Incredible turquoise Waterfalls and Wadi’s in a tropical paradise in Salalah, off the South-East coast of Oman, in July-September. The best time to go is at the end of September, the pictures taken were when I went in early October when there were fewer crowds.
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Waterfall & Wadi’s Snaps
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Salalah is located on the South-East coast of Oman and was previously the capital city. The city’s landscape is transformed in the Khareef or Autumn season in July-September. The monsoons and rainfall cause a transformation in the mountains and desert plains with the growth of green vegetation and trees. One of the key attractions in Khareef season is the creation of stunning waterfalls and the turquoise waters in Wadi’s that run through the landscape.
I visited Salalah for 3 days in mid-October where I managed to see the waterfalls and Wadi’s at the end of the Khareef season. I booked a morning tour with a local tour guide and a private 4-by-4 car, which cost approximately $120 USD. We set off in the morning from the hotel I was staying at in the city, it was a 30-40 minute journey toward the mountains to the North of the City where the Waterfalls were located. On the way, we stopped off to greet the camels which roam free among the plains.
Where is Salalah?
Salalah is a coastal city located in the Dhofar region of South East of Oman, in the Middle East. Its waters are part of the Indian Ocean, and can have large waves and unpredictable conditions and are not suitable for snorkeling. However, the land has stunning scenery, mountain ranges, and waterfalls in Autumn. The city is a 1.40 hour flight from Muscat and does have an international airport located a 15-20 minute drive from the city.
Salalah Map
Wadi Dharbat Travertine
Wadi Dharbat Travertine Curtain waterfall in my opinion was the most incredible waterfall I’ve seen in person. The breathtaking waterfall, blue pools, and wadi to follow was a once in a lifetime. I’ve never seen water so blue anywhere else in the world. The sounds of the waterfall in the hills and Dhofar mountains were like a meditation soundtrack. There is a 30 minute walk from the small car park to get to the waterfall, I’d recommend wearing shoes suitable for trekking, as it is a bit rocky. There were only two other tourists during the hour we were at the waterfall. We also drove to the top of the waterfall where there was a wadi and had a look out at the incredible views of the Wadi out to the city and the ocean.
Top Tip:
When visiting the Tavertine Curtain waterfall, there is a 30 minute trek to get to the blue oasis at the bottom of the waterfall. I’d make sure you bring suitable trekking footwear.
Wadi Dharbat Cascade Falls
The Wadi Dharbat Cascade Falls are a key highlight and stop when visiting the waterfalls. The unique layout of many waterfalls in one is a cool sight, with the tree being a perfect place to get a great picture in front of the water. To the right-hand side of the cascade, single falls overflow into a blue lagoon, shown in the second picture.
Turquoise Wadi’s
I walked with the guide from Travertine waterfall along the side of the wadi and green trees. Whilst walking along the Wadi’s there were large thick spider-webs with large spiders. These spiders were mainly the Golden Orb Weaver spider (Trichonephila sumptuosa) which is large and imposing, but generally not aggressive, and although can cause a painful venomous bite, not normally life-threatening. To put it in perspective, the large spider was probably the size of your hand, with a large egg-shaped body.
Safety Tip:
Be aware of the sharp rocky landscape when hiking, there are large Golden Orb Spiders and thick spiderwebs found throughout the forest, be careful when walking near trees, as I almost walked into a web! Also bring plenty of water, a cap, and sun lotion, as you will be in the sun for a lot of the day.
Things To Do In Salalah
Sultan Qaboos Mosque
The Sultan Qaboos Mosque is located in the heart of the city, a religious site crafted with Omani architecture, featuring a large dome and minaret. I visited the mosque whilst staying in the city. If you ask to enter you have to respectful guidelines to remove your shoes, and cover your shoulders, wrists, and ankles.
Hotels & Beaches
There are hotels along the coastline of the city, with stunning sandy beaches. I was staying in the city, but paid for a day pass at the Crowne Plaza Resort which was $22.00 for the day, with pool and beach access. i had a great time relaxing in the pool, and on the beach. I didn’t go in the ocean, the Indian Ocean waves that hit the shoreline are big and strong. Along the beach, there were Camel rides in the evening, with a stunning Arabian Sunset.
Frequently Asked Questions
The easiest way to travel to Salalah is by air travel, and to Salalah International Airport, located just outside the city. The airport is located a short 15 minutes drive from the city, and was very modern with domestic flights to Muscat running frequently. Salalah is a 1.40 hour flight from Muscat, and a 2 hour flight from Dubai.
The excursions range from $100-$150 US Dollars for a half-day trip to the Waterfalls. This includes a stop-off at multiple sights. It is more cost effective if you have a group hiring a car as it is a set price for the 4-by-4 car and guide.
The best time to visit and visit the waterfalls and turquoise wadi’s is during the Autumn months of August-September, and early October, which is known locally as ‘Khareef’ season. Khareef is the Arabic word for Autumn. During August and early September, the city is very busy with tourists from the Gulf countries in the Middle East, however during the end of September and early October there are less tourists.
I went on a tour run by local Omani team called ‘Beautiful Salalah’, where I had a private 4-by-4 and local guide. The tour cost approximately $120 USD for 4-5 hours, visiting many attractions including Wadi Dharbat Tavertine Curtain waterfall, Wadi Dharbat Cascade Waterfall, and a trek along the turquoise wadi’s.
There are frequent domestic flights from Muscat International Airport to Salalah International Airport. The flight is approximately 1.40 hours depending on conditions and airline. The average cost of a return flight is around $140 USD, but can vary on time of year. Prices during Kareef season are usually higher due to higher demand.
Luke
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Luke is a passionate snorkeler who started Snorkelverse to live his dream of combining his passions for snorkeling, marine life, protecting marine ecosystems, and helping others.
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