Mountain Trekking Jebel Akhdar – Oman’s Green Highlands

Mountain Trekking in Jebel Akhdar: Walking Through Oman’s Green Highlands

Introduction

High in the Al Hajar Mountains, Jebel Akhdar — the “Green Mountain” — stands as one of Oman’s most captivating destinations for trekking and nature exploration. Its rugged cliffs, terraced farms, and hidden villages reveal the soul of the Omani highlands — a place where culture and landscape intertwine in perfect harmony. Trekking here is not only a physical journey through dramatic terrain but also a cultural passage that unveils centuries of tradition, resilience, and natural beauty.

The Experience – Trails Through Time and Tradition

Trekking in Jebel Akhdar leads travelers through ancient paths connecting villages that cling to steep mountainsides. The well-preserved terraced fields, irrigated by traditional falaj channels, are a testament to Omani ingenuity in mastering the mountain environment. Along the trails, trekkers encounter pomegranate orchards, walnut groves, and rose gardens — the source of Oman’s famous rosewater distilled every spring.

Popular routes, such as the Village Trail between Al Aqr, Al Ayn, and Al Sharjah, offer an immersive glimpse into rural life, passing old stone houses and centuries-old irrigation systems. More challenging treks lead to panoramic viewpoints overlooking Wadi Bani Habib, a striking valley with abandoned mud-brick settlements that whisper stories of a bygone era. The combination of natural grandeur and cultural authenticity makes every step through Jebel Akhdar an encounter with Oman’s living heritage.

The Landscape – Where Culture Meets Nature

Unlike its name might suggest, Jebel Akhdar’s “green” comes from its agricultural richness rather than lush forests. At altitudes exceeding 2,000 meters, the region enjoys cooler temperatures, allowing crops such as roses, apricots, and grapes to flourish — a rare oasis of fertility amid the arid mountains. The landscape alternates between sheer cliffs, deep wadis, and fertile terraces, providing trekkers with ever-changing vistas and sensory delights — from the scent of blooming roses to the crisp mountain air.

This highland region has long been central to Oman’s heritage, with its unique farming methods, craftsmanship, and self-sufficient communities offering insights into the nation’s enduring relationship with the land.

🎨 Suggested Experience Plan

Morning (8:00–11:00 AM)
Begin your trek from Saiq Plateau. Explore the villages of Al Aqr and Al Ayn, known for their rose gardens and terrace farming.

Midday (11:30 AM–2:00 PM)
Pause for a traditional Omani picnic overlooking Wadi Bani Habib, visiting the old village ruins.

Afternoon (2:30–5:00 PM)
Continue to Jebel Akhdar’s higher viewpoints for sweeping panoramas and photo opportunities before returning to your lodge.

💶 Pricing & Packages

🌿 Practical Tips

Best Time to Visit: October to April for cool weather and clear skies. Visit in March–April to see rose harvest season.
Location: Jebel Akhdar, Al Dakhiliyah Governorate, about 150 km from Muscat.
What to Bring: Hiking shoes, hat, water, camera, and light layers for cooler evenings.
Local Insight: Respect local customs — many villages are inhabited, and photography of residents should be done with permission.

Conclusion

Trekking in Jebel Akhdar is more than an outdoor adventure — it’s a journey through Omani life, history, and craftsmanship. Each step along the ancient terraces reveals how generations have lived in harmony with the mountain’s challenges and gifts. Between fragrant rose gardens, timeless villages, and sweeping canyon views, Jebel Akhdar offers a profound experience that nourishes both body and spirit — a reminder that true discovery lies in the balance between nature and tradition.