Selma Plateau
(Hajar Mountains)
- Hundreds of settlements
- Average annual temperature: 20°C
- Area size: Approx. 30.000 km²
Extraordinary remoteness
The Plateau is over 2,000m above sea level with, on a clear day, amazing views to the north are of the Arabian Sea. This track passes ancient villages that were, until a few years ago, only accessible on foot or by donkey. This long, west-facing ridge is spectacularly lined with numerous beehive tombs built by the Umm Naa people in around 2500 BC.
Home to Majlis al Jin and many other caving systems, one of our favourite areas to explore by foot. We usually set up camp within easy reach of the Beehive tombs. Our camp is also situated within less than an hour’s drive from 2 of our favourite wadis to trek through. For the more courageous a trek to camp from the base of the mountain is very common. At camp, guests can discover the local geology and flora, visit some traditional mountain villages and meet plenty of local people. Romantics and keen astronomers won’t be disappointed either; the night sky is extraordinary thanks to the remoteness of our camp and minimal light pollution.
Explore the vastness of this moonscape land by foot to truly feel what the expansiveness has to offer. Or, if you’d prefer something lighter, you can take a 4×4 to one of the many ancient villages, wadis or caves and have lunch in the shade of the cliffs. Note that for the caves sometimes some training is necessary in Muscat so do let us know if that is something you would be interested in doing.
Whilst in the mountains, you can expect cooler temperatures and clearer air, which makes for very favourable trekking conditions.
Only those who will risk going too far can possibly find out how far one can go.
T. S. Eliot,
Poet & Essayist
Our first day of the adventure
Leaving Muscat after breakfast we make our way through Wadi Mayh and onto the coastal road that runs between Muscat and Sur. After a short stop at Bimah Sinkhole, we drive through Wadi Tiwi where we will leave our cars behind to continue by foot. From here the adventure starts and we will explore Wadi Mibam (this will take approximately 2 hours and will be a combination of walking, swimming, descending with the help of a rope and jumping into water pools).
After the visit to Wadi Mibam, we stop for a tasty picnic lunch before driving to Qalhat viewpoint to see the tomb of Bibi Myriam. From here we start our ascend of the Selma Plateau, making our way up a steep gravel track that, in a short time, takes us to the peak of the impressive Plateau over 2,000m above sea level with, on a clear day, amazing views to the north are of the Arabian Sea. This track passes ancient villages that were, until a few years ago, only accessible on foot or by donkey. This long, west-facing ridge is spectacularly lined with numerous beehive tombs built by the Umm Naa people in around 2500 BC.
Upon arrival at the private camp, you will be greeted by the Hud Hud team with cold flannels and a refreshing drink and given some time to settle in. Relax from the comfort of your tent, or in the majlis, and soak up your surroundings before enjoying a spectacular sunset view from the camp.
Enjoy some nibbles and drinks while our chef prepares a tasty freshly cooked dinner.
Take a look at what else is possible during your trip to the plateau.
Begin your journey now
Not your usual camping experience
Our exclusive temporary settlements are reminiscent of a traditional, luxurious Arabian campsite. Each is created in Hud Hud’s unparalleled style, designed to meld into the natural environment and evoke the timeless ambience of the region.
Luxurious
Great food
Stylish
Environment friendly
Journeys
Other journeys in Northern Oman
At Hud Hud Travels we specialise in creating unforgettable journeys throughout Oman for single travellers, couples, families and groups.
Situated amongst some of Oman’s most dramatic scenery, the Hajar Mountains (translated as ‘Stone Mountains’) provide an excellent base from which to explore this region, experience the rich culture and breathtaking vistas that Oman has to offer.
Experience the quiet beauty of Oman’s Indian Ocean with its array of different blues and beaches like the Maldives.