All about Wadi Shawka and Shawka pools in Ras Al Khaimah
Nestled in the Hajar Mountains of Ras Al Khaimah, Wadi Shawka is one of the most stunning tourist destinations in the UAE. Comprising the Shawka pools and dam, it is hugely popular with off-road enthusiasts and hikers. Read on for everything you need to know about Wadi Shawka and its pools.
ABOUT WADI SHAWKA RAS AL KHAIMAH
Wadi Shakwa is situated in the Hajar Mountains of Ras Al Khaimah, starting from the village of Khari, north of the village of Shawka, joining Wadi Esfai and Wadi Ejili.
Generally considered to be an agricultural area due to various farms being situated in the region, the area is also home to various abandoned settlements. The abandoned settlements in the region are protected heritage sites. The area is also home to various cave systems, some positioned close to the abandoned settlements.
WADI SHAWKA DAM RAS AL KHAIMAH
The Wadi is adjacent to one of the most iconic dams in the UAE – Shawka Dam. It has a capacity of up to 275,000 cubic metres. It is 13 m high and 107 metres long. The Shawka dam overlooks a fully-developed recreational area – Wadi Shawka park, comprising a picturesque landscape and children’s play area.
The Wadi incorporates various branched valleys that run throughout its length. The most commonly used road, and the one posing the least amount of difficulty to navigate, is the one that runs from the Shawka dam location.
WADI SHAWKA POOLS
Due to the high amount of rainfall and the rugged terrain of Wadi Shawka, pools of water are naturally formed. These pools, known as the Wadi Shawka Pools, are a favourite destination for adventure travellers such as trekkers and off-roaders. The pools’ isolated surroundings (they are situated a fair distance from paved roads and civilization) makes them even more appealing.
WHERE IS THE WADI SHAWKA POOL SYSTEM LOCATED?
The first pool of the Wadi Shawka Pool System is situated at the end of the Shawka Dam trail and can be easily reached in a 4×4. Use these co-ordinates for a good place to park: 25.102020, 56.059887. Up to the parking spot/area the trail is mostly made of dirt, and it becomes quite formidable for off-roading beyond that point.
The pool hiking trail continues on to 25.094586, 56.065940 and allows travellers the option to go further by swimming or by walking along the side.
Whilst you can visit the location under your own steam, many tourism companies do operate hiking tours in the area.
THINGS TO REMEMBER WHEN VISITING THE WADI SHAWKA AND SHAWKA POOLS
Here are some of the things you need to remember during your trip to Wadi Shawka and the Shawka pools:
- Various staircases have been built for those wishing to summit the mountains of Wadi Shawka, with resting stops along the way.
- Make use of the stopping points to avoid exhaustion.
- The hiking trails are listed at the Wadi Shawka Dam starting point.
- You might find some areas to be flooded and impossible to cross due to rainfall.
- There are various mountain bike tracks and donkey trails once you reach the summit.
- Once you have reached the pools, you have the option of returning via your original path. Alternatively, you can proceed forward as the path curves and leads to a gathering spot that leads back to the Shawka Dam. However, this path is considered quite challenging, so is only really suited for more experienced trekkers.
- As it is can be quite easy to get lost on the Wadi Shawka Pool trail, make sure to have an experienced trekker with you on the journey who is familiar with the region.
- Use any of the many online apps that provide GPS tracking and route markings.
- Cellular coverage is not a major issue.
FAQs
What is the best time to visit Wadi Shawka?
The ideal weather in Wadi Shawka for trekking or off-roading is during winter, autumn and spring as the average temperature for those seasons varies between 20°C to 26°C. The trail is usually busy on the weekends and practically empty of foot and vehicle traffic during the weekdays. The winter time provides the most scenic route as the periodic rains fill the area with seasonal greenery and offer the best views.
How to get to the Wadi Shawka location?
Residents and visitors to Ras Al Khaimah can easily go for the Wadi hike by following these directions:
- Get on Al Manama Road/E11
- Continue toward Al Dhaid
- Exit from Al Dhaid to Masafi Road/E88
- Drive to your destination
How to prepare yourself for Wadi Shawka camping?
If you’re planning to hike at Wadi Shawka, bring:
- Suitable hiking boots and clothes. A fleece sweater if you’re hiking during the winter months.
- Sun protection aids (sunglasses, a cap, SPF 50 sunscreen).
- Water bottles and snacks.
- Rehydration tablets.
- Towels.
- Swimsuit (to take a dip in pool).
- First aid kit.
- Torches or flashlights.
This brings an end to our post on the beautiful Wadi Shawka pools. We hope you enjoy your visit to this true RAK treasure.
There is no entry fee to visiting the trail. In fact, it is one of the most popular free places to visit in Ras Al Khaimah.
Looking for an adrenaline buzz? You should consider exploring Wadi Bih in Ras Al Khaimah. The valley is known for some of the best outdoor activities in the UAE.
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