Why you need to visit the beautiful green mountain: Jabal Akhdar Oman

It’s no secret that Oman is quickly becoming a hot-spot for tourists with tourism in Oman on the rise. It won’t be long before some of Oman’s beautiful, relatively unknown spots like Jabal Akhdar Oman will boom. With a 38% rise in tourists in 2023 it is only going to increase further. Hurry and visit the stunning green mountain of Oman before everyone else does….

Where is Jabal Akhdar Oman?

Nestled in the heart of Oman, Jabal Akhdar, translating to “Green Mountain” in Arabic, is in the Nizwa region of Oman. Towering at over 3,000 meters above sea level, Jebel Akhdar is a green oasis amongst the dry landscape.

Located in the Al Hajar Mountains, Jebel Akhdar is renowned for its lush terraced gardens, olive and pomegranate trees, and fragrant rose plantations, all thriving against the backdrop of dramatic cliffs thanks to the incredible falaj system. A huge bonus is the refreshingly cool temperatures, providing respite from the scorching desert heat below.

How do I get to Jabal Akhdar Oman?

The most common way to access Jebel Akhdar is by road, either through a personal vehicle, rental car, or organized tour. You will need a 4×4 to pass the Jabal Akhdar Oman checkpoint as you drive onto the mountain. If you are planning to hire a car from Muscat and drive to the green mountain Oman then make sure you rent a 4×4 or arrange for alternative transfers at the checkpoint.

Driving from Dubai takes around 5 hours with a border crossing. The best border crossing is through Al Ain in the Emirate of Abu Dhabi. This border is quieter than the popular Hatta border so it doesn’t take very long to drive through at all. Simply follow Highway 21 across the Al Ain border at Jebel Hafeet until you reach Nizwa. A very flat, long road surrounded by mountains, desert, goats and camels. Pack the snacks, download some podcasts and enjoy the scenery.

What is it like to drive in Oman?

Driving in Oman is perfectly safe and easy. In the Middle East you drive on the right hand side of the road and most vehicles are automatic. If you are hiring a car this makes it easy. The roads are good – long and flat to get far distances. We have found drivers in Muscat to be much slower, calm and courteous, unlike the UAE roads! If you are used to driving in the UAE then Oman is a breeze. If you are coming from outside of the Middle East then just drive slower, be cautious and expect a lot less use of the indicator!

The roads in Oman are well-maintained and often very scenic. Whether you are driving on a coastal road, desert road or a winding mountain road there are usually many viewpoints and rest areas to stop and admire the scenery. One interesting fact about driving in Oman is that the country boasts one of the lowest rates of traffic-related fatalities in the world, thanks to stringent traffic laws and extensive road safety initiatives.

Boys in Falaj system on Jabal Akhdar Oman

Why is Jabal Akhdar called the Green Mountain?

As the name suggests, Jebel Akhdar is beautifully green with lush terraces full of pomegranate and olive trees, roses and orchards blanketing the area. It is a stark contrast to the usually arid Oman with grey, dusty mountains. Jabal Akhdar Oman owes its green-ness to the incredible falaj system built to transport water and ensure the plants flourish. Another wonder of Jebel Akhdar is the difference in temperature at the top of the mountain, being cooler than the rest of Oman making it a year-round getaway.

If you are looking for an escape to Jebel Akhdar then we highly recommend a stay at the luxurious Anantara Al Jabal Al Akhdar. A stunningly, beautiful hotel overlooking the canyon. Another personal recommendation is The Suwgra Hotel, you can read the full review of this unique Oman hotel here.

Roses starting to bloom on Jabal Akhdar Oman

When is the best time to visit Jebel Akhdar?

The optimum time to fully enjoy all of the outdoor activities that Jebel Akhdar has to offer is between October and March. This is when the temperature is an ideal 18 to 25 degrees celsius. If you visit Jabal Al Akhdar in Spring you will found the mountain at its finest – lush greenery and roses starting to bloom. In summer temperatures rise to top temperatures of 35 to 40 degrees celsius. Extremely hot, however in comparison to the rest of Oman it does give a slighter cooler escape. Despite not being good weather for hiking and enjoying the outdoors on Jabal Akhdar it is perfect for a summer staycation at the incredible Anantara Al Jabal Al Akhdar which sits on top of the mountain.

Where can I stop on the way to Jabal Akhdar?

