Oman Explorer

Places to See & Highlights

• Hajrat Al Sheikh Tourist Walkway: A 1.5?km stone-paved trail linking heritage sites like Al?Safalah Castle and Bait Al?Ghasham Museum, shaded by palm oases and aflaj irrigation channels 

• Al?Safalah Castle: Recently restored historic fortress with an ancient mosque featuring massive pillars and hand?inscribed walls 

• Bait Al?Ghasham (Al?Ghasham House): A 200?year?old noble home, fully restored with traditional furnishings, an elegant women’s spa, and guided tours 

• Al?Shaykh Room & Afi oasis: Ruined mud?brick structures near falaj channels, shaded palm groves, ideal for a picnic 

• Ancient neighbourhoods: Over 15 castles, forts, towers (e.g., Al?Mutala’a, Hujrat al Sheikh), historic mosques, and a 300?year?old Great Mosque in Al?Sefala with columns and an old well

Activities to Do

• Heritage walking: Stroll the shaded walkway, exploring sign?posted ruins, castles, aflaj, and palm groves 

• Explore restored buildings: Visit Al?Safalah Castle’s mosque, the elegant interiors of Bait Al?Ghasham, and the historic Shyikh Room 

• Picnic by the falaj: Relax around Afi’s oasis under palm trees beside clear falaj streams 

• Casual hiking: Gentle walking among gardens, ruins, and shaded paths—suitable even in summer due to tree cover .

• Wild camping: The wadi is accessible and secluded—no facilities, so bring your own gear, and avoid when it rains 

Travel & Safety Tips

• Suitable vehicle: Most areas accessible by 2WD, including Afi oasis; last walkways are on foot only .

• Timing: It’s an easy day trip from Muscat (~1?h); ideal for weekend outings or en route to Nizwa 

• Facilities: No shops, toilets, or restaurants at the wadi; cafes/kiosks along walkway, but still bring water, snacks, sunscreen.

• Respect heritage: Stick to walkways and guided areas—don’t wander into private land or damage ruins.

• Camping advice: Quiet spot with shade and firewood; no water or toilets—check flash flood risk if it rains .

Getting There

• By car: Roughly 90–100?km from Muscat (~1?h). Follow road to Nakhal and turn toward Afi tribe areas, then to Hajrat Al Sheikh.

• Walkway start: At Hajrat Al Sheikh neighbourhood—look for signage to Bait Al?Ghasham and walkway trailhead 

• Day?trip combo: Pair with Nakhal Fort, Al?Thowarah hot spring, and Jabal Akhdar for a full itinerary.

Best Time to Visit

• Year-round accessible: Summer shaded by palms, winter crisp and pleasant.

• Mornings and late afternoons offer cooler temperatures and soft light—ideal for photography and walks.

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