Wadi Bani Khalid
Wadi Bani Khalid
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4.5
843 reviews
Excellent
486
Very good
280
Average
60
Poor
11
Terrible
6
nazanin c
1 contribution
Nov 2022
nice place to swim and relax and chill for some hours.weather was fantastic in november!it is worth being visited.
Written 10 December 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Krupa C
Bengaluru, India214 contributions
Jan 2022
We stayed at Oriental Nights Resthouse in Bidiyah and requested the owner to arrange a drop-pick for us to Wadi Bani Khalid. It was about 45 minutes away and the route was scenic, the roads were excellent. On the way, we spotted several cafes and supermarkets, so it didn't look like an isolated place at all.
We were dropped at the parking lot where we saw a billboard listing out the dressing code for the visitors and general safety guidelines. From that place, we were to trek to the pools for about 15 minutes or so. The trek route was beautiful and pleasant too! At times, we had to walk over the edges of the shallow water canals (locally called Falaj). That was really cool as an experience. Also, we saw ample dragonflies darting around, and they were blue, red and purple varieties, something I was seeing for the first time!
Even before we reached the main pools, there were smaller ones around anyway, teeming with schools of fish. And the waters were a gorgeous emerald green. It was simply something to stop and soak in.
Reluctantly, we moved on, passing many other visitors who were returning to their cars. I was dressed culturally appropriately (a long kaftan over my conservative swimsuit) but I passed female visitors dressed more carefree-ly and didn't find anyone policing them. So, I think it is a chance you can take.
Anyway, after a bit, the trek involved walking over rocky surfaces, which means this area is not wheelchair accessible. There was a mosque in the premises, and there may be free-styled hiking trails for the explorer kinds, but we kept to the main route because we didn't have much time before sun-down.
It is pretty obvious when you have reached the central point - there's a bridge built across, takes you to a restaurant with (the worst ever) restroom behind. Just on the other side of the restaurant are steps that lead down to the pools. Sure, there's a flow to the water, but it didn't seem gushing or torrential. Even so, they have lifeguards on the watch in small gazebos at a height. Those gazebos also provide great photo opportunities as does the main bridge itself.
Anyway, the pools around the steps were obviously crowded, so my husband and I walked a little further and found a free spot where we were lucky to have shallow waters, plus a palm tree and its cement sitout where we kept our belongings.
The pools themselves were so good! Once you settled yourself down on the floor and didn't move much, schools of fish would swarm over to nibble at your feet. It was a free pedicure! You get used to the sensation. And no, they won't chew off your foot, just the parts where the dead skin is. It's been a year now, and the sensation is still fresh in my memory :)
My husband and I aren't swimmers, so we didn't venture much into the pools. But we enjoyed lounging around, admiring the low rocky hills, the clear sky, the palm trees. It was just awesome! After a while, when the sun began to set, it started getting a bit chilly.
Do note that the area is free access - no tickets required, but also just about anyone can roam around. I didn't feel exactly harassed, but one or two local men did pass us by looking at us a little longer than necessary. Perhaps the presence of my husband did the trick. Anyway, always good to be on your guard.
After our soaking experience, we decided we wanted to change into dry clothes and then maybe grab a hot chai from the cafe at the bridge. That's where I had a horrifying experience. The restroom had zero water supply, was stuffed with paper towels, diapers and all kinds of waste. Even the floor wasn't clean enough for me to get out of my wet one-piece swimsuit. I was forced to keep wearing it and hold back my urge to pee.
The chai was overpriced, but they also had a whole buffet-style offering, being used by a large group of Indian-origin tourists. The staff of the restaurant itself was Indian - they spoke Hindi.
The trek back to the parking spot couldn't have been fast enough for us, given how badly I had wanted to pee. There were no other toilets around. And some distance away from the parking spot, residential areas began. We finally asked a very old local man for help, he walked us up a slope into a residential area, pointed to a toilet and that was that. Something better than nothing summed up my experience there.
So, this was overall a visit I cherish from my trip to Oman, and still highly recommend to others. Choose to go by 9 AM and be out by 1 PM. Even if you can't change your wet clothes, you can sit around on the rocks for a bit and let the sun dry you up. Just be mindful that there are practically no restrooms there.
We were dropped at the parking lot where we saw a billboard listing out the dressing code for the visitors and general safety guidelines. From that place, we were to trek to the pools for about 15 minutes or so. The trek route was beautiful and pleasant too! At times, we had to walk over the edges of the shallow water canals (locally called Falaj). That was really cool as an experience. Also, we saw ample dragonflies darting around, and they were blue, red and purple varieties, something I was seeing for the first time!
Even before we reached the main pools, there were smaller ones around anyway, teeming with schools of fish. And the waters were a gorgeous emerald green. It was simply something to stop and soak in.
Reluctantly, we moved on, passing many other visitors who were returning to their cars. I was dressed culturally appropriately (a long kaftan over my conservative swimsuit) but I passed female visitors dressed more carefree-ly and didn't find anyone policing them. So, I think it is a chance you can take.
