Wadi Shab, Canyon and river system in Al Sharqiyah South, Oman
Description
Wadi Shab is a narrow canyon with turquoise pools and limestone walls that lead toward a hidden waterfall inside a cave. The route follows the riverbed past several natural swimming areas carved into the rock formations.
History
This site shows signs of habitation dating back to the Bronze Age, with archaeological evidence of fishing communities who built circular dwellings. The sheltered canyon provided water and protection for these early residents.
Culture
This canyon draws local families who gather to swim and cool off in the natural pools throughout the year. The place feels like a community meeting spot where people come to escape the heat and share time together.
Practical
The visit starts with a short boat ride across the water, followed by a hike over varied terrain with some ups and downs. Wear swimwear and shoes with good grip, as the trail can be wet and slippery in places.
Did you know?
To reach the hidden waterfall cave, visitors must swim through narrow rock passages and sometimes squeeze through underwater gaps in the stone. This unexpected water adventure makes the journey particularly memorable.
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide. Discover all places nearby (جنوب الشرقية).
Oman is home to an extraordinary range of natural and cultural sites that tell the story of this Arabian nation. You can visit the Grand Mosque Sultan Qaboos in Muscat, with its striking architectural design, explore ancient forts like those in Nizwa and Bahla that reveal centuries of Omani history,...
Al Alam Palace
109.1 km
Souk de Matrah
111.4 km
Majlis al Jinn
15.1 km
Royal Opera House Muscat
117.3 km
Ancient City of Qalhat
21 km
The National Museum - Sultanate of Oman
108.8 km
Fort Al Jalali
109 km
Bimmah Sinkhole
28.2 km
Mutrah Corniche
111.1 km
Bait al Zubair
109.3 km
Fort Al-Mirani
109.3 km
Royal Oman Police Stadium
114.2 km
Ras Al Jinz Turtle Nature Reserve
74.8 km
Muscat Gate Museum
109.7 km
Sultan's Armed Forces Museum
111.7 km
Wadi Bani Khalid Pool
28.9 km
Bait al-Baranda Museum
111.9 km
Oman Oil and Gas Exhibition Centre
115.5 km
Qurum Beach
117.5 km
Muttrah Fort
109 km
Mascate fortresses
109 km
Fortress Ra's al-Hadd
66.1 km
Wadi Dayqah Dam
48.8 km
Musée Bait Al Baranda
111.9 km
Quriyat Fort
58.2 km
Sur lighthouse
42.6 km
Stal Gallery ستال جاليري
117.6 km
Qurum Natural Reserve
117.2 kmDiscover hidden gems everywhere you go!
From secret cafés to breathtaking viewpoints, skip the crowded tourist spots and find places that match your style. Our app makes it easy with voice search, smart filtering, route optimization, and insider tips from travelers worldwide. Download now for the complete mobile experience.
A unique approach to discovering new places❞
— Le Figaro
All the places worth exploring❞
— France Info
A tailor-made excursion in just a few clicks❞
— 20 Minutes