Private Wadi Shab Day Trip: Swim the Cave Waterfall and Visit Bimmah Sinkhole
Difficulty
moderate
Duration
7–9 hours
Fitness Level
Comfortably walk 6 km round-trip on uneven terrain and swim confidently in calm, cool water.
Overview
Swim into Wadi Shab’s hidden waterfall cave, scramble through palm-lined terraces, and pause at the turquoise Bimmah Sinkhole—all on a full-day private outing with a local Omani guide. This is Oman’s coast at its cleanest: limestone canyons, clear pools, and practical pacing that keeps the adventure smooth.
Private Wadi Shab Day Trip: Swim the Cave Waterfall and Visit Bimmah Sinkhole
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The highway unspools along the Arabian Sea as the Hajar Mountains rise in broken walls of limestone. By the time your private guide pulls into Hawiyat Najm—Bimmah Sinkhole—the day feels set to move between stone and water. A 20-meter plunge of blue-green lies at your feet, sunlight rippling over karst ledges. It’s a preview of the palette ahead: pale cliffs, palm green, and the clear, mineral blue that makes Oman’s wadis famous.
Adventure Photos
Adventure Tips
Plan for the swim section
You’ll swim 10–15 minutes to reach the waterfall cave; pack a small dry bag and wear water shoes for the rocky entries.
Beat the heat
Begin early to avoid peak sun and bring electrolytes; shade is limited along the canyon route.
Mind the footing
Expect slick limestone and small scrambles—closed‑toe water shoes or grippy sandals reduce slips.
Carry small cash for the ferry
The short boat shuttle at the wadi entrance is paid on site unless your guide covers it—have small OMR ready.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Garra wadi fish nibble at toes in the shallows.
- Indian rollers flash blue wings along the palm groves.
History
Falaj irrigation has watered these farms for centuries, channeling groundwater through gravity-fed tunnels. Coastal villages between Tiwi and Sur once supplied dhows trading across the Indian Ocean.
Conservation
Pack out all trash and avoid standing on fragile vegetation near the farms. Apply reef‑safe sunscreen well before swimming to reduce film on the pools.
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Adventure Hotspots in Sur
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Closed‑toe water shoes
Grippy, protective footwear makes slick rock and shallow entries safer and more comfortable.
Lightweight sun shirt (UPF)
Strong coastal sun and reflective limestone make full-coverage layers far more comfortable.
summer specific
10–15L dry bag
Keeps phone, small towel, and snacks dry during the swim to the cave.
Reef‑safe sunscreen
Apply at least 20 minutes before swimming to minimize residue in the pools.