Imagine traveling through a beautiful canyon surrounded by majestic mountains. Picture this- You are traveling amidst peaking Palm Trees neatly aligned along pristine blue waters. As you row your boat down and climb the mountains, you set to swim in a natural pool to discover one of the marvelous waterfall sights. Sounds straight out of a fairytale? Well, this is something I experienced in reality!
I went on a backpacking trip to Wadi Al Shab and totally recommend you visit this hidden gem. Here’s how I planned, braved through the waters, jumped into deep seas and lived a life that I had only imagined until now.
Top travel tip: Note that you will either have to stay in Muscat or Sur to reach this hidden gem in Oman.
Best Time To Visit
You know how hot Dubai can get in the summers. So heading out to the Wadi may not be a good idea. The best time to enjoy the Wadi in its full glory has to be during the Oman Winters from November to February. The cooler the months, the better for you to be enjoying the Wadi.
Besides, we suggest you head out early in the morning to catch the sunrise as well to enjoy the rising sun’s canopy. This is a sight to behold. However, if you are not an early riser, heading out later in the day is just as good. Expect a considerable tourist crowd, especially if it’s a weekend. However, do remember to check the weather out. You don’t want to get stuck in the rain in the valley.
How To Reach
Reaching the Wadi and waterfall spot is a whole lot of fun.
For starters, you will have to hike and ride a boar or swim to get here. Well, but before you even reach around, you’ll have to take a 4-hour drive down to Muscat from Dubai. Driving isn’t for you? Take a flight to Muscat, followed by a short car journey.
Once you reach, your hike then starts with a short boat ride to cross the river. The boat ride is a breathtaking treat as the emerald canyon is wide, lined with palm trees on either side, making for a great view. You will also come across a lot of natural swimming pools. So, remember your swimwear along to make the most out of the trip.
As you near the cave, you will have to get down to the water swimming to reach the waterfall. You may even have to swim underwater to reach the natural waterfall, but trust us, its worth it.
The Waterfall
The waterfall! If you know how to swim, you got to take the plunge and swim all the way to the waterfall. While the crack leading to the waterfall can be a rather small one and quite possibly daunting too, we tell you its worth it. So hold your breathe in and dive down underwater to get to the other side of the cave and view the most picturesque site ever. The peeping sun illuminating this natural waterfall giving it a tinge of green, is honestly one of the best sights you will see.
Restaurants
The closest town to Wadi Al Shab is Sur. This quaint little town hosts a considerable number of tourists as well as locals, making your stay there a worthwhile experience. The town itself has a lot of attractions besides being the gateway to Wadi Al Shab. However, if you are looking to dine, there are quite a few restaurants you can be looking at. If you are looking for something fancy after you have returned from your trek, there is quite a bit to be explored.
There are fine eateries such as Zaki Restaurants offering a decent variety of international cuisines. However, if you want some pizza, there is the good old fast-food chain Pizza Hut too. Want something more local? Head down to Al Bustan Restaurant for some authentic Kebabs and shisha.
Stay Options
You can either stay in Muscat or live closer by in Sur depending on the ease. Or commute from Oman as well as your personal preference. If you are the adventurous kind and big on saving money, then you can camp out in your car at Qalhat Beach. However, there is a wide range of stay options from retreating resorts to affordable stays in Sur. Take your pick!
Budget Stays
Zaki Hotel Apartment
This apartment is an affordable stay in Sur that houses the previously mentioned Zaki Restaurant. So if you want fine dine as well as stay, this is it!
Where: Sur
Cost: One-Bedroom Apartment starting AED 150
Book here
Luxury Stays
Wadi Al Shab Resort
Imagine a room overlooking the beautiful Wadi. Quaintly located on the hilltop overlooking the waters from Sea of Oman with a backdrop of the Hajar Mountains, Wadi Shab Resort is situated in Wadi Tawi. The resort also features a private beach area.
Where: Wadi Tiwi
Cost: starting AED 600
Book here.
Things To Carry
Waterproof bag
Water bottle
Camera
Swim Wear
Flip flop
Oman is home to a plethora of Wadis. Here is Wadi Bani Khalid: