Rising majestically to 3,009 meters (9,872 feet), Jebel Shams—aptly named the “Mountain of the Sun”—stands as Oman’s highest peak and harbors one of Arabia’s most spectacular natural wonders. The mountain is home to Wadi Ghul, dramatically nicknamed “Oman’s Grand Canyon,” a breathtaking gorge that plunges nearly 1,000 meters straight down, creating vertiginous views that rival its American namesake. For adventurers seeking the raw beauty of unspoiled landscapes, Jebel Shams offers an authentic Middle Eastern mountain experience away from the well-trodden tourist paths.
Unlike the commercialized canyon experiences in other parts of the world, Jebel Shams retains its wild character while still being accessible to determined travelers. The mountain’s dramatic limestone faces, carved by millions of years of geological forces, create an otherworldly landscape that shifts with the changing light, from the soft pinks of dawn to the fiery oranges of sunset.
This complete guide will walk you through everything you need to know about experiencing Jebel Shams, from its fascinating geology and culture to practical advice on hiking its celebrated trails, finding suitable accommodation, and preparing for the unique conditions of Oman’s highest mountain. Whether you’re planning a day trip to glimpse the magnificent canyon or a multi-day adventure to fully explore this remarkable region, this guide provides the essential information for an unforgettable journey into Oman’s mountain wilderness.
Understanding Jebel Shams
Location and Geography
Jebel Shams is located in the western Hajar Mountains of Oman, approximately 240 kilometers from Muscat and about 90 kilometers northwest of Nizwa. Part of Al Dakhiliyah Governorate, it stands in the Al Hamra region, creating an imposing presence visible from miles around.
The mountain is predominantly limestone, formed over 100 million years ago when the Arabian Peninsula was submerged under a shallow sea. Subsequent tectonic activity pushed these ancient seabeds upward, while water erosion carved out the spectacular Wadi Ghul canyon. This geological history is evident in the rock layers visible along the canyon walls, offering a living timeline of the Earth’s processes.
The surrounding landscape features a variety of terrain, from sharp rocky outcroppings to surprisingly fertile plateaus where traditional villages have existed for centuries. The mountain’s position creates a natural barrier that influences local weather patterns and supports diverse ecological zones at different elevations.
Climate and Best Time to Visit
Jebel Shams experiences a climate distinct from much of Oman due to its elevation. While coastal areas of the country might swelter in temperatures exceeding 40°C (104°F) during summer months, the mountain summit can be 15-20°C cooler, offering welcome relief.
The ideal time to visit is between October and April, when daytime temperatures range from a pleasant 20-25°C (68-77°F). Summer months (May to September) can still be manageable at higher elevations, but expect intense midday heat on exposed trails. Winter (December to February) brings significantly cooler weather, with nighttime temperatures occasionally dropping below freezing at the summit.
Precipitation is limited throughout the year, though winter months may see occasional rainfall and even rare snowfall at the highest elevations. Morning fog can sometimes envelop the canyon, creating ethereal views as it gradually burns off.
Cultural Significance
For centuries, Jebel Shams has held important cultural significance for Omanis. Local Bedouin tribes used the mountain seasonally for grazing, establishing a transhumance pattern where flocks would be moved to cooler elevations during summer months.
The mountain’s name—”Mountain of the Sun”—reflects its status as the first place in Oman to receive the morning light. Local folklore contains numerous stories about the mountain’s origins and the spirits believed to inhabit its peaks and canyons.
Traditional villages like Misfat Al Abriyeen and Al Hamra at the base of the mountain preserve architecture and agricultural practices that have remained largely unchanged for centuries. These communities maintain the falaj irrigation systems—UNESCO-recognized water channels—that have sustained agriculture in this arid region for over 1,500 years.
Flora and Fauna of the Mountain
Despite its seemingly harsh environment, Jebel Shams supports surprising biodiversity. The varied elevations create multiple ecological niches that support different species:
At lower elevations, hardy acacia trees and drought-resistant shrubs dominate. Moving higher, you’ll encounter juniper trees that thrive in the cooler mountain air. After winter rains, brief bursts of wildflowers bring unexpected color to the rocky landscape.
Wildlife is adapted to the challenging conditions. Mountain gazelles can sometimes be spotted at dawn or dusk. The mountain is home to the rare Arabian tahr—an endangered wild goat species that navigates the steep slopes with remarkable agility. Birdwatchers will appreciate the variety of raptors soaring on thermal currents, including Egyptian vultures and Bonelli’s eagles.
