The Balcony Walk (W6) and the Oman Grand Canyon

The Oman Grand Canyon

The Oman Grand Canyon — Wadi Ghul, with the viewpoint at Wadi An Nakhar — sits steps from the resort. Its vertical cliffs drop more than a thousand metres into the wadi, making it one of the deepest canyons in the Arabian Peninsula. The Balcony Walk (W6) trail runs along the canyon rim, so the scale of the drop is right beside you for much of the walk.

The Balcony Walk (W6) trail

The Balcony Walk (W6) starts near the resort and follows the canyon rim. Because conditions on the trail change with the season and the weather, ask the resort team for current trail guidance and whether the route is advisable on the day you want to walk. Sturdy shoes and water are a good idea, and warm layers if you're out toward sunset.

After the walk

With almost no light pollution, the canyon is exceptional for stargazing after dark. Back at the resort, settle in with the outdoor swimming pool, the canyon-view restaurant (breakfast 7:00–9:00 AM, lunch 12:00–3:00 PM, dinner 7:00–9:00 PM) and the campfire area. Four room types are available — Sunset Chalet, Private Chalet, Twin Room with Mountain View and Mountain Lodge. See FAQ for more.

Quick questions

Where does the Balcony Walk start?

The Balcony Walk (W6) starts near Jebel Shams Resort, along the rim of the Oman Grand Canyon.

How deep is the Oman Grand Canyon?

The cliffs drop more than 1,000 metres at the viewpoint at Wadi An Nakhar.

Is it good for stargazing?

Yes — the high altitude means almost no light pollution, so the skies are clear and full of stars.

Other guides

The road climbing the Hajar Mountains toward Jebel Shams Resort

How to Get to Jebel Shams Resort from Muscat

Jebel Shams Resort sits high on Oman's highest mountain, about 237 km from Muscat International Airport via Nizwa and Al Hamra. The last stretch climbs a steep mountain pass, so a 4x4 or high-clearance vehicle is recommended — or let the resort arrange your transfer.

Cool mountain air and clear skies over Jebel Shams

Jebel Shams Weather and What to Pack

At roughly 3,009 metres, Jebel Shams is Oman's highest mountain, so the weather is cooler than the coast — days are cool and winter nights can drop near freezing. October to March is the most comfortable time to visit, and warm layers are essential for canyon evenings.

Stargazing over the dark canyon at Jebel Shams Resort

Things to Do at Jebel Shams

At Jebel Shams Resort the day turns around the canyon: the Balcony Walk (W6) and the Oman Grand Canyon viewpoint are steps away, the skies are made for stargazing, and the campfire, pool and Omani restaurant bring the day to a close. The old mudbrick town of Al Hamra is 37 km away.

Last updated: October 2026