Anyway, after a bit, the trek involved walking over rocky surfaces, which means this area is not wheelchair accessible. There was a mosque in the premises, and there may be free-styled hiking trails for the explorer kinds, but we kept to the main route because we didn't have much time before sun-down.
It is pretty obvious when you have reached the central point - there's a bridge built across, takes you to a restaurant with (the worst ever) restroom behind. Just on the other side of the restaurant are steps that lead down to the pools. Sure, there's a flow to the water, but it didn't seem gushing or torrential. Even so, they have lifeguards on the watch in small gazebos at a height. Those gazebos also provide great photo opportunities as does the main bridge itself.
Anyway, the pools around the steps were obviously crowded, so my husband and I walked a little further and found a free spot where we were lucky to have shallow waters, plus a palm tree and its cement sitout where we kept our belongings.
The pools themselves were so good! Once you settled yourself down on the floor and didn't move much, schools of fish would swarm over to nibble at your feet. It was a free pedicure! You get used to the sensation. And no, they won't chew off your foot, just the parts where the dead skin is. It's been a year now, and the sensation is still fresh in my memory :)
My husband and I aren't swimmers, so we didn't venture much into the pools. But we enjoyed lounging around, admiring the low rocky hills, the clear sky, the palm trees. It was just awesome! After a while, when the sun began to set, it started getting a bit chilly.
Do note that the area is free access - no tickets required, but also just about anyone can roam around. I didn't feel exactly harassed, but one or two local men did pass us by looking at us a little longer than necessary. Perhaps the presence of my husband did the trick. Anyway, always good to be on your guard.
After our soaking experience, we decided we wanted to change into dry clothes and then maybe grab a hot chai from the cafe at the bridge. That's where I had a horrifying experience. The restroom had zero water supply, was stuffed with paper towels, diapers and all kinds of waste. Even the floor wasn't clean enough for me to get out of my wet one-piece swimsuit. I was forced to keep wearing it and hold back my urge to pee.
The chai was overpriced, but they also had a whole buffet-style offering, being used by a large group of Indian-origin tourists. The staff of the restaurant itself was Indian - they spoke Hindi.
The trek back to the parking spot couldn't have been fast enough for us, given how badly I had wanted to pee. There were no other toilets around. And some distance away from the parking spot, residential areas began. We finally asked a very old local man for help, he walked us up a slope into a residential area, pointed to a toilet and that was that. Something better than nothing summed up my experience there.
So, this was overall a visit I cherish from my trip to Oman, and still highly recommend to others. Choose to go by 9 AM and be out by 1 PM. Even if you can't change your wet clothes, you can sit around on the rocks for a bit and let the sun dry you up. Just be mindful that there are practically no restrooms there.
Written 10 December 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Iolanda Guerra e Andrade
Lisbon, Portugal1,831 contributions
Oct 2022 • Friends
Despite not having bathed in these beautiful natural pools I was impressed. The access is made along water canals surrounded by vegetation. Some of the walking paths to the caves are quite difficult but worth being done because they lead to some quite breathtaking water pools.
Written 25 November 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Andrea438
Milan, Italy434 contributions
Sep 2022
Fantastic place. After a short walk in a fantastic environment, you will arrive at a group of natural pools of green water, perfect for bathing. Remember to be careful not to slipper on the rocks and to be properly dressed for bathing, especially women (bikinis not allowed).
Written 3 October 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
jonahNJ
Pennington, NJ11,435 contributions
Mar 2022
Our visit to this oasis was the most relaxing time my wife and I had during our journey to Oman and the United Arab Emirates. There are lots of trees and greenery as well as a stream and pools of water and interesting boulders located throughout the area. There is also a café which appears to be permanently closed.
However, this is a place to slow down and take in the beauty of nature. A highlight was sitting at a pool of water, putting my feet in the water and enjoy the little fish nibbling on my feet—free foot treatment! There are some uneven surfaces but good walking shoes and a slower pace should prevent slipping.
There are pools large enough for swimming, just be sure to follow the guidelines on the signs posted regarding modest swimwear. A good visitor is always a respectful visitor.
This is a great place to recharge your spirit before you head off to your next adventure in Oman.
However, this is a place to slow down and take in the beauty of nature. A highlight was sitting at a pool of water, putting my feet in the water and enjoy the little fish nibbling on my feet—free foot treatment! There are some uneven surfaces but good walking shoes and a slower pace should prevent slipping.
There are pools large enough for swimming, just be sure to follow the guidelines on the signs posted regarding modest swimwear. A good visitor is always a respectful visitor.
This is a great place to recharge your spirit before you head off to your next adventure in Oman.
Written 24 August 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Kimia Khaneghah
Dubai, United Arab Emirates40 contributions
Apr 2022
The Wadi is amazing. Its desert meets tropical climate meets fresh water meets mountains. Really nice temperature to swim in as well. Even in the summer months! What I don't see here is guidance that the water is actually quite deep. Reaching over 3 meters at some points so recommended that you are a decent swimmer.
