Exploring Jebel Shams

It's very easy to get to the top of Jebel Shams, one of the peaks of the Hajar Mountains, although the journey does require a little patience. From the villages of Al Hamra or Nizwa, the road is entirely tarmac, with the exception of a stretch of around 8 kilometres. So it's not at all essential to have a 4x4 to climb to the top of Jebel Shams. In fact, even the unpaved section of road presents no particular difficulties.

Here are some examples of how long it takes to drive to the plateau at the very top of Jebel Shams: from Nizwa: 1h30 to 1h45 for around 80 kilometres; from the charming village of Al Hamra: around 55 minutes for 35 kilometres; from Bahla: 1h15 for around 60 kilometres.

Don't forget to keep your eyes peeled on the road leading to the Jebel, as it's not uncommon to see goats climbing trees for food!

Although the road up to the top of this mountain is not difficult, it is still quite isolated. So the best option is to sleep at Jebel Shams for one night and enjoy the sunrises and sunsets without having to drive at night.

There are few options for spending a night at the top of the Grand Canyon of Oman. We recommend the Sama Heights Resort, which is very well located and offers accommodation in very comfortable tents or bungalows in traditional Bedouin style.

abal Shams Balcony walk: the hike to do! The Balcony walk is an unmissable hike in Jebel Shams that lives up to its name, as it follows the crest of the mountain. The walk presents no major difficulties and you can enjoy breathtaking views of the Great Arabian Canyon. It's accessible to everyone, even families with children. Just be careful in the most impressive places.

The round trip takes between 4 and 5 hours. The walk is well signposted and it's impossible to get lost. However, if you are prone to vertigo, you should be aware that the hike is right on the edge of the canyon!

Sap Bani Khamis, an abandoned village

Sap Bani Khamis, also known as As Sab, is an abandoned semi-troglodyte village on the way to the Balcony Walk. Here you can discover the ruins of this ancient Omani village.

Sunrise and sunset from Jebel Shams

Sunrises and sunsets are the best times of day to admire the magnificent light from Jebel Shams. When the light skims the peaks, the play of light is magical and the panorama of the canyon and mountains is all the more impressive.

The Jebel Shams region has much more to offer than just the mountains. Before heading up to the peaks of Jebel Shams (or after the descent, depending on your itinerary), we recommend a lovely hike at the bottom of the valley, in the Wadi Nakhr. On the main road, turn off at the "A'Nakhar" road sign, which clearly indicates the destination of the village of Nakhar, 7 kilometres from the main road.