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Wadi Shab (Oman) – Tips + Photos – hike & swim to cave

Last updated on November 1, 2023 by Claire Robinson - this article contains affiliate links. If you purchase through them, I get a small commission ( more )

Wadi Shab Oman is one of the most popular gorges in the Sultanate. A deep canyon, emerald water and a waterfall in a cave. The experience of hiking and swimming is unforgettable.  Below is my guide to help you plan your visit with tips, map, difficulty and photos.

Before my tips + photos, here are my favorites for Oman:

My favorite platform to rent a car in Oman: DiscoverCars

My favorite adventure from Muscat: Dolphin and Snorkeling

My favorite excursion from Muscat: Wadi Shab and Bimmah Sinkhole

My favorite places to stay:

• Muscat , the capital – see the best rated hotels or my favorite hotel: The Chedi
• Sur , for the turtles – see the best rated hotels
• Khasab , Musandam peninsula – see the best rated hotels
• Wahiba Sands , in the desert – see the best rated hotels or my favorite camp: Desert Nights Resort

Why visit Wadi Shab in Oman?

Wadi shab is one of the Top 10 things to do in Oman . Always listed in the MUST-do. If you can complete it, it is an experience you will never forget. But even if you can’t hike and swim, the first section of the valley is an easy walk.

The adventure through Wadi Shab includes:

• Crossing a river by boat
• Walking in the wide section of the valley
• Being impressed by the height of the canyon as it narrows down
• Reaching emerald pools
• Walking and swimming from pool to pool
• Swimming into a cave where a waterfalls is flowing

So unique! Do no miss it on you  Oman itinerary .

Virtual Tour – video

I did not film the hike but did use my GoPro to record the swimming part. It is a bit longer than the other videos so that you can realise the level of difficulty and to show you that you can access the cave without diving. For more information about the swim and the cave, check the sections further in the article.

You can see many amazing photos of the hike and swim after the information to help you plan your visit.

Planning tips & Map – Wadi Shab, Oman

Location of  wadi shab – map.

• South East of Muscat
• Along the Coast, between Muscat and Sur
• Muscat to Wadi Shab – 1h30 drive
• Sur to Wadi Shab – 40min drive
• Below is a map to help you better understand the location of Wadi Shab in Oman:

You can find complete maps located all my favorite spots in Oman in my eBook:

Plan your dream trip in Oman thanks to my guide

• 8 maps to easily plan your itinerary
• 190+ pre-selected locations
• Tips to make the most of your time
• GPS coordinates direct to the carparks
• 100+ original photos to help you choose

How to get to Wadi Shab – Self drive

• Accessible with normal car
• It is quite easy to find – It is sometimes refer to as Wadi Shaab or Wadi al Shab or Wadi ash Shab, but on the road signs you will read Wadi Shab
• Wadi Shab Carpark – it is clearly indicated from the main road, under the bridge, you can’t miss it

Need to rent a car in Oman?

• Compare prices on my favorite platform:   Discovercars.com – one of the best rated comparison sites!
• Choose a car with enough power for the mountain roads
• Consider their full coverage option – for peace of mind! 
• Book early to have a large choice of vehicles!

See all my tips

Wadi Shab Tour

If you don’t want to drive and are staying in Muscat, you can visit it on a coastal day trip with a driver – See options Note that if you are exploring Oman from Oman, you can check out my selection of the best day trips

Best time to visit Wadi Shab Oman

• EARLY – I recommend getting there early to be almost alone swimming and avoid the crowds (the water will be cooler but the ambiance better) – boat crossings normally start at 8am and ends at 5pm
• WEEK – Avoid weekends, it gets crowded with locals (Fri-Sat) – Plus if you go on weekends plan to cover yourself to swim.
• CHECK THE WEATHER – difficulty may change due to weather conditions in the days before (water levels can change drastically) – ask locals for advice.
• If you start late, make sure to ask when is the last boat back!

Planning tips – Wadi Shab

• 1 RIAL boat access – cash only
• Toilets at the entrance of the Wadi near the carpark
• HIKE: under 1h hike to reach the beginning of the swim (first half easy walk, then boulders to climb over)
• SWIM: 15min each way . You cannot swim all the way, you will have small sections to walk (I recommend wearing waterproof footwear)
• There can be lots of bees in the canyon 

Wadi Shab Swim Difficulty to reach the cave

• If you want to just swim further in the wadi you need to be able to swim 50meters in a pool without holding on to anything
• If you want to reach the cave, you need to be able to swim 100 meters and be able to stay afloat straight in the water for 10min
• More information in the dedicated section further in this article

What to Pack

• Leave as much as possible in the car. Many people just leave their bag near the beginning of the swim. My guide said there was no risk but I asked her to stay and watch over my camera and bag.
• Or bring a waterproof bag…
• Wear proper hiking shoes
• Bring food and plenty of water. Between the hike and the swim you will need it.

I bought my GoPro just for that location and nothing else. I ended up using it for snorkeling, but I know I was going to swim in that amazing gorges and wanted to bring back images, so I bought the camera with waterproof casing.

Get it on Amazon

Water shoes

If you are like me and the soles of your feet are very sensitive, I recommend bringing water shoes. The swimming will be less comfortable but you will really enjoy it on the rocks when walking between pools

Get them on Amazon

Waterproof bag

If you don’t want to leave your belongings at the beginning of the walk (car keys, camera extras…), you can take them with you in a waterproof bag.

See options

Wadi Shab Hotel

No hotels in Wadi Shab. There are not many hotels near Wadi Shab – check out these in Tiwi . But the city of Sur is not far from here.

Where to stay in Oman?

My favorites on a road trip:

• Muscat –  capital city –   see best rated accommodations
• Nizwa  – to explore the forts and hinterlands –  see best rated accommodations
• Sur –  for the turtles, beaches, wadis… –  see best rated accommodations
• Wahiba Sands  – for the experience of sleeping in the desert –  see best rated accommodations
• Salalah  – to explore the Southern lands –  see best rated accommodations
• Khasab  – to explore the Musandam Peninsula –  see best rated accommodations

Entrance to Wadi Shab – carpark and boat ride

Parking at wadi shab.

The entrance to Wadi Shab is clearly indicated from the main road between Muscat and Sur. You will see a bridge. If you come in late, it could be full, in that case, you will have to park along the road.

There are public toilets at the carpark.

Wadi Shab Boat Ride

To start hiking you will have to cross the river on a small boat. There is not other way, the rive is deep and wide. The ride takes 2 minutes for 1 Real return per person (paid in cash). Pack your camera as getting in and out of the boat is not so easy. You start late, make sure to ask when is the last boat back! 

The Wadi Shab Hike – Photos + Difficulty

Beginning of the hike – easy.

The beginning of the hike is easy with flat large areas and paths. It this section you can find small farms and their irrigation systems, creating a small oasis. In the morning it is in the shade which makes the walk bearable.

The advantage of being in a wadi is you can’t get lost. The towering sandstone cliffs prevent you from wandering off the path.

Below are a few shots of the beginning of the hike. As you can see, there are already some small pools.

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Second part of the Wadi Shab hike – Moderate

There is one section that takes you above the water level along the cliff. Access involves a huge step to climb at the time I did it (manageable for most but difficult if you have knee problems etc). Sorry I did not take a picture of the big step.

Then you reach some areas full of boulders and you have to escalate above them. It is quite fun.  You also have to cross the water by big steps between rocks.  The pools are beautiful with emerald color. Plus I love it when the gorge narrows.

As you walk in the gorge, make sure to look at your feet as you may spot some frogs!

In between boulder areas you have some easy sections. And then the wadi narrows again and you reach the swimming area. It doesn’t look like much from afar but wait until you see…

Swimming in the Wadi Shab Pools

Note: remember that water levels depend on weather conditions the days before.

For non-swimmers

You can easily swim at the beginning even if you are not a good swimmer. You just relax in low depth pool.

For good swimmers

If you can swim 50 meters in a pool without holding on to anything you can easily get further in the wadi. As you can see in the shots, the successive pools start with easy slopes and then it can get quite deep in some sections until you have to get out again, walk a little on rocks and get into the next pool.

It is worth it: the narrow gorge, the peace and quiet (especially in the morning before the tourists), and the stunning white rocks.

Getting out of a pool and walking to the next: be careful! It can get slippery and uncomfortable under the feet. I recommend using water shoes . I was glad I had mine! See options on Amazon .

Wadi Shab Cave and Waterfall

After 15 min of swimming and walking you reach what looks like the end of the trip. However DO NOT TURN AROUND!

For excellent swimmers:

There is a hidden cave that can be reach. The entrance is under that big rock that looks unstable (to the left). There is space for your head all the way to the cave so you don’t have to dive. But you do have to be able to swim sideway almost straight. Have a look at the video to discover the passage (at the beginning of this post).

Some people say there is a strong current, I did not feel it (it had not rained for a long time and the waterfall was small when I visited). But do not go in if you are not a good swimmer!

Note: If it has rained the day before, the crack will be submerged and you won’t have access to the cave.

The cave has some holes so it is not dark and the waterfall is a nice feature. I did not take a good pictures, I am sorry, but you can see it better in the video.

Alternatives – Other Oman Wadis and a Sinkhole

If this hike is too difficult for you, or if you are looking for more Omani wadis to visit, consider these alternatives:

• Wadi Bani Khalid is a longer drive, but then it is a flat walk to the lower pool and a short slope to the upper ones. It has beautiful white rocks and emerald waters – Check out my article
• Wadi Tiwi, is the next gorge after Wadi Shab. It is possible to drive inside to the villages (narrow road). So you can easily drive to the pools. Check out my article
• On the way to Wadi Shab, a nice stop is the Bimmah Sinkhole between sea and mountains, a mesmerizing place – Check out my article

Want to see more of Oman?

• Best of photos from Oman – Landscapes – read article
• Where to stay in Oman –  read article
• Best days trips from Muscat – read article
• Planning a road trip in Oman – read article
• Renting a car and Driving in Oman – read article
• Best Things to do in Muscat – read article
• The desert of Wahiba Sands – read article
• The Ras Al Jinz turtle reserves – read article

Planning a trip to Oman?

Check out my travel guide to help you plan:

And keep track of your own trip!

Want to see more of Oman’s beauty?

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SALMAH PLATEAU – OFF ROAD

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Reader Interactions

October 30, 2018 at 4:11 PM

Hi there, amazing blog and details. Thank you so much 🙂 Any details on how to go back to the boats please? How to get out of the Wadi…

November 1, 2018 at 9:20 AM

Hi The return is the same way. You walk back and you take the boat. It is just crossing a small river so they see you on the other side and come. Have a great trip!

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Hey friends,

Guiding service Visit wadishab

An unforgettable experience

• Meet your professional local guide at the entrance of wadi shab and start your day full of adventure.
• The guide will take care of you, take you to the cave and waterfall safely, provide full information about the place and happy to answer your questions.

After confirmation the team will contact you directly and update you more information about the hike.

• The hike takes from 3-4 hrs

Wadi Tiwi ( Mibam )

Wadi Mibam is one of the most beautiful wadi in Oman we called it HAVEN ON EARTH, is hidden and definitely you need a professional local guide to show you safely.

• Meet your guide in Tiwi and strat driving to MIBAM village

Wadi bni khalid Canyon ( hawer )

• Meet your guide at the entrance of wadi HAWER in wadi bni khalid and start your day full of adventure.
• The guide will provide you full information about the canyon and happy to answer your questions.
• Short canyon to the pools 3-4 hrs - Long canyon to the village 5-6 hrs

Guiding Service

Wadi Mibam is one of the most beautiful wadi in Oman we called it HAVEN ON EARTH, is hidden and definitely you need a professional local guide to show you safely, Meet your guide in Tiwi and strat driving to MIBAM village

15 omr per person

3-4 hrs hike

Price includes

– English speaking local guide – Transfer – Coffee and date

Meet your professional local guide at the entrance of wadi shab and start your day full of adventure, The guide will take care of you, take you to the cave and waterfall safely, provide full information about the place and happy to answer your questions.

After confirmation the team will contact you directly and update you more information about the hike

7 OMR per person 3-4 hrs hike

– English speaking local guide – Boat entrance fee – Coffee and date

VIST WADI SHAB

Day trip – 8 hrs 2 pax 90 omr 4 pax 120 omr.

Wadishab – Bimmah sinkwhole – Romantic cave – White sand beach – Tiwi stone beach

Leaving Muscat after breakfast approximately 8:00 am we make our way to the coastal road that runs between Muscat and Sur. After short stops at the Bimah Sinkhole and white beach then will visit wadi Shab where you will walk and swim in the beautiful canyon of Wadi shab.

Trip Includes

– pick-up & Drop-off – Drinking Water – Local English speaking guide – Car ( salon or 4WD ) – Entrance fee

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Complete Guide to Wadi Shab Hike in Oman (2024)

Explore the breathtaking Wadi Shab hike, a must-do adventure in Oman. Immerse yourself in nature’s wonders as you trek through stunning landscapes, lush greenery, and crystal-clear waters. Discover hidden caves, swim in emerald pools, and marvel at cascading waterfalls. Experience the thrill of exploration and the serenity of nature on the Wadi Shab hike.

Hiking and scuba diving are my favourite activities, so I naturally focused on the diving spots when I planned my trip to Oman. However, I was pleasantly surprised to discover that Oman also boasts fantastic hiking trails. During my research, Wadi Shab caught my eye as one of the top hiking destinations in the country. In this post, I’ll share a comprehensive guide to the Wadi Shab Hike, showcasing why it’s a must-do experience in Oman.

This article may contain affiliate links, meaning if you decide to purchase via my links, I may earn a commission at no additional cost to you. For complete information, please see our affiliate disclaimer here .

Page Contents

Oman Travel Resources

Best Time to Travel to Oman Top 10 Things To Do in Muscat in One Day Scuba Diving in Daymanyiat Island Complete Guide to Wadi Shab Hike Bucket List Accommodations : 5 Best Hotels in Muscat ; Hotel Ramada Encore Muscat by Wyndham For Best Hotels in Oman, use Booking.com For Hostels in Oman, use Hostelworld To book your bus tickets, use BusBud Use Skyscanner or Trip.com for good deals on flight tickets For tours and travels, use Viator or GetYourGuide Rental Cars is the best car rental company to hire self-driven cars

About Wadi Shab

Nestled in Oman’s Al-Sharqiyah region, Wadi Shab enchants visitors with its rugged river gorge that unveils breathtaking natural pools and cascading waterfalls. Wadi Shab is a premier tourist hotspot in Oman, adorned with picturesque canyons and inviting pools.

For an optimal experience, plan your visit to Wadi Shab during the winter months, from November to April. During this period, the weather is mild, offering pleasant conditions for exploration. Conversely, the summer brings scorching temperatures, soaring as high as 40 to 45 degrees Celsius, making it less favourable for outdoor activities.

How to Get to Wadi Shab?

Muscat International Airport is the nearest airport to Wadi Shab, which is approximately 170 kilometres away. Travelling by road, the journey typically spans about 2 hours. Oman’s well-maintained roads ensure a smooth ride with minimal traffic congestion.

Wadi Shab lies approximately 115 kilometres from Muscat ‘s city centre, with a straightforward road journey of about 1 hour and 40 minutes via Route 17. The scenic drive showcases Oman’s remarkable landscapes, making it a delightful trip.

I highly recommend renting a self-driven car for convenience and flexibility, as navigating Oman’s roads is quite manageable. It’s important to note that driving in Oman follows the right-hand side, and possessing a valid international license is mandatory.

By Public Transport

Regrettably, public transportation to Wadi Shab from Muscat is unavailable. Your options for reaching Wadi Shab are limited to driving yourself or hiring a taxi.

A return trip from Muscat via taxi typically costs around OMR 60. This convenient one-day excursion includes pick-up and drop-off directly at your hotel.

It’s advisable to negotiate with taxi drivers to secure a fair price. Through bargaining, I reduced the initial quote from OMR 130 to OMR 60.

During my visit, I hired a taxi and was fortunate to have an exceptional driver named Moosa. He was friendly, kind, and incredibly knowledgeable about the area. Most importantly, I felt entirely safe under his care.

For those interested, here are Moosa’s contact details:

• Name : Moosa.
• Contact Number : +968 9266 3384.

One-Day Tour to Wadi Shab

You can also explore Wadi Shab on one-day tours from Muscat city, arranged by various travel agencies. These tours are conveniently bookable through platforms like Viator . However, it’s important to note that tour availability is limited, typically offered on weekends such as Saturday and Sunday. Due to the restricted dates, I opted for a taxi instead of the organized tours.

