Jebel Akhdar Saiq Plateau
Experience Oman's 'Green Mountain' with its dramatic canyons, ancient villages, and fragrant rose gardens. A cooler escape offering stunning vistas.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Rose blooming season
Jebel Akhdar Saiq Plateau
Best Time
Rose blooming season

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Experience Oman's 'Green Mountain' with its dramatic canyons, ancient villages, and fragrant rose gardens. A cooler escape offering stunning vistas.
"Amazing spot point and it’s worth to relax in, a must visit place in Oman!"
🚗 4x4 is Key
A 4x4 vehicle is almost essential for navigating Jebel Akhdar's roads and accessing many viewpoints.
🥾 Hiking Shoes Recommended
Wear sturdy hiking shoes for exploring villages and trails; some paths can be tricky.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Wadi Bani Habib Village
Saiq Plateau
Explore abandoned stone houses and terraced farms, offering a glimpse into traditional Omani village life.

Rose Gardens
Saiq Plateau
Witness the vibrant bloom of Damask roses, used for rosewater production, especially stunning in spring.

Diana's Point
Saiq Plateau
A popular viewpoint offering panoramic vistas of the dramatic canyons and terraced plantations.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
4x4 Essential for Jebel Akhdar
Best Time for Cooler Climates
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
First trip to Oman, is Jebel Akhdar skippable?
🚗 4x4 is Key
A 4x4 vehicle is almost essential for navigating Jebel Akhdar's roads and accessing many viewpoints.
🥾 Hiking Shoes Recommended
Wear sturdy hiking shoes for exploring villages and trails; some paths can be tricky.
where to see roses in jebal Akhdar?
Hiking recommendations - Jebel Shams or Jabal Akhdar
💧 Stay Hydrated
Carry plenty of water, especially if you plan on hiking, as it can get warm even in cooler months.
📸 Capture the Views
Bring your camera to photograph the stunning mountain landscapes and traditional villages.
Hitchhiking at Jebel Shams/Jebel Akhdar
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 4x4 is Key
A 4x4 vehicle is almost essential for navigating Jebel Akhdar's roads and accessing many viewpoints.
🥾 Hiking Shoes Recommended
Wear sturdy hiking shoes for exploring villages and trails; some paths can be tricky.
💧 Stay Hydrated
Carry plenty of water, especially if you plan on hiking, as it can get warm even in cooler months.
📸 Capture the Views
Bring your camera to photograph the stunning mountain landscapes and traditional villages.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Jebel Akhdar for its stunning natural beauty and unique cultural insights, particularly the traditional villages and rose gardens. While the hiking can be tricky to navigate, the overall experience is described as amazing and a must-visit in Oman. Some find certain viewpoints less remarkable compared to others, but the plateau's cooler climate and scenic vistas are major draws.
"Just fantastic place to be. Must visit place in Oman"
Unnikrishnan Patinharapat (Unni)
"Beautiful place, hiking path was a bit tricky to stick with but overall a great experience."
Bassam
"Compare with the other viewpoints along the way, this is just a normal one."
Enoch Lee
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
While a 4x4 is highly recommended for independent exploration, some hotels on Jebel Akhdar offer excursions or transfers. Alternatively, you can arrange guided tours that include transportation.
The roads leading up to Jebel Akhdar are steep and winding. While some parts might be accessible with a regular car, a 4x4 is strongly advised for safety and to reach most attractions.
The most common route is via the Nizwa-Sur road, turning off towards Jebel Akhdar. The ascent is steep and requires careful driving. A 4x4 is essential for the final ascent and exploration.
Public transport options directly to Jebel Akhdar are very limited. It's best to arrange private transport, a rental 4x4, or join a guided tour.
The drive from Muscat to the base of Jebel Akhdar takes approximately 1.5 to 2 hours. The ascent itself can take another hour or more depending on your vehicle and stops.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
There is no specific entrance fee for Jebel Akhdar itself. However, you will need to pay for your 4x4 rental and any accommodation or tour bookings.
Jebel Akhdar is accessible year-round, 24 hours a day. However, visiting during daylight hours is recommended for sightseeing and hiking.
Yes, it is highly recommended to book accommodation in advance, especially during peak season (winter months), as options can be limited and fill up quickly.
