Live Your Best Lives
The highest peak in Oman, about 3,009 meters above sea level, is located in the middle section of the Hajar Mountains. Its name comes from the Arabic word "Mountain of the Sun" because it is bathed in golden sunlight all year round.
This area is famous for its precipitous Wadi Nakal, known as the "Grand Canyon of Arabia," with a vertical drop of nearly a thousand meters. Summers are cool (around 20°C), while winters occasionally feature desert snow. Hiking and camping are key experiences, with numerous routes offering panoramic views of the canyon. The starry night sky is breathtaking, but a four-wheel drive vehicle and winter gear are required.
Suitable season for travel: November to March of the following year
The average daily temperature is 20-28℃, the mountain breeze is refreshing, and wild flowers dot the cracks in the rocks, making for the best hiking experience.
Recommended places to visit:
1.
Al-Mu'allaqah Lake: This natural wonder, located at the end of the Balcony Walk, is a turquoise blue in the dry season and reflects the sky in the rainy season, appearing to float above the horizon.
At Eagle's Nest, at the deepest point of the canyon, you can observe golden eagles circling and capture the "Central Rift" with a wide-angle lens.
2. Cultural Immersion
: Enjoy a Bedouin Coffee Ceremony at the canyon entrance tent with cardamom coffee and listen to an elder recount the history of tribal warfare depicted in rock paintings.
Enjoy an epic starry night with a Nomadic Nights camping tour, where you'll identify the Arabic star map through a telescope while enjoying grilled lamb chops and a date dessert.
3. Hidden camera position
: Ancient village stone gate framing the scene: The stone gate of the As Sab ruins serves as the foreground, framing the depth of the canyon;
Moonrise Canyon: Crouching on the west cliff on a full moon night, the moonlight flows along the rock layers like molten silver.
Hiking tips:
1. Balcony Walk | Entry-Level
Route: Start at the B&B area → As Sab Ancient Village → Hanging Lake, round trip: 8.9 km / 3.5 hours.
The 70% flat path is carved along the middle of the cliff face, offering panoramic views of the canyon, like walking on a skywalk. At the end, you can swim into a cave waterfall.
2. Wadi Ghul Loop | Advanced
Route: Canyon bottom → Eagle's Nest Observation Deck → Nomad's Trail return, 12km/6 hours.
3. Summit Ascent | Expert
Route: Summit via a hidden trail on the north slope, 1,200m ascent/8 hours, GPS required.
Enjoy a 360° panoramic view of the Hajar Mountains and the desert, with an 80% chance of sunrise over a sea of clouds.
Mount Shams, Oman’s highest peak at over 3,000 meters, is part of the Al Hajar Mountains. It is significant for its geological features, panoramic landscapes, and as a natural landmark for adventure tourism in Oman.
Located near the town of Al Hamra in northern Oman. Visitors can reach it by car or taxi; no metro or direct bus services are available. Hiking trails lead to the summit and viewpoints.
Accessible year-round during daylight hours. The best times are October to April for cooler temperatures and clear skies.
There is no entrance fee for visiting Mount Shams.
No advance booking is needed for general visits or hiking.
Half a day to two days, depending on whether you hike to viewpoints, camp overnight, or explore surrounding villages.
Guided trekking tours are available through local tour operators, typically in English and Arabic.
Drive or hike from Al Hamra toward the base, ascend the mountain trails to viewpoints, and circle back through villages for cultural experiences.
Night visits and overnight camping are possible with prior preparation. No light shows are offered.
Generally uncrowded. Weekdays and early mornings are best for solitude and clear photos.
Basic facilities in nearby villages; hikers should carry water, food, and camping supplies. Limited rest areas exist on trails.
Steep trails make access difficult for the elderly or disabled. Suitable for children with supervision on easier paths.
No fees at the mountain; local village shops may accept cash only, cards rarely accepted.
Small local restaurants and cafes are available in Al Hamra village and surrounding areas, offering traditional Omani meals.
Halal options are standard; vegetarian and vegan dishes are limited but available at some local restaurants.
Limited souvenir options in villages; typical items include Omani handicrafts, pottery, woven goods, and silver jewelry.
Rental car or taxi is recommended for traveling to nearby attractions, other towns, or back to Muscat.