Click here to check prices on Viator.com

Wadi Shab Hike

Hiking statistics.

• Total Distance : 5.5 kilometres return.
• Time Required : 45 minutes one way.
• Type of Trail : Return. The endpoint is the pool where you can swim.
• Grade : Easy to Moderate. Moderate only because a certain section of the trail has boulders.
• Do not miss – The pool, cave, and waterfall.

Click here to book your accommodation on Booking.com Click here to book your tours and travels on Viator or GetYourGuide .

The trail commences with a stroll through the canyon, following a marked path that’s easy to navigate. As you continue along the trail, you’ll encounter sections scattered with pebbles and rocks, weaving amidst cliffs and boulders.

Exercise caution with your footing, particularly on the boulders, and proceed steadily.

Along the trail, there are no facilities available whatsoever. There are no water sources or restrooms along the route. However, you’ll find public toilets in the parking lot, which you can utilize before hiking. Additionally, there are no nearby cafes or restaurants, so bringing your lunch or snacks for the journey is essential.

Visitor Information

Essential Items to Bring for the Hike:

• Sunscreen: Shield yourself from the sun’s rays as there is minimal shade along the trail.
• Sunglasses and a Cap: Protect your eyes and head from the sun.
• Swimsuit and Towel: Enjoy a refreshing swim in the pool and dry off afterwards.
• Water Bottle: Stay hydrated by carrying at least 2 litres of water.
• Snacks: Pack a light snack to enjoy by the pool.
• Sturdy Shoes: Opt for comfortable footwear for walking on pebbles and rocks.
• Entrance Fee: While there is no fee to hike the trail, there is a charge for the return boat ride from the parking lot to the other side, priced at OMR 1 per person.

Safety Precautions:

• Solo Hiking: It’s perfectly safe to hike alone as the trail is well-travelled and others are around.
• Modest Attire: Respect the local culture by dressing modestly. Oman is a conservative country, so wearing modest clothing, like a kurta and pyjama, is appreciated. Despite potential cultural differences, wear a bikini or swimsuit at the pool.

Places to stay at Wadi Shab

Wadi Shab is not very developed to handle tourism. They are happy for visitors to visit the place for just one day, and there are only two chalets/homestays in the area:

• Wadi AShab Chalets.
• Guest House near White Beach.

Other Places to See at Wadi Shab

White beach.

Adjacent to Wadi Shab lies the White Beach, boasting mesmerizing views with its crystal-clear, deep blue waters. This secluded beach offers stunning and picturesque surroundings, attracting fewer visitors than other beaches. Although the distinctive white pebbles are no longer prominent on the shore, having been swept beneath the ocean bed by the water, the beach remains a delightful spot for a brief stopover to relish the cool breeze.

Entrance Fee: No entrance fee is required to access the White Beach.

Bimmah Sinkhole

Yet another captivating and awe-inspiring destination to explore is the Bimmah Sinkhole. The sinkhole is a highly sought-after swimming spot renowned for its enticing, azure waters.

• Visiting Hours: From 8 AM to 8 PM.
• Entrance Fee: No admission fee is required.

For your convenience, drinking water is provided at the park entrance and the sinkhole site.

Is Wadi Shab Hike Safe for Solo Female Hikers?

Among the hiking trails I’ve explored, this one stands out as exceptionally safe due to the presence of fellow hikers throughout the journey. There’s no need to worry about encountering harmful animals or reptiles along the well-marked path. The only caution is to exercise some care near the cliff edges.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) for Wadi Shab Hike

Q: what should i pack for wadi shab hike.

• Comfortable shoes
• Swimmers and towel
• Shades, Sunscreen and a cap
• Water and snacks

Q: How long is the Wadi Shab Hike?

The total distance for the round trip is approximately 5.5 kilometres, typically taking 1.5 to 2 hours to complete the hike.

Q: What is the entrance fee for Wadi Shab Hike?

There is no entrance fee for the hike itself. However, a small fee of OMR 1 per person for a boat drop from the parking lot to the other side is just a 1-minute ride.

Q: How challenging is the Wadi Shab Hike?

The trail is classified as easy to moderate. While much of it is straightforward, there are sections where you’ll need to navigate over rocks and boulders, making it slightly more challenging.

Q: What is the best time to go to Wadi Shab?

The optimal months to visit are typically between November and April, with the morning hours being the best time to embark on the hike.

Q: How far is Wadi Shab from Muscat city centre?

The distance is around 150 kilometres, and it takes 1 hour 40 minutes to go from Muscat City Centre to Wadi Shab.

Q: Are there toilets at Wadi Shab?

There are public toilets only in the parking lot. The trail does not have any.

Q: Are there any cafes or restaurants at Wadi Shab?

No, none. Take water, lunch, and snacks from Muscat with you. There is one fuel station where you can stop and buy food and drinks.

Closing Notes

Exploring Wadi Shab was an absolute delight, and it quickly became one of my favourite destinations in Oman. The trail’s beauty and the breathtaking gorges left a lasting impression on me. It reminded me of the RIM Walk in Kings Canyon (Australia) , with its strikingly similar landscape. Wadi Shab is a must-see if you’re pressed for time during your visit to Oman.

How can you support me? You know how much I love coffee, so you can buy me a coffee – Buy me Coffee! Or you can purchase from one of the below travel resources without any extra charge to you: Travel Resources Book your flight on Skyscanner.com or Trip.com Reserve your accommodation on Stay22 Reserve your stay at a hostel on HostelWorld Use RentalCars or DiscoverCars for hiring self-driven cars Book your tours and travels or purchase tickets on Viator or GetYourGuide For a universal SIM card, use DrimSim Buy comprehensive travel insurance on SafetyWing and WorldNomads

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Everything You Need To Know Before Visiting Wadi Shab Oman

March 26, 2019 //  by  Follow Me Away //   27 Comments

Visiting Wadi Shab is one of the top things to do in Oman and you need to include it on your list. If you are reading this, chances are you are already interested in visiting Wadi Shab which is a good thing because it is a completely memorable and fantastic experience! Think a fantastic gorge, warm blue pools, and a hidden waterfall! 

Before we visited Wadi Shab, we did a lot of research online so we could know what the experience would be like. Unfortunately, we found some inaccuracies between what we read online and how the experience actually way. This post is not going to sugar coat what it is like to visit Oman’s Wadi Shab. We are going to tell you straight up everything you need to know before visiting Wadi Shab so you can go in with your eyes open and have the knowledge you need to have a wonderful time. 

Everything You Need To Know About Visiting Wadi Shab Oman

Getting to the wadi shab entrance.

Luckily, getting to the Wadi Shab entrance is quite easy! Wadi Shab is about 1.5 hours from Muscat and 40 minutes from the town of Sur. If you simply put the name “Wadi Shab Parking” in your GPS you will be navigated right to the entrance parking lot. If you aren’t using a GPS, don’t worry! The exit for Wadi Shab is well marked from the highway. Once you turn off the highway you go down a narrow and steep paved road and you will end up parking underneath a large bridge that the highway you just left goes over. 

Click Here For Exact Google Maps Location Of Wadi Shab

Parking At Wadi Shab

Parking is completely free at Wadi Shab! The parking lot isn’t the biggest so if it is crowded, you may have to park down the road and walk back a little ways. When we visited, it was pretty crowded, but we waited a few minutes and were able to find a spot in the parking lot. When you are parking, there will be friendly local goats that are roaming around. Don’t leave your car doors open for too long as the goats will try and hop into your car and start eating things. They are cute but they are sneaky too!

There are free bathrooms at the Wadi Shab parking lot so be sure to go before you start the journey to the swimming area. These are the only bathrooms in the area and were relatively clean with no toilet paper [as is usual in Oman] but plenty of soap for you to clean your hands. 

The Boat Ride At Wadi Shab

Listen up as this part is very important! To get to the beginning of the Wadi Shab hike, you must take a very short boat ride across the very wide river. The river is very deep and wide so you must take the boat ride to get to the other side. The boat ride costs 1 Rial per person and this must be paid in cash!  Operation begins at 8am and runs until 5pm. Make sure to ask when the last boat of the day is in case you are late to arrive back. We don’t want you getting stranded. 

The boat ride takes less than 3 minutes to get you across the river but it is a fun experience to start off your trip. You can gaze into the canyon [aka Wadi] and imagine all the beautiful sights you are about to see! In order to come back, simply stand where the boat dropped you off and the boat operator will see you and come get you. It was a very simple process. 

Hiking In Wadi Shab

Everywhere we read considered the 45-minute hike from the boat ride to the first pool to be “a walk.” We are here to tell you that this is A FULL BLOWN HIKE and we would consider it to be moderate as you have to climb over boulders and walk along a very slippery and narrow canyon wall. We don’t want this to scare you away from hiking to Wadi Shab as we saw plenty of elderly people doing the hike and even someone on crutches, but we want you to be 100% prepared, unlike us.

We chose to hike in sandals and although the sandals are very good quality and we walk in them around cities all the time, they were not the appropriate shoe for hiking to Wadi Shab. We highly recommend wearing your swimsuit under appropriate hiking clothes [pants and a top or a dress] and sturdy hiking shoes or closed toe shoes. Hiking in flip flops is a bad idea and this is indeed A HIKE to Wadi Shab, not an easy stroll or walk.

The hike to Wadi Shab begins innocently enough and will make you think it isn’t all that bad. [Again, with proper preparation it IS NOT that bad but please understand it isn’t just “a walk”]. You will walk past small local farms and over winding irrigation channels. 

Next, you will come to the mouth of the pretty blue pools for Wadi Shab. This is a false end to the hike and you are NOT ALLOWED to swim in this area. There is only one designated swimming area at Wadi Shab and this is not it. At this point, you are at 1/3 of the way through the hike.

At this point of the Wadi Shab hike you are going to hike along the side of the canyon/Wadi. You are going to climb under and around the side and the pristine white rocks are VERY slippery. Please tread with caution as there is little to keep you from slipping. If you feel it is too slippery, simply get low and walk crouching down for that part. This is easily the most beautiful part of the hike as you wind through right on top of the clear blue/green water. This is a great area to stop for photos if you want to capture the narrow gorge from above.

The third and last section of the Wadi Shab hike is a bit uphill and takes you up and around some giant boulders that are in the Wadi. The entire canyon is dry, save for some irrigation channels, but rest assured that the views are still spectacular. The hike can be a little difficult to follow at this point, so keep your eyes open for red or black arrows painted on the rocks that show you the direction you need to go. You won’t get lost as if you keep going up the middle of the canyon you will eventually come upon the swimming area, but the arrows show you the easiest path.

Again, if we had to classify the hike at Wadi Shab, we would consider it to be a moderate hike with some of the best views we have ever seen. We consider it moderate due to the climbing aspect and the uneven surfaces you must jump over or climb up and around. Please wear proper footwear during the hike and take flip flops with you for the swimming portion! 

Swimming At Wadi Shab

Of course, the best part about visiting Wadi Shab is swimming in the perfectly clear blue pools! Another example of the internet/Instagram leading us astray was that the swimming area was MUCH smaller than we had expected. It is comprised of only three pools. Now, while the pools are relatively long, they are not huge by any manner.

We learned after the fact that many of these photos of people sitting on the edge of the canyon overlooking the blue water in a swimsuit were taken during part 2 of the hike where you walk along the canyon walls. This area DOES NOT allow swimming, yet people still post photos from that part of the hike making other tourists [like us] think that the swimming area for Wadi Shab is super huge and that we are missing something.

Swimming in Wadi Shab is enough space and a wonderful experience, but we just want to be 100% honest with you that there is space, but not THAT MUCH space. 

The water at Wadi Shab is very warm for swimming. We went during the winter/high season and even as Floridians we were surprised at how warm the water really was. If you are planning a trip to Oman during the summer, we can’t even imagine how wonderful the water will feel then. This is NOT a spring like we have in Florida and we estimate the water was at least 85*F/30*C ish during our swim. 

We are going to break the Wadi Shab swimming area down into three sections to make it easier for you to plan the experience in your mind. 

Wadi Shab Pool 1

This is the first pool that you will come across and will be the busiest swimming area in Wadi Shab. This is where many people leave their bags and towels before setting off into the Wadi. This pool is wide, gets narrow as you pass some tall grass in the water, and then gets wider again. This was our favorite pool at Wadi Shab. We liked the second wider part as the views were just so incredible and you could see up and down the gorge. 

This pool is also the most shallow so if you aren’t a strong or confident swimmer or have small children, this is the best pool for you. Luckily, it is pretty long so you have plenty of space to just explore and relax on your own. 

Wadi Shab Pool 2

In our opinion, pool 2 is the most boring of all the three pools at Wadi Shab. After you leave pool 1, you are going to walk through a narrow creek area. There are millions of small pebbles here and they HURT so bad when you walk on them. Like, you will want to cry in pain! These pebbles are on the ground of the entire swimming area which is why we 100% recommend bringing flip flops or water shoes to wear when you are swimming in Wadi Shab. You will thank us later when your feet don’t hurt. 

Pool 2 is also the end of your ability to walk. At the very end of pool 2 there is a very deep section. The section is very short, no bigger than 10 feet in distance, but it will go to a depth of over your head, probably 9-10 feet. It is an easy and quick swim, but DO NOT TRY AND BRING BAGS. Leave your bags and towels and camera gear at the entrance of pool 1. You will not be able to get it past this part of pool 2 unless you have a waterproof swim bag which we did not. We ended up leaving our gear on a rock in the middle of the swimming area as we swam to pool 3. 

Wadi Shab Pool 3

The third pool at Wadi Shab is the deepest and you must be a strong swimmer. If you aren’t SUPER strong but still want to give it a try, you can swim front the side of the pool to the other side in a zig-zag manner. Otherwise, it is best to stop here if you aren’t confident because the pools are deep enough that you can’t touch. 

This pool is the longest at Wadi Shab and we sadly don’t have any photos because we had to leave our gear back on the rock in pool 2 because it got so deep. If you have a GoPro or waterproof phone case, now is the time to bring it out. This was the quietest of all the Wadi Shab pools because most people turned around. But it is also very deep! 

Wadi Shab Waterfall

If you swim to the very end of pool 3, you will see a small gap in the rocks that is just big enough for your head to fit through. If you swim through this area you will come to a large cave with a waterfall flowing into it. DO NOT TRY THIS if you are not a very confident swimmer as you will have to be able to tread water and swim for at least 10-15 minutes to complete the swim and see the waterfall and get back out. You can not stand inside the cave and there aren’t many places to hang on. We did swim in to see the waterfall and it was pretty cool but we don’t have any photos as we didn’t take our camera gear.

We hope you found this breakdown of the swimming areas at Wadi Shab Oman to be helpful. We want you to be 100% prepared with what to expect when planning your trip! 

What To Pack For Wadi Shab

We recommend packing very light when hiking to Wadi Shab. We didn’t feel unsafe at any time during our visit to Wadi Shab, but if you aren’t comfortable with leaving anything of value behind then keep it in the car. 

What To Bring To Wadi Shab:

• Good Hiking Shoes. We recommend you wear good sturdy hiking shoes like these for the hike to Wadi Shab. If you don’t have hiking shoes, we recommend them for your entire Oman trip, but a good pair of closed toe shoes will suffice. 
• Flip Flops Or Water Shoes . We highly recommend packing water shoes or flip flops in your backpack. Once you arrive at the swimming area, take them out and put them on. The tiny rocks on the bottom of the pools hurt SO BAD and many people were screaming in pain. Avoid this by bringing a pair of shoes to wear in the water. You can pick up some water shoes for super cheap online! 
• Waterproof Dry Bag . If you want to take all your belongings all the way to pool 3, you are going to need a waterproof dry bag. Any other type of bag or backpack will get soaked as you swim through the deep parts of the gorge. 
• Waterproof Phone Case. If you want to take photos of pool 3 and the waterfall, consider getting a waterproof phone case. They are less than $10 and are a safe and affordable way to carry your phone for great photos in and under the water. We use ours all the time but were too distracted to think about bringing them to the cave during our time in Wadi Shab. 
• Quick-Dry Towel. A small and lightweight towel like this one is the perfect thing to take to Wadi Shab. If you don’t want to pack a towel, make sure to borrow one from the place that you are staying so you have a way to dry off and change in a modest way after you are done swimming! 
• Goggles. The water is so crystal clear and we are so sad we didn’t bring goggles from home. We visited many Wadis during our time in Oman and were very jealous of everyone else who had thought ahead and brought goggles so they could explore the underwater world too. We highly recommend goggles as they will add to your experience swimming in Wadi Shab! 

