April 2016
Although this post is titled Wadi Shab, we did not trek all the way into the wadi (a valley, ravine, or channel that is dry except in the rainy season) itself. It will take a good 45 minutes to reach the wadi from the river estuary.
A ½ hour drive, about 32 kms from Bimmah sinkhole, we arrived to the estuary of Wadi Shab. It is just off the highway and under one of the highway bridges, Here you can park your car and for 1 OMR return, you take a boat ride to the other side of the estuary. It’s merely a couple of minutes ride as it probably less than 50 meters to the other side.
From this side of the estuary, it will be a good 45 minutes hike to the wadi itself. As this was the last day of our 21 days vacation, me and my wife were drained of energy and with aching legs decided to walk for a few minutes to soak in the sights.
It was worth it, as it has a desert sort of view with palm tress and tropical vegetation with banana trees against the mountain valley. Just like a film set for Indiana Jones. After about 10 minutes of walking in the hot midday sun, we decided to get back to the air-condition of our car. (We were in London the previous day with a temperature of 2°C). Once we were within sight of the guys running the boat service from the other side of the estuary, they will come to fetch you.

Road off the highway leading to Wadi Shab. To the right is Gulf of Oman. Wonder in high tide whether this road would be submerged. It’s literally inches off the water.

The ‘jetty’ under the highway. You’ll need to cross over to the other side to start your hike to Wadi Shab.

The other side of the estuary leading to Wadi Shab. The boat service is only on this side where you park your car. Once they spot you on the other side, there’ll despatch a boat to fetch you.