Ras Al Jinz Turtle Reserve

Ras Al-Jinz Scientific and Visitors Centre is located on the eastern shores of the Arabian peninsula in the Ras Al Hadd Turtle Reserve, approximately one hour’s drive from Sur. The area is world renowned for the nesting endangered green turtle (Chelonia mydas), probably the most important nesting concentration in the Indian Ocean. The centre offers a unique experience: the fascinating spectacle of sea turtles nesting in a completely natural environment. Guided excursions are conducted every night to view the turtles and the nesting process. Within the Ras Al-Jinz Scientific and Visitors Centre is a small, simply furnished hotel. All of the 14 rooms are air conditioned and have an en-suite bathroom, and are equipped with a mini refrigerator and flat screen television. The restaurant serves breakfast, lunch and dinner, the evening meal usually being a three-course set menu. A gift shop displays a range of local handicraft items, pictures and postcards, and for guests of the Visitor Centre, the night-time guided turtle viewing excursion is included in the room cost. Morning excursions are also available, and should be booked and paid for locally.