Wajma village in Wadi Al Sahtan, located in the Wilayat of Rustaq in Muscat, is a picturesque tourist destination nestled in the mountains.
Situated in the South Al Batinah Governorate, this village boasts a unique geological landscape, making it an ideal spot for adventure seekers.
Wajma village is renowned for its numerous water springs meandering through the rocks, along with four falajs - Falaj Al-Malaj, Al-Ghail, Al-Khatwa, and Al-Qabil - which provide irrigation for the terraced farms spread across the mountain slopes.
Dr. Al Mu'tasem bin Nasser Al Hilali, the Director of the Heritage and Tourism Department in the South Al Batinah Governorate, highlighted the beauty of Wajma village, emphasizing its location in the mountains of Wadi Al-Sahtan and Aflaj, with farms cascading down the steep mountainsides.
The village's architecture is a sight to behold, with houses perched on the upper regions, blending old stone and mud structures with modern cement buildings that seem to cling to the rocks, almost touching the adjacent mountain peaks.
Furthermore, the village's charm lies in its small mosques, community council, Aflaj canals, and meticulously crafted agricultural terraces, all adding to its allure.
Al Hilali emphasized that those seeking adventure can explore mountain trails that cater to their desire for discovery, leading them to various villages in the Wilayat of Al Hamra in the Al Dakhiliyah Governorate, such as Jabal Shams, Misfat Al Abriyyin, Al Fara’a, Al Hwaib, Al Hoop, Al Wadaym, Al Naid, Al Ghor, and Limbo in Wadi Al Sahtin in the South Al Batinah Governorate.
He highlighted that the Ministry of Heritage and Tourism's strategy to diversify tourism investments has opened up opportunities for institutions and individuals to invest in small to medium-sized projects aligned with the tourism sector. One such opportunity is investing in guest houses and heritage lodges, which are suitable for the village of Wajma due to its heritage houses and scenic views.
Interested parties simply need to acquire the necessary permits to operate these establishments, making it a promising venture for tourism and beneficial for the local community.
Al Hilali emphasized the importance of investing in picturesque villages situated away from urban centers to cater to the growing demand for tourist accommodations. Such investments not only involve preserving the village's existing buildings through restoration and maintenance but also contribute to sustaining tourism and visitor traffic. Additionally, these initiatives can lead to the development of side projects that enhance visitor experiences, generate extra income for locals, and create employment opportunities within the community.
For those interested in visiting Wajma village, access is available via the Wadi Al-Sahtan road, a branch off the main route connecting Rustaq and Ibri. The journey begins on an asphalt path leading to the mountain road, followed by a 4-kilometer ascent on a dirt road suitable for four-wheel drive vehicles. Along this route, travelers will encounter charming villages nestled amidst lush palm oases and unique geological formations. Another road connects Wadi Al-Sahtan to Wadi Bani Awf, facilitating travel to various villages scattered across these valleys.
