The Best Backpacking Spots in Oman

Wadi Shab or Wadi Shaab is located in Al Sharqiya region in eastern Oman, about two hours drive from Muscat. The wadi is famous for its beautiful cave that has waterfalls, which can be reached after hiking for around 40 minutes, and swimming in three pools. Beside the adventure through the wadi, there are other surrounding attractions that make the area one of the best spots for a backpacking trip. These attractions include Wadi Tiwi, Bimmah Sinkhole and the amazing beach of Tiwi.

Al Jebel Al Akhdar or the Green Mountain is one of the most famous mountains in northern Oman, and is located around 150 km (93 mi) away from Muscat. The mountain is covered with shrubs and trees that decorate its terraces, and that’s how the mountain got its name. It is important to note that Al Jebel Al Akhdar doesn’t only refer to the mountain, but to a whole area that is located 2 km (1.24 mile) above the sea level. This area consists of several villages like Birkat Al Mawz, wadis, farms and plantations. A two-day backpacking trip is an unmissable experience to enjoy the beauty of nature and the Omani culture.

Jebel Shams is one of the famous mountains within Al Hajar Mountains range in northern Oman. It is the highest peak of the range, which reaches from 2,997 to 3,009 m (9,832 to 9872 ft) high, and is believed to be the first spot where the sun rises in Oman, and that’s how it got its name: “Mountain of Sun”. Jebel Shams offers a perfect destination for all adventurers as it has incredible hiking trails, rock climbing places and camping sites. Between hiking its two summits, watching the view of the sunrise and the sunset, and enjoying the stars at night, Jebel Shams is one of the top backpacking spots in Oman.

Musandam is the north-most region in Oman, which is separated from the rest of the country with a piece of land from UAE. It is surrounded by two gulfs: The Arabian Gulf and the Gulf of Oman. It is distinguished with the mountains that cover its coastline, which forms unique fjords along its shore. On a backpacking trip to Musandam, visitors can enjoy marvelous beaches, especially in Khasab city, with the magnificent views of the surrounding mountains, and the amazing sea creatures like dolphins.

Jebel Hareem or Jebel Harim means the “Mountain of Women”, and is located in the Governorate of Musandam in northern Oman. Visitors can enjoy splendid views of the surrounding valleys and villages, as well as views of the sea and the governorate from its summit.

Wadi Bani Khalid is one of the most famous wadis in Al Sharqiya region in eastern Oman, and one of the most beautiful wadis in the whole country. The wadi is distinguished with its unique rocks, crystal turquoise waters and wonderful waterfalls. The wadi passes through a number of villages, and at its southern part, there are several picnic areas, a network of small caves and a large swimming pool which locals call Muqil. Wadi Bani Khalid also has a proper trekking trail that is called Al Hayir, which takes around three to five hours of hiking. Like other parts of the wadi, Al Hayir has amazing unique rocks and beautiful waterfalls that fall into a pool where visitors can enjoy a refreshing swim.

Snake Canyon is one of the most famous attractions in Al Batinah Governorate in northern Oman. The canyon is covered from both sides by very high cliffs. The canyon has huge boulder stones, several small waterfalls and a pool that can be reached after hiking for one hour. The pool is the narrowest point of the canyon and is 50 m (164 feet) long. The canyon is close to Wadi Bani Awf, which is surrounded by several villages and filled with stunning formations of rocks. The wadi also has several spots for camping which offer splendid views over the surrounding natural beauty.