Best Time To Go To Wadi Shab

Many articles we read suggested that the best time to go to Wadi Shab was early in the morning. We are going to have to disagree on this one! We ended up staying at Wadi Shab for over 5.5 hours. We arrived at around 11am and left at around 4:30pm. Keep in mind that the boats don’t start up until 8 am anyway, so either way, you are going to be at Wadi Shab when it is crowded. It is either going to be at the beginning or end of your stay.

We loved getting the busy part out of the way first. As the time drifted into late afternoon, many other people left and the light got so nice on the canyon. It was much less hot for our hike back. We hiked to Wadi Shab in the heat and then swam and then walked back in the cool afternoon shade. If you arrive early, you will have to walk BACK in the heat which will make you sweaty with no way to cool off.

If you can, avoid going on a weekend [Friday or Saturday] as there will be many locals in addition to all the tourists. We visited other Wadis on the weekend and it wasn’t all that bad, so if this is the only day you can visit, certainly don’t skip Wadi Shab because it is the weekend. 

We hope you find this information helpful when planning your trip to visit Wadi Shab in Oman. Wadi Shab is truly a wonderful and beautiful slice of paradise in Oman and we know you are going to love it as much as we do. Of course, please ask any questions you may have in the comments and we will answer them to the best of our ability! 

Reader Interactions

August 26, 2019 at 9:44 pm

Hi! Thanks for your detailed descriptions! Can you describe the waterfall and cave section a little more? Do you have to swim underwater into a cave? I’m a little worried about the requirement for swimming 10-15 minutes. How difficult would it be for someone who swims occasionally (like at hotel pools)? Thanks!

August 26, 2019 at 9:59 pm

It actually isn’t that difficult. There are submerged rocks on both left and right side of the rock faces in the deep part. You can swim from rock to rock in about 10 seconds all the way until the mouth of the cave. It IS narrow and you do have to tread water in, out, and while you are in the cave. You can swim to the entrance and then make the decision based on how you feel when you see it. You can see the whole thing.there IS a rope in the cave that you can hang onto if necessary too! Have fun!

August 27, 2019 at 2:12 pm

Ok great, thank you so much!

September 19, 2019 at 3:29 am

Hi, thank you for sharing you experience in details, from your description I conclude Wadi Shab is not suitable for young kids. I have two little boys (2.8 years and 5 years old) can you advise, from your experience, if its safe to go with the kids?

September 19, 2019 at 11:47 am

It is 100% safe as long as they can walk the 45 min hike. Once you get there it is 100% safe and super fun!

October 13, 2019 at 4:16 am

Hello!! Amazing review, so detailed!! Was there any issues with clothing choices for the hike? And obviously swim wear as you get to the pools? Would it be acceptable for both male and female to arrive at the parking lot in shorts and t-shirt for the hike with bathing suit underneath to wear when we swim?

October 14, 2019 at 6:50 pm

YEs that would be totally fine!! The only mistake we made was wearing flip flops! You want to BRING flip flops but wear closed toe shoes!!! Have fun!

October 30, 2019 at 12:27 pm

Quick question – how long is the part where only your head fits in the crack? Is it like one meter or is it longer? And are the rocks very closed in all around you so that you have to squeeze your body through, or is it only narrow where your head goes? Thanks so much for the detailed description of this area!!

October 30, 2019 at 1:32 pm

I would say at least 20-30 feet long. NOPE it is wide at the bottom just small for your head. So your body can swim around or you can wear goggles and swim completely under it if you are comfortable 100% with doing that! Once you get inside you can hang onto a rope!

October 30, 2019 at 6:52 pm

Just want to follow up on Jen’s comment since I was there three weeks ago.

The rocks that form the crevice seem to hang above the water, so it’s narrow above the surface of the water but seems much wider under the water. I passed through slowly, dipping my head about halfway under the water to fit through. The passage is a decent length, but the narrowest part is only a few meters long. Here are some pictures to give you an idea: https://imgur.com/a/rcQBEyt

It looks scarier than it is, but as the author said, you’ll need to be able to swim and tread water. And there may not be anyone else in there when you go in. I don’t recall seeing any ropes on the inside, so I hung on to the edges of the rocks. The waterfall inside is nice, but it’s not spectacular (at least to me; I suppose opinions will vary), so you’re not missing anything life-changing if you decide not to go in.

October 31, 2019 at 2:30 pm

YES! Agree my boyfriend didn’t go in and he didn’t miss anything. Wadi Shab is totally epic as it is! And when I was there there was a rope right next to the waterfall for people who want to climb out and jump off. Maybe they took it down!

October 31, 2019 at 7:51 pm

I looked back at my photos and yes there is a rope right next to the waterfall!

I’m curious now what’s above the waterfall.

October 31, 2019 at 2:38 pm

Thank you so much for this, it’s incredibly helpful, and nice to know that if I panic I won’t have missed the epic ness!

December 10, 2019 at 3:20 pm

Great information, thank you for posting. Do you have any idea how far a walk it is from the boat to the final pool? Over a mile? Two miles?

December 11, 2019 at 2:34 pm

I actually don’t know and I should have clocked my steps but didn’t!! I would say it takes about 45 minutes so at least a mile! Have fun!

April 4, 2023 at 6:08 pm

How to get it by public transportation?

April 5, 2023 at 1:47 pm

I don’t think you can. You could hire a local driver!

May 13, 2020 at 10:35 am

You forgot to mention the required outfit for swimming. It is obvious (seeing the photos) that you chose to ignore it, but maybe some people would actually respect the local culture.

May 13, 2020 at 4:25 pm

I was told by locals that this was a more “touristic” spot and that wearing a one piece swimsuit was okay. There were plenty of women in bikinis. At Wadi Bani Khalid there were rules and I wore different things. Maybe I heard wrong!

February 1, 2021 at 3:13 am

Hi.. thanks for the nice lively descriptions… we are planning next week… this is very useful.. thanks

August 3, 2023 at 6:25 pm

Is it worth going to if you don’t really want to swim? My husband isn’t a big fan of swimming, while I would totally go to the waterfall at the end. I just don’t want to go do it if it would be no fun for him, as in no where good to enjoy the view while I continued on to the waterfall. How long would he have to wait as well for me to go to the waterfall and back? Also, is it really that slippery on the hike? We like to hike, but don’t need to tempt injury as this will be early on in a long trip.

August 9, 2023 at 10:17 am

Yes, it is still a VERY pretty hike and perfectly fine if he doesn’t want to swim. He can wade but some of the hike is in the water if you want to go all the way to the waterfall at the end!

December 19, 2023 at 1:32 am

In reading both your reviews of all three locations, if you had to rank Wadi Shab, Wabi Ben Khalid and Binmah sinkhole, how would you do so? I plan to come with kids (ages 7, 9) who are decent swimmers but given the recommended time you suggested to spend at each, I think we’ll be best visiting 2 rather than all 3.

December 19, 2023 at 2:53 pm

If you are visiting just two I would visit Wadi Shab and Bimmah Sinkhole as they are near each other. Wadi Bani Khalid is amazing but it is much further than the other two and not nearby at all. You cannot go wrong with those two!

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Adventures in Destinations Unknown

Day Trip to Wadi Shab and its Surroundings

Last modified on May 17th, 2020 at 08:15

If there is a paradise, I imagine it to look like Wadi Shab. A rocky canyon home to swimming holes that range from aquamarine to emerald, Wadi Shab is simultaneously an undiscovered gem and one of the top things to see in Oman. Wadi Shab’s scenery is breathtaking and certainly worth every penny that we reluctantly relinquished in order to hire our driver and personal guide for the day.

Table of Contents

Tour of Wadi Shab and its Surroundings from Sur

The natural highlights of Oman are growing in popularity, they are difficult to visit without a tour or private vehicle. Public transport is virtually nonexistent in Oman. As a result, most tourists visit Oman’s wadis during day tours from Muscat to the Bimmah Sinkhole . There are few (if any) tours that depart fom the city of Sur.

Since we were already in Sur, we decided to hire a driver for the day in order to visit some of the country’s natural highlights. Along the way, we stopped at other Oman attractions, including Wadi Tiwi and the Bimmah Sinkhole.

The first stop on our journey was the ancient city of Qalhat—an important location in Omani history that was a stopping point on the journeys of both Marco Polo and Ibn Battuta.

Today, not much remains of the old city, as the majority of it was destroyed in an earthquake. Nonetheless, amid the rubble of crumbling houses that swallow up most of the town, people live ordinary lives and a few old buildings perched atop a surrounding hill remain as a testament to the city’s past.

Our tour of Qalhat was limited to a quick photo from the road before we headed to another coastal village called Tiwi, adjacent to the beautiful Wadi Tiwi.

Wadi Tiwi is a spectacular diversion from the highway en route to Wadi Shab. Unfortunately, while we were in Wadi Tiwi, a road into the valley was under construction. As a result, slabs of new concrete disrupted the beautiful scenery, while construction noise interrupted the surrounding tranquility.

Yet, nonetheless, the area is stunning. The tall cliffs of the wadi overlook deep green pools of water and are dotted with small Bedouin villages. These villages lay on the edge of plantations that are terraced into the rocks.

We wandered up to one of them and sat in the shade of a banana tree as we took in the view. All around us, various types of palms and fruit trees created a green canopy overhead. A small irrigation canal ( falaj ) gathers water from the wadi and bisects the plantation. It is hard to imagine that this bit of fertile ground lies in the middle of such unforgiving terrain.

Wadi Shab: Oman’s Turquoise Gem

After a bit of time wandering through the palm-covered plantations of Wadi Tiwi, we proceeded to Wadi Shab, which was undeniably one of the top things to see in Oman. Unlike Wadi Tiwi, there is no road that cuts through Wadi Shab, and the only way to visit the place is by a combination of hiking and swimming.

Turquoise and blue freshwater pools lined with vibrant green palm trees run the length of the valley floor and jagged, copper-colored cliffs create a jaw-dropping backdrop.

The wadi fits into a picture-perfect postcard image that would be drawing flocks of tourists if it were in Europe or North America. Yet, Oman is in the Middle East and, thus, receives much less attention than it deserves. Even for Middle Eastern tourists, it remains a location far off the beaten tourist trail.

As a result, Oman’s dramatic wadis are virtually untouched by international tourism and we were able to explore the place pretty much on our own.

As we followed the pools of water into the canyon, the path ahead became narrower and narrower.

Soon, we were no longer to able to hike alongside the water and the only way to advance was to dispose of our bags and swim the rest of the way. A bit nervously, I hid everything I had brought with me under a bush and began gliding from one pool to another. At one point, when it seemed as though the water could go on no further, our guide pointed out a long, thin crevice in the cliff.

Beyond it, I could see one last pool of water.

Though I am a bit claustrophobic and the idea of weaning my way through a slab of rock that is about as wide as my own body terrified me slightly, what I found on the other side was worth every worry. The passage gave way to a final pool containing a waterfall that was concealed by a cavern of rocks. Light streamed into the semi-open cave and bathed the water in a deep turquoise that was almost fluorescent. It was gorgeous and, for the second time in two days, I wished that I had my camera with

I could have spent days wandering around Wadi Shab and relaxing in the clear pools of water, but we decided to continue on our way and cram in an extra stop before heading back to Sur.

The Bimmah Sinkhole

On our return trip from Wadi Shab to Sur, I remembered reading about the Bimmah Sinkhole on Lonely Planet’s travel forum. Curious as to whether we would be able to add the sinkhole as a stop on our Oman itinerary, I asked our driver about it.

To our delight, he agreed to take us to the Bimmah Sinkhole at no extra cost.

A popular stop on Oman’s budding tourist circuit, the Bimmah Sinkhole is a natural swimming hole that is as beautiful as it is peculiar. The Bimmah sinkhole is a bizarre sight. Another top attraction in Oman, the sinkhole is a circular crater that was created by limestone that collapsed on itself and has since filled with groundwater from the nearby sea.

Local legend has it that a piece of moon collided with Earth to create a hole. The sinkhole is so deep that it is black in some places, though the varying depths create a beautiful palette of colors.

We spent a little bit of time swimming around in the water and my friends and I enjoyed a natural pedicure from the tiny fish that chewed the dead skin on our feet and legs.

The fish in both the wadis and the sinkhole are notorious for feasting on dead skin and I’d been told that Omani women spend a lot of money for this very treatment. They go to beauty salons to literally place their feet in a bucket full of water and fish.

And we were getting this pedicure for free, in a spectacular setting.

It was a relaxing and comical end to a wonderful day.

Though Oman’s nascent tourism industry has grown by leaps and bounds since my visit in 2012, the country is still an undiscovered and under-visited gem. Partially thanks to its location in a politically volatile region, Oman isn’t popular with the masses. Yet with spectacular natural attractions like Wadi Shab, Wadi Tiwi and the Bimmah Sinkhole, I don’t expect this stable and prosperous Middle Eastern country to remain a secret for long.

Additional Tips and Resources for Visiting Oman 

• Check out Dan’s list of 10 reason’s to visit Oman , for more information on visiting the country.

Luxe Adventure Traveler

Adventure Travel With a Glass of Wine

Wild Oman: Wadi Shab and Bimmah Sinkhole Day Tour

By Jennifer Dombrowski 14 Comments

Oh man, is Oman ever beautiful! This tiny country on the Arabian peninsula is often overlooked by travelers, which is a shame. Oman has so much to offer and we found it to be the perfect mix of outdoor adventure and luxurious hotels in spectacular locations fit for a sultan. Most travelers arrive in Muscat, Oman’s capital, and find a cosmopolitan city influenced by Oman’s millennia as a key trading post between Europe and Asia. But not far outside the city are some of Oman’s most jaw-droppingly beautiful sights, which you can discover on a Wadi Shab day tour .

While you could rent a car and make the 140 kilometer drive to Wadi Shab yourself, we found it worth it to sit back and relax in Memphis Tours’ comfortable SUV and let our guide handle the logistics. We immediately learned about karak tea, Oman’s spiced milk tea made with c ardamom, clove, cinnamon, and ginger, and stopped off at one of the many roadside tea shops Omanis love to frequent. We’d probably have discounted the tea stands as nothing special and passed them by on our own. We were regaled with tales of legends, the history of modern Oman since Qaboos bin Said al Said became the sultan in 1970, and got a lesson on ordering lunch like a local.

That’s the true value in a good tour guide – getting those insights you might not otherwise discover on your own. Our guide from Memphis Tours whisked us out of the bustling capital on our private guided day tour with stops at the naturally formed Bimmah Sinkhole, one of Oman’s most beautiful beaches and the spring-fed pools of Wadi Shab.

Omanis believe a falling meteorite formed the sinkhole

Bimmah Sinkhole

One thing we quickly learned about Omanis is that they love legends, tales and ghost stories. Not surprisingly, Bimmah Sinkhole – or Hawaiyat Najm (as it’s known locally) –  has a legend. Omanis believe that a falling meteorite caused the sinkhole to form, hence it’s name Hawaiyat Najm, which translates to “falling star”.

The less romantic version confirmed by geologists is that the limestone collapsed due to erosion from the water beneath. It’s also connected to the Arabian Sea, which is just 600 meters beyond the sinkhole, by an underwater tunnel. The natural depression is from 50 meters to 70 meters wide (164 feet to 229 feet wide), since it’s not a perfect circle and 20 meters (65 feet) deep. It’s filled with a mixture of fresh and sea water, giving the water the beautiful turquoise color.

The sinkhole is from 50 – 70 meters wide and about 20 meters deep

To protect the sinkhole, the local municipality developed a park called Hawiyat Najm Park with a playground, shaded picnic and barbecue areas under the palm trees and toilet facilities around Bimmah. They also installed a staircase down to the water in the sinkhole so that visitors can easily access it without needing to climb around on the limestone.

If you’re just visiting to have a look, allowing about 30 minutes for your visit is perfect. You can also swim in the sinkhole, which we highly recommend.

Our guide gazing out over the white sands and clear waters of Fins Beach

Our Memphis Tours guide promised us he’d show us the most beautiful beach in Oman. Having sailed by quite a few coves over our two weeks exploring and diving in Oman, Fins Beach is definitely one of the most beautiful.

We can definitely see why the Omanis love to camp on Fins Beach. Wild and untouched by any development, the Arabian Sea dances along dazzling sea cliffs as far as the eye can see.

We didn’t have time to snorkel, but would have loved to. The water is crystal clear and you can see the color variations of the reefs below. We could easily see schools of hundreds of fish just gazing out over Fins Beach.

