Jebel Akhdar
| Place | Why go | Before you go |
|---|---|---|
| The Saiq Plateau and the rose season | A high, cool plateau where mountain roses bloom and rose water is distilled in spring. | Roses in March and April |
| The terraced villages: Al Ain, Al Aqar and Ash Shirayjah | Stone villages above terraces of pomegranates, apricots and roses, with an easy path between them. | On the edge of the wadi; loveliest in the morning |
| Diana's Point | A famous viewpoint over the wadi and the hanging villages, named after Princess Diana's visit. | Saiq Plateau |
| Wadi Bani Habib | An abandoned stone village among walnut trees, reached by a short path down. | Near Saiq |
Jebel Shams
| Place | Why go | Before you go |
|---|---|---|
| The Grand Canyon of Arabia viewpoint | The sheer Wadi Ghul below Oman's highest mountain, a breathtaking view. | Top of Jebel Shams, near Al Hamra |
| The Balcony Walk | A trail along the canyon rim that ends at an abandoned village clinging to the cliff. | Starts at the village of Al Khateem; wear proper shoes |
| Misfat al Abriyeen | An old village of stone lanes and aflaj channels watering palm gardens. | Near Al Hamra |
Nizwa and the forts
| Place | Why go | Before you go |
|---|---|---|
| Nizwa Fort | A historic fort with a huge round tower and views over the town and palm groves. | Central Nizwa |
| Nizwa souq and livestock market | A souq for khanjars, silver and Omani halwa, and a traditional livestock market on Friday mornings. | Next to the fort |
| Bahla Fort | A vast mud-brick fort with long walls, on the World Heritage list since 1987. | About half an hour from Nizwa |
| Jabreen Castle | A fortified palace with painted wooden ceilings and fine decoration. | Near Bahla |
| Falaj Daris | One of Oman's best-known World Heritage aflaj, a water channel running between the palms. | Nizwa |
Tips before you go
- The road up Jebel Akhdar passes a checkpoint that lets only four-wheel-drive vehicles through.
- It is much cooler than Muscat, so bring warm clothes in winter; in summer it is a mild escape.
- Saudis enter Oman with their national ID; there are daily direct flights to Muscat, then about 2 hours by car.
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Frequently asked questions
What are the top things to do in Jebel Akhdar?
The Saiq Plateau and the rose season, the terraced villages of Al Ain, Al Aqar and Ash Shirayjah, Diana's Point and Wadi Bani Habib.
Do I need a 4x4 for Jebel Akhdar?
Yes, the checkpoint at the bottom of the road lets only four-wheel-drive vehicles through.
When is the rose season on Jebel Akhdar?
In March and April, when the roses bloom and the villages distil rose water.
Is Jebel Akhdar good for families?
Yes: cool weather, quiet villages and easy walking paths, and it is close to Nizwa with its fort and souq.
Planning your trip to Salalah and Oman? Read Travel to Salalah and Oman from Saudi Arabia.
Last updated: October 2026. The information is for guidance only; ticket prices and opening hours are set by each attraction and may change, so check them on the official website before you go.