Follow Sun | Trekking Across Jebel Akhdar, Oman (from abu Dhabi)

The vast landscapes of Oman are dotted with green spots of ancient villages, almost anywhere you look. Their existence for centuries has been dependent on access to water and protection from natural disasters. With origins dating back 500 years, it was only a few decades ago that life began to change here with the introduction of cars, roads, and electricity. The days of transporting farm produce on donkey back for two days to the nearest market are over, as many former farmers now reside in cities such as Muscat.

One of the most fertile regions here is called Jebel Akhdar – The Green Mountain, famous for its abundance of springs, labyrinth of wadis and Mediterranean climate on a plateau that is 2000 meters above sea level. Throughout the year, every month is different here, marked by various harvests – roses, pomegranates or figs; but most importantly you can enjoy fresh air during hot Gulf summer and witness the snow in winter!

For several years now, many ancient villages have been undergoing renovations in order to endlessly charm the visitors who wish to immerse themselves in centuries-old cultures.
And for this Trekkup we have cherry picked the glistening gems that will not only take you back in time, but also transport you to places like Bhutan’s Tiger Nest or Yemen’s Hadhramout, as you will notice striking similarities.

Our journey is set to follow sun, as it crosses two distinct parts of Jebel Akhdar: East to West on a little known path that will traverse the high ledges near the eagles nests, all the way down to a lush oasis with an ocean of palm trees.

You are soon to notice, the sun favours Jebel Akhdar and grants it with a daily spectacles of sunrise and sunset, shows not to be missed!
Yalla!

DAY 1 // Friday
Meeting at airport for a flight to Muscat. Arrival, immigration formalities, drive to Eastern Jebel Akhdar, start offroading. Overnight.

DAY 2 // Saturday
Shine and rise to the gorgeous sunrise of Eastern Jebel Akhdar!!
After breakfast short walk across terrace plantations before we hit 5-6 hrs trail to western side, crossing the ridges with endless panoramas. We will arrive to the western side of Jebel Akhdar in the afternoon, with enough time to explore the ancient settlements and colourful farms here. Quick walk around our Tiger Nest-esque village with a cup of well-deserved coffee, and a drive to hotel to catch up with the sun, and so for you to decide if sunset in the west is better than eastern sunrise! Mountain Nights dinner to celebrate.

DAY 3 // Sunday
Today we will explore the Western part of the plateau, walking across the plantations and Arabic irrigation systems called FALAJ, yet another setting known only from Sinbad cartoons. From here we will hit the road back to airport, with a stop at Rustaq or even in Nakhla, if time allows. In the evening return flight home with a pocket of fresh, green memories!

Grade: Moderate to hard, with cheat option (shuttle instead of trekking).
Activities: Trekking, sightseeing, offroading.
Duration: Weekend
Accommodation & meals: Double sharing - guesthouse (or camping) on day 1, sunset hotel on day 2. Meals: 2 breakfasts, 1 dinner and 1 packed lunch. Bring your favourite snacks. Single room subject of availability and extra cost at the time of booking.

Cost: 1500 AED excl. flights until APRIL 3rd.
Flights: Wizz Air from Abu Dhabi at 280 AED (Wizz Go)

Specifically excluded: flights, entry fees if any.
Requirement: Trekking shoes – no shoes no hike! Daypack, hat, sunscreen, sunglasses, camera, water + 2 litres sports electrolytes for both days.

See yah in Jebel Akhdar x

Trekkup Crew
Whastapp 050 4848238 / info@trekkup.com
Find all trekkups at linktr.ee/trekkup