A wadi is a dry riverbed with pools that are an oasis in the mountains

Hot as hell and nearing 30 hours of being awake, we were really reluctant walkers by the time we began the 3 kilometer hike to Wadi Shab. But with the promise of one of the most spectacular destinations in Oman, there was no way we were missing out on taking a dip in the azure pools of this wadi.

Don’t let the ugly concrete bridge slung across the entrance to Wadi Shab fool you. As soon as you take one of the small wooden boats across to begin the hike, you quickly forget about the coastal highway and the bridge. Date and banana palm plantations immediately take over and you feel Oman’s wildness engulf you.

Wadis are dry riverbeds in between deep, narrow gorges that cut through Oman’s many mountains. Fed by natural springs, wadis have become playgrounds for locals and tourists alike to escape the heat for some swimming and canyoning.

Wadi Shab, despite there being no road, is fairly easy to access. The path is a relatively easy walk with just a little scrambling over boulders as you near the pools.

Arriving at the first pool, you still can’t see all the pools yet to be discovered at Wadi Shab

Once you reach the pool, Wadi Shab still holds many secrets. From the very first pool, you can swim back further in to the gorge through a series of pools. Each pool is unique and varies in depth. Some we simply waded across, while others were so deep we couldn’t touch the bottom and had to swim across. There’s a lot of algae covering the rocks, which can make getting in and out of the various pools a little slippery and tricky.

Eventually, it appears you can swim no further – until local Omanis urge you to swim through a small crack in the towering sandstone cliff. Heed their advice, because that small crack opens up into a massive partially submerged cave with a waterfall crashing down in to the river. There’s a rope you can scramble up the waterfall on, and locals were doing just that before jumping off the top into the cave pool.

We had no idea what awaited us at Wadi Shab, otherwise we’d have been prepared with our water housing for our camera so that we could have captured it all. You’ll just have to plan a trip to see it for yourself!

Light, loose hiking gear is appropriate to wear at Wadi Shab

What to Bring and Wear

Wanting to be culturally sensitive, visiting Bimmah Sinkhole and Wadi Shab was the hardest day of our trip to decide how to dress for. Outside of hotels and resorts, you should cover up your shoulders and legs at least to the knee (yes, both women and men). But we were going to be hiking in 100 ° F+ weather and swimming, so deciding what to wear was a challenge.

Wadi Shab is a tourist hot spot, as far as tourist “hot spots” can go in a country relatively still off-the-radar of most, and you’ll see a bit of it all here. Though that doesn’t mean that you shouldn’t be respectful to the culture.

Women will be comfortable wearing a loose fitting short sleeve shirt, preferably something quick drying and moisture wicking especially if you are visiting in the hotter months. Capri length light pants in linen or a hiking capri is perfect. Wearing a pair of hiking shoes is best since you do have to scramble over some boulders and the worn sandstone can be slippery. Wear a swim suit underneath as there’s no where to change once you reach the wadi. I also wore a sleeveless rash guard over my bikini to cover up a bit.

You’ll have to swim and leave your day pack on the rocks, so leave any valuables back at the hotel or locked hidden in the car. You could also bring a small dry bag to put any valuables in and take swimming with you.

There’s opportunity to buy cold water along the way and at the entrance to Wadi Shab.

Biryani is a complicated dish with the ingredients cooked separately and then layered on top of each other when served

There’s also a stop for lunch at a delicious restaurant that was packed with locals in the small fishing village of Quriyat. Omani cuisine has Indian influences thanks to the long history of trade. We tried a typical dish of chicken biriyani, which was a sort of fried chicken with two kinds of rice and a vegetable curry that are all meant to be layered on top of one another and eaten as one dish. Fresh fruit juices like watermelon and mango are refreshing and filling.

Don’t forget to bring:

• flip flops or water shoes to wear in the pools
• a small day pack
• a waterproof camera or waterproof phone case
• a dry bag to put any valuables in

Know Before You Go

Our trip to Wadi Shab was in partnership with Memphis Tours in order to bring you this story. However, Luxe Adventure Traveler maintains full editorial control of the content published on this site. As always, all thoughts, opinions, and enthusiasm for travel are entirely our own. This article contains affiliate links. When you shop on Amazon through our affiliate site, we earn a small commission at no additional cost to you.

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About Jennifer Dombrowski

Jennifer Dombrowski is an independent travel publisher and an American expat who has lived in Bordeaux, France since 2016. She previously lived in Northern Italy in a small village near Venice for seven years where she fell in love with wine and wine tourism. She is an award-winning travel writer. She is also a travel correspondent on Traveling on the American Forces Radio Network. Luxe Adventure Traveler was named one of the top travel blogs to watch by the Huffington Post and TripAdvisor, and has been featured by top publications such as National Geographic, CNN, Buzzfeed, and Business Insider. Jennifer's photography has also been featured on publications such as USA Today and Travel + Leisure and on the Travel Channel.

Sara Essop says

May 12, 2018 at 8:10 PM

Wow, Oman look so beautiful. I really want to go there. I love biryani and karak tea too 🙂

Jennifer Dombrowski says

May 13, 2018 at 9:50 AM

I am so used to the sweet tea and mint tea from other Arabian countries. I was so surprised to find a type of chai tea is so popular in Oman!

steph and zach dorworth says

May 12, 2018 at 9:19 PM

What a beautiful place! It’s cool there are different theories about how the hole was created. Thanks for sharing the locals tips about swimming through the crack. Seems like a great day trip!

May 13, 2018 at 11:16 AM

I have to admit Oman has not really been on my radar before but I have had the experience of sinkholes and they are great to explore, there’s always more to them as you guys found out. I love how there are different local theories to the crator being formed too, can see the locals have some imagination

Jenn and Ed Coleman says

May 14, 2018 at 12:59 AM

It\’s amazing how hiking up wadis in Oman looks like hiking canyons in Southern California. A friend of my, Alan Cressler is a National Geographic photographer. I saw his presentations about caves in Oman about 15 years ago and was blown away. I always imagined vast expanses of desert sand but there are caves and springs all sorts of life and geology one would never expect. This sounds like a really cool tour and a great way to see the wilds of Oman.

Indrani says

May 14, 2018 at 8:22 AM

I have been craving for Omani food for long now… these pics have kicked the urge to travel there hard! Fins beach is beautiful. Can’t imagine the scene is from a desert country.

May 15, 2018 at 3:01 PM

The sinkhole looks pretty cool. I don’t like the less romantic version of the story though lol. I would also like to try the food.

Kirstie says

May 15, 2018 at 5:04 PM

That sinkhole is absolutely beautiful. I’ve never seen anything like it.

May 16, 2018 at 6:35 AM

oh my goodness! I had no idea Oman is so beautiful. That sinkhole with that gorgeous blue water is so stunning. I’d love to see it for myself someday!

Jeffrey Mendoza says

May 21, 2018 at 7:12 AM

I never know Oman is that beautiful. I enjoyed your article a lot with all the tips. The Bimmah Sinkhole looks amazing. I have not visited Oman, but I really excited to visit Fins Beach. Is it possible to fish or kayak on the beach? I want to explore Oman. Thanks for sharing it.

June 19, 2018 at 9:29 AM

Are children allowed to do the hike? We are looking to travel to Oman in December and have a 7 and 12 year old…

June 21, 2018 at 12:04 PM

Yes, there were local Omani kids at Wadi Shab and they had to hike to get back to the wadi. As long as your kids are capable of walking the 6 kilometers round trip and swimming, then they can go! It’s mostly flat or very slight grades with a little bit of scrambling over some boulders once you get close to the wadi. Then the depth of the wadis varies anywhere from ankle deep to adults can’t even touch.

Valentina says

November 4, 2018 at 8:53 AM

How to book this tour?! Because it doesn’t allow me to put the dates and there s any way of finding a contact address. Thank you

November 8, 2018 at 1:50 PM

Hi Valentina,

We’re an online travel magazine. You can check the availability for the date you need your booking by clicking on the “Book Now” link in the article or by going here: https://www.memphistours.com/Oman/Oman-Excursions-and-Day-Tours/Muscat-Excursions/Tour-to-Wadi-Shap

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Wadi Shab full day tour (Muscat tours) : Private & custom tours

• Fuel surcharge
• Local taxes
• National Park fees
• Bottled water
• Driver/guide
• Hotel/port pickup and drop-off
• Private tour
• Round-trip private transfer
• Transport by private vehicle (Maximum capacity : Salon Car 3 seats / 4 X4 vehicles 6 seats
• Recommendation Pick up before 9:00 AM But As it is private trip , Pick up time can be flexible . Pick up from any location in Muscat .
• Seeb Airport, Oman
• Not wheelchair accessible
• Infant seats available
• Confirmation will be received at time of booking
• No heart problems or other serious medical conditions
• Not recommended for pregnant travelers
• Not recommended for travelers with back problems
• Child rate applies only when sharing with 2 paying adults
• Children must be accompanied by an adult
• Infant meals not included
• At time of booking, Cruise ship passengers must provide the following information at time of booking: ship name, docking time, disembarkation time and re-boarding time
• May be operated by a multi-lingual guide with Extra charge
• A current valid passport is required on the day of travel
• Most travelers can participate
• This is a private tour/activity. Only your group will participate
• For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours in advance of the start date of the experience.

Similar experiences

• You'll get picked up See departure details
• 1 Bimmah Sinkhole Stop: 45 minutes See details
• 2 Wadi Shab Stop: 2 hours See details
• 3 Fins Beach Stop: 15 minutes See details
• You'll return to the starting point

• Offtoseetheworld_59 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Great scenary buying dishwashs and eating like a local Very prompt pickup and off to Nizra -wonderful tour of the souqs, fortress and castle. Then a very scenic drive Jebal Shams followed by lunch of the best schwarma ever. A long day but so worth it. Read more Written April 29, 2024
• Caroline H 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Latifa tour Wow ! Our guide Aziz was the epitome of Omani hospitality . He treated us with such care and kindness and went above and beyond expectation . Despite floods in Oman and adapting the tour to suit conditions he was patient and safe and showed us so much of this beautiful country , culture and landscape with experiences that made this tour unique . Everyday was full and interesting and we trusted the choices Aziz made and he was also very flexible with our requests and adapted the itinerary . We saw a side of Oman that we weren’t expecting - wet weather - but this made the whole experience more powerful , especially the dessert, the crossings of Wadis and stopping to assist a Bedouin family pull their car from being bogged in the river showed us a side of the community that all helps each other and ready to stop and help when needed . We felt like guests and travellers and not at all like tourists . Aziz hosted us at his home for lunch on the last day and this was an absolute delight and surprise . I cannot praise our tour and guide enough and would recommend to any visitor to Iman if they want to see the REAL OMAN Well done Aziz , we couldn’t have experienced this without you ❤️ Read more Written April 19, 2024
• V159QWlisae 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Amazing!! The tour was amazing! Khalid was an amazing friendly tour guide and showed us beautiful spots and was really lovely to talk to Read more Written April 16, 2024
• SUNILDASWANEY 0 contributions 1.0 of 5 bubbles TERRIBLE EXPERIENCE Khasab is an extremely ordinary place with nothing attractive at all to see and enjoy. I would not suggest this place at all for sightseeing. Read more Written March 23, 2024
• Andrei-Ionut 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Fabulous day in the desert with a stop at the Wadi The day started smoothly, my guide, Khaled being on time and ready to guide me through the sands of Oman. He knows everything from geography, history, and local traditions, and this made the trip even more interesting. We passed a small souq where he explained the use of every item and their use in local traditions. We then went to a Bedouin house to chill and enjoy some Omani coffee. There is the option there to go Dune bashing, but I opted out. One can also go for a camel ride there. I opted to go in the Dunes for a photo session and just admire the Nature. Afterwards, we went to Wadi Bani Khaled to cool off. I never felt rushed, and could really take the time to swim and admire the lush vegetation of the Wadi. All in all it was all that I expected from such a tour. Read more Written March 19, 2024
• PaulMartinMX97 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles One of the best experiences! Khalid was the best guide one could ask for!! Extremely attentive, great conversation, and always sharing interesting facts about the place. He was always willing to take cool pictures and videos of me, which meant that, as a solo traveler, I didn’t have any problem enjoying Oman to the fullest. Amazing experience all around! Read more Written March 10, 2024
• 27webs 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Exceptional trip with Khaled The tour was great and my guide, Khaled, was exceptional! Besides the scheduled stops at Nizwa souq and fort, Al Hamra & Misfat, he also made sure I saw the village Bait al Safah which was impressive. We had a great lunch during the trip and throughout the drive we talked about Oman, the people, culture, politics, football...Khaled knew it all. This is a tour you shouldn't miss if you are in the Muscat area! 6 stars out of 5! Read more Written March 8, 2024
• U5535FVpatrickh 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Beautifull friendly Oman At the first morning Azziz from Oman Day Tours was waiting with a big smile in the lobby. He informed what our Points of Interests were, so he adapted part of the trip to our wishes. Oman delivered excellent Hotel rooms. A trip never to forget and giving us the envy of discovering the rest of Oman and we will surely contact Azziz again. Job well done Azziz Read more Written March 4, 2024
• Alexandra2VDB 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Oman a country to visit with Aziz of Oman Day Tours Aziz, picked us uo at the W Muscat and has been the best tour guide ever. We have seen amazing places. He took us to Sur, Turtle Beach, Fins Beach, Bimah Sinkhole, Wadi Arabayeen and took xare of us as VIPs. Book you your Jasmin Tour with him as a guide Read more Written March 3, 2024
• N3455BPvanessam 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Best Omani experience This experience was amazing!! We were able to discover another part of Oman, with all its interesting history and facts. All of that was possible thanks to Muneer, who was our incredible guide!! He was kind, helpful and patient answering the 181839 questions we had about the country, culture, food, politics, economy, food and everything basically! He made the experience an unforgettable one and allowed us to really get to know the country. We would do it again without any doubt, so we highly recommend it! Read more Written February 7, 2024
• jagtap_aj 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Excellent tour of Muscat city We did Half day city private tour of Muscat city on 31st of January. In the afternoon our driver Guide, Mr Ali accompanied us in the trip and gave all necessary details during the trip.. We visited all important landmarks of Muscat city during the trip. We enjoyed visiting Royal opera house of Muscat, Tween FORTs Palace of Sultan and Parliament House complex. Mr Ali is very knowledgeable ,friendly and helpful person. I highly recommend this tour to all those who wants to see the city and have very short time at their disposal. Read more Written January 31, 2024
• johnandjudis 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Wadi Bani & Wahibi Desert Safari The hotel pickup was right on time, and our tour guide Abdulla was very friendly and professional. He gave us great information on the various sites. He also told us some interesting facts about some of the Omani culture. We had terrific day- Wadi Bani Khalid and the Wahibi desert should be on the “must see” list for any visit to Muscat or the surrounding area. Highly recommend the late morning tour so you can the sunset from a Wahibi sand dune. Read more Written January 20, 2024
• N6565DQcr 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Review 5 day tour (DINA) We were picked up at our hotel in Muscat at 08.00 am by our guide Khalid in a spacious 4x4 car (we were the only guests). We then drove to a sinkhole and further to Wadi Shab. There we did a short 45min hike with Khalid to the first pool and then walked further into the Wadi by ourselves. Although it was quite busy at the wadi, the experience was still great! After that we drove to our first hotek, the turtle beach resort. The resort has a nice beach and the dinner there was great. At around 09:00 pm we visited the turtle sanctuary in Ras al Jinz where we saw one giant mother turtle and two baby turtles. Amazing! The next day we quickly stopped at a dhow factory in Sur and the continued to Wadi Bani Khalid. Again, after a small hike, we went swimming in the Wadi. The Wadi was also a little bit crowded but we still had a great time. In the afternoon we drove to our next hotel which was the oryx dessert resort. We drove with our 4x4 car on a dune next to the resort and watched the dessert sunset which was amazing. The food at the resort was also amazing. Please note that an extensive 4x4 “dune blasting” car ride is not included in the package but can be booked at the resort. However, Khalid was so nice to drive a little bit off road on the way to the resort. Thanks for that! The next day we stopped at various ancient cities and visited several irrigation systems, some of them hundreds of years old. This shows you how the Omani people were able to grow vegetable and fruits in apparently dry regions. On that day we headed towards Nizwa were we arrived in the early afternoon. Since there were no more activities planed on that day, we walked to the city center (4km, Khalid offered to drive us!) and explored the old city of Nizwa ourselves. Dinners not included in Nizwa, so we found ourselves a nice Shawarma place. The next day was a Friday and we headed early for the cattle market in Nizwa. We recommend, that you plan your tour to be in Nizwa on a Friday. The cattle market is really something to see! After visiting the Souq for some shopping and the amazing Nizwa fort we headed for our final stay at the Jabal Shams Resort. The views of the “great canyon of Arabia” on the way and around the resort were amazing. We took many great pictures the cliff of the canyon. Please note that we arrived there in the early afternoon and that there was not much time to do extensive hiking around the canyon. There is a hiking trail near the resort, but you should inform the touring company in advance if you want to do more hiking. Again, the views on Jabal Shams and the canyon were amazing. After the breakfast and two short stops we drove back to Muskat where we arrived in the early afternoon. All in all, we had a great tour! The hotels and the resorts were all nice and so was the food. However, it was our guide Khalid who made the tour especially great! Firstly, he spoke very good English, he was very kind and polite, and he had great knowledge on the sights we visited and the history of Oman. We had many great conversations. Secondly, he is a very calm and safe and driver, which is also a good thing. We would definitely recommend this tour, since you see many things in a short period of time, and you don’t have worry about any organizing or booking. A local guide and be driven around also adds safety and comfort. I also think that the price is fair. In a nutshell: Great tour and great guide – would do it again! Read more Written January 14, 2024
• laetitiagX8877IW 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Great tour of Oman with Khalil The tour was amazing, we saw lot's of different places and everything was well organized. Khalil was a great guide. He was really friendly, explained many things and was always open for a talk. Khalil really took care of me, he was always attentive and available. Highly recommended. Read more Written January 13, 2024
• thomashG6790YF 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Oman pure in only 3 days Mega experience in the desert. Best sundowner and surise ever. With the camel, or with the quad. Dune bashing with the 4-Wheel-Drive was also offered. From there to Sur for turtle watching while they are laying there eggs. This was also an exciting experience during the night under a clear starry sky. Next day to Wadi Shab, an awsome track in the Mountains to the water wholes with the possibility to swim into a cave. And the whole trip we were accompanied by our lovely guide Kalil in a very comfortable Toyota Land Cruiser V8. Kalil was a very good english speaking guy, who knew a lot from the Oman history, so we are now very well informed by the Oman people and the Country. And this by only 3 days. It was a perfect trip which we can recommend by heart. Read more Written January 8, 2024

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How to get to wadi shab, oman—and why you should visit.

