The Breathe-Taking Wadi Al Shaab!

It took a lot of convincing before I decided to join my friends on a Wadi Shaab trip. You see, I have fear of heights and caves and when I Googled Wadi Shaab - pictures of heights, rocks and cave came out and for someone who is overweight, this trip is more of a suicide mission. I really don't know what came into my mind why I agreed to go with them but what the heck! You only live once. I've been here in Oman for quite a while and I think it's about time to explore.

Wadi al Shaab (Wadi is an Arabic word which means Valley, Ravine or Channel) is located at the Al Sharqiyah Region which is approximately 2 hours drive from Muscat. It is very famous not only to locals but also to tourists. As an Expat from Asia, I've always thought that Oman is just plain desert. My thoughts were wrong!

We left Muscat at around 6:45AM and the scenery along the way was beautiful. By the way, you don't need a 4-Wheel drive to get there.

View on route Wadi Al Shaab

We reached the entrance of Wadi Al Shaab at around 9AM. The weather was perfect.

The journey started with a 2-minute boat ride which costs OMR1 (PhP118). The first few meters were easy for me. I was teasing my friend that I walk faster than him. Then came the bigger rocks and elevated areas. That's when I asked myself what have I gotten in to? I was looking on the ground most of the time because of my fear of the heights, falling, slipping or bruising myself. But every time I lift my head and look around, I can't help but be amazed of what I see. 

If you can't jump...just slide :)

Very Rocky Road

Simply Amazing!

Awesome rock formations

Scared of the cave, I decided not to swim towards the falls and just stayed behind. The turquoise water was cool and perfect washing away all the stress behind! My friends went to the falls and I was happily swimming at the river.

Quite lucky to be the only person swimming at that part of river

Swimming forward will lead to a cave which is the entrance to the falls

You may also ask local kids for directions

Cool Water

The trek back to the entrance was faster and easier. I was ecstatic when I saw the bridge at the entrance of the Wadi. Hallelujah! There was a sense of Pride that I surpassed some of my fears during this trip. All I can say is that it was Hard but it Was All Worth It!

On our way back to the Bridge

                                                 

WOW

Hallelujah!!! Finish Line!!!

Reminder:

• Bring snacks and water with you (There's a small shop at the entrance just in case)
• Clear your bladder before trekking (The only toilet is at the entrance)
• Use Sun Screen
• Prepare 2 Rials for the boat trip (round trip)
• Wear your trainers or trekking shoes. The road is Rocky. Make sure you're OK dipping them in water.
• Bring sandals that you can use while you are swimming. The rocks may be edgy and slippery
• Refrain from going there during summer (the sun will be unforgiving)
• There will be a point were you need to leave your things behind. So bring less valuables with you
• Underwater Camera - Highly Recommended!
• Be with Family and Friends. Enjoy the View. The journey maybe hard for someone like me....but it's worth it.  Look around and appreciate GOD's Creation

Let me know if you what you think about Wadi Al Shaab. 

Peace :)