Wadi Ash Shab

Wadi Ash Shab is one of the top highlights of Oman. The narrow canyon is home to crystal clear blue water pools and also a secret waterfall inside a cave. 

Freshwater cascading from tops of the mountains meet the briny sea water on its banks, creating an environmental diversity, making it stand on a pedestal of its own when compared with the other wadis in the Sultanate.

In this ultimate guide, you’ll learn everything you need to know before visiting Wadi Ash Shab.

Wadi Shab location

Wadi Ash Shab is located in Tiwi, which is a part of Sur in Al Sharqiyah South Governorate. 

The place is easily accessible from Muscat, as it lies 140 kilometers from Muscat on the Qurayat,  Sur Coastal Road. 

Why to Visit Wadi Shab

This valley has an archaeological history, found the circular huts of fishermen dating back to the fourth millennium BC were found with indicators of the practice of fishing craft in this era.

As previously mentioned, Wadi Ash Shab is one of the most famous valleys in Oman, with water descending from the highest mountains of Bani Jaber. 

Being very well known among Omani people, the wadi gets very busy during holidays with many families going on picnics, it is better to avoid visiting it during that time if you don’t like crowded wadis.

Standing out on the coastal road linking Qurayyat to Tiwi, this valley is a combination of beautiful coastal nature and mountain formations that embrace many tourist attractions.

As for the rock formations of Wadi Shab, they are different from those in the world, as the waters and various erosion factors have carved wonderful artistic scenes in it.

Things to do in Wadi Ash Shab 

You can enjoy many activities in Wadi Ash Shab like hiking, swimming in the freshwater pools and having an adventurous journey.  

You can only meander through certain areas by boat, or take pleasure in a refreshing hike through this mountainous region or just to have a barbecue.

1- Hiking

Hiking along Wadi Shab is pretty entertaining and easy, so even if you aren’t the strongest trekker, it shouldn’t be a big challenge.

The sound of water in this region produces a wonderful natural symphony, in harmony with the sound of birds on the trees there, which increases the beauty of the view.

You don’t need a 4-wheel drive to get to the wadi as it is just off the Muscat to Sharqiyah highway and you get to it by passing through Tiwi village, you can just park your car and start your hike.

2- Boat Rides

To get to the beginning of the Wadi Shab hike, you must take a very short boat ride across the river. The river is very deep and wide so you must take the boat ride to get to the other side. 

The boat ride takes less than 3 minutes to get you to the other side of the river. However, it is a fun experience to start off your trip. You can explore the canyon and enjoy all the beautiful sights. 

The boat ride costs 1 OMR per person, operating at 8 am until 5 pm. 

3- Swimming

One of the best things to do in Wadi Shab is swimming. The area consists of only three pools. 

Swimming in Wadi Shab is enough space and a wonderful experience, as the water is very warm. It is best experienced all year round, during summers and winters.