Jabel Shams located in northeastern of Oman, is a breathtaking mountain destination that offers an unforgettable experience for adventure seekers and nature lovers. Standing tall at 3,009 meters above sea level, Jebel Shams is Oman’s highest peak and a popular sightseeing area, especially for its stunning Grand Canyon, also known as Al Nakhur Canyon.
ย Jabel Shams summit Hike
Jabel Shams Expedition Oman
The Jebel Shams Summit Hike is an adventure that offers breathtaking views, challenging terrain, and sense of accomplishment, this hike is a must-do for any thrill-seeker or nature lover. Moreover, it’s a great practice for high mountains trekking and climbing, preparing you for the expedition of Kilimanjaro, Mount Elbrus, EBC and K2 Base Camp Trek.
Distance from nearby cities of Oman and UAE:
– Abu Dhabi, UAE: approximately 560km (348mi), 6-hour drive
– Dubai, UAE: approximately 630km (391mi), 7-hour drive
– Muscat, Oman: approximately 240km (150mi), 3-hour drive
– Nizwa, Oman: approximately 140km (87mi), 1.5-hour drive
– Jebel Akhdar, Oman: approximately 120km (75mi), 2-hour drive
Hiking Trails and Difficulty Level
Jebel Shams offers several hiking trails for different skill levels, including the famous Balcony Walk and the challenging Jebel Shams Summit Hike. The Summit Hike is a must-do adventure for any thrill-seeker or nature lover, with breathtaking views of the Arabian Peninsula’s most stunning landscape.
Jabel Shams Elevation, Map and Distance
Before embarking on your hike, it’s essential to have a map of the trails. The Jebel Shams hike map is available online, and it’s recommended to download it on your device or carry a physical copy. The distance of the hikes varies, with the Balcony Walk being 8.2km return and the Summit Hike being around 23km round trip.
Jabel Shams Weather and Best Time to Visit
The weather at Jabel Shams varies greatly depending on the season. In the summer, the temperature can drop to around 20ยฐC (68ยฐF), while in the winter, it can drop to less than 0ยฐC (32ยฐF). The best time to visit Jebel Shams is from October to April, when the weather is mild and pleasant.
Highlights of Jebel Shams Summit Hike:
– Summit the highest peak in Oman and experience the thrill of standing at the roof of the Arabian Peninsula
– Witness breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape, including the Grand Canyon of Oman
– Hike through rugged terrain, including cliffs, gorges, and plateaus
– Experience the unique flora and fauna of Oman’s highest peak
– Enjoy a sense of accomplishment and pride as you conquer this challenging hike
– Great practice for high mountains trekking and climbing, such as Kilimanjaro, Mount Elbrus, and K2 Base Camp Trek
Jabel Shams Summit Hikes: W4, North, and South Summits
I. Jabel Shams North Summit (W4)
– Distance: 17 km
– Elevation Gain: +1200 meters
– Hike Duration: 5-8 hours (dependent on pace and level)
– Difficulty Level: Moderate+ (Intermediate)
– Best Time: Early morning (September to May)
– Essential Gear: Hiking boots, water, snacks, sunscreen, and a first-aid kit
– Guided Hike Available: Yes
This hike is suitable for experienced hikers with prior experience and no health conditions. It offers stunning views and a moderate level of difficulty.
II. Jabel Shams South Summit (W4)
– Distance: 23 km
– Elevation Gain: +/-1400 meters
– Hike Duration: 8-12 hours (dependent on pace and level)
– Difficulty Level: Challenging (Intermediate+)
– Best Time: Early morning (September to May)
– Essential Gear: Hiking boots, water, snacks, sunscreen, and a first-aid kit
– Guided Hike Available: Yes
This hike is not suitable for people with less endurance or health conditions. It offers a strenuous hike with amazing views and a high level of difficulty.
III. Jabel Shams Balcony Walk (W6)
– Distance: 8 km
– Elevation Gain: +100 meters
– Hike Duration: 1-2 hours (dependent on pace and level)
– Difficulty Level: Easy
– Best Time: Early morning (September to May)
– Essential Gear: Hiking boots, water, snacks, sunscreen, and a first-aid kit
– Guided Hike Available: Yes
This hike is suitable for fit nature lovers without prior hiking experience. It offers spectacular views and an easy level of difficulty.
Getting to Jabel Shams
Jebel Shams is accessible by car or taxi from nearby cities, but we highly recommend using a 4×4 vehicle from Alhamra town to the top of Jebel Shams. The last 7kms of the road are rough and require a 4-wheel drive vehicle to navigate safely.
Important:
– Check the road conditions and weather forecast before embarking on your journey.
– Join Alpine Trekkers for this guided hike every 45 days from mid-September to the end of May.
– Our expert guides will ensure a safe and enjoyable hiking experience.
– Book your spot today and get ready for an adventure of a lifetime!
Looking for more hiking adventures or international expeditions?
Conquer both North and South Summits of Jebel Shams, Oman's highest peak, and push your limits to new heights!
Challenge Levels:ย
- Advanced: Conquer both North and South Summits (approx. 10-12 hours)
- Intermediate: Choose to hike either North Summit or South Summit (approx. 11-13 hours for both)
Guides:
Experienced guides will lead the way, with enough guides to accommodate different levels of hikers
Highlights:ย ย ย ย ย ย ย ย ย ย ย ย ย ย ย ย ย ย ย ย ย ย ย ย ย ย ย ย ย ย ย ย ย ย ย ย ย ย ย ย ย ย ย ย ย ย ย ย - Stunning landscapes of Wadi Ghul, the Grand Canyon of Arabia
- Thrilling adventure in Oman's great outdoors
- Prepare yourself for high-altitude expeditions like Kilimanjaro, EBC, Elbrus, K2, and beyond
- Discover your true potential and push yourself beyond your limits!
Options:ย ย ย ย ย ย ย ย ย ย ย ย ย ย ย ย ย ย ย ย ย ย ย ย ย ย ย ย ย ย ย ย ย ย ย ย ย ย ย ย ย ย ย ย ย ย ย ย ย ย ย ย - Book with us for the full 2 Summits Challenge (Advanced)
- Or Choose to hike either North Summit or South Summit (Intermediate)
Itinerary
Itinerary Expand All
Jabel Shams Oman Trekking Plan
Itinerary
Day 1 - Saturday
Depart from Dubai Bersha heights (Tecom) by 8:00 AM, and arrive at the Resort by 2 to 3 PM. Lunch at Alhamra town on the way to jabel Shams.
Evening: Grand Canyon balcony views sunset walk, relax, bonfire, dinner(4 to 10 chicken bbq with khaboos, khamos , salad, tea and coffee). more than 10, we can arrange mutton BBQ.
Day 2 - Sunday:
Start Jebel Shams hike at 4:30 AM.
Finish the hike between 2 to 4 PM, go to resort, take shower, half an hour rest and then journey back to Dubai.
Cost Info
Cost Info
Price includes
What's Included:
Accommodation (1 night, 2 to 3 person sharing in a resort)
Single occupancy 150aed extra
All meals (1 dinner, 1 breakfast and 1 lunch)
Private room: 200 AED extra
Experienced Leader and Assistant
First Aid
Price excludes
Not Included:
Oman visa (5 OMR or 50 AED for some nationals)
Enter/ Exit fee (35 AED) Personal expenses
Car insurance if required
Transport:
Transport is available for additional 250 AED
4x4 recommended