Summary
Beyond the urban landscapes, white-sand beaches, and fishing villages along the coastline, Oman’s formidable interior presents exceptional opportunities for those equipped with hiking boots.
Deep within the Hajar Mountains reside cliff-top villages seemingly untouched by time, terraced farms, date plantations, desolate valleys, and rugged peaks, alongside natural springs and wadis (valleys or riverbeds) featuring turquoise pools that beckon exploration.
A comprehensive network of clearly marked and well-maintained trails caters to adventurous independent (yet experienced) hikers. While popular paths may experience foot traffic on weekends, more challenging trails may often be quieter. If you find yourself disoriented, you can typically count on Omanis to assist in guiding you back to the proper route or even offer you a ride. Nonetheless, trekking with a local guide provides invaluable insights into Omani traditions and lifestyles within remote villages.
Riyam to Mutrah
Best Urban Trek
2.5km (1.55 miles), 2 hours, easy
For those wishing to enjoy a leisurely hike in Muscat, the Riyam-to-Mutrah trail (the C38 route) provides an outstanding means to appreciate the capital from an alternative viewpoint. While this trek can be approached from either end, starting in Riyam (near Riyam Park) and concluding at Mutrah, with its shaded rest areas and seating along Mutrah Corniche, is recommended.
This easy-to-moderate trek navigates what was historically the sole land route between Mutrah and old Muscat. Ascending from Riyam, the ancient rocky path leads uphill via stone steps, once traversed by villagers transporting agricultural goods, crafts, and livestock for sale at Mutrah Souq. A rusting pipeline adjacent to the steps recalls a time when the lone power station in the country was based in Riyam, powered by diesel oil delivered through these pipes from a vessel docked in Mutrah.
This path presents spectacular vistas over Mutrah harbor, Riyam Park, and old Muscat, with views of the sea beyond. From November to April, you may also encounter rock pools or water in the wadis.
The trail concludes at the ruins of a deserted village before descending into a wadi with steep walls, where some climbing skills may be necessary. After passing through this area, turn left near the cemetery to complete the hike.
Jebel Akhdar
Best Trek for Mountain Villages and Agriculture
4km (2.5 miles), 2–3 hours, easy
Jebel Akhdar (Green Mountain), within the western Hajar Mountain range, boasts lush terraced landscapes and valley settlements characterized by lower temperatures than Muscat throughout the year. This elevation of 2980m (9777ft) provides one of the premier trekking experiences in Oman, particularly for those who favor vistas of olive groves and apple orchards over arid, rocky valleys.
On the W18b trek, hikers journey from the village of Al Aqor to Sayq, passing through the communities of Al Ayn and Ash Shirayjah along the route. Expect a pleasant walk on a historic trail that involves some steep stone steps, allowing passage beside aged stone dwellings, alongside narrow aflaj (traditional irrigation channels that nourish the terraced farms below) and through shaded orchards offering respite from the heat. The farms in this region engage in active agriculture, producing apples, pears, pomegranates, walnuts, almonds, grapes, and tomatoes. However, it is important to refrain from picking any fruit, given that these properties are privately owned.
During April and May, the blooming pink damask roses create a breathtaking sight in the area, with villages producing rose water through traditional distillation methods, resulting in products available for sale as well as personal use. In this season, you may have the chance to observe this process: inquire at your accommodations or consider asking locals, who are generally amiable and knowledgeable.
Wadi Bani Khalid to Wadi Tiwi
Most Rigorous Wadi Trek
28km (17.4 miles), 14–18 hours, challenging
The E35 trail, which connects Wadi Bani Khalid to Wadi Tiwi, is favored by serious trekkers seeking a demanding hiking expedition. Nestled in the heart of the eastern Hajar Mountains, this route can be tackled in a single, protracted day as you ascend to an elevation of 1800m (5905ft); however, many hikers opt to camp on the plateau overnight, thus dividing the experience into two days.