Dawn and dusk offer the best wildlife viewing opportunities when animals are most active. The mountain’s ecosystem remains delicately balanced, making responsible tourism practices essential for preserving this unique environment.
Getting to Jebel Shams
From Muscat
The journey from Oman’s capital to Jebel Shams covers approximately 240 kilometers and takes about 3 hours by car, depending on stops and road conditions. The route follows modern highways before transitioning to increasingly rural roads:
- Begin by taking Route 15 southwest from Muscat toward Nizwa.
- At Nizwa, continue on Route 21 toward Bahla.
- From Bahla, take the road to Al Hamra.
- At Al Hamra, follow signs for Jebel Shams, where the road begins its ascent.
Public transportation to Jebel Shams is extremely limited. Some tour companies offer day trips from Muscat, but these often provide insufficient time to fully appreciate the area. For travelers without their vehicle, hiring a driver for the day (120-150 OMR) offers flexibility without navigation concerns.
From Nizwa
Starting from Nizwa, the historic city that serves as a gateway to the mountains, the journey to Jebel Shams is more manageable at approximately 90 kilometers and takes about 1.5 hours:
- Take Route 21 northwest from Nizwa toward Bahla.
- Follow the signs to Al Hamra.
- In Al Hamra, turn onto the mountain road leading to Jebel Shams.
Many travelers choose to base themselves in Nizwa for a night before heading to the mountains, allowing time to explore the famous Nizwa Fort and Souq before the mountain adventure.
Road Conditions and 4×4 Requirements
The question of whether a 4×4 vehicle is required for Jebel Shams is among the most common concerns for visitors. The answer depends on your destination on the mountain:
For the main resort area and Rim viewpoints, the road has been significantly improved in recent years. While steep and winding, it is now paved for approximately two-thirds of the journey from Al Hamra. Most standard cars can manage this portion in dry conditions.
For the final section, the last 20 kilometers transition to a gravel road with some steep sections and loose surfaces. While technically possible in a standard vehicle during perfect conditions, a 4×4 is strongly recommended.
Accessing trailheads beyond the resorts requires 4×4 capability.
During and after rainfall (primarily December to February), even the improved sections can become treacherous. Landslides occasionally block portions of the road, and visibility can be severely limited during fog.
Guided Tours vs. Self-Drive Options
Each approach to visiting Jebel Shams offers distinct advantages:
Self-Drive Advantages:
- Maximum flexibility for timing and stops
- Ability to linger at viewpoints or trails
- Cost-effective for groups
- Option to camp or stay overnight easily
Guided Tour Advantages:
- Local knowledge of conditions and hidden spots
- No navigation concerns
- Cultural context and historical information
- A vehicle suitable for the terrain
- Safety backup in case of problems
Many tour operators in Muscat and Nizwa offer day trips to Jebel Shams (40-70 OMR per person). For those with limited time, these provide an efficient introduction to the mountain. However, a self-driving option with at least one overnight stay allows for a much more comprehensive experience, including dawn or dusk views when the light transforms the canyon.
For the confident driver who values independence, renting a 4×4 in Muscat (approximately 35-50 OMR per day) represents the best value and flexibility. Always check your rental agreement, as some companies explicitly prohibit off-road driving.
Top Hiking Trails at Jebel Shams
The Famous Balcony Walk (W6 Trail)
The Balcony Walk (officially designated as W6 trail) is Jebel Shams’ signature hiking experience and among the most spectacular trails in the entire Middle East. This moderately difficult 3.5-kilometer path (7 kilometers round trip) follows an ancient donkey route along the canyon’s edge with minimal elevation change.
The trail begins near the small settlement of Al Khitaym, approximately 9 kilometers from the main Jebel Shams resort area. A small parking area marks the trailhead, where you’ll occasionally find local vendors selling handicrafts and refreshments.
What makes this trail exceptional is its position, quite literally a natural balcony carved into the canyon wall. As you walk, the path hugs the cliff face with the canyon floor visible a dizzying 1,000 meters below. Steel cables are embedded in the rock at a few particularly exposed sections, but most of the trail is unprotected, demanding attention to footing.
