Musandam Trekking
Musandam Trekking Tour to Jabal Shem (Shem Mountain)
Embark on an unforgettable Musandam trekking adventure to Jabal Shem, one of Khasab’s most iconic peaks. Rising about 880 meters above sea level, this majestic mountain lies within the scenic Shem Fjord, offering awe-inspiring views of Oman’s “Norway of Arabia.”
Known locally as the Sheikh’s Belly or Sheikh’s Horn, Shem Mountain marks the western entrance to the fjord and is famous for its dramatic cliffs, panoramic vistas, and cultural significance. This trek is perfect for adventure seekers, nature lovers, and photographers eager to experience Musandam’s rugged beauty up close.
Tour Details
- Location: Khasab, Musandam, Oman
- Departure Time: 10:00 AM
- Return Time: Approximately 04:00 PM (one-day tour)
- What to Wear: Comfortable and professional trekking gear
Included
- Professional trekking guide
- Transport from Khasab Port
- Camping arrangements (for overnight treks)
- Drinking water and light refreshments
Requirements
- Valid Oman visit visa
- COVID-19 vaccination certificate (two doses)
- Negative PCR test (valid within 72 hours)
- Original passport with at least 90 days validity
One-Day Trekking Tour
Start your adventure at 9:00 AM and return by 4:00 PM the same day. Enjoy a full-day guided trek with stunning views across the fjords and local villages.
Overnight Trekking Tour
Experience both day and night in the mountains! This option includes camping on Jabal Shem, with lunch, dinner, and breakfast provided. Departure at 10:00 AM, return the next day by 10:00 AM.
Why Visit Jabal Shem?
At the top of She m Mountain, you’ll witness one of the most breathtaking panoramas in Oman — overlooking the Strait of Hormuz, Sea of Oman, and Arabian Gulf. From this vantage point, you can see charming fishing villages such as Nazifi, Qana, Maqlab, Sibi, and Shem Village, as well as islands and fjords including Telegraph Island, Seebi Island, Najd Fjord, Hablin Fjord, Ghub Ali Fjord, and Shisa Fjord.
Spend a full day cruising through the heart of Musandam. Lounge on soft carpets and cushions aboard a beautifully decorated Omani dhow as you soak in panoramic views of the fjords. Dive into clear blue waters, meet friendly dolphins, and witness the simple life of fishermen who call these fjords home.
Book Your Musandam Trekking Experience
Challenge yourself, reconnect with nature, and discover the hidden gems of Musandam. Whether you choose a one-day hike or an overnight mountain adventure, Xplore Musandam Tours ensures a safe, memorable, and scenic experience.
Booking and Cancellation Policy
- All divers must hold a valid diving license to join our Musandam diving trips.
- If you require diving training before the trip, please inform us in advance so we can make the necessary arrangements.
- All diving trips must be booked and fully paid for in advance — bookings are only confirmed upon receipt of payment.
- Date changes can only be made if requested at least 72 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Cancellation Terms
- 72 hours or more before departure: No cancellation fee. A full refund (excluding bank charges) will be issued.
- Between 72 and 48 hours before departure: 50% of the tour fee will be charged, plus applicable bank charges.
- Less than 48 hours before departure: 100% of the tour fee will be charged; no refund will be provided
- No-show: If you fail to appear for the trip for any reason, the booking will be forfeited with no refund or reschedule option.
Weather & Safety Conditions
We reserve the right to cancel or postpone the trip due to bad weather, unsafe sea conditions, or government instructions. In such cases, guests will be offered a full refund or the option to reschedule the tour.
What to Expect
Get ready to experience the breathtaking beauty of Jabal Shem (Shem Mountain) — a true gem of Musandam’s rugged landscape. During the trek, you’ll enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding villages, including Nazifi, Qana, Maqlab, Sibi, and the Village of Shem. From the mountain’s summit, you’ll witness spectacular sights such as Telegraph Island, Sibi Island, Najd Fjord, Hablin Fjord, Ghub Ali Fjord, and Shisa Fjord — offering the best vantage point of the region often called “The Norway of Arabia.”
Along the trail, you’ll also spot views of nearby areas like Gasah, Qada, Ras Sheikh Massoud, Al Harf, and Khasab City, each adding to the charm of the journey.
Natural & Cultural Highlights
Shem Mountain is rich in history and nature. You’ll find ancient copper pieces, the Omantel Transmission Station, and natural caves scattered throughout the area. The mountain is home to many native trees — including Mazzy Trees (used to craft the traditional Omani walking stick “Jerz”), Acacia, Mountain Fig, Sidra, and Shawa trees — along with a variety of wild herbs and plants.
You may also come across old wheat farms, stone house ruins, and traces of Oman’s rural heritage. Wildlife enthusiasts can spot mountain goats, foxes, and native birds like falcons. While tigers and lynx once roamed here, they have since become extinct.
Shem Mountain is also known for its abundant honey bees and wild cedar trees. The weather is cool in winter and pleasantly mild in summer, making it an ideal trekking destination all year round.
Trekking Experience
The trek to the summit typically takes:
- 2.5 to 3 hours for experienced trekkers
- 4 hours for casual hikers
Adventurous visitors often camp overnight at the top to enjoy the serene mountain atmosphere, stargazing, and the tranquility of Musandam’s wilderness. Others prefer to return on the same day, making it a perfect short adventure or weekend escape.
Important Visa and Border Information for UAE Travelers
All travelers coming from the UAE must obtain an Oman Visit Visa, which can be applied online at or obtained on arrival at the border.
If you plan to get your visa on arrival, please ensure you meet the following requirements:
Entry Requirements
Vaccination:
All travelers aged 18 years and above must carry a printed vaccination certificate.
PCR Test
Travelers aged 12 years and above must present a printed negative PCR test result, taken within 72 hours before arriving at the Oman border.
Passport Validity
Your original passport must be valid for at least 90 days from your travel date.
Oman Visit Visa Fees
UAE exit fee: 35 AED per person- Oman visit visa (on arrival): 5 OMR per person
Visa & Residency Conditions
- Visa Validity: UAE residents must ensure both their passport and UAE residence visa are valid for more than 90 days from the date of travel.
- Sponsored (Dependent) Visa: Travelers under a sponsored or dependent visa must be accompanied by their sponsor to cross the border.
- Visa Eligibility: Not all UAE professions are eligible for a visa on arrival. Please contact us in advance to confirm your eligibility.
- UAE Single Entry Visa Holders: Holders of single entry UAE visas cannot join the trip, as their UAE visa will be canceled upon exit.
Vehicle Requirements
- Car Ownership: You must carry your vehicle registration card (Mulkiya) when crossing the border.
- Car Insurance: If your vehicle insurance does not cover Oman, you can purchase temporary Oman insurance at the border (approximately 100 AED).
- Rented Cars: If you are driving a rented vehicle, you must obtain a No Objection Certificate (NOC) from the car rental company to cross the border.
KHASAB MUSANDAM TOUR PACKAGES
Experience the magic of Musandam — Oman’s very own Norway of Arabia. Our Khasab dhow cruise tours take you through majestic fjords, hidden fishing villages, and crystal-clear waters. A perfect blend of adventure, culture, and tranquility awaits.
