Wadi Al Far: at a glimpse
- Trip type: return trip.
- Distance: 7 km.
- Duration: 5 to 6 hours, including stops.
- Activities: lots of boulder hopping, scrambling, and sections of uphill and downhill on loose rocks.
This hike is not for the faint hearted. Apart from the gentle walk on the beautiful plateau, you will not be able to achieve the end without some serious effort. Use all of your muscles to get this job done.
Direction & coordinates
Click here for directions to the start point of the hike.
| Waypoint | Location | Coordinates | Elevation |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Car park | N25° 53' 17.27" E056° 08' 07.19" | 377 m |
| 2 | Manmade stairway | N25° 53' 10.87" E056° 08' 11.80" | 497 m |
| 3 | Plateau | N25° 52' 51.37" E056° 08' 17.05" | 629 m |
| 4 | Pass and viewpoint | N25° 52' 27.71" E056° 08' 01.19" | 1009 m |
Start through the gorge
Park your car on the side of the road at waypoint 1 and start your hike by following the gorge uphill. There are no trail marks here; you just need to boulder-hop your way up.
Manmade stairway and the path
After about 15 minutes you will notice a manmade stairway at waypoint 2 on your left. There are quite a few of these stairways in the Hajar Mountains, made by the hill people. Here the steps are even cemented, while in most cases they are built in a “dry way” without cement. Once on top of the stairway, head to the right of the gully until you find a similar one, albeit less steep.
Follow the “path”: just so you know, indeed there is a path and that makes your ascent much smoother. However, this path is not very visible from down under; attempt to notice the polished rocks, as they indicate the trail. If you cannot find it, no worries—there is always a way up—but keep your group together and avoid exposed, loose ground.
The peaceful plateau
After a while, a surprise awaits you: a wonderful, peaceful, shady plateau at waypoint 3. The very primitive stone houses have no more roofs and the terraced fields are barren, but clearly people are still living here intermittently: there are barrels, trunks, bunks and bottles.
This is a great place for a break, with lots of shade thanks to the high walls of the gorge and the green ficus trees. Follow your way up and you will soon come across a well.
Along the way you will notice traces of people and animals: more stone houses, shelters, cultivated trees, small fields, dry walls and, of course, inevitable goat dung. There is quite a large settlement over vast grounds from where you can admire great views.
Long ascent to the pass
Now it is time to start the long ascent to the pass. Make sure you head to the correct coordinates at waypoint 4 and follow the route along the ridge; that is the easiest line. The ridge gives you a bit of extra stability on the loose rocks.
Once on the top, you will be able to enjoy the stunning views all around you.
Descent and best season
The descent is via the same trail. Descend carefully: loose rocks and boulders can be harder to manage on tired legs than the ascent.
Needless to say, this hike can only be done during the cooler months. Especially during the last ascent to the pass, you will be pretty exposed. Carry ample water, sun protection, an offline map, first-aid kit and headlamp, and do not attempt the hike when rain or flash-flood risk is present.
Respect the mountain landscape
The route passes old homes, cultivated trees, wells and settlements. Respect private property and local residents, leave no rubbish behind and avoid disturbing farms, animals or historic features.
