village. Summers here are extremely hot and humid, making travel much more challenging.
Telegraph Island: A tiny rock with a big story
Not far from Kumzar lies another fascinating spot: Telegraph Island, locally known as Jazirat al Maqlab. Today, it might look like just a small rocky island in the water, but in the 1800s, it played a surprisingly important role in global communication.
The British once built a telegraph repeater station here to link London with India. Life on the island was so harsh and isolating that some workers were driven to madness — it’s said this is where the phrase “going round the bend” originated, describing the mental strain of being stationed in such a remote, lonely place.
Today, Telegraph Island is a popular stop on Musandam dhow cruises. It’s hard to imagine anyone going crazy here when you’re jumping into the warm, crystal-clear water surrounded by dramatic cliffs. Snorkeling is fantastic, with colorful fish and corals hiding among the rocks.
How to visit these hidden gems
Both Kumzar and Telegraph Island are accessible only by boat. You can book a traditional Omani dhow cruise from Khasab, the main town in Musandam. Many tours include a stop at Telegraph Island for swimming and snorkeling.
Visiting Kumzar is a bit more special — not every tour goes there. You’ll usually need to book a private boat or a custom tour, as the village is very protective of its traditions. Always remember to respect local customs and ask before taking photos of people.
What to bring
- Comfortable, light clothes (but modest — it’s a conservative village)
- Sunscreen and a hat
- Water and snacks (there are very limited facilities in Kumzar)
- Swimwear and snorkeling gear for Telegraph Island
- A camera to capture the breathtaking views
Why these places are worth it
Visiting Kumzar and Telegraph Island feels like stepping into a different world. In Kumzar, you’ll experience the warmth and simplicity of a close-knit community living on the edge of nature. At Telegraph Island, you’ll swim in waters where history still whispers around the cliffs.
Unlike crowded city attractions, these places offer a true escape. There are no souvenir shops or fancy cafés — just wild beauty, genuine people, and stories that will stay with you forever.
Final thoughts
If you ever find yourself in Musandam, don’t miss the chance to explore these hidden treasures. Step off the beaten path, hop on that boat, and head into the unknown.
Between the friendly waves of Kumzari children, the peaceful swims around Telegraph Island, and the stunning mountain views, these experiences will stay with you long after your trip ends
Far from the crowds, Kumzar and Telegraph Island invite you to step beyond comfort zones and discover Oman’s hidden, raw, and unforgettable beauty.
What to bring
- Comfortable, light clothes (but modest — it’s a conservative village)
- Sunscreen and a hat
- Water and snacks (there are very limited facilities in Kumzar)
- Swimwear and snorkeling gear for Telegraph Island
- A camera to capture the breathtaking views
Why these places are worth it
Visiting Kumzar and Telegraph Island feels like stepping into a different world. In Kumzar, you’ll experience the warmth and simplicity of a close-knit community living on the edge of nature. At Telegraph Island, you’ll swim in waters where history still whispers around the cliffs.
Unlike crowded city attractions, these places offer a true escape. There are no souvenir shops or fancy cafés — just wild beauty, genuine people, and stories that will stay with you forever.
Final thoughts
If you ever find yourself in Musandam, don’t miss the chance to explore these hidden treasures. Step off the beaten path, hop on that boat, and head into the unknown.
Between the friendly waves of Kumzari children, the peaceful swims around Telegraph Island, and the stunning mountain views, these experiences will stay with you long after your trip ends
