Private 7-Hour Wadi Shab Adventure from Muscat via Bimmah Sinkhole and Fins Beach

Wadi Shab is a large canyon gorge with palm trees and other greenery growing along its floor. This private trip from Muscat takes about seven hours and runs in a comfortable 4WD with fuel, bottled water and an Omani guide who speaks English (Arabic is also listed). Hotel or port pick-up and drop-off anywhere in Muscat is covered, for up to four travelers per booking. The day starts in the morning and the order is sinkhole, beach, then wadi. The first short stop is the Bimmah Sinkhole, where most visitors take photos or swim in the lake. Next comes Fins Beach, a long white-sand beach used as a photo stop. The road then continues to Wadi Shab by way of the coast to Quriyat and over the plateau. Before entering the wadi, a boat ride is needed, and the fare of 1 OMR (about 3 USD) per person is paid on the spot. The walk through the canyon and its green terraced gardens takes about 40 minutes and ends at streams and pools. Swimmers can go through a narrow keyhole into a cave with a waterfall. Rocks and pebbles cover the ground, so sturdy walking shoes are advised. Lunch is not included. A moderate level of fitness is expected, and the trip is not recommended for pregnant travelers or for anyone with spinal injuries or poor cardiovascular health.