Nestled in the rugged beauty of Fujairah, UAE, Wadi Saham is a unique historical spot waiting to be explored. Recently, I embarked on a journey to this secluded wadi, and what I discovered left me in awe of the UAE’s rich past and breathtaking landscapes.
One of the highlights of Wadi Saham is its ancient petroglyphs, dating back to the Iron Age. These beautifully carved figures, depicting ancient riders, serve as a reminder of the region’s rich history and the people who once roamed these lands. As I admired these ancient artworks, I felt that this location indeed has a special energy of previous generations.
On the way to the start of the hiking trail, we crossed many streams created by the wadis, where we saw local people enjoying with their families and even pet falcons. It was a heartwarming sight, showcasing the strong connection between the people and the land.
But exploring Wadi Saham is not for the faint-hearted. The ascent up the rocky wadi surface was challenging, requiring agility and bouldering skills. At times, we were unsure if we were still on the right path, and we almost gave up. However, our determination paid off when we rediscovered the trail, which led us steeply up the mountain. We even saw a snake (probably a non-poisonous wadi racer) on our way, also enjoying water in the wadi streams.
Despite the challenges, the climb was rewarded with spectacular views towards the Gulf of Oman and the Kalba area. Standing atop the peak, surrounded by the beauty of nature, I felt like a true winner and took in this spectacular view with a full heart.
The descent was also challenging as the trail was partially washed away by the rains. However, with our headlights guiding the way, we made it down safely, feeling a sense of accomplishment as we crossed a stream created by rainwater in the wadi.
As we descended from the mountain, our sense of adventure was briefly interrupted when we spotted a small scorpion. It served as a reminder of the importance of being cautious in the wilderness, as these creatures are poisonous. Always remember to wear proper shoes when you go hiking because you never know what’s crawling just under your feet!
Emerging from Wadi Saham, our shoes wet but our spirits high, I definitely felt like a winner. This journey had not only tested my physical endurance but had also allowed me to connect with the rich history and natural beauty of the UAE. Wadi Saham is truly a place where you can experience the past, present, and future of this remarkable country.
Distance: 6,64km. Elevation gain: 488m, Difficulty: Medium, Max elevation: 795m
More information on this trail at my Wikiloc account.
Want to know more?
Wadi Saham is a seasonal watercourse located in the Hajar Mountains of Fujairah, UAE. It is known for its petroglyphs, with a single rock bearing 26 petroglyphs across four faces. The wadi offers a unique historical experience and breathtaking landscapes, making it a must-visit for history and nature enthusiasts.
For more detailed information, you can visit the Wikipedia pages for Wadi Saham, Hajar Mountains and Fujairah.
Voyagerista 