Oman Hikes from Muscat ๐ด๐ฒ
About hiking in Oman
Oman is one of the most beautiful places to hike in the Middle East! There are many options ranging from shorter day hikes to multi day treks. Most of them have beautiful water pools so be sure to take your swimmers. The list below are all accessible from Muscat by car.
Wadi Hoqain
When you're in the area, make sure to also visit Hoqain waterfall which is 5 minutes drive away from Hoqain hike.ย
It had dried up abit when I visited but still worth while seeing, itโs a short walk from where you park the car and can be accessed within about 5 minutes. Its a nice spot to stop for a picnic, please make sure to take all your rubbish home with you though!ย
There is parking which is easily accessible from the main road and then just take the stairs down to the waterfall.
Snake Canyon
Snake Canyon is a famous hike in Oman, coined 'natures waterpark'.ย I highly recommend it for the adventurous! You must go with a guide, as the hike involves abseiling down cliffs, canyoning and swimming through the pools and natural waterslides. I did this hike with WEXPLORE tour company Oman and they were excellent, providing all the safety equipment needed to complete this hike safely (helmet, ropes etc.)ย
Wadi Shab & Bimmah Sinkhole
Wadi Shab is a popular hike because of its proximity to Muscat. Its an easy drive to get to and relatively clear hiking trail through the canyon.ย
There is lots of parking at this hike (watch out for goats!) Once parked up, you can either swim across the water to get to the start of the trail or get a small boat across, which costs 10Dh.ย
The trail itself winds through rocks towards a large body of water. A path runs up and around the canyon, and itโs a popular picnic and swimming spot, so be sure to take swimmers so you can go for a drip in the various pools along the way. There is also a waterfall at the end of the trail which you access through a small cave. Take a gopro if possible and water shoes as well as a dry bag. Otherwise you just leave your stuff on the rock and go for a swim which is what most people do.
On the way to Wadi Shab you can stop at Bimmah sink hole, whic is a large limestone depression not far from Wadi Shab.ย You dont need long here (its not a hike) but its an interesting place to stop at for a swim and to break up the 1.5hour journey to Wadi Shab. There is lots of parking and a kids play area.ย
Wadi Al Arbeieen
You can reach Wadi Arbeieen from Muscat by hiring a 4x4. The start of the drive is all on motorway however once you get closer to the Wadi you will need a 4x4 to safely access the start of the hike.ย
Jebel Shams
There are a few different hiking routes you can do in Jebel Shams, which is the highest peak in the Gulf at 3000metres. Located in the western Hajar mountains, Shams offers hikes that come with breathtaking views. Lots of people hike to the summit with a guide or tour company and others opt for shorter hike such as the 'Donkey Trek' which is a balcony route. Check out WEXPLORE or HUSAAK hiking companies for hiking trips to Jebel Shams
Wadi Tiwiย
Wadi Tiwi is abit further away from Muscat than the other hikes, at about a 3.5hour drive.ย One of Omanโs greenest areas, Wadi Tiwi is located in the Al Sharqiyah region near Tiwi Village. With its stunning pools โ a favourite for hikers to cool off in โ old villages and lush plantations, bring your camera/gopro and expect a colourful journey!
Safety tips
Every hike whether just a simple walk, intermediate hike or advanced trail comes with its risks. Thatโs why itโs super important to plan and prepare properly before embarking on any trek in Oman.
Remember to do your own research before you go and ensure to pack all your essential items. This means taking enough water and snacks, as well as protection from the sun.
Some of the treks mentioned are OK to try without a guide whilst others should definitely only be done with a tour company to ensure you stay safe.ย Do your own research and donโt take any risks. Local guides are easy to find and relatively cheap!
Stay safe and happy hiking ๐ฅพ
Laura x
The home for unique & authentic travel
