Ready for an adventurous road trip through Oman? Pack your bags. We’ve got everything planned out. We gathered a short 3-day and a 7-day itinerary, no matter how long your visit is. But is it possible to visit Oman in less than a week? Stay with us and find out.
From the top Oman attractions and cities, such as Muscat, Nizwa, or gorgeous wadis, to places to stay, our plan will help you get the most out of this ancient country. So, get to Muscat. Rent a car. Get behind the wheel and preferably listen to some Omani playlists, and let the mesmerizing landscapes take you away.
Where to Start Your Oman Road Trip
Most of the tourists start their Oman road trip from Muscat, the capital city. It’s where the country’s biggest airport is located. And you’re probably flying there. That’s why we decided to pick this city as the starting point of our Oman road trip itinerary. Besides, the routes we picked are circular, and all of them end up in Muscat. Therefore, you can start your journey anywhere in Oman and follow our itinerary.
Moreover, Muscat is a must-see destination in Oman. Not mentioning Muscat in our trip plan is like introducing Europe without mentioning Paris. So, now that we know where to start, let’s get a car!
Car Rental in Muscat
We suggest renting a car in Muscat. As the biggest city in Oman, Muscat is probably the best place to find your ideal vehicle. Besides, there are many good car rental companies in the city to help you out. You can also pick up a rental car right after you reach Oman at the Muscat airport.
The vehicle you choose for your Oman road trip depends greatly on your preferences. However, we highly suggest renting an off-road or a 4×4 vehicle. They’ll take you further than any other car into the wilderness of Oman. And the further you go, the more adventure and fun you’ll have. However, note that big off-roaders might cost you more.
3-Day Oman Road Trip Itinerary
First and foremost, for those of you planning a short Oman road trip, we present our 3-day itinerary. We couldn’t pack the whole country in just 3 days. In this itinerary, we picked the top locations in Oman near Muscat that we think you should definitely visit. Let’s take a quick look at it.
This 3-day Oman road trip itinerary focuses on Muscat, the capital city, and a place for sea activities. Then, we go to Nizwa, the historic city of Oman. Lastly, we visit Jebel Akhdar, the mountainside of Oman.
Day 1, Starting in Oman
Start: Muscat
End: Nizwa
Distance: ~160 km (1:40 hours drive without stops)
The road cuts through the Al Hajar Mountains with plenty of wide open desert views and occasional goat herds. Hit the road before sunset to not missing the gorgeous golden hour.
Attractions
Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque
We’ll start our trip by visiting Oman’s architectural crown jewel. A must-see for its stunning marble work and the world’s second-largest handwoven carpet. Opened back in 2001, this landmark showcases the grandeur of the Omani nation.
Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque also holds the record for having the second-largest chandelier in the world. This massive mosque can accommodate up to 20,000 worshippers. But make sure you arrive early. It closes to non-muslims by 11:00 a.m.
Royal Opera House Muscat
After checking out the marvelous Sultan Qaboos Mosque, go visit the Royal Opera House. This Omani cultural hub is a must-visit for anyone. The building alone has a stunning architecture and hosts high-quality performances. If you can catch a show, we suggest one.
Mutrah Corniche & Souq
You don’t want to visit Oman without buying one or two souvenirs, right? What place would be better than one of the oldest markets in Arabia, Mutrah Souq? Also, walk the breezy corniche and snap pics of the harbor and forts in Mutrah Corniche.
After visiting this place, it’s time for lunch in Muscat. There are many tempting items to try while you’re in Oman.
Lunch Break
For your lunch break, head to Bait Al Luban, a popular spot near Muttrah Corniche known for its authentic Omani cuisine and stunning sea views. From fragrant shuwa to tender maqbous, this restaurant offers a traditional dining experience in a beautifully decorated space that reflects Omani heritage.
If you’re in the mood to explore more options:
- Ubhar Restaurant in the city center is another great choice, blending classic Omani flavors with a modern twist. Their date appetizers and seafood platters are especially worth trying.
- Rozna Restaurant, located in a castle-like building, provides a unique atmosphere alongside traditional dishes and is a favorite among locals for its ambiance and generous portions.
- For a lighter, quicker bite with a view, Mani’s Café near Qurum offers fresh salads, wraps, and juices—perfect if you want something casual yet tasty.
Al Alam Palace & Forts
Walk around the colorful palace exterior and nearby Al Jalali and Al Mirani Forts (not open inside, but stunning from the outside).
Qantab Beach or Yiti Beach
We believe these are the perfect spots in Muscat for a beach day. Before you drive inland, make sure you visit these less crowded and local vibes beaches. Besides, we believe these places are among the best beaches in Oman.
Where to Stay at Night
After you reach Nizwa, you can stay in Nizwa Heritage Inn for a more charming and traditional style. But if you prefer something more modern and comfy, check in at the Al Diyar Hotel.
Day 2: The Trip Continues in Nizwa & Bahla
Start: Nizwa
End: Bahla → Return to Nizwa for the night
Distance: ~100 km total with local exploration
Attractions
Nizwa Fort & Souq
Start the new day by visiting one of Oman’s most famous landmarks, Nizwa Fort and Souq. The fort’s massive circular tower’s origins date back over 800 years. This structure really captures the ancient Omani roots.
Next to it, there’s an exciting souq. The best items to buy in traditional Omani souks, like Nizwa Souq, are authentic Omani pottery, daggers (khanjars), and halwa. Plus, if you happen to be in Nizwa on Friday, don’t miss the goat market. It’ll be a unique cultural experience, and who knows? You might want to continue the rest of your journey with a goat!
