Al Jebel al Akhdar

The backbone of Oman

Al Jebel al Akhdar mountain range lies at the heart of the Al Hajar mountains of northern Oman and is characterised by soaring peaks, rugged canyons, terraced fruit orchards and rose gardens fed by freshwater springs. The area has spectacular views, exhilarating walks and secluded and tranquil camping.

The mountains here are the highest in Oman, standing 10,000 feet above sea level with access by car to a height of 7,000 feet. Temperatures up here can reach -5°C in winter and remain below 30°C for most of the summer and because of the relatively high rainfall compared to the rest of Oman, the landscape further up into the hills is lush and green.

There are bushes and trees bearing nuts and fruit and most of the cultivation here is done on verdant terraces along the slopes of the mountains, which are dotted with natural springs. Apricots, peaches, figs, pears, plums, walnuts, almonds, delicious pomegranates and even grapes grow here.

Aflaj and wadis

The area is irrigated by traditional aflaj (sing. falaj) waterways. Many of them are subterranean but when they are open to the elements, it is an alluring sight seeing the glistening channels cascading down the mountains. Al Jebel al Akhdar also has hundreds of wadis. These are rocky gorges that fill up with water after the rains although many have running water all year round. The deep, clear, fresh pools are surrounded by palm trees, grasses and flowering shrubs – stunning oases amid a dramatic backdrop.

Much of the region consists of woodland abundant with junipers and thorn bushes and it is a wonderful contrast to the desolate beauty of much of the rest of Oman. Up in the mountains are the villages of Saiq, Wadi Bani Habib and Al Ain, each overlooking a spectacularly dramatic landscape of peaks, gorges and wadis. In March and April, the roses that are grown in this area fill the air with a sweet fragrance – and local villagers distil the rose water.