Jabal Al Akhdhar is a climb of 5.9 kilometers (hors catégorie). Jabal Al Akhdhar tops out at 1,216 m above sea level. It is located in ولاية نزوى, محافظة الداخلية, عمان. The average gradient is 11.3% with a maximum of 17.2%. The climb has 671 meters of elevation gain.
Difficulty breakdown: This 5.9 km climb is a major test because of its very steep average gradient of 11%. The difficulty lies in its inconsistency: an extremely steep start at 18% over the first 500 metres, followed by a deceptive easing off. The heart of the climb (KM 1.5 to 3.0 and KM 4.0 to 5.9) features gradients consistently above 11%, demanding sustained effort.
Pacing tips:
1. Managing the explosive start: Don't get caught out by the initial 18%. Start at a measured pace to save your legs for the hard sections that follow.
2. Making the most of the breathers: The sections at 2% and 4% (KM 0.5-1.5 and KM 3.0-3.5) are key for recovering while keeping a good gear without forcing it.
3. Saving something for the finish: The last four half-kilometres (12-13%) are very demanding. Keep some strength in reserve for this final test.
Cyclists who have climbed it describe the ascent of Djebel Akhdar as a grueling but unforgettable experience. The road, fully paved, has significant elevation gain with gradients reaching 10%, demanding solid fitness. Access is strictly reserved for 4x4 vehicles, so motor traffic is limited, but cyclists share the tarmac with these vehicles on a road that is sometimes narrow, which calls for constant vigilance.
The effort is more than rewarded with breathtaking scenery. Riders' accounts describe spectacular views over deep canyons, lush green valleys and old stone villages clinging to the mountainside. The feeling of climbing out of the desert heat to reach a plateau with cool air and fresh mountain air is a standout feature of this climb.
The atmosphere up on the mountain is described as peaceful and almost mystical, especially outside peak hours. Riders mention the calm, broken only by the sound of their own laboring breath and the wind. The presence of terraced farmland where pomegranate, rose bushes and fruit trees grow adds a unique dimension to the route.
For those considering this challenge, riders stress the importance of careful preparation. A bike in perfect condition, with a reliable derailleur, is essential for handling the gradients. It is also crucial to carry plenty of water and food, as services are scarce on the climb, and to plan your descent carefully given the steep grade and the hairpin bends.
5.9 km • 671 m D+
VAM: average climbing speed, based on elevation gain
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