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Several years ago, a friend of mine posted some photos of Wadi Shab and declared Oman her favorite country in the Middle East. I’d been planning on traveling in the Middle East and North Africa for some time, so this declaration shot Oman up to the top of my regional bucket list . It took another two years, but I was finally able to visit Oman on a group tour after a work trip to Doha . To say Oman blew my mind would be an understatement. If anything, I regretted (and still do) the fact that I was only able to spend a week there. It’s a country that warrants at least two weeks, if not longer.

Wadi Shab is one of my favorite places in Oman and a quick skim down this post will prove that nobody really needs convincing as to visit Wadi Shab. But since most visitors travel through Oman on a road trip , I asked Robert from Leave Your Daily Hell to write a comprehensive post on how to get to Wadi Shab plus everything else you’ll need to know about visiting.

Without further ado, I’m passing on the reins to Robert!

My favorite thing about Wadi Shab is the seeming contradiction of a trip there. It feels like you’re lost in the middle of the desert—you are in the middle of the desert, to be fair—but you’re only a short drive away from the comforts of Muscat, where you’ll likely be returning after your hike.

In spite of being little more than a day trip from the capital, Wadi Shab is among my favorite things to do in Oman . Looking back, it was the first of many times during my trip where the otherworldly, incomparable beauty of Oman became clear to me.

Below, I’ll not only explain the ins and outs of a day trip to Wadi Shab (whose officially name, you should be aware, is “Wadi Ash Shab”), but I’ll also show you how to integrate it into your Oman itinerary more broadly, regardless of how long you plan to spend here, or how deeply you intend to explore the country.

Table of Contents

How to Get to Wadi Shab

For most travelers to Oman, a Wadi Shab excursion takes the form of a day trip from the capital . The driving time is about two hours , depending on how fast you go, and whether or not you stop along the way. (There are a few places worth stopping, although it might be better for you to hit them up on the way back from your Wadi Shab hike—more on those, and the logistics involved, in just a moment).

This, of course, is assuming that you travel from Muscat to Wadi Shab and back. It’s possible, instead, that you might visit Wadi Shab on your way down the coast to the city of Sur, in which case you’ll want to make sure you stop at the places I’m thinking about (namely Bimmah Sinkhole —again, more on its merits in a minute) on your way out, since you won’t be returning to the capital. Either way it’s a straight shot, and all highway driving. You’ll simply need to watch out for speed cameras and camels!

What to Do at Wadi Shab

Start with a boat ride.

Before you begin your Wadi Shab hike, you’ll actually need to take a boat ride. Now, don’t get too excited—this is perfunctory, and necessary to transport you from the parking lot to the trailhead —but you also shouldn’t be alarmed. When I got out of my rental car and a man approached me about the boat ride, I thought someone was trying to scam me, since I had never heard about one in the context of Wadi Shab.

Cool Off at the First Pool

After about 15 minutes of hiking into Wadi (which simply means “river”) Shab you’ll reach the aptly-named “First” Pool, an unassuming watering hole that will tempt you with its sparkling waters. If it’s a very hot day (and it rarely isn’t in Oman), you can stop here for a few minutes to cool off. However, I’d recommend starting your hike again as soon as possible afterwards—much more beautiful scenery awaits you further on.

Set Your Sights on the Waterfall Cave

Depending on how fast you hike, you’ll reach the so-called Wadi Shab “Waterfall Cave” between 60-90 minutes after leaving the First Pool behind. Do note that while there are both waterfalls and caves present along this part of the  wadi , the attraction of this area is really the many shallow, calm swimming coves, and the flat sections of rock that form makeshift beaches along it. This is where your hike into Wadi Shab will probably end.

Hit the Beach in Tiwi

Speaking of beaches, there are other ones (ones actually on the sea) for you to sun yourself, either before (or more likely after) you finish up at Wadi Shab. The most obvious choice is Pebbles Beach  in Tiwi , the town located where the mouth of Wadi Shab empties into the Arabian Sea . However, you can find many beaches (most of them nameless) both on the way back to Muscat, as well as if you plan to continue the same day to Sur.

Make Sure Not to Miss Bimmah Sinkhole

Another place to get some sun and surf (which, in spite of not being an ocean beach, its probably my favorite place to swim in all of Oman) is  Bimmah Sinkhole , located on the way from Muscat to Wadi Shab. If you plan to return to the capital after your hike, you can stop here on your way back. Otherwise, you’ll want to make sure you take a dip in Bimmah Sinkhole, which is an exposed underground wadi that eventually empties into the ocean , on your way to Wadi Shab—leave extra early if this is the case!

Do You Need a Guide for Wadi Shab?

Unlike most of the  things to do in Muscat (which are limited within the city, however sprawling Oman’s capital is), Wadi Shab is a place where you’re largely on your own once you start hiking. On the other hand, there are basically only two directions (into the wadi, and then back out) so it’s unlikely that a guided tour is necessary. It might be beneficial to certain types of travelers, however. If you’d prefer a guided tour, check out this one .

If you want to continue hiking into Wadi Shab far past the waterfall cave, having a local expert with you can help , since the topography (and navigating through it) becomes more difficult. If you decide not to go with a guide (I didn’t, and I never felt lost for even a second) do make sure to bring essentials like water (or better yet, a backpack with a water bladder ), hiking sandals and sunscreen with you. It should go without saying that there are no concessions or shops anywhere past the entrance!

Where to Go in Oman (After Wadi Shab)

Although Wadi Shab is one of my favorite places to visit in Oman, it’s only the beginning of your adventure. Assuming you visit Muscat beforehand, here are some other places you can go in Oman:

• Sur  (including  Ras al-Jinz  turtle beach)
• Wahiba Sands  in Oman’s “Empty Quarter”
• Jebel Shams , aka The Grand Canyon of Oman

Another great destinations for your Oman trip is  Salalah , in the country’s west near the border with Yemen. Note that Salalah is at its most beautiful during the summer monsoon months of July and August, and is best reached by plane (although you could theoretically drive there).

The Bottom Line

Regardless of how deeply you end up exploring Oman, Wadi Shab is going to be one of your highlights. It’s got everything: An exhilarating hike, lush oases filled with clear, crystalline waters and even a fun boat ride to kick things off. Moreover, whether you visit Wadi Shab on a day trip from Muscat, or stop here en route to Sur during a more expansive trip to Oman, a trip into this enchanting dent in the desert will delight and amaze you. Let me know in a comment below if you decide to heed my advice and take this incredible excursion!

Meet the author: Robert Schrader’s  Leave Your Daily Hell  is one of the web’s original travel blogs. Covering nearly 100 countries (Oman is just the beginning), the site has informed, inspired, entertained and empowered literally millions of travel since its birth in 2009. Make sure to follow Leave Your Daily Hell on  Facebook  and  Instagram .

More Oman Resources

• Oman Travel Guide
• The Perfect 1-Week Oman Itinerary: Road Trip Oman in 7 Days
• Oman with Explore Worldwide: A Review of the Mountains, Deserts and Coast of Oman Tour

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How to Visit Oman’s Wadi Shab: Tips for Visiting This Incredible Attraction

Wadi Shab is one of the many wadis in Oman that provides the opportunity to cool down in its inviting pristine waters and have stunning views of the country’s fantastic scenery.

If you’re wondering, “what is a wadi?” – Wadi is an Arabic term referring to a dry riverbed that contains water at certain times of the year, usually when there is heavy rainfall. After the rain, natural pools are formed, and you can swim in them.

In this post, you’ll find all you need to know to plan a visit to Wadi Shab, including how to get here, the entrance fee, places to stay nearby, and other helpful tips.

Table of contents

Where is wadi shab, getting to wadi shab, wadi shab entrance fee and hike, what to bring to wadi shab, the best hotels near wadi shab, places to see near wadi shab, wadi shab faq, electricity in oman, oman currency, best time to visit oman, best tours in oman, transportation in oman, travel insurance.

This post may contain affiliate links. By purchasing through these links, I may receive a small commission at no additional cost to you.

Wadi Shab is located in Tiwi, which is a part of Sur, one of the top places to visit in Oman. The attraction is easily reachable by rental car from the main cities of the country – Sur, Muscat, and Nizwa. Here are the main distances to consider:

• Muscat to Wadi Shab: 170 kilometers or 105 miles
• Sur to Wadi Shab: 70 kilometers or 44 miles
• Nizwa to Wadi Shab: 320 kilometers or 200 miles

Getting to Wadi Shab is an easy task. If you are on a road trip through Oman with a rental car, you can leave Muscat, the country’s capital, and drive southeast for around 2 hours.

When driving from Muscat to Wadi Shab, you can stop at Bimmah Sinkhole, an incredible natural pool, and the stunning Fins Beach.

Now, if you are just staying in Muscat and going on tours to visit the main attractions of Oman, it’s good to know that Wadi Shab is part of many tours leaving the capital. Here are a few to consider:

• Wadi Shab and Bimmah Sinkhole Private Full-Day Tour : see two of the best natural attractions of Oman on the same day and without worrying about driving to and from them. This private tour is the best alternative if you prefer something more intimate, as you won’t have other tourists joining you.
• Wadi Shab and Bimmah Sinkhole Private Group Full-Day Tour : if you don’t mind joining others, this tour is slightly cheaper than the private tour and takes you to the same places – Wadi Shab and Bimmah Sinkhole.
• Wadi Shab and Bimmah Sinkhole 4X4 : visit Wadi Shab and other beautiful spots on a private 4×4 tour from Muscat. You’ll also visit Bimmah Sinkhole and Fins Beach.

After you drive from Muscat or your tour leaves you in the parking lot, it’s time to start the hike to Wadi Shab.

Upon arriving at the Wadi Shab parking lot, you’ll need to take a boat ride for 1 OMR per person (round trip) to cross a short stretch of river. There’s no entrance fee to the wadi, so you just need to pay for the ride.

Then, you’ll start a super quiet trail of about 45 minutes through a breathtaking rugged valley surrounded by palm trees and lots of vegetation.

Once you reach the pools of Wadi Shab, make the most of your time and be sure to check out the entire canyon to admire the complete scenery. When swimming in the natural pool, don’t forget to see the waterfall and the cave, which you can only access by swimming in the water.

Finally, though the Wadi Shab trail is fairly easy, and I wore flip-flops, it’s wise to wear waterproof hiking shoes or sandals. Proper shoes will allow you to cross any part of the trail that might have small ponds.

• Hiking shoes or hiking sandals : though the hike is relatively easy, the loose rocks may be annoying, so bring proper shoes to protect your feet.
• Dry Bag : so you can bring your phone to the pools or leave your belongings close to the water without worrying about them.
• GoPro : to take unforgettable pictures.
• Waterproof phone case : if you don’t have a GoPro, bring a waterproof case for your phone to take stunning shots.
• Towel : a lightweight towel so you can dry off before starting the hike to head back to the parking lot.
• Swimwear : proper swimwear to swim in the pools. I recommend wearing a one-piece and maybe even adding shorts on top of it for women.
• Water shoes : flip-flops or any type of non-slippery water shoes.
• Snacks : as there is no place to eat in Wadi Shab, bring a few snacks if you plan to spend the day. If you’re leaving Muscat, you can buy them at Carrefour .

There is one hotel near Wadi Shab, Sama Wadi Shab Resort , which though super basic, it’s a good stay if you want to have an early start – it’s located only 5 minutes away from the parking lot where you’ll start the hike.

However, the best places to stay to visit Wadi Shab are either Muscat, approximately 2 hours away, or Sur, the coastal city that is located a little bit more than one hour further.

BEST HOTELS IN MUSCAT

• Al Bustan Palace, A Ritz-Carlton Hotel : a gorgeous 5-star hotel set on the Al Hajar mountains overlooking the Sea of Oman. It features 3 restaurants, including seafood and a Chinese one, and has its own private beach.
• Shangri-La Al Husn Resort & Spa : this adults-only resort is a dreamy place to stay In Muscat. The décor reminiscent of Arabian palaces is seen in the rooms and the entire hotel. Also, Shangri-la has a private beach, and some rooms offer stunning sea views.
• The Chedi Muscat : one of the top hotels in Muscat, The Chedi is a luxury hotel with pristine pools (including an adults-only one) and all the perks you expect from a 5-star resort.
• Kempinski Hotel Muscat : a modern luxury 5-star hotel. The pools are perfect for cooling down during the summer months.

BEST HOTELS IN SUR

• Zaki Hotel Apartment : this hotel is an excellent place to stay in Sur – it features comfortable rooms and has a great seafood restaurant.
• Sur Plaza Hotel : though Sur doesn’t have a great variety of hotels, Sur Plaza is a good place if you just need a bed for the night.

Before or after visiting Wadi Shab, add a stop at Bimmah Sinkhole, a natural pool with electric shades of blue and green where you can also cool down and swim with the fish.

Also, very close to Wadi Shab, you’ll find Fins, a long and peaceful beach with blue waters that are a great stop before continuing your road trip through Oman.

Where is Wadi Shab located?

Wadi Shab is located in Tiwi, 170 kilometers (or 105 miles) from Muscat, Oman’s capital. You can reach the Wadi either via rental car, on a road trip through Oman, or with a tour, choosing between a private or a group tour.

What should I wear to visit Wadi Shab?

You should bring hiking shoes or sandals, flip-flops or water shoes, a towel, sunglasses, sunscreen, a dry bag, swimwear, and snacks when visiting Wadi Shab.

What is the best time to visit Wadi Shab?

Like the rest of Oman, the best time to visit Wadi Shab is from October to April , when the weather will be pleasant and the hike enjoyable. Avoid going during the summer months, especially July and August, when the heat and humidity can be brutal, and the pools can also dry out because of the lack of rain.

How do I get from Wadi Shab to Muscat?

You can drive from Muscat to Wadi Shab in a rental car , allowing you to visit other top places to visit in Oman. Or you can hire a tour to take you from Muscat to Wadi Shab.

What to know for visiting Wadi Shab in Oman

Citizens of almost all nationalities, including the US and European Union, need a visa to enter Oman. You can obtain it online with a stay permit of 10 or 30 days, and the cost starts at 5 OMR.

When applying for an Oman visa, attaching a copy of the passport and a photo is necessary. After that, just wait to receive the email with the approval (mine took 24 hours), then print it to present to immigration on arrival.