The destination is the abandoned village of As Sab, where stone houses cling impossibly to the canyon wall. These structures, now mostly in ruins, provide fascinating insight into the resilient communities that once inhabited this challenging landscape. The villagers accessed water via a precarious path to the canyon floor and transported goods by donkey along the very trail hikers now follow.
Most hikers complete the round trip in 3-4 hours, allowing time for photographs and exploration of the abandoned village. Early morning starts are advisable to avoid midday heat and the crowds that can develop by late morning during peak season.
Summit Route to Jebel Shams Peak
For those seeking the achievement of standing on Oman’s highest point, the summit route presents a more demanding challenge. This trail is less developed and less frequented than the Balcony Walk, requiring stronger navigation skills and physical preparation.
The approximately 14-kilometer round trip begins near the Jebel Shams Resort and climbs approximately 600 meters through increasingly barren terrain. While not technically difficult, the trail becomes indistinct in places, marked primarily by cairns (stone piles). GPS navigation is highly recommended.
The upper reaches of the mountain offer panoramic views that extend on clear days to the distant Arabian Sea. The true summit area houses military installations and is technically off-limits to hikers, but the accessible high point nearby provides virtually identical views and the satisfaction of reaching Oman’s roof.
Allow 6-8 hours for the complete round trip, carrying ample water (minimum 3 liters per person) as there are no water sources along the route. The exposure at higher elevations intensifies both sun and wind effects; layered clothing is essential even on warm days.
Abandoned Village of As Sab
While As Sab village is the destination of the Balcony Walk described above, it deserves special mention as some hikers visit it via alternative routes. The village exemplifies the ingenuity of traditional Omani mountain settlements, with multi-level stone houses built directly into the canyon wall.
Exploring the abandoned structures offers a glimpse into a lifestyle that remained largely unchanged for centuries until the village was abandoned in the 1970s when modern amenities became available in more accessible locations. The irrigation terraces once cultivated by villagers are still visible, demonstrating how communities maximized limited arable land.
Photography enthusiasts will find endless compositions among the weathered structures, especially during early morning or late afternoon when shadows add depth to the textures of the ancient stonework.
Little Canyon Trek
Lesser-known than the Balcony Walk but offering its charm, the Little Canyon Trek explores a smaller side canyon with unique geological features. This 4-kilometer round trip begins near the Jebel Shams Resort area and requires moderate scrambling abilities.
The trail descends into a narrow gorge where water erosion has created smooth, sculpted rock formations. During winter months, small pools sometimes form in the canyon bottom. The sheltered environment supports different vegetation than exposed areas, including wild fig trees that somehow find sufficient water to survive.
The Little Canyon provides excellent opportunities to observe the mountain’s geology up close, with clearly visible sedimentary layers and fossil remnants embedded in the limestone. The complete loop typically takes 2-3 hours at a relaxed pace.
Difficulty Levels and Time Requirements
To help hikers select appropriate trails, here’s a comparison of the main routes:
| Trail | Distance | Time Required | Difficulty | Elevation Change | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Balcony Walk (W6) | 7km round trip | 3-4 hours | Moderate | Minimal | Canyon views, abandoned village |
| Summit Route | 14km round trip | 6-8 hours | Difficult | 600m gain | Achievement, panoramic views |
| Little Canyon | 4km round trip | 2-3 hours | Moderate | 150m descent/ascent | Geology, intimate canyon experience |
| Village viewpoint walk | 2km round trip | 1 hour | Easy | Minimal | Accessible canyon views |
All trails are best attempted between October and April when temperatures are moderate. Summer hiking should be limited to very early morning hours and requires additional precautions against heat exposure.
Where to Stay at Jebel Shams
Hotels and Resorts
Despite its remote location, Jebel Shams offers several comfortable accommodation options positioned to maximize the spectacular views:
Jebel Shams Resort: The most established option, offering a range of accommodations from hotel-style rooms to traditional Arabic tents. The resort features a restaurant serving Omani and international cuisine, a heated pool (welcome after hiking), and can arrange guided activities. Rooms from 70-110 OMR depending on season.
Sama Heights Resort: Located near the rim viewpoints, this property offers chalet-style accommodations with stunning views. The resort specializes in astronomy experiences, taking advantage of the mountain’s minimal light pollution. Rates range from 65-90 OMR.
