Oman, Wadi Shab – a gorge between cliffs

Wadi Shab is one of the many incredible places worth visiting in Oman. In Arabic, “wadi” means “valley” or “riverbed,” referring to dry valleys found in desert regions. Wadi Shab translates to “gorge between cliffs,” a name that perfectly suits this location.

Crystal-clear water, towering cliffs, palm trees, and lush greenery make this spot truly unique. The main attraction of Wadi Shab is its turquoise pools, where you can cool off during the hike.

Wadi Shab is located about 140 km from Muscat, near the town of Tiwi. To get there, you need to exit the highway leading towards Sur and park under a bridge. There’s a small parking area that fills up quickly, so it’s best to arrive early to avoid crowds and parking issues. The parking lot (map) is accessible for all types of vehicles. Facilities include a restroom and a small café. The trail to Wadi Shab starts on the other side of the river. To cross, locals offer a short boat ride for 1 OMR (around 10 PLN), with boats operating from approximately 8:00–9:00 AM to 5:00–6:00 PM. Although the ride lasts less than five minutes, it’s the only cost of the trip, as entry to Wadi Shab is free.

To this day, I’m not sure how the bell system works, but the important thing is—it does!

The entire trail is about 5 km long and isn’t particularly challenging. Most of the path is flat, with rocks and boulders appearing only near the end, requiring some agility. While the trail is marked with arrows, it’s not always clear which route is optimal. Generally, the markings indicate the easiest path, so even if you stray, you should still reach your destination without any issues.

Beyond the boulders, the path flattens again and runs alongside an ancient irrigation system called falaj. You’ll also come across a cone-shaped rock, just beyond which lie the famous pools. The highlight of Wadi Shab is a hidden cave with a waterfall. To reach it, you need to walk for about 30 minutes, then swim through 2–3 natural pools (depending on the water level).

Wadi Shab is best visited between October and April when temperatures are bearable. It’s recommended to bring a swimsuit, towel, water shoes, and drinking water. Swimmers will also find a waterproof bag essential.

Keep in mind that Oman, while welcoming to tourists, is a Muslim country. Revealing bikinis are not appropriate, especially during the boat ride. To respect local customs, it’s best to swim in shorts and a t-shirt.