The voltage in Oman is 240 V, and the power plugs and sockets are the type G (the same as in the UK).

The currency used in Oman is the Omani Rial (OMR). You can check the current exchange rate on Google .

While traveling, I use a free Charles Schwab Debit Card that provides unlimited worldwide ATM Fee Refunds, no foreign transaction fee, and the actual exchange rate.

The best time to visit Oman is from October to April , when temperatures are milder. And be cautious when visiting the country from May to September, when the thermometers can easily reach 50 °C.

Regardless of the season, be prepared for low temperatures in the mountains of Jebel Akhdar and in the desert Wahiba Sands, where you will need to wear a sweater and/or a windbreaker jacket.

Some of the best tours and things to do in Oman are:

• Wadi Shab and Bimmah Sinkhole Private Full-Day Tour : see two of the country’s best natural attractions on the same day and without worrying about driving to and from.
• Cruises to Daymaniyat & Snorkeling : one of the best experiences to have in Oman – the Daymaniyat Islands are an idyllic getaway from Muscat and a must-do day trip.
• Full-Day Private Wahiba Sands Desert and Wadi Bani Khalid Tour : are you short on time to visit the country’s highlights? This tour allows you to explore two wonders – the ochre dunes of the Wahiba Sands desert and Wadi Bani Khalid’s raw, unspoiled nature.

Rental Cars: The best way to get around Oman is by car. Plan on renting a car as soon as you arrive in Muscat so that you can explore the country at your convenience. I use RentalCars for my car rental needs, and it’s the tool I recommend.

Ever since the pandemic, travel insurance has become almost essential for every type of travel and is currently one of the requirements for entering Oman.

My recommended travel insurance company is SquareMouth , a platform for searching for the best option amongst travel insurance companies. It allows travelers to instantly purchase a travel insurance policy from every major provider in the US, and it also makes clear each policy’s COVID-related coverage.

YOU MIGHT ALSO LIKE TO READ

• The complete guide to visiting Oman
• Top things to do in Oman: unmissable places to visit in the country
• What to do in Nizwa, Oman
• Top things to in Muscat, Oman’s capital
• All you need to know before visiting Oman
• What to do in Sur, Oman
• All about spending the night at the Wahiba Sands desert, Oman

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What’s so special about Wadi Shab?

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Call me cynical but when I hear somewhere described as a ‘must-visit’ I immediately lower my expectations. This is what I did before our visit to Wadi Shab – one of the most popular wadi day trips from Muscat in Oman.

Wadi Shab has been mentioned to us countless times since we moved to Oman. So I was intrigued, especially after getting more of a wadi experience than we bargained for at neighbouring Wadi Tiwi in January. 

But I was also ready to be disappointed after visiting the equally lauded but very commercial Wadi Bani Khalid a few weeks before.

So, was it a waste of time? Did we bite off more than we could chew visiting with kids? Or did we have a brilliant time?

In this post I’m going to share our experience of visiting Wadi Shab with our children along with some tips for doing it yourself.

*This post contains affiliate links*

Contents - jump to what you'd like to know

Why visit Wadi Shab?

Wadi Shab is an easy day trip from Muscat – about one and a half hours from the city centre by road – and has been set up for tourists, albeit in a very light touch way.

Don’t expect lots of safety measures or flashy facilities, but do come ready to experience Oman’s extraordinary natural beauty.

Your visit will include a boat trip across the wadi entrance, skyscraper gorge walls, a fun hike, long clear pools and a cave you can swim inside to find a hidden waterfall.

We spent three hours exploring and all agreed that it was time well spent.

Read more about visiting Oman with kids in my comprehensive travel guide for families.

Here’s our guide to visiting Wadi Shab with children along with some tips for doing it yourself. If you’d prefer to get a guide then read on for a discount code on tours from the wadi entrance.

Best time to visit Wadi Shab

We visited the wadi on a Saturday in March – a potentially busy time during the winter season when lots of people holiday in Oman.

So we decided to get up early, and get to the wadi before the rush and the heat of midday.

When we arrived at 8.30am there were just a handful of other cars in the car park under Highway 17. The ferry only starts running from 8am so there’s not much point in arriving earlier than this.

By the time we returned three hours later the car park was full, and cars and coaches were parked along the road.

People were still arriving and we passed lots coming in to the wadi as we left.

The number of people later in the morning made the hike a little less pleasant on some of the narrower sections with a long drop.

I don’t believe it would be possible to avoid the two way hiking traffic until after 2pm on a weekend. So we were glad we arrived at the start of the day to go with the flow in at least one direction.

If you do decide to visit later on be aware that the wadi is not accessible after late afternoon (see ferry times below). 2pm is probably the latest you want to arrive, particularly if you intend to swim in the pools at the end and visit the cave.

The optimum days to visit are from Sunday to Thursday when there will be fewer locals, like us.

Ferry boat at Wadi Shab

This is the only wadi in Oman where we have had to take a ferry to explore. On the day we visited there were two small motorboats running from the car park.

They take you on a short crossing, under the viaduct to where the wadi path starts on the other side.

The cost of a return trip is 1 OMR per person, but we were charged 500 baisa (half a rial) for the children. You pay this upfront in cash.

The ferries run daily from 8am, so this is the earliest you can visit Wadi Shab.

The last ferry runs between 5pm and 6pm depending on the season. If you are visiting in the afternoon check when the ferry stops as you will be stranded without it.

The hike into Wadi Shab

About 15 minutes into the walk the path turns from dust and shingle into rock. Be very careful on the slippery rocks which have been polished by thousands of pairs of feet.

The path has been improved for visitors with most cracks in the rock cemented over but you still need to watch your step, especially as the route starts to rise along the side of the wadi.

There’s no hand rail between you and some big drops. If you are visiting with young children you will need to hold their hands so you know where they are at all times.

It’s at this point that you see the first section of turquoise water below. It might look inviting but this part isn’t for swimming. There’s no easy way to enter and exit it – another reason to keep hold of little ones.

About 30 mins into the wadi you rejoin the valley floor. This is where the path becomes less obvious. You can do a bit of bouldering or seek out the easier path to the left, which runs along the Aflaj.

However, there’s no chance of getting lost. Just keep following the valley floor.

It took us about an hour to reach the main wadi pools. At this point you have to swim to progress further.

Swimming at Wadi Shab

You’ll have to excuse the quality of my pictures during our swim at Wadi Shab. They are all taken through a waterproof phone case (essential equipment for this wadi).

But I thought they were worth including to give you an idea of the challenge ahead of you.

You know you’ve reached the swimming area when you spot a ‘welcome’ sign that looks like it has seen much better days. It explains that you cannot walk from this point and you have to be a good swimmer to reach the cave at the end.

Having visited a few wadis in Oman (and kicked ourselves for not being quite as prepared as we needed to be when we went to neighbouring Wadi Tiwi ) we were prepared with waterproof bags and buoyancy aids for the kids.

My girls have both come on leaps and bounds with their swimming since we moved to Oman but when you are doing this kind of outdoor adventure extra precautions never hurt.

There’s plenty of space in the area around the first pool to leave any belongings you don’t want to take with you.

Please remember to pick them up, along with any empty water bottles and food packaging, when you leave. Littering is sadly a big problem in beauty spots like this.

The swim from the first pool to where you enter to the Wadi Shab cave is a few hundred meters. There are sections where you can wade through the water, where the water flows ankle deep over shingle and parts where the bottom is nowhere in sight.

Take a look at my Wadi Shab Reel on Instagram that shares video from the swim.

It’s also worth mentioning that there’s slippery algae on the rocks. Take it slowly in and out of the water.

Just before the final pool you will need to climb up over a small waterfall were it would be possible to hurt yourselves if not approached carefully.

This section was particularly slippery on the return trip when it was wet from the increased number of visitors arriving after us.

See my list of what to wear below for suggestions on footwear.

The Wadi Shab cave

If you make it to the end of the last deep pool you can experience Wadi Shab’s hidden cave. Be warned, this is not advisable if you experience claustrophobia.

The cave entrance only becomes clear as you approach because it is mostly underwater. There’s just a narrow opening above the waterline that isn’t much bigger than your head in some places.

You won’t be able to touch the bottom as you enter the cave or inside it. As we felt below the water line the walls disappeared outwards and it became clear that we were floating at the top of a huge cavern.

There were about 12 other people in the cave when we arrived, all taking it in turns to climb ropes up the mostly dry waterfall to jump back into the water.

Mr Tin Box couldn’t resist a go and one of the local guides helped our two girls up to jump from a lower ledge.

To the right of the waterfall you can find a narrow channel that has been eaten into the rock around the back.

Making it to the cave was a real highlight for us. We’d recommend giving it a go but you need to come prepared with the right clothing and equipment.

Wadi Shab tour discount code

If you’d prefer to visit Wadi Shab with a guide Arabian Wanderers * come highly recommended.

They can meet you at the wadi entrance, provide expert assistance through some of the more tricky sections and show you hidden gems that are often missed if you venture in on your own.

I also have a discount code for you. Enter ‘TINBOXTRAVELLER’ in the Promo Code box when you reach the checkout for 5% off your booking.

What to wear at Wadi Shab

We’d recommend arriving at Wadi Shab wearing swimming costumes under your clothes as there’s nowhere to change when you reach the pools.

You could also slip on your swimwear in the public toilets in the car park if you don’t want to wear them during the drive to Wadi Shab.

Here’s the other things to wear during your visit:

Conservative outdoor clothing

Oman is a Muslim country where dressing conservatively is a legal requirement. In general you should wear clothes that cover upper arms and knees.

A short sleeve t-shirt and cropped workout leggings for women and a t-shirt and long shorts for men is totally acceptable for the hiking section of Wadi Shab.

When it came to the swim we wore rash vests with short sleeves * and swim shorts *. These can be worn underneath other clothing and also help to protect against the sun.

Sturdy shoes 

We always wear walking sandals that we can use in water when we visit wadis. This saves carrying extra water shoes that are essential for stoney and slippery sections.

The girls and I all have KEEN shoes , which have grippy soles for walking and have been in and out of the water more times than I can count.

The kids currently have KEEN Unisex Kid’s Verano Open Toe Sandals * and I have had a pair of KEEN trail shoes for about four years now. They have been discontinued but are still going strong.

Here’s another KEEN outdoor sandal * that I know would work well as the girls have had smaller versions in the past. The kids always grow out of KEEN shoes before they wear them out, so we often pass them on.

Buoyancy aids for kids

They’re not just for kids. All of the visitors on the organised tours that we saw were wearing buoyancy aids.

We decided to put our girls in their buoyancy aids despite them being fairly strong swimmers and I’m sure the tour guides were using the same logic. Accidents can happen quickly, particularly slip ups. So if you fall it’s much better that you float.

Your health and safety is your own responsibility whichever wadi you visit.

We brought one of the kids’ buoyancy aids with us from the UK and bought another at Decathlon in the Mall of Oman where they also sell adult buoyancy aids.

Mr Tin Box and I have Restubes * for paddle boarding but we didn’t use them at the wadi.

Other things to take to Wadi Shab

After visiting several wadis in Oman we’ve put together a list of suggested things to take along.

We’ve kicked ourselves a few times for forgetting obvious things and items that make the experience so much easier. But I think we’ve now got the definitive list.

If you don’t already have some of these essential items we’ve found the following shops good for outdoor gear:

• The Sultan Centre, various locations in Muscat
• Decathlon in the Mall of Oman
• Sun and Sand Sport in Avenues Mall, the Mall of Oman and City Centre Mall. There’s also an outlet shop in Markaz Al Bahja.

I’ve also included links below where you can order these things online if you’re able to plan far enough ahead.

Here are some wadi staples to bring with you:

We have a rucksack that’s also a dry bag. We picked this up at a Sultan Centre shop in Muscat and we take it with us everywhere now.

It’s easy to carry and big enough for a light-weight towel, some snacks and water, goggles for the kids, and a first aid kit. It also doubles as a useful flotation device.

At Wadi Shab it meant that we didn’t need to leave any belongings at the first pool.

You can buy it online *.

If you forget a dry bag big enough just for your phone or wallet you can also buy these at the wadi car park.

Bring a microfibre towel *. It’s a good idea to dry off a bit when you leave the pools so you are less likely to slip on the rocky path back to the wadi entrance.

You need something small that won’t retain lots of water and become heavy on your return walk.

Sun glasses

There’s lots of shade to be found in the wadi but not all the time so protect your eyes with good sunglasses.

For exactly the same reasons as you need sunglasses, wear factor 50 sun cream on your face and body. Even in the shade you’ll be picking up rays.

Goggles 

I’m not a fan of putting my face in the water intentionally but my kids love it. Goggles allow them a different perspective on wadis so we always bring theirs.

Change of clothes

In case you get your hiking clothes wet or dirty leave a spare set in your car.

Snacks and water

Where would us parents be without snacks for the kids?! Our go to snacks for hiking trips are apples and small packets of biscuits, which we can easily slip into our rucksack.

We often pack a picnic too as it means we can get food into the kids fast when we get back to the car. A cool box and ice blocks are handy for keeping food fresh in a hot vehicle.

You’re going to need a lot of water, but won’t necessarily want to carry it all with you.

Make sure everyone has a small bottle of water for the hike and leave some chilling in your vehicle.

I don’t go anywhere in Oman without a packet tissues. You never know if public lavatories will have any, especially in more rural areas where squat toilets and bum guns (hoses by the loo) are the norm.

First aid kit

Something else we rarely adventure without is our small first aid kit. This has plasters, including Compeeds, bug bite cream and Panadol (paracetamol). This is what we carry with us.

We have another first aid kit * including bandages in our car.

Facilities at the wadi

There’s a long tarmac car park and parking is free.

Be aware that the car park is a hang out for goats who are very forward, particularly if they think they can sniff out a snack. They will put their heads in bags and their bodies in your car if you don’t keep an eye on them.

At the end of the car park there’s a cafe with showers (you’ll pay a fee to use these). We didn’t stop at the cafe as we suspected it might be expensive. But if you are short on snacks or water it could prove very handy.

There’s free toilets towards the car park entrance. These have western style loos as well as a squat toilets. Bring your own toilet tissue. You can also change here.

Where is Wadi Shab?

Whether you are coming from Muscat or Sur it’s very easy to find Wadi Shab. It’s sign posted off Highway 17 one hour 45 minutes (170km) south from Muscat International Airport and 40 minutes north (50km) from Sur.

Look for signs for signs saying ‘Al Shab’.

The pin on this map is the public toilets at the entrance to the Wadi Shab car park.

Where to stay at Wadi Shab

We visited from where we live in Muscat but if you are holiday or an Oman road trip there are a few options for places to stay near Wadi Shab.

Wadi Ashab Chalets – adults only

This sea front guest house with private rooms and shared lounge is the closest accommodation to Wadi Shab – you can walk to the ferry in five minutes.

This is an adults only guest house but does offer rooms for up to five people.

Check availability at Wadi Ashab Chalets *.

Wadi Shab Guest House – family-friendly

This Omani-style villa accommodation is 1km from the wadi entrance, so a very easy drive to reach the wadi for when the ferry starts running.

It only offers double and twin rooms so if you are travelling with children you will have to book two rooms as they do not offer extra beds. However, it gets great reviews, has a swimming pool and is right on the beach.

Check availability at Wadi Shab Guest House *.

Tiwi Sunrise – family rooms

This hotel is located near the entrance to Wadi Tiwi and is a six minute drive from Wadi Shab.

It only has double rooms but you can request extra beds for children. These are free for children aged 12 and under but are subject to availability.

Tiwi Sunrise has a restaurant, swimming pool and is located on the beach.

Check availability at Tiwi Sunrise* .

Tiwi Beach Villa – a private villa

If you are travelling with a large group this beach front villa sleeps up to 10 people in three bedrooms with a shared bathroom.

It has its own private beach and swimming pool.

Check availability at Tiwi Beach Villa *.

Wild camping near Wadi Shab

Another option is to camp. Wild camping is very easy in Oman as you can do it anywhere out of sight of houses and a safe distance from roads.

You will however need a 4×4 to access most wild camping places in Oman.

Popular camping places near Wadi Shab are Pebble Beach and Fins Beach. You’ll find both just to the north of Tiwi.

More reading about Oman

We moved to Oman in 2022 and are loving getting to know our new, home.

