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The Machu Picchu of Oman Traditional Cache

Hidden : 1/18/2014
Difficulty:
2 out of 5
Terrain:
4 out of 5

Size: Size:   small (small)

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Geocache Description:

The cache requires a significant hike through a beautiful Wadi to an abandoned, intact village. As even 4x4 cannot enter (the access to the Wadi is blocked by a boulder) and the cache is located very far inside, you will find a clean, untouched and original place.

The walk will lead you along the Wadi floor, so wear sturdy shoes.

Don't underestimate the time, walking to the cache will take you approximately 2 hours one way!

Take plenty of water, food, sun protection and take care of snakes and scorpions as all around Oman!

And most of all, have fun and enjoy!

Access to the Wadi is from North, close to Nakhal

The Wadi will lead you to an abandoned village, with an old Falaj system, terraces, various buildings like the mosque, a watch tower and resident houses. Most of the buildings are still in a very good and original condition, some ever contain the tools, items and clothes of the people which once lived here. Walk around and explore!

BUT PLEASE LEAVE EVERYTHING AS IT IS. DON'T TAKE ANYTHING BUT PICTURES AND LITTER WITH YOU!

If you follow the Falaj deeper into the Wadi, you will see the extensive former terraces and irrigation systems. Nowadays the Falaj isn't carrying water any more, that might be the reason why the settlement is forsaken. Some single palm trees still remind that this place prospered in lush green not so far back in the past.

Continuing the Wadi, and climbing over larger boulders will lead you to some remarkable petroglyphes. The area is believed being a resting place in former times, and it kept this quality till these days. You will find riders, hunters, camels and various other animals and situations engraved into the rocks.

The cache is hidden in the watchtower overseeing the abandoned village. The coordinates might not be exact, but you will see the tower as soon as you proceed to the point.

Additional Hints (Decrypt)

Va bar bs gur "jvaqbjf" arkg gb gur ragenapr bs gur gbjre

Decryption Key

A|B|C|D|E|F|G|H|I|J|K|L|M
-------------------------
N|O|P|Q|R|S|T|U|V|W|X|Y|Z

(letter above equals below, and vice versa)