We can't get enough of Oman, so we are expanding our itineraries to our lush and culturally rich neighbour this summer with more options for you to explore and map out this exciting space of the Middle East. And, the best part of this is that it's just one border crossing away and you can be back in time for the start of the week, but with a pocketful of memories made in a short space of time.
Umq Bir - The Ultimate Canyoning Adventure
Umq Bir aka Valley of Giants considered one of the toughest and longest canyons in Oman is calling you this summer.
Located on the side of Wadi Tiwi in the eastern Hajar mountain range, Umq Bir is an aquatic canyon lined with dramatic sculpturing on its rock faces and will leave you in awe every step of the way. It is also the canyon that has it all; swimming, abseiling, scrambling, and descents that is designed exclusively for the extreme adventurer.
On this 2-night adventure, you will spend a full day exploring Umq Bir’s dramatic canyons and blue-green pools that intersects the canyon walls, discovering its secrets and pathways along the way. The full length of the journey is about 9 km and will take 15-18 hours to complete depending on the group's pace. Umq Bir demands your A-game on the day and is therefore reserved for the strongest and fittest. Both in mind and body.
Day 1 – Into the Wild
Arrive in Oman by 12 noon and meet our Omani adventure partner who will then drive you to the base camp for the night which is 4 hours away from Muscat that includes 2 hours of off-road driving.
You will set up your simple wild camp and get ready for dinner.
In the evening you will be briefed on the canyoning adventure that awaits you including gear distribution.
Tuck in early as you have a big day ahead.
Day 2 – The Big Push
Early wake up call with breakfast and afterwards it is a short 15 minute drive to the canyon entry point.
And then it’s time to leave the world behind and enter the Umq Bir canyon.
Be prepared for an intense day ahead as you navigate through the winding alleys of this wonder of a canyon.
You will be required to do a lot of intense swimming, scrambling and descending all throughout the canyoning.
We will take breaks where needed and also stop for snacks and hydrate. So, bring your favourites to keep your strength up.
We will exit the canyon and arrive at the local village of Mibam where we will have support vehicles ready to pick you up. We will freshen up in public facilities and head back to our camping site for a well-earned celebratory dinner around the camp-fire!
Day 3 – Slow Morning & Return
Breakfast served by the camp site and we take it slow packing our gear and camping equipment, You can also go for a morning swim as you savour the adventure of a lifetime before leaving the canyon behind.
We will depart to Muscat and in time for you to catch your ride or flight back to the UAE.
- 2 nights camping with equipment (Tent, all camp cutlery, plates, bowls and
- cups). Sleeping bags are NOT included but can be rented for 1450 AED/pp.
- 2 x dinner at the campsite
- 2 packed lunch or lunch in local restaurant
- 2 x breakfast at the camp site
- 4x4 transport
- Experienced and certified guides who will be with you along the way including briefing and training during canyoning
- Hiking boots or shoes with a good grip and ankle support and non-slippery.
- Canyoning itineraries will require clothes and socks that can keep you warm as the waters tend to be cold in the canyon.
- Light waterproof jacket in case of rain.
- Sun protection (hats, SPF+ etc.,)
- Waterproof clothing for canyoning inlcuding a water-proof back pack (if not will be provided)
- Evening clothes including warm attire
- Quick-dry towels and change of clothes after any water activities
- Favourite snacks for energy and hydration
- Reusable water bottle (2 L min) preferable with insulation for canyoning adventures
- Portable chargers for phone and cameras
For entry into Oman, please make sure to bring:
- Passport with UAE residency visa valid for at least 3 months and passport valid for 6 months or more
- Vehicle insurance for Oman if driving
- If you are planning to fly, please make sure to book a flight that arrives before mid-day on the day of the excursion and departs late afternoon or evening
- Please also check if you will require a visa depending on your nationality. (Visit https://evisa.rop.gov.om/ for details)
Do I need a visa to enter Oman?
Depending on your passport you may need a visa either pre-approved or on arrival. Please check for all entry regulations including requirements to DRIVE across the border into Oman through the official website: https://evisa.rop.gov.om/
Is alcohol banned in Oman?
Alcoholic beverages are available at the bars and restaurants of most 5 star hotels in Oman. You can also purchase up to 4 liters of alcohol upon arrival from the duty-free liquor section at the airport.
What's the acceptable dress code?
Swim wear is permitted without reservations in 5 star hotels and resorts. In public places however it is advised to wear clothing that covers your knees and shoulders. Short sleeves, t-shirts and leggings are acceptable in general. In places of religious importance however, women must cover all parts of their body including their hair and men must wear long trousers and shirts.
