Jebel Shams tour

Jebal Shams is part of the Jebal Akhdar region in the western Hajar. Its name means ‘ Sun Mountain ’ and the highest point lies at 3010 metres although this point is only accessible by the military.

From your hotel we will pick you up and drive to Jebal Shams. The drive takes around 1.5hrs to the base of the mountain. Before you begin the journey to the top of the mountain you will notice the abandoned village sitting on the edge of the rock face. Here is the entrance to Wadi Ghul, from here a 30 minute off road drive takes you into the wadi past small villages and water pools to the famous carpet weaving village of Nakhr, at the end of the wadi. Here you are at the bottom of Oman ’s Grand Canyon . With the friendly people and spectacular views wadi ghul is well worth a visit. You may wish to take a short walk or even a mountain bike into this dramatic and pretty wadi that takes us on a journey through more than half a billion years of geological time.

It’s then a 45min drive to the top. This is mostly tarmac throughout except for a short off road drive once on top of the plateau.

Once on top of the plateau you now have the chance to view Wadi Ghul from 3000m. The spectacular balcony walk is a must if you are making the journey to jebal shams. The 4 hour trek (2hrs each way) takes you along the edge of Omans Grand Canyon offering incredible views of the mountain range and the villages below.

Setting off from Al Kateen village we follow the balcony trail along the mountain edge to the abandoned village of Sap Bani Khamis which clings to the rocks completely hidden from view from above and below and forms an intriguing piece of Omans history. Just beyond the village we can see the traditional farm terracing where locals used to produce their food and a short walk further takes us to the small lake that feeds the terracing. The walk back along the balcony trail offers more breathtaking views of the canyon. After approximately 2 hours walking you will reach the small village and you can either make the walk back along the trail or take the more adventurous route out by Via ferrata.

What to bring

• Comfortable walking shoes
• Sun glasses, sun cream and sun hat
• Clothes that are light and will protect you from the sun. (shoulders and knees should be covered)
  You will definitely need your camera.

What we provide

• Guide and transport
• Lunch water and soft drinks

Be aware
This trip may not be suitable for anyone who suffers with vertigo or is not good with heights and/or exposure.

Extra notes
The carpet weaving village in Wadi Nakhr sells beautiful hand woven carpets and key rings in different sizes so if you are looking for a souvenir here is the perfect place. Carpet prices range from 15-70 Omani Rial, key rings are a couple of rial.