Ep 10. Oman: Desert Fortress

In Oman: Desert Fortress, the final episode of the first season of Expedition with Steve Backshall, our intrepid explorer travels to the Arabian peninsula to explore the deserts and marvel at an ancient fortress.

This episode begins with Backshall immersing himself in the local culture by trying traditional Omani dress and visiting a bustling fish market. He then sets out to explore the Oman desert, driving through the stunning landscapes and encountering all kinds of wildlife along the way, from antelopes to lizards.

The main focus of the episode is the Al Hazm Fort, an impressive 17th-century fortress located in the heart of the desert. Backshall is joined by Omani historian Mohammed Al Faqih, who shares his knowledge of the fort's rich history and takes Backshall on a tour of the site.

Backshall marvels at the fort's architecture and learns about the various defenses and traps that were used to protect it from enemy attacks. He also discovers how the fortress was once used to store dates and supply water for the surrounding villages.

As the sun sets over the desert, Backshall joins a local family for a traditional Omani meal. Here, he learns about Omani hospitality and the importance of family in Omani culture.

The final scenes of the episode see Backshall exploring the desert at night, searching for scorpions and encountering a massive camel spider. He reflects on his experiences in Oman and the incredible beauty and diversity of the desert landscape.

Overall, Oman: Desert Fortress is a fascinating insight into Omani culture and history, showcasing the breathtaking natural beauty of the desert and the impressive architecture of Al Hazm Fort. Backshall's engaging commentary and sense of adventure make for a compelling watch as he navigates the desert landscape and encounters the wildlife that calls it home.