The southern Al Batinah Governorate, located within the northern heart of mainland Oman, has been labeled the “green belt of the country”, with most of the country’s fresh produce harvested from the area’s plantations. Here, in the mountainous areas of Liwa, lies a small village which has thrived for generations. Thanks to rich, fertile lands and the abundance of water sources, “Burtuqal Ravine” has been self-sufficient for generations, where farmers are able to get their daily needs for their families from the annual harvests sold at the nearby markets. 

Hike

The canyon is a nice short hike (about an hour) followed by some swimming, allowing us to return to the UAE by late afternoon. After 30 minutes of off-roading, we will park the cars and descend to the beginning of the water source, where a hot spring releases “milky” carbonate-filled water. For people looking for an easier adventure, you can stick to the upper pools and the trail along the canyon wall. For the adventure seekers looking to explore the water cavern, we will have to take a steep staircase to the bottom of the canyon to access the water features, hiking back the same way. Personal flotation devices can be provided to participants upon request.