Al Ain – UAE

If you are driving from the UAE to Jabal Akhdar then the first natural stop would be in Al Ain before you go over the border to Oman. It takes about 1.5 hours to drive from Dubai to Al Ain. One of the oldest settlements in the UAE, Al Ain has a rich history and culture. Al Jahili Fort is one of the largest forts in the UAE and worth checking out. Another place worth checking out is Al Ain Oasis, where an ancient falaj irrigation systems run through and keep it strewn with date palms. Finally you can drive the picturesque road of Jebel Hafeet and admire the view. If you are looking for a guided tour or more information of Al Ain check out Get Your Guide website.

If you are planning to include a night in Al Ain during your trip then we recommend the Mercure Grand Al Ain. It is a budget friendly, older hotel but it is sat on Jebel Hafeet mountain and offers spectacular views. Alternatively, if you are looking for something different then check out the Telal Resort Al Ain. It is a desert hotel so it is not in the centre of Al Ain, around 40km outside. However, a wonderful desert experience at the more affordable end of the desert hotels in the UAE.

Jabreen Castle – Oman

Once over the Al Ain border and in Oman, Jabreen castle is around a 2.5hour drive before the city of Nizwa in a town called Bahla. Jabreen Castle was built in 1675 by an Imam. Although it is called a castle it was designed as a palace for the Imam. A simply beautiful building with a clean aesthetic it is worth stopping for an hour or so to wander. Huge archways, narrow staircases and high ceilings make for a peaceful stop on your way to Jabal Akhdar. There are toilets and a small coffee stall onsite, look out for the local pottery maker to take home a token of Oman with you.

Bahla Fort – Oman

Bahla Fort is about a 15 minute drive from Jabreen Castle on the way to the green mountain of Jebel Akhdar. A UNESCO World Heritage Centre, Bahla Fort is a large fort with a watchtower and turreted walls. A marvellous building to wander around and get a glimpse of Oman life in the past.

Nizwa – Oman

Nizwa, the ancient capital city of Oman has a deep Islamic route. The ancient city of Nizwa is walled city with narrow alleyways, a bustling souk, traditional coffee and shops and the renowned Nizwa Fort. Oman’s most famous and visited fort. With lots of information and exhibitions this fort gives a great insight into Omani culture and history. Get Your Guide website also has lots of information about Nizwa with tours and activities for you to check out.

Nizwa is a place that is worth an overnight stay, if you’re looking for an authentic Omani cultural hotel then check out Antique Inn Nizwa.

You can also read our blog post here on Nizwa in Oman.

What is there to do on Jabal Akhdar?

Jabal Akhdar is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts with hikes, biking, rock climbing, canyoning and an adventure park available to visitors. Embark on one of the many scenic hikes through small, traditional villages and terraced gardens. We particularly enjoyed the Three Village Hike which was organised and run by a local Omani tour guide when we were staying at the Anantara Al Jabal Al Akhdar.

At the Dusit D2 Naseem Hotel on Jebel Akhdar you will find an adventure park with climbing walls, abseiling, obstacle course and ziplining. As well as biking trails.

Another incredible experience we had on Jabal Akhdar was a visit to the The Suwgra Hotel. A traditional cliffside Oman village that has been transformed into a guest house. Expect a short hike over the canyon to the hotel. You can read our full blog review here.

Where to stay on Jebel Akhdar?

Luxury Hotel on Jabal Akhdar

Anantara Al Jabal Al Akhdar – if your budget allows for it we cannot recommend this spectacular mountain top hotel more. A true one-of-a-kind hotel that should be experienced once. Check out our full blog post on this resort here.

Mid Range Hotel on Jebel Akhdar

Dusit D2 Naseem Resort – a great hotel with pool, views and the added bonus of an adventure park on Jebel Akhdar.
Sahab Resort and Spa – A fairly new 4* hotel on Jebel Akhdar with amazing views over the canyon, chalets and pool. Great value for money.

Budget Hotel on Jebel Akhdar

Jabal Al Akhdar Grand Hotel – A basic hotel with a pool that has good reviews. Some rooms with mountain views.

Unique Hotel on Jebel Akhdar

The Suwgra – it has already been mentioned but it truly is a special place, a unique traditional boutique guest house built into the cliff with true Omani hospitality.

The Suwgra Guesthouse traditional Omani hotel on Jebel Akhdar

Is Jebel Akhdar worth it?

Whether trekking along scenic trails, marveling at panoramic views, or simply indulging in moments of tranquility in nature, Jebel Akhdar offers an unforgettable adventure. Not-to-be-missed for those seeking to discover the hidden gems of Oman’s rugged landscapes. It’s a destination where every winding road reveals new wonderful scenery, earning its title as the Green Mountain.

For More Oman Information…

Disclaimer: This post Why you need to visit the beautiful green mountain: Driving to Jebel Akhdar Oman, has affiliate links and any sales made through such links will reward me a small commission – at no extra cost for you.

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