Generally, no special permits are required for tourists to visit Jebel Akhdar. However, it's always good to check for any local advisories before your trip.
Yes, it's possible to visit Jebel Akhdar as a day trip from Nizwa or Muscat, but it will be a long day. An overnight stay is recommended to fully experience the plateau.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Popular trails include the Balcony Walk (Wadi Bani Habib), the Al Ayn Village trail, and various routes through the rose gardens. Always check trail conditions and carry water.
Jebel Akhdar offers stunning viewpoints like Diana's Point, offering panoramic views of the canyons and terraced farms. Many viewpoints are accessible by car.
Yes, Jebel Akhdar can be family-friendly. Stick to easier viewpoints and shorter walks. Be mindful of steep drops and ensure children are supervised.
Exploring with a 4x4 offers the most freedom. Alternatively, consider guided tours or staying at a resort that organizes excursions.
Pack layers of clothing as temperatures can vary, comfortable walking shoes, sunscreen, a hat, and plenty of water. A camera is a must!
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Dining options are primarily found within hotels and resorts on the plateau. Some smaller cafes might exist near popular viewpoints.
Yes, many hotels offer traditional Omani cuisine. Trying local dishes is a great way to experience the culture.
Budget dining is limited. It's advisable to pack some snacks and consider dining at your accommodation or bringing your own food if you're on a tight budget.
Small shops might be available in villages, but options are scarce. It's best to stock up on snacks and drinks before ascending to the plateau.
Meals at hotels and resorts can be moderately expensive, ranging from $15-$30 USD per person for a main course.
📸 📸 Photography
Wadi Bani Habib village, the rose gardens during bloom, Diana's Point, and the terraced farms offer incredible photographic opportunities.
Sunrise and sunset offer dramatic lighting for landscape photography. Midday can be harsh, but good for capturing village details.
A good smartphone camera is sufficient for most visitors. However, a DSLR or mirrorless camera will allow for more creative control over landscape shots.
Be respectful when photographing villages and people. Always ask for permission before taking close-up photos of residents.
Expect stunning mountain vistas, unique terraced agriculture, traditional stone villages, and vibrant rose fields (in season).
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider staying at a resort that offers family-friendly amenities or organizes gentle guided walks. Packing plenty of snacks and water is crucial, as dining options can be limited and spread out. The cooler climate compared to the coast also makes it a more comfortable destination for families during Oman's hotter months.
🚗 Adventure Seekers & Road Trippers
Consider combining your visit with Jebel Shams for a comprehensive mountain experience. Pack a picnic to enjoy at a scenic overlook, and be prepared for changing weather conditions. The freedom to stop and explore at your own pace is what makes a road trip here so rewarding.
📸 Photographers & Landscape Enthusiasts
Don't forget to capture the details: the textures of the stone houses, the vibrant hues of the roses, and the expressions of the local people (always with permission). A wide-angle lens is excellent for sweeping vistas, while a telephoto lens can isolate interesting details in the landscape or villages.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Navigating Jebel Akhdar: The 4x4 Imperative
If renting a 4x4 is not feasible, consider booking tours with operators who provide transportation. Some hotels also offer guided excursions, which can be a good alternative for those who prefer not to drive themselves. However, be aware that these options might have fixed itineraries and less flexibility compared to having your own vehicle.
Hiking and Trekking Adventures
When planning your hikes, always prioritize safety. Wear appropriate hiking shoes, carry ample water, and inform someone of your route and expected return time. The weather can change, so be prepared for varying conditions. Many Reddit users advise checking local conditions and trail accessibility before setting out, as some paths can be tricky to follow without a guide or proper navigation.
The Charm of Traditional Villages
When visiting these villages, remember to be respectful of the local culture and residents. While many areas are tourist-friendly, it's always polite to ask permission before taking close-up photos of people. The visual appeal of these traditional settlements, combined with the dramatic mountain backdrop, makes them a photographer's dream.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit