With the commencement of Oman’s winter season, now is an ideal time to visit the world of Oman’s grand mountains and all their treasures. Enjoy breath-taking views, unsurpassed hiking trails and surprise-filled souks to historical sites that tell the Sultanate’s stories. Jebel Akhdar and Jebel Shams are home to engaging adventures and diverse delights, including world-class resorts and hotels in exquisite locations. Whether you enjoy exploring amid rare beauty, relaxing in elegant environments or experiencing a unique world of history and culture, there’s something special here for everyone.
Jebel Akhdar
Jebel Akhdar (Green Mountain) is one of the Sultanate’s most popular destinations for residents and visitors, thanks to its diverse options for relaxation, hiking and visiting cultural sites. The region features sumptuous resorts, spectacular scenery as far as the eye can see and a wealth of opportunities to shop for locally made handicrafts or visit centuries-old villages and historical building to learn about Oman’s rich history.
Jebel Akhdar is located 150 km from Muscat. The range is mostly desert, but at higher altitudes, the famed Damask rose flourishes, along with shrubs, trees, and orchards of apricots, pomegranates and walnuts.
Jebel Akhdar is also home to Diana’s Point, a site with a spectacular panoramic view that the late Princess Diana enjoyed when she visited Oman in 1986.
Along with top-tier accommodations and natural beauty that attracts visitors from across the world, the area also features souks and heritage sites in the cities including Nizwa, Bahla and Ebri, along with ancient landmarks such as Nizwa Fort, Jabreen Castle and Bahla Fort.
Jebel Shams
Jebel Shams (Mountain of Sun), the country’s highest mountain is a tranquil land that features extraordinary views and options for comfortable accommodations or living on the land.
Accessible via four-wheel-drive vehicles and located 240 km from Muscat, Jebel Shams is home to Wadi Ghul, also known as the Grand Canyon of Arabia, with sheer cliff faces that stretch for more than 1000 metres. An excellent destination for photography enthusiasts and everyone who enjoys rugged, natural beauty, Jebel Shams is also home to understated, high-quality hotels that were built to suit their surroundings.
For visitors who prefer more of a nature-oriented experience, Jebel Shams offers excellent options for campers and adventurous explorers. There are countless choices for hiking, from short, easy walks to outings that require proper equipment, training and fitness.
Near the summit, the terrain forms a large, flat plateau, which is a perfect place for pitching your tent, enjoying a picnic or simply resting and enjoying fresh mountain air and natural beauty in one of Oman’s most special places.
