If you said to someone that you were going to go packrafting through some stunning fjords, the chances are most people would assume you were heading for Norway. But it turns out you can also find fjords in Oman! Thomas and Charly from Sidekick Media decided that Oman was the perfect destination for a combined bikepacking and packrafting trip and sent us a fantastic photo essay and video of their trip.
Exploring the Musandam Peninsula, located in the northernmost part of Oman, was a truly extraordinary adventure. With our bikes loaded with camping gear and packrafts, we set out to explore the majestic fjords of this remote region.
The journey was far from smooth. Right from the start, we faced challenges like the oppressive heat and logistical issues with flying our bikes - one of which was lost along the way.
Despite these setbacks, the kindness of the locals was remarkable. A local bike shop came to our rescue when the rear wheel axle of one of our bikes broke, saving our journey with their quick assistance.
The highlights of our adventure were countless: paddling alongside dolphins in the fjords, enjoying traditional dates and coffee offered by the warm-hearted locals, and navigating through rugged terrain. We spent nights camping on the beach under a stunning starry sky, an experience that made us feel deeply connected to nature.
Four days in Musandam felt like two weeks of vacation. Time seemed to slow down, allowing us to fully immerse ourselves in the simplicity of life and the smiles of those we encountered. It’s a place where you rediscover the beauty of slowing down and appreciating life’s simple pleasures. For gravel enthusiasts and adventurers, this experience perfectly embodies the spirit of bikepacking: unpredictable, but rich with discoveries and human connections.
How to Prep for Your Bikepacking Adventure: Tips From the Trail
1. Pick a bike that fits your vibe
Your bike needs to be reliable, simple, and tough - your ultimate adventure partner. Trust us, electronic drivetrains are cool but not always bikepacking-friendly. We learned the hard way. Imagine submerging your derailleur in water and holding your breath hoping it still works. Stick to classic cable drivetrains - less stress, more adventure!
2. Pack light, then pack even lighter
We overdid it—tents, sleeping bags, packraft, paddles… you name it. Sure, the packraft was awesome on the water, but carrying it? Not so much. Unless you’re 100% committed to using extra gear, keep your setup lean and mean.
3. Choose the right airline for your bike
Flying with a bike can be a nightmare. Some airlines treat bikes like regular luggage (bless them), while others charge by the kilo (ouch). Do your homework, read reviews, and avoid nasty surprises at the airport.
4. Book a comfy crash pad near the airport
We always find a small hotel near the airport to stash our bike boxes or bags. Plus, it’s the perfect spot to grab a solid night’s sleep before you hit the trail and before you head home. Trust us, going home well-rested is a game changer.
5. Forget speed and embrace the journey
Leave your race-day mindset behind. Bikepacking is all about soaking it in. You’ll meet people who’ll invite you to share a meal, show you hidden spots, or just chat. Say “yes” to everything—these moments are the heart and soul of your trip.
6. Put the phone down and be present
Yes, we all want epic photos and killer stories for Instagram. But sometimes, the best moments happen off-camera. Watch that sunset, enjoy the campfire with your crew, and let the memories stick where they matter most—in your mind.
7. Know the local rules
Every country has its quirks. In Dubai and Oman, drone laws were a whole different ballgame. We had to smuggle ours across a border (not our finest hour). Learn the rules beforehand to avoid unnecessary drama and keep the focus on the trip itself.