Here’s some more posts I’ve written about Oman and expat life:

• 7 day Oman road trip itinerary
• Exploring Wadi Tiwi – what you really need to know
• Wadi Bani Khalid – is it worth visiting?
• More amazing wadis in Oman
• Flying with a dog from the UK

Check out the #TinBoxOman hashtag on Instagram to see more of our adventures.

Disclosure: this post contains affiliate links marked with *. If you click on one of these and make a purchase I may earn some commission. This does not affect the price you pay.

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

Shirley Hall

Tuesday 14th of March 2023

I luv reading about all your adventures.

Wadi Shab Hike to Pools in Oman: Everything You Need to Know

The Wadi Shab hike to pools is one of the best activities to add to your travel to Oman itinerary. From the boat ride to hiking to the pools and getting to the secret cave with a hidden waterfall, here is absolutely everything you need to know before visiting Wadi Shab . 

Located a 1.5-hour drive from old Muscat, Wadi Ash Shab in Oman offers not only a spectacular scenery of mountain oasis and a pleasant hike but also a unique experience of swimming in its year-round water-filled natural pools. Even more, the most adventurous of you will get an opportunity to discover a hidden waterfall in a secret cave and do some abseiling to the elevated pool. 

Yet there are some important things you must know before you go to Wadi Shab . Therefore, here I share all the tips and advice to help you prepare and fully enjoy your Wadi Shab adventure in Oman. 

Related reeds about Oman: Planning a road trip to Oman? Check my detailed One Week Oman Road Trip Itinerary (with suggested extended 10-day and 14-day routes).

Sign up HERE to receive a FREE downloadable OMAN MINI GUIDE !

Disclosure :  This post contains affiliate links, which means that I may make a small commission at no extra cost to you if you make a purchase by clicking a link. This helps to keep my blog growing and filling up with detailed honest travel advice for you. 

Everything you need to know about visiting Wadi Shab in Oman

What is wadi in oman .

Wadi is a popular Arabic word used to describe a narrow valley (or gorge) with a dry river bed between the mountains. Occasionally, after the rain, there might be water streams running through wadis. However, most of the time wadis in Oman are dry. 

However, Wadi Shab is one of the special gorges in Oman which has water streams and ponds all year round. It is also home to a lush mountain oasis and warm natural water pools tucked in between dramatic rock formations. 

There are 4 natural pools in Wadi Shab (most people think there are only 3, but not all are aware of the elevated pool- more on that later in the post). To reach those natural pools in Wadi Shab, you must first take a short boat ride and hike for approximately 30-40 minutes.

Keep on reading to know all the details about what to expect when visiting Wadi Shab.

Wadi Shab hike to pools summary

• Wadi Shab hike distance: approximately 3 KM (1.86 miles) one way
• Hiking time: approx. 40 MIN.
• Trail difficulty level: moderate (easy for experienced hikers).
• Terrain and features: rocky and muddy terrain with some bigger boulders along the way, water streams and pools, lush vegetation, small farms.
• Elevation: approx. 350 m.
• Is Wadi Shab suitable for kids ? yes.
• Total distance of the pools: approx. 300 meters (0.8 miles).
• Time needed to visit Wadi Shab: budget minimum 3 hours, but you can easily spend 5 hours or even all day.

Where is Wadi Ash Shab located?

Wadi Ash Shab is located in Tiwi, Al Sharqiyah South Governorate, Oman. It is 140 km south of the capital Muscat and 40 km up north of the port town Sur. Wadi Shab is easily accessible as its entry is next to the Quriyat, Sur Coastal highway. 

How to get to Wadi Shab? 

The most convenient way to get to Wadi Shab is either to drive for 1.5 hours from Muscat, or 40 Min from Sur. Type “wadi Shab parking” in Google Maps, and it will show the exact location you should head to. 

Alternatively, if you do not have your own wheels, you can go on one of the Wadi Shab day tours from Muscat . 

Check this best-rated Wadi Shab day tour from Muscat which also includes stopping at the Bimmah sinkhole. Bimmah Sinkhole is another must-see place in Oman – a fantastic natural attraction in close proximity to Muscat.

Wadi Shab parking

Wadi Shab parking is located under a large concrete bridge which you will see immediately after turning off the main highway. Parking is free, however, spots are limited. If it is full, you can park on the side of the road, or on a sandpit overlooking the sea on the left-hand side. 

Looking to rent a car in Oman? You can find some of the most competitive rates at Discover Cars . It is an intuitive car rental website that compares prices between different rental companies.

The best rates for renting a car in Oman

I often use Discover Cars to find the best car rental deals.

Wadi Shab Map

What is the best time to visit Wadi Shab, near Sur? 

The best time to visit Wadi Shab is from October to March when the weather temperatures are lower.

Note that Wadi Shab is arguably the most well-known and popular natural attraction in Oman which welcomes many visitors almost daily. It gets packed during weekends and public holidays (including neighboring UAE holidays). 

Therefore, the best days for visiting Wadi Shab are weekdays (Sunday to Thursday in Oman) . If you can’t make it on a weekday, aim to come early in the morning, as soon as the boats start operating (from 8 am).

Please do not get discouraged if the only time you have for visiting Wadi Shab is the weekend- it is a truly amazing place in Oman not to be missed.

What should I wear to Wadi Shab?

Make sure you pack light and wear appropriate comfortable clothing and footwear suitable both for hiking and swimming.

TOP TIP: choose footwear that can be used both for swimming and hiking. This way you won’t have to carry an extra pair of shoes. Hiking trail to pools involves passing lots of water ponds and streams.

On my trip to Wadi Shab, I wore swimming shoes with rubber soles that had a nice grip on slippery hiking trail sections. It also saved my feet from painful little rocks when walking in the water. 

Alternatively, you could also wear light hiking sneakers which you can use when walking in the water as well as swimming. 

I do not recommend going in heavy hiking boots or in slippers, or trainers that you do not want to be soaked in the water. The hiking path, as mentioned before, had lots of shallow water sections, some of which were unavoidable. Meanwhile, slippery rocks would make walking in slippers unsafe. 

In terms of swimming suits and bikinis, it is recommended to avoid those and swim instead in t-shirts and shorts. This applies to both men and women. There are a lot of local people coming to enjoy Wadi Shab. Therefore, with respect to the conservative culture, it is advisable to dress a little bit more modestly. 

What to bring to Wadi Shab (packing list):

• Lighting trekking shoes that you could possibly swim in, or water shoes with rubber soles.
• Waterproof Dry Bag. If you want to take all your belongings instead of leaving them at the pools, you will need a waterproof dry bag.
• Waterproof Phone Case. Take your phone to the pools safely.
• Go Pro camera. The only way to take photos of the hidden cave and waterfall is by using Go Pro or a similar waterproof camera.
• Quick-Dry Towel. If you are not willing to walk back in wet clothes after your swim, take a lightweight quick dry towel.
• Goggles. Those are useful if you want to explore the underwaters of the pools of Wadi Shab.
• Water and snacks. Make sure you take a minimum of 2 liters of drinking water and some snacks like protein bars, bananas, or dates.
• Sunscreen, cap, and sunglasses. Although there are some shaded areas on the trail, the Middle Eastern sun is rough, make sure to protect your body from it.

Hiking Wadi Shab to pools step-by-step guide

Wadi shab boat ride.

Before you enter Wadi Shab you must first take a small boat across the river. Boats are available daily from 8 am to 5 pm under the big concrete bridge where the parking is.

The boat ride lasts no more than 3 minutes and is a fun short intro and outro to this wadi adventure. 

There are several boats operating back and forth between the two shores. You will not have to wait for the boat longer than a few minutes.

• The cost of the boat ride is 1 OMR (2.6 USD) round trip per person, cash only. 
• Be mindful of your return time, as boats stop operating at 5 p.m.

Wadi Shab hike to the pools

To reach Wadi Shab pools you must first hike through a beautiful gorge for 3 KM for about 40 min. 

Wadi Shab hiking trail features around 1 KM of leveled walk, plenty of natural water streams and ponds, lush vegetation, a beautiful balcony walk winding around the mountain face, and some fun bouldering. 

The route is somewhat marked with sprayed arrows on the rocks to help you navigate conveniently. But don’t worry, you won’t get lost since the trail follows the wadi all the way to the pools.

The hike starts as an easy stroll through the muddy terrain, at parts filled with water. It winds through small farms and follows falaj- an irrigation system. 

At 1/3rd of the hike on the right-hand side, you will reach a so-called balcony walk. The trail then elevates and continues around the mountain face above the water stream. It is a scenic place, where you most likely spend some time taking pictures. Note that the stream below is not the swimming area, so keep on going.

Continuing further, after the ledge walk, the boulder section begins. This leg of the route will give you the taste of what is a rocky Middle Eastern wadi hike.

Along the way, you will come across a small waterfall. Do not stop there either, it is not the hidden waterfall mentioned before.

Soon after the waterfall, the wadi becomes wider and you will finally reach the first pool. 

Note: Since there are water ponds and streams, rocks might be slippery.

What is the difficulty of the Wadi Shab hike? 

The difficulty level of the Wadi Shab hike is easy to moderate depending on your fitness level. I have read articles that call this hike an easy stroll and some that say it is tough and demanding. Although both opinions are not wrong, the reality is that everyone will find this trail different. 

For experienced hikers, this will be indeed an easy trail, while for newbies it may appear moderate. In general, as long as a person doesn’t have any mobility restrictions, this beautiful hike is doable for almost all age groups – from young kids to elder people. 

There are a few sections where you have to jump around bigger boulders but it is not technical. 

Wadi Shab pools, secret cave and hidden waterfall

There are 4 pools in total in Wadi Shab. They are all relatively short and narrow. The total length of the first 3 pools is around 300 meters (0.8 miles) as measured on Google Earth .

The water in the pools is very nice and warm. Although it was not turquoise blue as it is shown in many pictures online, but rather muddy green when we visited (bummer). 

The first pool is the busiest and is suitable for non-swimmers as the entrance to it is shallow and you can stand there. Depending on the time of the year, and if it rained recently, pools may get deeper. Still, the first pool is a good spot for families and kids.

Note: If you are going to explore the other pools, you should leave your belongings at the first pool. Access to the second pool is through the first pool (not over the ledge of the rocks above as we thought at first). Some sections of the first pool may be quite deep and you will have to swim, while some of the sections will be walkable. Again, the level of water depends on the time of the year and when it last rained. 

Note that during the dry season the second pool dries out and the water level is very low so you can only walk. However, when we visited, the water was way above the waist. We even had to swim a little bit to reach the rocks separating the second and third pools.

The 3rd pool is the most beautiful out of all pools. It is enclosed in between smoothly curved high rocks colored in grey hues.

Note: 3 rd pool is the longest and the deepest out of 4 pools. You cannot stand in the third pool. Therefore, you have to be able to stay afloat for at least 10 minutes if you want to swim there. 

Once you swim to the end of the third pool, it will look like you have reached a dead end with a high rock in front of you. However, you will soon notice that there is a crack in between the rocks. Come closer and you will see a gap that leads to the before-mentioned secret cave of Wadi Shab . The gap itself is around 1-meter in length.

Note that the water level may be different, and the gap might be completely submerged. This would make it challenging and dangerous to get into the cave.

However, when the water level isn’t too high, you can hold on to the edge of the rocks and squeeze inside the cave. The gap above the water between the rocks is literally enough only for your head. Even non-claustrophobic people find it slightly intimidating.

Initially, I didn’t feel like going inside the Wadi Shab cave, but the adventurous side of me didn’t let me leave without at least trying. It turned out to be not as terrifying as it may look at first. Yet, I had my heart rate racing up when moving through that tiny gap. To sum up, I am glad I did- it was an amazing experience!

Once you are inside the secret cave, you will not only find a hidden waterfall but also an attached rope next to it. If you feel extra adventurous, you can climb up the rock (roughly 4 meters in height) using the preinstalled rope. It will take you up to the 4th pool.

4 th pool is very small compared to the first three. Also, once up at the fourth pool, it seems that it is possible to continue hiking further. But we haven’t tried it this time.

Note: once up at the 4 th pool, you will have to use the same rope to climb back down to the cave. Take extra caution as the rocks are wet and slippery. Estimate your strength when using the rope and be very careful as there is no safety equipment to protect you from falling.

Important: you must be able to stay afloat for at least 15 minutes if you decide to swim over the third pool and into the cave. You cannot stand there. Also, holding to the rocks becomes tiring. If you have a dry waterproof bag, this can serve you as afloat.

Facilities at Wadi Shab

There is a bathroom at Wadi Shab parking. However, there are no restaurants or coffee shops in the area. Therefore, bring plenty of water for a hot day and some energizing snacks (protein bars, dates, bananas).

Where to stay at Wadi Shab?

There is no accommodation immediately next to Wadi Shab. The closest town that has hotels is Sur (a 40-minute drive down South).

If you are planning on visiting the Wahiba Sands and Wadi Bani Khalid on your Oman trip, the best is to stay in Sur.

Alternatively, you can visit Wadi Shab on a day trip from Muscat.

• WHERE TO STAY IN SUR
• Sur Grand Hotel – The best rated in the area, 6 KM from the center of Sur featuring nice beach views directly from the window!
• Sur Plaza Hotel – we stayed here-another decent option for the area with old-school film vibes, clean and spacious rooms. Hotel is located inland, but has a pool for those who want to refresh on a hot day. The food served at a restaurant was average though.
• WHERE TO STAY IN MUSCAT
• Al Bustan Palace -stunning coastline set against Hajar mountains, dreamy pools, a stretch of private beach- great for romantic getaways and best beachfront views.
• Fort Guesthouse – superb location at the beachfront of Muttrah corniche and Fort, features a lovely terrace and humble Omani style accommodation, rated 9.4 out of 10 by travellers.

I hope you found this guide to Wadi Shab, Oman useful. If you have any questions or comments, please feel free to get in touch.

Oman travel essentials

• My TOP TIP : The best way to explore Oman is self-driving. Rent a car at the best rates at Discover Cars .
• Best flight deals: Use Skyscanner to find the cheapest and fastest flights to Oman from your location.
• Before You Go: Apply for an Oman visa easily at iVisa .
• Sleep: book your ideal accommodation on Booking .
• Must have : for travelling in Oman is Travel Insurance with COVID-19 coverage. Get a quote at World Nomads or SafetyWing .
• Guided tours: book the best-rated guided tours in Oman on Viator .
• Local SIM Card: Get a tourist pack of local data and calls at Muscat airport. Omantel provides the best coverage.

Other Oman travel resources:

• Plan your Oman visit with my 1-week Oman road trip itinerary .
• Renting a car and driving in Oman: everything you need to know.
• Driving to Salalah? Make sure to also read my  Dubai to Salalah road trip planner .
• Plan your Salalah route with my  Ultimate Salalah Itinerary: the best things to do in Dhofar region, Oman.
• Traveling from UAE to Oman by road or vice versa? Check useful information about UAE-Oman land border crossing using this guide .
• Plan a perfect Musandam from Dubai road trip with my detailed  Musandam Travel Guide .

MY TRAVEL PHOTOGRAPHY GEAR

• Photo and video camera: Mirrorless Nikon Z6
• Main lens: Nikkor Z 24-70 mm f/4
• Wide-angle lens: Nikkor Z 14-30 mm f/4
• Drone: DJI Air 2s
• Pocket-sized camera: DJI Osmo Pocket 2
• Small Tripod: Gorilla Pod
• Travel tripod: Manfrotto Element Traveller Tripod (Ball Head)
• Photo and Video Editing software: Adobe Photoshop , Adobe Lightroom and Adobe Premier Pro

Hi! I am a freelance photographer & videographer as well the creator of www.theroadreel.com. Born in Lithuania, and currently residing in the UAE, I have been traveling around the globe independently for over a decade. I created The Road Reel to share my passion for travel and photography through detailed road trips and city itineraries, and hiking guides, along with regular and drone photogragraphy tips.

Hi … thanks for your article. My friend and I are visiting Oman early August. We might need a guide, preferably female when visiting to Wadi Shab. Where can we find one? If you can recommend …. thank you

Hi Faizah, Wadi Shab is amazing, just be careful about the weather- it can be quite hot in August. I personally don’t know any female guides, but there are some tours available online, like this one https://www.getyourguide.com/s?partner_id=83COZ04&utm_medium=online_publisher&placement=content-middle&q=Muscat&et=385460&lc=233 Or you can try getting in touch with this guide on Instagram @omanholiday

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WADI SHAB – COASTAL TREKKING-FULL DAY TOUR

WADI SHAB – COASTAL TREKKING  

     Wadi Shab from Muscat day trip

Duration :8 HRS 

Full day great experience to Wadi Shab, one of the spectacular attractions Wadis in Oman , a canyon-type valley in Oman with flowing water throughout the year, One of the stunning spots in Oman. 

