Balqis AL Oraimi
Located in the enchanting eastern region of the Sur governorate in the Sultanate of Oman, Wadi Tiwi is a hidden gem that beckons travellers seeking tranquility and natural beauty. Adjacent to the famous Wadi Shab, this mesmerising valley takes its name from the nearby coastal village of Tiwi. Nestled amidst lush farmland, Wadi Tiwi offers a unique, verdant landscape that sets it apart from many other wadis in the region. It's a haven for nature lovers.
Wadi Tiwi stretches for more than 35 kilometers, starting from its source in the village of Wadi Bir in the Tiwi Niyabat and flowing all the way to the sea. Along its course, there's an 11-kilometer stretch of cemented road, featuring challenging terrain with steep inclines, slopes, and curves that can be somewhat treacherous, making a four-wheel-drive vehicle advisable.
This fertile valley is adorned with dense vegetation, with trees lining its banks providing refreshing shades. The wadi meanders through various agricultural and residential villages and is blessed with tributary valleys like Khub Fadil Valley and Wadi Deni, as well as rocky formations such as Baddah Division and Khazina Division. These tributaries contribute to the abundant flow of Wadi Tiwi.
Numerous charming villages grace the banks of Wadi Tiwi. Mebam, in particular, stands out with its fascinating house formations, ancient castle, terraced farms, and perennial water pools that enthrall visitors throughout the year. The village also boasts a captivating waterfall, a popular tourist attraction in all seasons. Other villages, including Sui, Saima, Al-Hosn, and Harat Baddah, captivate with their architectural creativity, featuring old houses, towers, castles, palm groves, and picturesque surroundings.
Travellers can navigate the wadi by vehicle, passing through lush tree-lined paths and alongside flowing water throughout the year. The valley's farms are home to various palm tree varieties like Al Bonaranga, Al Madlouki, Al Sudari, Al Muhallabi, Al Manhahi, Al Qaddi, Al Najal, Al Salani, Al Khamri, Al Fard, Al Khasab, Al Hilali, and many more.
These farms are irrigated by the Gaelic aflaj, which draws water from the wadi's ponds and springs originating from the surrounding mountains. Notable aflaj in Wadi Tiwi include the rebel falaj, Bedouin falaj, Basab falaj, Uqair falaj, real estate falaj, Qalaa falaj, and Saffala falaj. The valley is also dotted with famous springs like Ain Masawa, Ain al-Ammar, Ain Sharihiyya, Ain Muhallabi, Ain Marawana, and Ain Halout.
To make the most of your visit to Wadi Tiwi, be sure to come prepared. A 4WD vehicle is essential due to the challenging terrain. Additionally, pack a cap or hat, sunscreen, food, snacks, plenty of drinking water, swimming attire, a towel, and sturdy, water-friendly footwear, such as old sneakers or open-toe shoes. Safeguard your camera and electronics with waterproof bags, as there's a need to swim through one large pool toward the end of the wadi.
To reach Wadi Tiwi, travel approximately 160 kilometers from Muscat via the Sharqiyah highway towards Sur. Take the exit towards Tiwi village, a couple of kilometers past the Wadi Shab exit and immediately after crossing the bridge over Wadi Tiwi. Follow the road towards the village, and once you reach the mouth of the wadi near the beach, turn left to venture into Wadi Tiwi (following the signpost on your right pointing to E35 Trekking Path, but be vigilant, as the sign can be easily missed).
The drive from Wadi Tiwi to Mibam village is under 10 kilometers. The road starts paved but can become slippery with water and seaweed, so exercise caution. Along the way, you'll pass through the narrow streets of Harat Bidah village, navigating tight roads while watching for oncoming traffic. After Harat Bidah, the road becomes a mountain path above the wadi, leading to a parking spot for hiking or all the way to Mibam Village, where you can park near the waste bins. Wherever you stop, you'll encounter a signpost pointing to the start of the E35 hiking trail, connecting to Wadi Bani Khalid, a challenging 2-day trek for the adventurous soul.
Embark on this unforgettable journey to Wadi Tiwi, where natural beauty, culture, and adventure converge to create a truly memorable experience.
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