I’ve hiked Jebel Shams summit twice but struggled the second time. Both times, I did gym workouts and ensured to eat plenty of protein along the way, but I felt like it was my first time hiking when I did it the second time.
I even had a minor meltdown with my friend as we climbed down. It’s funny now, but I just wanted someone to carry me down at the time!
After both of my experiences, here are some tips to prepare for the Jebel Shams summit to ensure you have a great trek.
Summit over view
Jebel Shams is about a three-hour drive from Muscat. The summit is 24km, and it’s about 3,000 meters. The path is a mix of loose and flat rocks and a lot of ascending and descending.
Prepping for the summit
Crossfit and strength training at the gym helped me with endurance. If you can’t get to a gym, squats and lunges at home are good for the knees, especially with the constant up and down throughout the trek.
I did not do a lot of strength training the first time, so my knees locked at the end, and I started walking backward.
Taking the stairs and walking are also good ways to get ready.
Gear
I recommend walking sticks, hiking boots, and gloves. Gloves can be the ones you use for cycling or the gym because you may want a good grip to hold on to the rocks. It’s not necessary to wear gloves, but just in case.
Some hiking groups provide walking sticks, or you can find some at Decathlon. It is also good to bring sunscreen, a cap, and sunglasses.
I hiked in November and December, so I wore a winter jacket for part of the hike.
Snacks and drinks
I drink a lot of water when I hike, so I recommend at least three to four liters. It is also good to have electrolyte sachets.
I bring Pocari sachets, which you can find at Lulu or Hypermax. Pharmacies also sell sachets.
Protein bars, dates, tangerines, apples, and nuts are also good fuel sources.
The first time I hiked Jebel Shams summit, I brought a can of on-the-go tuna, a great snack.
The hike
Depending on your pace, it takes about six to seven hours to reach the summit. The trail primarily consists of loose rocks with a few boulders.
There are some flat parts where you walk on smooth stones, but a lot of ascend and descend until reaching.
First time hiking the summit
The first time my friends and I hiked, our group camped the night before and began the trek at 6:00 in the morning.
One of the leaders told us that we needed to reach the summit by noon because we had to return to avoid hiking too long in the dark.
We had to walk in the dark for thirty minutes, which is why a head torch is good.
Second time hiking the summit
We left at 2:30 in the morning the second time, trying to reach the summit for sunrise, which didn’t happen.
I would not start hiking Jebel Shams this early next time because even with a torch, it was too dark, especially when dealing with loose rocks.
It took about seven hours the second time, but I took more breaks this time because I was exhausted.
Guide details
Most hiking groups do the summit between November – February.
I’ve gone with Wadi Adventure and a guide, Ahmed, from Rawahna Aventure Tours.
You can find them on Instagram @wadi.adventure, ahmed_nizwa, and rawahna_adventurs_tours.
Jebel Shams Summit
For those up for a challenge, Jebel Shams Summit is something to add to your list. There are some fantastic views along the way.