Jabal al-Akhdar

4 photos

Escape the heat and journey to the majestic Jabal al-Akhdar, the jewel of Oman’s Al Hajar Mountains. Ascend to the Saiq Plateau, over 2,000 meters above sea level, to discover a dramatic landscape of deep canyons and vibrant, terraced fruit orchards. This tour offers a perfect blend of natural beauty, cultural heritage, and thrilling mountain scenery, featuring visits to ancient villages, traditional rose water distilleries, and the famous canyon viewpoints.

Duration

1 Day

Max People

Tour Guide

Yes

Transportation

Yes

The Jabal al-Akhdar Tour Package is a high-altitude cultural and scenic adventure. The mountain’s unique Mediterranean-like climate allows for the cultivation of various fruits like pomegranates, apricots, peaches, and walnuts, grown on centuries-old terraced farms irrigated by the ancient Falaj system (a UNESCO World Heritage site).

Your journey will typically begin in Muscat or Nizwa, traveling in a specialized 4×4 vehicle—which is mandatory for the ascent up the mountain’s winding road. Key highlights include exploring the charming, abandoned mud-brick village of Wadi Bani Habib, taking a guided walk through the picturesque Three Villages (Al Aqar, Al Ayn, and Ash Shirayjah), and visiting the renowned Diana’s Point for a spectacular panoramic view of the ‘Grand Canyon of Arabia.’

During spring (March-May), the mountain transforms with the bloom of Damask roses, and you may have the opportunity to witness the traditional rose water distillation process. This tour is ideal for nature lovers, photographers, and those seeking a cool, tranquil retreat high above the desert plains.

Included/Excluded

Transportation
Expert Local Guide

Tour Plan

Day 01 SUR

Pick-up & Mountain Journey

Start from your hotel in Muscat or Nizwa in a mandatory 4x4 vehicle. Drive toward the Al Hajar Mountains, enjoying the changing landscape as you approach the foothills.

Birkat al-Mouz Exploration

Stop to explore the ancient, abandoned mud-brick village of Birkat al-Mouz. Walk through the sprawling date palm groves and observe the traditional Falaj irrigation system in action.

Ascent to Saiq Plateau

Drive up the thrilling, winding road to the Saiq Plateau, ascending over 2,000 meters above sea level. Pass through the police checkpoint (requires a 4x4) and marvel at the panoramic views opening up below.

The Three Villages Scenic Walk

Embark on a moderate scenic hike (approximately 1.5 - 2 hours) through the famous terraced settlements of Al Ayn, Ash Shirayjah, and Al Aqar. Observe how pomegranates, walnuts, and roses are cultivated on these vertical farms.

Traditional Lunch Break

Enjoy a well-deserved break and savor a traditional Omani lunch at a local restaurant or one of the plateau's mountain-top hotels.

Diana's Point Viewpoint

Visit the area's most iconic location, named after Princess Diana's visit. Take in the breathtaking, sweeping views of the dramatic canyon, often referred to as the 'Grand Canyon of Arabia.'

Wadi Bani Habib Ruins

Explore the atmospheric ruins of the old Wadi Bani Habib village, a collection of deserted stone and mud-brick structures nestled deep within the wadi (dry riverbed).

Descent & Return

Begin the drive back down the mountain, returning to the plains and then proceeding to your original drop-off location (Muscat or Nizwa).