Commencing from the emerald-hued natural pools in Wadi Bani Khalid, just past the village of Miqil (or Muqal), the pathway follows a historic donkey trail and swiftly ascends to a peak of 2100m (6890ft) within approximately four to five hours. At the summit, breathtaking views of the canyon and its fertile date plantations unfold.
Following this, you will navigate the plateau, where you can witness the sunset and set up your camp before gradually descending into the wadi, following rocky paths shared with donkeys, eagles, and mountain goats as companions. (Some segments may be more strenuous, requiring climbing skills.) You will ultimately arrive at the villages of Sooee and Al Aqur in Wadi Tiwi, where a refreshing swim awaits. Nearby Mibam village, which features local farms and a waterfall, also merits a visit. Consulting with a local guide is advisable: Wadi Shab Adventures can assist with arrangements.
Jebel Shams
Premier Summit Trek
9km (5.6 miles), 10–12 hours, moderate
Positioned in the western Hajar Mountains is Oman’s highest peak, Jebel Shams, reaching 3009m (9872ft). This name in Arabic translates to “Mountain of the Sun.” This rugged terrain of limestone heights, scorched riverbeds, and cliffside villages attracts hikers of varying skill levels, allured by the stunning panoramas of Wadi an Nakhur, the deepest canyon in the country, often dubbed the “Grand Canyon of Oman.” There are three established trails in the region, with the Jebel Shams summit trek (officially the W4 trail) being both the most challenging and the most gratifying.
From the Jebel Shams plateau, you will trek along the edge of Saydran Gorge, appreciating the views over Wadi An Nakhur and Wadi Al Ghul before continuing through the rocky terrain and past juniper trees up to Qarn Al Ghamaydah. At 2997m (9833ft), this marks the highest point accessible on the southern summit (access to a military outpost at the peak is restricted). Instead of undertaking a full return trip in a single day (with the ascent taking approximately six hours and featuring a 1000m/3200ft elevation gain), numerous hikers opt for overnight camping before making their descent. Husaak Adventures provides organized guided treks to the summit.
Jebel Shams Balcony Walk
Most Accessible One for Canyon Views
4km (2.5 miles), 4–5 hours, easy
Part of the W6 trek, the more straightforward (and therefore, more frequented) Jebel Shams Balcony Walk starts at the village of Al Khitaym and leads alongside steep canyon edges, tracing the western rim of Wadi an Nakhur toward the abandoned village of As Sab (historically known as Sab Bani Khamis).
Once an agrarian community focused on cultivating watermelons, tomatoes, lemons, and wheat, As Sab retains remnants of ancient stone houses, terraced agriculture, and archaic falaj irrigation systems, which provide insight into life in the mountains in previous times. The 15 families who formerly inhabited the village now reside in neighboring Wadi Ghul and Al Hamra village, still retaining ownership of the structures. A natural pool and cave are located just above the village, reachable by a brief walk. Beyond the lake, a via ferrata route accesses the plateau above, though it is only recommended for individuals with adequate experience and appropriate safety equipment.
The canyon views are mesmerizing, albeit vertiginous, with glimpses of village homes below and spotted eagles soaring overhead. This hike can be completed as a round trip in a leisurely four to five hours and is suitable for beginners and families.
Guidelines for Hiking in Oman
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The optimal period for hiking in Oman is during the cooler months spanning November to April. The weather can fluctuate rapidly in the mountains, and the risk of flash floods within the wadis is legitimate; therefore, keeping abreast of weather alerts before embarking is prudent.
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In the wadis, anticipate crossing streams and maneuvering over rocks and boulders. Appropriate footwear, preferably waterproof hiking shoes, is essential, and trekking poles are highly recommended.
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Most mountain trails traverse traditional villages, thus it is advisable for both men and women to dress modestly, ensuring shoulders and knees are covered. For individuals wishing to swim in wadi pools, women will be more respectfully attired in shorts and a t-shirt as opposed to swimwear, which is best avoided.
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Do not underestimate the potency of the afternoon sun (even in winter) while hiking in the Hajar Mountains. It is advisable to carry a trekking hat and at least three liters of water per individual for moderate hikes (and more for extended ones).
