The Jebel Al Ghunah Expedition is a powerful combination of rugged physical challenge and cultural discovery — linking living mountain communities with the archaeological heartland of Wadi Al Helo.
Advanced (10/10)
Trail Type: One Way
Distance: 18.2 KM
Elevation Gain: 500 M
Trail Time: 8-9 Hours
Details:
Difficulty: Expedition Level 5/5
Key Highlights:
- Segement 13 of ECC Adventures' flagship Trans Emirates Trail (TET) Trail is from southern Ras al Khaimah to Sharjah
- 1-Day Expedition
Wadi Isfay & Isfini Village:
- Cultural homeland of the Mazari tribe.
- Historic terrace farming (palm, wheat, corn).
- Unique biodiversity — including the rare Meharia breithaupti moth.
- Seasonal greenery and herbs after winter rains.
Jabal Al Ghunah Ridge:
- Wild, off-trail ascent along game paths and natural gradients.
- Expansive views of valleys and flood-shaped terrain.
- Off-road mountain homes built by local inhabitants.
- Scrambling sections requiring balance and caution.
Wadi Al Helo (The “Sweet Valley”):
- Seasonal watercourse; trail depends on rainfall.
- Important archaeological site: Bronze Age copper mining settlements, watchtowers, and Islamic-era villages.
- UNESCO candidate area for its combination of natural and cultural heritage.
- Oasis of date palms and restored stone houses, connecting nature and history.
Conditions:
Seasonal watercourse; best attempted post-rainfall when the valley is most alive.
What's Included
- Experienced and certified mountain guide (English speaking)
- Outdoor education, Assistant Guide/s
- First Aid
What to Bring
- Hat
- Backpack
- Sunscreen
- Sunglasses
- 1-2 liters of water (DEC – MAR) | 2-3 liters of water (for the rest of the months).
- Salted snacks and/or fruit for a few hours of hiking with a little extra.
- Hiking boots or trainers with good grip/not worn out.
- Shorts or comfortable hiking pants/leggings.
- T-shirt light pullover for sun protection/warmth in the morning/evening.
- Trekking poles (optional to help with balance or mitigate fatigue).
Would absolutely recommend Chris, Karen, Stephen, Em and the rest of the team.
They take care of you every step of the way quite literally and make sure you have the best time in the process.Do join them and my suggestion would be to purchase their season passes which is of amazing value for money and covers you for the entire season!
The best licensed hiking group in UAE. Period. 10 stars.
Their hikes are well thought out, and stunning. They make sure no one is left behind by always having 1 person at the start and at the end of the group. They even show you how to climb tough areas by showing exactly where to keep each of your feet. Highly recommend their season pass.
I joined ECC in 2022 and have been a season pass holder since then. The trails they offer are unique; after your first hike, you’ll want to keep going back again and again….and again. 😂 I never thought hiking would be possible in the UAE, but ECC has made it happen—and it’s incredibly fun!Their experienced team not only guides you on the trails but also teaches you about the local flora and fauna, along with interesting bits of history.Kudos to ECC! To more trails next season!
My first hike with ECC Adventures was nothing short of spectacular. The stunning landscapes of the UAE, combined with the professionalism and dedication of the ECC team, made this an unforgettable experience. I highly recommend ECC Adventures to anyone looking to explore the beautiful hiking trails of the UAE. Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or a complete novice like myself, ECC Adventures ensures a fantastic and safe adventure.Thank you, ECC Adventures, for making my first hike such a positive and enriching experience! I look forward to many more adventures with you in the future.
Amazing! I did today a beautiful hike, wadi shawka! Our guide Chris knows the trails very well. It’s safe and relaxed. Good fun with friends/family/alone (pick up service available)! ECC will show you the beauty of the UAE nature. It was my 3rd time and for sure more to adventuress come!
I have had the pleasure of joining a number of hikes and Chris and team never disappoint. What an amazing way to enjoy nature in the UAE, knowing that you can do so safely with your family. Many of the hikes are family friendly and the children enjoy the experience immensely.