Wikiloc - Oman: Wakan Village Easy Scenic hiking.
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Oman: Wakan Village Easy Scenic hiking.
Wakan Village is about two hours from Muscat. A four-wheel can be driven up the dirt road until you reached the village parking area which is also the starting point for the hike. You can also park at the bottom of the dirt road and from there, you can walk on the dusty offroad for about thirty to forty minutes so you will reach the hike starting point.
You will also find some local driven 4x4 vehicles parked there who will take you up to the village for a charge.
Wakan Village is a part of the Wilayat of Nakhal in the South Al Batinah region. It is located at the edge of the Al Dhakhiliyah Region amidst the massive Al Hazar Mountains and sits about 2000 kilometers above sea level. The distance from Muscat is 150 kilometers and it takes about two hours to reach. It is an ideal one-day short trip though you can add Jabal Al Akhdar with it too.
Going with a 4WD is essential if you want to reach the village parking area. The last part of the road is very steep and unpaved. Without a 4WD, you will have to stop at the dirt road and walk to the entrance for another 30-40 minutes.
The temperature of Wakan Village is moderate and comfortable. You can go there any time of the year. During the winter season, you will see white fluffy clouds touch the mountain peak and get a clear view of the blue sky. In summer, though the clouds will be less, the weather will not be too hot. Also, there will be plants bearing fruits everywhere.
I recommend going anytime between March-May (Just before the summer starts) when the beautiful Apricot flowers bloom. You can see the white pearly flowers from a long distance if you go this season. In my eyes, the Apricot Blossom of Wakan Village is just as beautiful as the famous Cherry Blossom of Japan.
The Wakan village hike will take you closest to nature. The path is about 1.5 kilometers and anyone can complete it by taking rests at intervals. You will find more than 700 steps going on top of the mountains across the terraced gardens for tourists. Once you start the hike following the paved stairs, you will see places for rest and viewpoints at different levels. Every view will look different at each viewpoint.
You can go to the top of the mountain to take on more challenges. Remember after the paved stairs, you will have to walk on loose rocks through the edge of the cliff. By following the flag signs, you can reach the top spot. However, you don’t have to go till the end to enjoy the perfect view. You will see beautiful mountains, waving clouds, and beautiful views of Wadi Mistal with stunning green plantations from above.
Besides going to the top of the mountains, you must explore the beautiful Wakan Village which will introduce you to authentic Omani culture. The village still functions in Oman’s traditional falaj system used for irrigation and drinking for the inhabitants. Agriculture is the backbone of the village and trees of apricot, pomegranate, grapes, and figs are all clustered here and there.
The terraced garden of Wakan village is one of the most charming scenes. During Apricot Blossom, the whole area turns white picturesque. You will see colorful butterflies roaming around from flower to flower. During the harvesting season, the village people turn into a festive mood and collect golden-colored apricot in baskets.
Wakan Village will always mesmerize you with its scenic beauty and uniqueness no matter which season you go.
Things to Remember During the Trip:
There will be no shops for food and snacks nearby. Make sure you take adequate food and water before going.
Though in summer the temperature remains moderate, sunny weather might cause trouble during hiking. Use sunblock to protect your skin. You can also take an umbrella.
Unlike traditional tracking routes, trails here pass through the local house areas. You must not go beyond the marked area for regular pathways and respect the privacy of the locals.
Though it’s comparatively easy hiking, you should use proper footwear to give you a smooth hiking experience.
Don’t pick fruits and flowers from the gardens since locals are dependent on them.
It’s just like any other regular household. Avoid littering and try to keep the place clean.