Plan your visit

A little planning makes a wadi trip safer, cooler and more respectful to the people who live nearby.

Best season

For the northern wadis, the cooler months from about October to April are the most comfortable. Summer heat is intense. For Dhofar, including Wadi Darbat, the khareef season (about June to September) is when the area is green.

Getting around

Public transport between sights is limited, so many visitors hire a car or use a driver or a guided tour. Some wadi roads are rough or unpaved. Check whether you need a four-wheel-drive vehicle before you set out.

What to bring

Plenty of drinking water.
Sun protection: hat, sunscreen and sunglasses.
Shoes with a good grip that can get wet.
Swimwear to wear under modest clothing, and a towel.
A bag for your rubbish; take everything out with you.
A charged phone and, if possible, a way to tell someone your route.

Respectful dress and conduct

Oman is a conservative country. Cover shoulders and knees in towns, villages and at wadis where local people are present. Swimwear is usually worn with a T-shirt and shorts or leggings. Ask before photographing people, and keep noise down. Take care with water around villages, as it may be used for farming.

Flash flood safety

Check the forecast. Do not go into a wadi if rain is expected in the mountains, even if it is dry where you are.
Never cross flowing water on foot or by car.
Do not park or camp in a wadi bed.
If water rises or turns muddy, or you hear it coming, climb to high ground at once.