The View: While technically on the approach to Jebel Shams rather than on the mountain itself, this luxury eco-resort offers premium accommodations with panoramic views toward the mountains. Its slightly lower elevation makes it a good option during colder winter periods. Rooms from 120-200 OMR.
All established accommodations fill quickly during peak season (December-February), making reservations 2-3 months in advance advisable. Most resorts offer half-board or full-board options, recommended given the limited dining alternatives in the area.
Camping Options
For those seeking a more immersive experience, camping presents an affordable and rewarding option. The star-filled night skies and dawn views make overnight stays particularly memorable.
Designated Camping Areas: Near the canyon rim, several cleared areas permit camping, sometimes with basic facilities (pit toilets). A small fee (2-5 OMR) may be collected by local land managers.
Wild Camping: Possible in many areas, though seeking permission from local residents when near settlements is both courteous and culturally appropriate. Leave-no-trace principles are essential in this fragile environment.
Equipment Considerations: Nights at elevation can be surprisingly cold, even during warmer seasons. Sleeping bags rated for temperatures at least 10°C lower than expected are recommended. Wind protection is crucial—choose tent sites carefully.
Some resorts offer “glamping” options that provide the outdoor experience with added comforts like proper beds, electricity, and bathroom facilities (from 45 OMR).
Accommodation in Nearby Al Hamra
The town of Al Hamra, situated at the base of Jebel Shams, provides additional accommodation options and serves as a convenient base for day trips to the mountain:
The Antique Inn: A beautifully restored traditional Omani house offering authentic architecture with modern comforts. Rooms from 45-65 OMR.
Bait Al Jabal: Simple but comfortable rooms with mountain views and a rooftop terrace. Rates from 35-50 OMR.
Homestay Options: Several families in Al Hamra now offer guest accommodations, providing cultural immersion alongside comfortable lodging. These arrangements typically include home-cooked meals and can be booked through platforms like Airbnb (30-60 OMR).
Staying in Al Hamra allows visitors to combine mountain experiences with cultural exploration of one of Oman’s best-preserved traditional towns. The lower elevation also means warmer temperatures during winter months.
Booking Tips and Recommendations
For Resort Stays:
- Book well in advance for peak season (October-April)
- Request rooms with canyon views—the premium is worthwhile
- Confirm what meals are included, as dining options are limited
- Ask about road conditions when confirming reservations
For Camping:
- Inform resort staff if camping nearby—they can provide emergency contact
- Purchase supplies in Nizwa or Muscat, as options near the mountain are limited
- Carry out all waste—no collection services exist in remote areas
- Check weather forecasts carefully—winds can develop quickly at elevation
For Budget Travelers:
- Consider visiting midweek when rates are often lower
- Some resorts offer significant discounts during summer months (with good reason—it’s hot!)
- Combining with others for a rental 4×4 significantly reduces transportation costs
- Guesthouses in Al Hamra provide good value with shorter mountain drives
Essential Tips for Visiting Jebel Shams
What to Pack
The remote nature and variable conditions at Jebel Shams require thoughtful preparation. Essential items include:
For Day Visitors:
- Water (minimum 2 liters per person)
- Sun protection (hat, sunscreen, sunglasses, lightweight long sleeves)
- Sturdy walking shoes with a good grip
- Camera with extra batteries
- Light jacket or windbreaker (even on warm days)
- High-energy snacks
- Basic first aid supplies
- Mobile phone (coverage exists in many areas, but is not guaranteed)
Additional Items for Hikers:
- Hiking poles for steep sections
- Navigation aids (maps, GPS, compass)
- Headlamp or flashlight
- Emergency whistle
- An extra layer for summit attempts
- Electrolyte replacement
For Overnight Stays:
- Warm clothing layers (temperatures can drop dramatically after sunset)
- Headlamp (essential for navigating at night)
- Power bank (electricity may be intermittent)
- Cash (card facilities are limited and sometimes unreliable)
Safety Considerations
Jebel Shams’ remote location and extreme terrain require particular attention to safety:
Trail Safety:
- Stay on marked paths, especially near cliff edges
- Inform someone of your hiking plans and expected return time
- Check weather forecasts—flash floods can occur in canyons after rainfall
- Begin hikes early to avoid afternoon heat and allow buffer time
- Carry emergency contacts for local mountain rescue (available through accommodations)
Vehicle Safety:
- Ensure your vehicle has adequate fuel—no stations exist on the mountain
- Check the spare tire before ascent
