For most people, one of the exciting things about travelling to Oman is planning to visit the best Wadis in Oman. And, the incredible beauty of the Wadi Shab hike & pools is definitely one you won’t want to miss! The Wadi Shab hike is slightly challenging but more than anything it’s fun and the scenery is absolutely stunning. It will leave you in awe of Omans’s natural beauty.
This guide is full of practical tips and advice to ensure you have a safe & unforgettable experience. Plus, it’ll make sure you’re fully prepared for the wadi shab hike and have everything you’ll need.
Wadi Shab in Oman may not be one of the country’s hidden gems anymore, but there is good reason for this wadi being so popular: picture crystal-clear turquoise pools, dramatic rock formations, and lush greenery. Wadi Shab offers a perfect blend of serenity and thrill, making it an ideal destination for nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers alike.
You’ll navigate through narrow rocky paths, traverse shallow pools, and wade through refreshing waters. Each step brings you closer to the endpoint, the wadi shab cave, which will add the thrilling final chapter as you squeeze through the narrow entrance.
I’m excited to reveal more about Wadi Shab, from practical tips, highlights and the best times to visit. So, join me as we embark on this incredible journey and let the Wadi Shab hike be your gateway to a world of adventure in Oman.
How to Get to Wadi Shab
If travelling from Oman’s capital city, Muscat, you will need to drive approximately 150 kilometres southeast towards the picturesque coastal village, Tiwi.
Or, a better option would be to visit Wadi Shab while staying in the popular coastal city of Sur. From Sur, the drive to Tiwi is easy and will take around 40 minutes.
Simply type “Wadi Shab” into google maps and this should direct you straight to the car park.
Entrance to Wadi Shab is free but you will need to pay 1 OMR per person for the boat ride to the hike starting point. Make sure you have cash for this. From 8 am locals operate a boat that will take you from the car park, across the stream to the starting point of the Wadi Shab hike. I hadn’t done heaps of research on Wadi Shab before arriving so I was surprised to realize that this boat ride was only 2 minutes.
The last boat ride back to the car park is usually at 5 pm but always double-check on the day to ensure you’re back in time.
Wadi Shab Parking
Thankfully there’s plenty of free parking at Wadi Shab. Maps will take you to the starting point of Wadi Shab under the bridge and here you’ll be greeted by a sign indicating the starting point. (see the photo below of the painted pillar in the car park).
Also from the car park locals hire life jackets and water shoes. If you aren’t a confident swimmer, I highly recommend wearing a life jacket.