The Journey is a Paradise for any tourist, considered an incredible attraction for any Person coming to Oman. 

Now Your guide takes you from your hotel or residency home in Muscat, the capital of Oman. 

Begin your morning Wadi Shab one-day trip, Name also as Wadi Ash Shab, which is Arabic two words, Wadi means valley, and Shab means a young man. 

Sit back in your Air-conditioned car, discover the beautiful coast of Oman from Muscat to Quriyat village, and over the plateau, travel south till you reach wadi shab.

Wadi Shab is located in the city of Sur, within duration 2 hours of driving from Muscat ( about 175 KM /105 Miles per way )

Before arriving at Wadi Shab, There is a photo stop at Bimmah sinkhole, a big hole formed due to collapsing the surface area; you will have a chance for lovely photos of the Bimah sinkhole and then continue your tour to Wadi Shab.

After arrival at Wadi Shab, Follow your Omani guide to Pick one of the traditional wooden boats. This boat ride drops you at the starting point of the Wadi Shab.

First, start your adventure in Wadi Shab with a long walk through the green grass, surrounded by mango, Palm, and banana trees along the narrow winding; then, you can reach a series of streams and pools through old rock paths. After wading and swimming in the river through some beautiful ponds, your extreme adventure begins. 

There is an opportunity to hike and swim in Wadi Shab through a pond of crystal clear water and dive through a narrow keyhole inside a magnificent cave, where there is an inspiring gorgeous waterfall. This secret cave is a magical place, and here the adventurous can climb up to the ceiling and jump 7 meters into the blue crystal water. 

Swimming through the famous keyhole Gives you an unforgettable memory.

Now, back to Muscat from the same road, But there is another stop in Fins Beach known as the white beach; enjoy the beauty of nature, take your photos, then get back to your van for your drive back to Muscat.

Wadi Shab is considered a top-ranking tour of Oman’s day tours and is famous for tourists visiting Oman. 

• Optional : Lunch (12 USD Per Person) 

What is Included?

– Pick up and drop off from Muscat (hotels, guest house, Airport, Port, your residency ) 

– Free bottled water.

– Private air condition vehicle.

– Private and professional local Omani English guide. 

– Boat tickets 

– All mentioned places in the itinerary.

What is excluded? 

-Tips and gratuities 

-Entry visa to Oman 

-Personal expenses 

– Visit Wadi Tiwi 

What to know before visiting Wadi Shab? 

– It is recommended to wear sturdy and comfortable walking shoes at Wadi Shab. Due to the nature of oman’s Wadi in this region, rocks and Pebbles are sprinkled among Wadi Shab in Oman, which makes walking difficult; wearing sandals or diving shows is highly recommended, while wearing flip flops is a bad idea. 

– There are no toilet facilities inside the wadi shab, so try to go to one of the toilets in the parking before going inside Wadi Shab. 

– Life Jacket can be offered with an Extra 1 OMR.

– Try to wear Comfortable clothes such as T-shirts and short trousers. 

Be sure to wear your swimming suit under your clothes before you go inside Wadi Shab, as there are no changing rooms inside. 

Hiking from the entrance of Wadi Shab to the crystal pool inside the cave takes around 45 minutes (The time taken to hike depends on your flexibility )

Sunblocks and hats are recommended during your visit to Wadi Shab.

Taking photos is allowed anywhere, but according to Sultanate Oman traditions, be aware that it is offensive to take a picture of Arabian women; plus, asking men before taking photos is polite. 

– Bring a small bag with you and a towel, and try to keep your precious staff in the vehicle ( mobile, wallet, money, …. ).

– Try to bring your goggles to explore this magnificent area from down. 

– Early Pick up before 8:30 AM is a good idea for your one-day tour; otherwise, you may not be able to go to the End of Wadi Shab. 

– This trip can be shown and written in google with different Names and all the same 

EX: Wadi Shab – Wadi Ash Shab – Wadi Al Shab 

– You can find a narrow gorge at the end of Wadi Shab that leads you to a large cave where you can see the famous waterfalls. It is good to try, BUT DO it only if you are a good swimmer.

– Remember to take Bottled water with you and fresh fruits if available.

– As it is not far From Musat, Wadi Shab is considered a recommended trip for tourists Coming to Oman through cruise ships docking in Muscat, searching for itineraries for Muscat Shore Excursions from Oman Ports.

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Dolphin watching Offers a great opportunity to have a chance to watch Dolphins and Different Colored Species of Fish, also Explore the coastline. Setting out to sea in the morning the captain of your boat will search out some of the pods of Dolphin as they usual live...

Muscat and Wadi Shab | Combined Tours

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Tips on Visiting Wadi Ash Shab – Good to Know Before You Go

Turquoise blue pools of water surrounded by mountains with a secret waterfall at the end. This is my time hiking to Wadi Shab .

Unlike its nearby Persian Gulf neighbours, Oman has an abundance of natural beauty. Wadi Ash Shab is arguably the highlight of it all and was 100% what drew me to the country. Images of its teal blue water pools surrounded by dry mountains certainly stand out.

That said, when it came to planning my trip, I found information online a bit confusing. Even tour company website information varies. As such, I have compiled a list of things to know before visiting Wadi Ash Shab in Oman learned from my time hiking, swimming, and sweating my way to it.

Table of Contents

What is Wadi Ash Shab?

Wadi is an Arabic word referring to a valley. In some areas, it also refers to a dry gorge or ravine that contains water in the rainy season. Oman is blessed with several of these gorges and Wadi Ash Shab is, arguably, the highlight of them all.

Freshwater runaway from the surrounding mountains mixed with salty seawater creates turquoise-blue pools lined with vegetation. This gives the area an appearance unlike anything else. Wadi Ash Shab is highlighted by three pools of this turquoise water with a waterfall hidden inside a cave at the very end.

Getting There

Wadi Ash Shab is located roughly 150 km southeast of Muscat near Tiwi. The drive takes about one hour and 40 minutes depending on traffic. From the trail head entrance, it’s about an hour hike to the first pool.

Hire a Guide or Self-drive?

Driving to the trailhead is very straightforward. The Wadi Shab parking lot is listed in Google Maps and just off the highway. Parking is free and easy to find.

That said, having a guide has a few benefits. The major one for me was being able to sleep on the ride back. After a long day in the sun, this was well worth the cost. I was gassed after the hike and the heat took a lot out of me so I was very happy to have a driver. Also our guide carried an extra backpack and put my water shoes in it along with a towel and extra water. This made the experience that much more enjoyable.

Group tours start at around $125 per person and typically include lunch, hotel pick up and drop off, and a visit to the nearby Bimmah sinkhole. If you have a group of four I recommend you hire a private guide through ToursbyLocals .

Either way, don’t forget to say hi to the friendly goats but be warned, they will go after anything they deem edible! Also note, there are public bathrooms in the parking lot. There are no other facilities beyond this point so use them before continuing on!

To access the trailhead, visitors have to cross the river. There are boat taxis on hand to take people across and cost 1 Rial per person. Note, they only except cash so come prepared. If you have hired a guide, this will be covered for you.

Hiking Wadi Ash Shab

I had read mixed opinions on the hike, with some people saying it’s very difficult and others downplaying it completely. As such, I decided to air on the side of caution and prepare properly. This meant proper shoes for the hike along with plenty of water, sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat. I also brought water shoes that I bought at the souq in Bahrain .

This turned out to be a great purchase and the other two guests in my group were envious as they did not have shoes to wear in the water. Also, one of them was in flip-flops which I would definitely not recommend. There are sections to scramble and the area can be a bit slippery so it would be very easy to hurt yourself in sandals.

Although the hike is relatively flat, there are some steps and light scrambling to do. Our guide definitely downplayed the hike and the other two guests on my tour were a little unprepared because of it. After doing the hike I would say it is moderate and will take you 45 minutes to an hour to get to the first pool. The biggest factor is the heat which makes any walk more strenuous regardless of elevation change or terrain.

That all said, the walk itself is beautiful. You follow the river valley hugging a cliffside path and walking along (and on top of) an irrigation stream. There is little relief from the sun so again, be sure to wear a hat and sunscreen and pack plenty of water.

Swimming Wadi Ash Shab

On the positive, there is a reward for the sweaty hike in. The first pool is where you ditch all of your stuff and dive in. From there, you are in the water or walking through a stream the rest of the way. This provides a welcome relief from the heat. Still, I wore a shirt in the water to avoid burning my pasty skin.

NOTE: Be sure to wear your bathing suit for the hike. There isn’t much privacy to change once at the pool as one of the guests in our group found out. Also, don’t bring anything you don’t have to as you’ll have to leave it at the waters edge. I ended up leaving my camera bag on the rocks with the rest of our group’s stuff and in retrospect, I would have left it in the car if I had known it would sit out. Worst case, you can pack a wet sack if you absolutely need to have the items with you.

The first pool is the busiest so I suggest heading out from there and away from the crowds. After passing through a scenic stream with tall grass you will be at the second pool. A few more minutes of swimming and you will be at the third and deepest pool.

Wadi Ash Shab Waterfall

Swimming and floating through the pools really is something else and is definitely worth the hike on its own. The waterfall, however, really is the cherry on the top.

At the end of the third pool, you’ll come up to a crack barely wide enough to squeeze through. Those that are claustrophobic may struggle with this. If that is you, I suggest going with somebody and diving under the pass it is as it is wider under the water. Once on the other end you will be presented with a waterfall spilling into a deep pool inside of a cave.

NOTE: There is limited space to sit inside of the cave so be prepared to tread water. You can grab onto the cave walls in certain spots to rest. As such, I suggest strong swimmers only do this portion of the trek.

There is a rope along the side of the waterfall for those that want to climb up. The rocks are slippery as one of the members of my group found out so be very careful when climbing down!

Fish Pedicure

Along the way you will see several small fish and, for those daring enough, can you can feed them…with your feet!

Sitting between the second and third pool stream I let my feet dangle in the water and within seconds, tens of these fish swarmed them. Budget pedicure anyone?

What to Pack for Hiking Wadi Ash Shab

As mentioned, the hike to the water is tougher than some lead on. As such, I suggest being prepared with the following:

• Proper shoes
• Water Shoes – These ones are cheap and come in a variety of colours!
• Bathing suit (something you can double and wear on the hike)
• Quick DryTowel
• Warterproof dry bag – These ones come in a variety of sizes and colours .
• Waterproof phone case – I have this Pelican one and works great!
• GoPro ! – I used mine to get some good video clips. I will share to my Instagram account soon!

A Great Day Trip From Muscat

In a way, Wadi Ash Shab is what brought me to Oman. I am happy to report that it did not disappoint. The mix of turquoise blue water and the airid rocky mountains makes for an incrediblely memorable experience. Visiting Wadi Shab should be on your list should you be lucky enough to visit Oman or the region. Pair that with a stop at the Bimmah Sinkhole and it makes for a great day trip from Muscat.

Ready to visit Wadi Shab? Join or group tour or hire your own guide through ToursbyLocals !

What say you? Thoughts on these  Tips on Visiting Wadi Ash Shab ? Let’s hear it!

For more reviews from Asia  and beyond see HERE .

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Muscat day trip to Wadi Shab. Swim and hike at the valley

Table of Contents

Wadi Shab is the most popular wadi in Oman, and also one of the main day tours from Muscat, its capital.  Wadi is the Arabic and Hebrew term traditionally referring to a valley, or it may refer to a dry riverbed that contains water only during times of heavy rain [ Wikipedia ].

It is essentially a gorge between cliffs, where a fresh stream of water heads towards the coast. You start from its river mouth and walk all the way to its source of water, where a beautiful and unique cave rewards those who made it. The whole walk is quite natural, with little signs, plenty of rocks, turquoise pools and waterfalls.

Temperatures in Oman can be extremely high during summer (up to 50C/122F), so the best time to go is during Winter. The most pleasant weather is from October through to April. Also, water levels can change drastically and can affect your visit, so avoiding summer is fundamental.

How to get there?

There are only two suitable options: you either rent a car or you take a tour  ( Viator , Get Your Guide , Klook ). I would strongly recommend the former. In general, you always need a car in Oman (and in most places in the Middle East), as due to high temperatures there is little public transport and everybody drives.

It is about a 1-hour drive from Muscat and 40 minutes from Sur. It is quite easy to get there, the road is well indicated and any Sat-Nav/GPS should have it as well. Coming from Muscat it is just before the town of Tiwi.

What should I bring?

If you do not mind carrying a bag, I would encourage you to bring all the items on the list below.

One important clarification here is that you may need to leave your belongings unattended at some point. This will depend if you are planning to swim and if you are on your own or not. Most people just leave their stuff on a rock (I did it as well without any problem).

• Trainers : the hike is not difficult, but you occasionally need to jump or squeeze between rocks. Flip-flops are not ideal.
• Water : even during winter, the weather can be very hot. And it is most of the year sunny. So one or two bottles per person at least. There is one tiny shop on each side of the river where you can purchase water, but I was told that they are not open all the time so better to bring your own.
• Camera : of course you will want to take pictures, just take the clarification above into consideration.
• Money : you only need 1 OMR (Omani Rial) to pay for the boat that crosses the river.
• Water shoes/sandals: this could also be essential if you don’t like to walk on rocks while you enter one of the natural pools. If you don’t mind rocky beaches/rivers, you don’t need them.
• Food : snacks and/or fruits can be a good option as well.
• Dry clothes and/or towel : you may want to consider this as well. Probably having some dry clothes in the car is a good idea.

Crossing the river to Wadi Shab’s entrance

Once you get there, you will see a parking space and a few boats for crossing the river. The boats can accommodate around 6 or 7 people and the cost of the trip is 1 OMR per person.

There is not much infrastructure, so better to bring all that you need with you. As I explained above, there was a small shop selling water on each side of the river, but I was told that they are not open all the time. There is also a toilet next to the parking space. The closest alternative option to buy stuff or have some rest is the town of Tiwi. I passed some places that were used by tours as a stop.

In the picture below you can see the tiny shop (orange tent) and the parking lot behind.

Hiking at the Wadi

It takes about an hour to walk all the way to the end of the footpath. The first half is quite flat and easy, as you can see in the first two pictures below. This part is not hard to hike at all, and you will find some small farms using the water as their irrigation system.

The second half is not as easy as the first one. The footpath takes you above the water level, and you need to wade through streams of water and climb over rocks. You do not have to be super fit to do it, but you will need to jump over a few rocks and of course, you need to be willing to get wet.

The path is well indicated for the most part, but there was an area not that easy to follow. After some hesitation, I found my way and it turns out that there were some arrows painted on the rocks, which were not highlighted enough. Do not panic if you do not find it straight away, there are always more people around and in the end, all possible footpaths converge.

Swimming at the Wadi

There are quite a few places where you can swim along the way, you do not need to wait until the end. This can change depending on the water level, but for sure you will find at least 5 different “natural pools”.

There is also a very good spot for cliff diving, as you can see in the picture below. You can easily identify it because of its height and piece of construction, which is not common along the footpath.

The last pool is at the end of the footpath, and you can see it in the picture below. It is about 50m long, and they’re a few different pools separated by small areas of rocks and/or pebbles. Some of them are deep and you can only swim, but others are not and you can simply walk.

Another warning here. You need to get out of the water to go from one pool to the other. These areas can be slippery and uncomfortable under the feet. You should not have problems at all with water shoes, but without them, you just need to be careful.

Finally! You are now at the end of the footpath and you can see the last pool. But this is not all, the beautiful cave is waiting for you. There are two options to get into it:

• You can walk over the rocks and then descend from the top of the cave, where there is a rope for this purpose.
• You can swim about 50m, then cross a narrow passage (only 1 person at the time) which is actually a crack on a huge rock, and you are in.

I recommend the latter as the tiny passage is beautiful and it feels kind of adventurous. But be careful here : if the water level is high the crack will be submerged and it can be dangerous. If it is low, there should be enough space for your head (again, 1 at a time!) so you can squeeze into the crack and reach the cave.

Travel tips and recommendations

• If you are staying or spending some time in Muscat, I would also recommend our posts:  Best Resturants in Muscat  and Best of Muscat, Things to do, see and eat .
• If you would rather take a private tour, you can use our favourite vendors: Get Your Guide , Klook , Viator .
• To find out the best luxury and budget hotels in Muscat, visit “ Where to stay in Muscat. Best hotels and resorts “.

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Na Ulitse Yalagina 13B Apartments

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