⛰️ Mountain📍 Ad Dakhiliyah🚙 4WD required
Jebel Shams & Wadi Ghul
Oman's highest peak above the deepest canyon in the Arabian Peninsula — the Balcony Walk is the finest, most exposed hike in the country.
Al Hajar Mountains
Oman's highest peak above the deepest canyon in the Arabian Peninsula — the Balcony Walk is the finest, most exposed hike in the country.
Al Hajar Mountains
The wind at the canyon rim of Wadi Ghul comes from below — rising from a kilometre of vertical limestone you cannot fully comprehend until you stop walking and stand at the edge. Jebel Shams reaches 3,009 metres, but what makes it the finest high point in Oman is what it stands above: the deepest canyon in the Arabian Peninsula, dropping 1,000 metres to a wadi floor you can barely distinguish.
The Balcony Walk follows the rim for 7 kilometres to the abandoned village of As Sab, with no fence between you and the void — the finest hike in Oman, not because it is technically demanding but because the exposure is complete and sustained for hours. The summit itself is driveable in a 4WD and cold enough in winter for frost on the rocks. October through February, before spring heat changes the light, is when the canyon shows everything it is.
A curated selection of moments from the Al Hajar Mountains.
About 3 hours from Muscat: take the Nizwa highway, then northwest toward Bahla, then follow signs to Jebel Shams. 4WD strongly recommended for the final section.
These operators offer guided tours and experiences at Wadi Hoqain — from half-day swims to full overnight treks. Book directly through them for the best experience.