Written 5 May 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
pizote67
Sondrio, Italy429 contributions
Apr 2022
We arrived around 10am and took an easy hike (10min) to the second pool (the first one you need to wear long swimsuit). We relaxed and swam for half an hour with nodoby else around. The water is pretty warm in April.
Nice wadi experience.
Nice wadi experience.
Written 25 April 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Aya S
Cairo, Egypt6 contributions
Mar 2022 • Family
It was lovely spending a day in the nature... the water is so clear, the upper pools are much fun and the cave that is at the end in like a cherry on top. Definitely, there is a huge place for improvent especially with toilets and changing rooms.
Written 30 March 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Robert D
Brooklyn, New York2,334 contributions
Feb 2022
Wadi Bani Khalid is a beautiful oasis. Walk along the falaj (irrigation system) which keeps the area verdant and admire the beautiful valley. Enjoy the views from the lookouts and go for a swim. It's a lovely place.
Written 4 March 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
NelCalifornai
California209 contributions
Dec 2021
Beautiful oasis although a bit crowded during the winter holidays. Make sure you dress appropriately. Women's shoulders have to be covered and their legs need to be covered up to the knee. Best is to wear a t-shirt and shorts over your bathing suit. Men should not wear a speedo. They will pull you out of the water!!
The food is ok. The restrooms are beyond filthy, so make sure you have toilet paper with you!
The water is clear and warm and beautiful.
The food is ok. The restrooms are beyond filthy, so make sure you have toilet paper with you!
The water is clear and warm and beautiful.
Written 23 January 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Richard P
Muscat, Oman
Hi good morning, you already open? i had good experience Here, that why i recommend to all my friend to visit with our friends. We planning to by this week, or next week if its ok now to visit your place. Thanks and regard.
Stefania M
Copenhagen, Denmark3 contributions
Hi,
Is anyone going to any Wadi’s in the next two days?
Unfortunately me and my boyfriend could not rent a car and there is no public transport from Muskat to Wadi. We could share the gas costs and enjoy Wadi together 😄
Hi, how about the next week and we can shear the car rent fees?
Vinni
Bolzano, Italy13 contributions
Ciao,
si trova un posto da parcheggiare se si arriva li a mezzogiorno ca.?
alex t. freelander
Rome, Italy494 contributions
si ma in effetti c'è moltissima gente, parcheggerai lontano soprattutto se è sabato
Pastenague
Paris, France17 contributions
D'accord avec votre appréciation sur le lieu, mais moyennement sur celle ce Couleurs d'Oman.
Leur prestation fut moyenne avec nous, et extrêmement chère.
nous ne recommanderons donc que le lieu, qui est magnifique.
Ale
Verona, Italy15 contributions
Si può raggiungere con una semplice berlina?
Gaetano Di Tursi
San Pietro in Bevagna, Italy55 contributions
Noi abbiamo affittato una Jeep 4x4 in quanto in molte recensioni consigliavano una 4x4. Ma se non si deve andare in posti sterrati non è assolutamente necessaria. Le strade in Oman sono buone e quindi anche una berlina va bene. Anche alle Wadi ci si arriva comodamente con strade asfaltate
Tambli
Engelberg, Switzerland184 contributions
Hi there, how much time would you plan to explore this Wadi? Some swimming time included, but no major hikes? Thank you!
AmandaWales72
Cardiff, UK49 contributions
You won't need much longer than an hour if you are doing the swimming. Although if you trek further up and swim down you may need another hour. It is worth going a little further up to experience the full beauty. Some of the swimming sections near the bottom can be a little mossy and slippery.
wathsala2017
Dubai, United Arab Emirates7 contributions
Hellow ! How much will cost me to get here from Muscat. Please tell in OMR.
Angelo O
Jeddah, Saudi Arabia220 contributions
Better you rent a car! It takes 3hours go there. Every hotel in Muscat offers different package depending the number of people. I can’t remember the price but I confirm it’s expensive.
Wadi Bani Khalid (Muscat) - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go
Frequently Asked Questions about Wadi Bani Khalid
- We recommend booking Wadi Bani Khalid tours ahead of time to secure your spot. If you book with Tripadvisor, you can cancel up to 24 hours before your tour starts for a full refund. See all 34 Wadi Bani Khalid tours on Tripadvisor
- According to Tripadvisor travellers, these are the best ways to experience Wadi Bani Khalid:
- Private Safari Wahiba Sands and Wadi Bani Khalid from Muscat (From ₹ 16,262.81)
- Desert Safari Sharing Tours (From ₹ 12,196.29)
- Wadi Bani Khalid Tour ( per vehicle) (From ₹ 31,580.74)
- Wahiba Sands And Wadi Bani Khalid (From ₹ 16,913.32)
- Desert experience - Private Wahiba sands full day tour (From ₹ 16,181.49)