- Drive cautiously on gravel sections, especially around blind curves
- Park only in designated areas, particularly near the rim
Health Considerations:
- The nearest medical facilities are in Al Hamra and Nizwa
- Significant medical emergencies require evacuation to Muscat
- Travel insurance covering mountain activities and evacuation is strongly recommended
Altitude Awareness
While Jebel Shams’s 3,009-meter elevation isn’t extreme by global mountaineering standards, it’s significant enough to affect some visitors:
- Mild altitude symptoms (headache, shortness of breath) are possible, especially for those arriving directly from sea level
- Acclimatize by spending a night at an intermediate elevation (like Al Hamra) before ascending
- Maintain hydration—altitude intensifies dehydration effects
- Moderate physical exertion on your first day at elevation
- Descend if experiencing severe headaches, confusion, or respiratory distress
Photography Tips
Jebel Shams offers extraordinary photographic opportunities that benefit from specific techniques:
Timing Considerations:
- Golden hours (the first hour after sunrise, the last hour before sunset) create dramatic shadows in the canyon
- Blue hour (twilight) highlights mountain silhouettes
- Midday light creates harsh shadows—use polarizing filters
- Night photography reveals remarkable star fields due to minimal light pollution
Composition Tips:
- Use human subjects to convey the massive scale of the canyon
- Look for natural frames created by rock formations
- Consider drone photography for unique perspectives (check current regulations)
- Capture panoramic sequences to represent the expansive views
Technical Considerations:
- Bring extra batteries—cold temperatures at elevation reduce battery life
- Use a tripod for low-light conditions, especially at sunrise/sunset
- Consider graduated neutral density filters for balancing bright skies with darker canyon shadows
- Protect equipment from dust—bring cleaning supplies and protective covers
Respect for Local Communities
Jebel Shams remains home to traditional communities maintaining centuries-old ways of life. Respectful visitation includes:
- Dress modestly in villages (shoulders and knees covered)
- Ask permission before photographing people or private property
- Support local businesses when possible (handicrafts, guided services)
- Respect prayer times if visiting during religious observances
- Leave shepherding paths clear—these remain working routes for local herders
- Drive slowly through settlements where children and animals may be present
- Learn basic Arabic greetings—efforts in the local language are always appreciated
Beyond Hiking: Other Activities at Jebel Shams
Stargazing Opportunities
Jebel Shams offers some of the finest stargazing in the Middle East thanks to its elevation, clear air, and minimal light pollution. The Milky Way appears with remarkable clarity on moonless nights.
Several accommodations now offer dedicated astronomy programs with telescopes and knowledgeable guides who can identify constellations and explain both Western and traditional Arabic celestial navigation systems. These guided sessions typically cost 15-25 OMR per person.
For independent stargazers, apps like SkyView or Star Walk help identify celestial objects. The plateau areas away from accommodation lights provide the darkest skies. Summer months offer clearer atmospheric conditions, though temperatures are more comfortable in spring and autumn.
Mountain Biking
The varied terrain of Jebel Shams has attracted increasing interest from mountain biking enthusiasts. Several established routes cater to different skill levels:
- Resort Loop (Beginner): 8km circuit on relatively flat terrain near the main resorts
- Rim Rider (Intermediate): 12km route following parts of the canyon rim on mixed surfaces
- Summit Challenge (Advanced): 20km route with significant elevation gain and technical sections
Bike rentals are available at some resorts (25-40 OMR per day), though serious enthusiasts typically bring their equipment. Local guides can be arranged through accommodations to ensure appropriate route selection.
The optimal biking season runs from November to March when temperatures are moderate. Protective equipment is essential given the rocky terrain and exposure.
Cultural Experiences with Local Villagers
Several initiatives now connect visitors with local communities through cultural exchanges:
- Weaving Demonstrations: Women from nearby villages demonstrate traditional textile techniques using wool from mountain sheep. These sessions often include tea and conversation about changing mountain life.
- Honey Harvesting: During spring months, visitors can sometimes accompany local beekeepers as they tend hives producing distinctive mountain honey influenced by native wildflowers.
- Traditional Cooking Classes: Learn to prepare Omani mountain specialties like shuwa (slow-cooked marinated meat) and mountain bread baked in traditional clay ovens.
