Source: Ph Aurore Kervoern - iStock
It is one of the surprises ofOman, an extraordinary oasis in the desert where lush palm trees and crystal clear natural pools create a fascinating contrast with the rocks and golden sand: this is the Wadi Bani Khalid, 230 kilometers from the capital Muscat, a destination to certainly include in the list of things to see in the sultanate.
Wonderful at any time of the year, in summer it is perfect for a respite from the scorching heat and for immersing yourself in the cool water.
Wadi Bani Khalid, one of the most visited "stream beds" in Oman
The wadis (literally “stream bed“) are typical cayons dug by rivers born from heavy rainfall or permanent, very common in Oman and more or less deep.
Each one is different from the other but theplenty of water which distinguishes them makes the land all around fertile and arable, allowing the villages to thrive, as in the case of the splendid Wadi Bani Khalid, appreciated by both locals and tourists.
In fact, with its emerald green swimming pool and the view it offers, it is a authentic show: the lush vegetation, the pale rock and the river that winds creating shallow lakes make it a cozy earthly paradise where you can forget about the world outside for a while and relax with regenerating swims or a picnic in the shade at theequipped area (also ideal for families) where there is no lack of practicality restaurant which offers buffet lunch with cold drink included and vegetarian options, a cafe and toilets.
From the main car park, the first large swimming pool can be reached with an easy and pleasant walk walk of about ten minutes along an equipped path that runs alongside a small stream; continuing where not everyone ventures, here is the second system of swimming pools in a gorge with walls smoothed by erosion and turquoise waters, a wild and peaceful environment excellent for swimming (bearing in mind that to respect the local culture one should not discover oneself ).
Furthermore, from here, with another ten minutes on foot, it is possible to reach the Grotta di Muqal, also known as Muquil Cave or Wadi Bani Khalid Cave, a simple cave inhabited by bats which allows you to immerse yourself even more in the adventurous atmosphere of the place: be careful not to forget your torch!
And if the canyon is a small jewel, the village of the same name does not disappoint either: inhabited by around 11 thousand kind and hospitable people, it thrives thanks to the textile industry and fruit, citrus and palm plantations.
How to get to Wadi Bani Khalid
Wadi Bani Khalid is located west of the city of Sur (from which it is approximately two hours' drive) and north of the sand dunes of Wahiba Sands and can be reached by car from Muscat with approximately 3 one and a quarter hours of travel.
The road is entirely asphalted up to the car park so it is not necessary to have an off-road vehicle: however, after heavy rains, it could be difficult to cross the river bed with a normal car.
However, keep in mind that guided daily tours depart from Muscat, often in combination with a visit to the sand dunes of Wahiba Sands.
