As Saleel Natural Park

As Saleel covers a stretch of wadi plain and low hills in Ash Sharqiyah where acacia woodland grows on the gravel, an unusual survival in a country where such trees are usually cut, and it was designated to protect that habitat and the Arabian gazelle that live in it. Wildcat, red fox and Indian crested porcupine also occur, and the birdlife includes species tied to the acacia. Tracks cross the park and it can be driven or walked, with picnic areas near the entrance. It is small and unstaffed for the most part, and gazelle sightings depend on timing and luck. It sits between Sur and the Wahiba sands and makes a short stop rather than a destination.

What you actually see

• Acacia woodland - the trees on the gravel wadi plain.
• Arabian gazelle - the herds the park was designated for.
• The wadi plain - the open ground and low hills of the reserve.
• Acacia birds - the species tied to this habitat.

When to go

November to March for the weather; summer is very hot. Early morning and late afternoon give the only reasonable chance of gazelle. Weekends bring picnic groups to the entrance area.

Honest expectations

Gazelle are wary and sightings are uncommon in the middle of the day. The park is small with minimal facilities and no staffed centre. Tracks inside need care. Litter around the picnic areas is a problem.

Nearby

Sur lies north; the Wahiba sands are west.