These experiences typically require advance arrangements through accommodations or tour operators and cost 20-35 OMR per person. They provide valuable economic opportunities for communities while offering visitors authentic cultural insights.
Rock Climbing (for Experts)
Jebel Shams presents world-class rock climbing potential on its limestone cliffs, though this remains a developing activity with limited infrastructure. Several established routes exist, primarily in the 5.10-5.13 range (French 6a-8a).
Due to the remote location and serious consequences of accidents, climbing should only be undertaken by experienced parties with complete self-rescue capabilities. No permanent rescue services exist on the mountain.
Local climbing guides can be arranged through specialized adventure companies in Muscat, typically at 200-300 OMR for guided days, including equipment. Independent climbers should register their routes with accommodation providers.
Seasonal Considerations
Summer Heat and Precautions
Summer (May to September) brings challenging conditions to Jebel Shams, though the elevation provides significant relief from the coastal inferno:
- Daytime temperatures typically reach 30-35°C (86-95°F) at higher elevations
- Lower canyon areas can exceed 45°C (113°F), making certain trails dangerous
- UV exposure is extreme due to elevation and reflective rock surfaces
- Thunderstorms can develop rapidly in the afternoons, creating flash flood risks
Summer visitors should:
- Begin activities before dawn, concluding by 10:00 AM
- Carry excessive water (minimum 4 liters per person for hiking)
- Use electrolyte replacement supplements
- Consider accommodation with air conditioning or cooling
- Monitor weather forecasts carefully for storm development
Despite these challenges, summer offers certain advantages: dramatically reduced crowds, lower accommodation rates (sometimes 40-50% less than peak season), and exceptional clarity for distant views and night skies after dust settles.
Winter Temperatures and Preparation
Winter (December to February) transforms the mountain experience:
- Daytime temperatures typically range from 10-20°C (50-68°F)—ideal for hiking
- Night temperatures often drop below freezing at the summit, reaching -5°C (23°F)
- Occasional precipitation occurs, sometimes as snow at the highest elevations
- Strong winds can create significant wind chill effects, especially at exposed viewpoints
Winter visitors should:
- Pack multiple warming layers, including an insulated jacket and hat
- Ensure sleeping bags are rated appropriately if camping
- Check road conditions after rainfall—some sections become impassable
- Allow extra driving time due to potentially hazardous conditions
- Bring waterproof outer layers during rainy periods
Winter represents peak tourist season, with accommodations often fully booked weeks in advance. The cooler temperatures create ideal conditions for longer hikes and more strenuous activities.
Avoiding Crowds in Peak Season
As Jebel Shams gains popularity, certain strategies help maximize enjoyment during busy periods:
- Visit midweek rather than weekends (Thursday-Saturday are busiest)
- Begin popular trails like the Balcony Walk at sunrise to enjoy solitude
- Consider January-February instead of the December holiday peak
- Explore alternative viewpoints beyond the main designated areas
- Stay overnight on the mountain—day-trippers typically depart by mid-afternoon
For those with flexible schedules, the shoulder seasons of late September/early October and late March/April offer excellent compromises between weather conditions and visitor numbers.
Conclusion
Jebel Shams stands as a testament to Oman’s diverse natural beauty—a place where vertiginous canyon walls plunge into ancient valleys, where traditional life continues alongside developing tourism, and where adventurers can still find genuine wilderness experiences just hours from modern cities.
The mountain rewards different approaches: some visitors come for the adrenaline of hiking exposed trails, others for the peaceful contemplation of vast landscapes, and many for the cultural insights into traditional mountain communities. Whatever draws you to Jebel Shams, proper preparation enhances both safety and enjoyment of this remarkable destination.
As tourism grows, responsible visitation becomes increasingly important. By treading lightly, respecting local communities, and embracing the sometimes challenging conditions, visitors contribute to the sustainable future of this magnificent mountain.
We invite you to share your own Jebel Shams experiences in the comments below. What trails did you explore? Where did you stay? What unexpected discoveries made your visit memorable? Your insights help fellow travelers create their perfect mountain adventure.
For those seeking to explore beyond Jebel Shams, consider the nearby Wadi Nakhr, the traditional mountain village of Misfat Al Abriyeen, or the ancient city of Nizwa—all complementing the mountain experience with different perspectives on Oman’s rich natural and cultural heritage.
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