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If you’re looking for a little getaway in Oman on your day off, it’s worth it to venture out to some of the beautiful wadis.
11 June 2022
| Last updated on 26 July 2022
Explore Oman's relaxing, scenic wadis and their breathtaking natural biodiversity...
Oman is home to several beautiful wadis - pools of cool, fresh flowing water set in valleys. Amongst the Arab nation's many relaxing sights to see and do, visiting the wadis in Oman is on the high to-do list for many visitors and residents. These natural springs can be found in pretty picturesque locations, with some located among agricultural villages surrounded by banana, mango, lemon, and palm trees.
If you're planning on visiting any of Oman's magnificent wadis, we recommend bringing water, food, snacks, sunscreen, waterproof footwear, swimwear, and towels.
Here are the best five wadis in Oman you have to visit!
1. Wadi Shab
Wadi Shab in Oman is located in a place called Tiwi, which is a part of Sur in Al Sharqiyah South Governorate. There is also a water cave in the area that can be reached after about a 40-minute hike.
If you’re heading there from Muscat, it’ll take you about 1 hour and 45 minutes. Some areas there are only accessible by boat, but it shouldn't cost you more than 1 Omani riyal or 200 baisa (around US $2.60 or AED 9.50).
On your way there, you will see signs for Bimmah Sink Hole. It’s highly recommended to make a stop and check it out. It’s a 40m hole in the rocky ground, dropping away to an azure pool and it gets incredibly deep.
Pictured: Wadi Shab in Oman
Photo credit: omanvisitors.com
2. Wadi Bani Khalid
This wadi is quite developed as there are places to BBQ, shaded areas and public toilets. You’ll get to see colourful rock formations and a natural spring that’s accessible via steps. There is a series of plantations and villages close by. There are a few shops and coffee shops if you need any basic supplies.
It’s about a three hour drive from Muscat and it’s easily accessible. It can get quite busy on weekends and public holidays but you’ll find lifeguards on duty.
Pictured: Wadi Bani Khalid
Photo credit: youtube.com/user/World1Tube
3. Wadi Al Arbaeen
Wadi Al Arbaeen in Oman is a vast wadi and you’re sure to find a secluded enough area to enjoy it. The freshwater pools are incredibly refreshing to swim in and it remains mostly untouched.
It’ll take you about an hour and 45 minutes and it's best to go with a 4x4 as there is some off-roading. There aren’t many signs to guide you there, so keep an eye out for the stretch of off-road you need to take to get there.
Pictured: Wadi Al Arbaeen
Photo credit: omanvisitors.com
4. Wadi Al Hawqayn
This wadi is quite popular for its stunning year-round flowing waterfall and water springs. It’s also very accessible so it can get very busy on weekends and holidays.
It’ll take you about two hours to drive there from Muscat.
Pictured: Wadi Al Hawqayn
Photo credit: omanvisitors.com
5. Wadi Dhum
Located in Al Dhahirah region in Oman, the wadi will require a bit of off-roading (4x4 needed) and walking over many smooth rocks that can get quite slippery. You’ll also need to use ropes to pull yourself through the rocks. It’s a bit of a challenge, but worth it if that doesn’t bother you.
It’s about two and a half hours from Muscat. It’s best to visit in cooler weather as the wadi tends to dry up in summer.
Pictured: Wadi Dhum
Photo credit: escandio @ Flickr
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