Wadi Shab

Wadi Shab is one of my favourite places in Oman. Wadi Shab was the location for the 2012 @Red Bull Cliff Diving. Wadi is the Arabic word for valley. Wadis are plentiful in Oman but this one in particular is infamous for its beauty and the hidden gem at the end of the 50-60 minute hike over boulders and through streams. Wadi Shab is a tough hike but definitely well worth it. 

Your adventure begins with a short motor boat journey across the mouth of the river.  It costs 400 baiza (about 80cent) for the brief ride. The beautiful pathway is enveloped by a high canyon. The rock changes colour depending on what time of day it is. The elegant palm trees offer little shade so be sure to bring sun screen and a hat. Good walking shoes are essential also as it is quite a walk!
 

Walking through the Wadi
 

Towards the end of the hike, you come to an area where you must swim through in order to get to the other side. From here, only capable swimmers should proceed as the water in this part of the wadi is very deep.  It is very safe to leave your things by a rock (Just remember where!) while you go swim.

The crisp, clear waters are great to cool down in!

 

Once you have gone through two pools you could to the best part of the walk which is definitely a case of the best til last! Again, it is vital at this point that you are a confident swimmer as the the pool is very deep and you have to be able to swim under water for a few seconds. Once you swim under the rock (Unless your small head will allow you to squeeze through a gap!), you will be able to enjoy the breathtaking beauty of cave's interior. The crystal clear water and flowing waterfall combine to make the trek more than worthwhile.

 

Remember to bring:

Lots of water

Good walking shoes (that you don't mind getting wet!)

A towel

Swim wear

Sun cream

Hat and sun glasses

A camera (waterproof if possible)