Bahla Fort
For the next stop on our Oman road trip, take a 30-minute ride on Route 21 from Nizwa to Bahla. In this town, there’s one of the wonders of Oman. Bahla Fort is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, surrounded by legends and mystique. The fort is in two words, massive and unforgettable. Its mud-brick construction is impressive, which dates back to the 12th century.
Lunch in Bahla
Now, it’s time to eat lunch in Bahla. You need to get some energy for the rest of the day. It’s where this road trip through Oman gets really exciting. Bahla Oasis Restaurant or a traditional local cafe could be good choices.
Al Hoota Cave
Another 30-minute ride from Bahla to the north, and you’ll reach Al Hoota Cave. It’s one of Oman’s largest cave systems, with an underground lake and eerie rock formations. You need guided tours to visit this place. So, we recommend booking one in advance.
Where to Stay at Night
After you’re done visiting Al Hoota Cave, get back to Nizwa before nightfall and spend the second night there as well.
Day 3: Ascending Jebel Akhdar
Start: Nizwa
End: Jebel Akhdar
Distance: ~80 km (2 hrs, 4×4 required past the checkpoint)
Attractions and Activities
Drive up Jebel Akhdar
Once again, waking up in Nizwa. But today, we’ve got to start early. A lot of adventures are ahead of us. This day is all about natural wonders and climbing the mighty Jebel Akhdar mountains.
The road you must take is steep. Past a checkpoint, only 4WD cars are allowed. The road is full of points where you park the car to just take photos. Besides, the old mountain villages will just add to its magic.
Diana’s Point
Named after Princess Diana, this is one of the most iconic viewpoints in Oman. It has panoramic cliffs that drop dramatically into a deep canyon. This is going to be your first destination at the Jebel Akhdar mountains. And don’t forget to have a coffee or a drink at the dramatic cliff edge. It will be absolutely unforgettable and soul-cleansing.
Lunch
Have lunch at scenic places like Alila Jabal Akhdar or Anantara Resort. The views there are – spoilers alert – spectacular!
Wadi Bani Habib
Our final stop for the rest of the day is Wadi Bani Habib. This paradise among the heights of Jebel Akhdar will capture your heart. Besides, there is a surprise there that will enhance your experience. An abandoned village in a green valley is just a short hike away from you. Post the most unique photos in your social media accounts with stone houses and fig trees growing out of walls. Let your imagination go wild in this ghost village.
Where to Stay at Night
Well, there are two options on the table. If you’re in a hurry and want to end your 3-day Oman road trip before the third night, we suggest going back to Muscat. The road will be about 180 km long and take 2.5 hours of driving. There are plenty of high-class hotels or hostels you can find in Muscat where you can stay overnight.
But if you can get back to Muscat the morning after to finish your road trip, we suggest staying at one of these resorts:
- Alila Jabal Akhdar (ultra-luxurious mountain lodge)
- Sahab Resort & Spa (more budget-friendly but beautiful)
It will be a magical experience to spend the night amidst the silence of the mountains.
3-Day Oman Road Trip Itinerary Cost
We think this 3-day road trip through Oman will cost you around 350 OMR (909 USD). We gathered this table to quickly wrap up the estimated expenses:
| Expense Category | Estimated Cost (OMR) | Estimated Cost (USD) |
|---|---|---|
| Car Rental (3 days) | 150 OMR | 390 USD |
| Fuel | 8.33 OMR | 21.66 USD |
| Accommodation (3 nights) | 105 OMR | 273 USD |
| Food (3 days) | 36 OMR | 93.60 USD |
| Activities & Attractions | 15 OMR | 39 USD |
| Miscellaneous Expenses | 30 OMR | 78 USD |
| Total | 344.33 OMR | 896.26 USD |
And that was our 3-day Oman road trip itinerary. Hope you enjoy Oman in 3 days. However, if you can spend more time in Oman, check out our 7-day itinerary. This plan includes Oman’s coastline roads and more seaside activities.
7-Day Oman Road Trip Itinerary
One week Oman road trip itinerary includes almost any activity the country offers. From the historic towns of Nizwa and Bahla, to breathtaking wadis and seaside cities, this plan will take you on an unforgettable journey through Oman. Plus, we’ll take a visit to the Wahibi Sands as well. Here’s a brief breakdown of this itinerary:
Day 1: Muscat Highlights & Coastal Road to Tiwi
Start: Muscat
End: Tiwi
Distance: 157 km (1 hour and 40 minutes)
The road is coastal and has spectacular scenery.
Attractions and Activities
Just like our previous itinerary, we start our journey in Muscat. We suggest the same activities in Muscat. As we mentioned before, you can check out:
- Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque
- Royal Opera House Muscat (Optional quick visit)
- Mutrah Corniche & Souq
- Lunch at Bait Al Luban or Rozna Restaurant
We’ve already talked about them on day 1 of our 3-day Oman road trip itinerary. On top of these attractions, you can drive to Old Muscat and explore Al Alam Palace, Al Jalali, and Al Mirani Forts.
Muscat to Tiwi via Route 17
Hit the road right after lunch or a little later so that you catch the scenery during daylight. Besides, there are some must-see attractions on your way to Tiwi that you should visit.
Bimmah Sinkhole
On your way to Tiwi, only 35 kilometers from the town, there lies one of the natural wonders of Oman. Bimmah Sinkhole is a surreal natural limestone crater filled with turquoise water. The picturesque surroundings filled with heavenly water will stay in your memory whether you take any photos or not. Also, if you’re a fan of swimming, make sure you bring a towel and a change of clothes.
Fins Beach
If you have extra energy (or time), stop at Fins Beach for a short walk and views. It could be the place where you watch the ocean as the sun goes down behind you. Fins Beach is a rocky beach that looks like something out of a fairy tale. Again, it could be the perfect spot for family photos.
Fins is an exciting detour before our last stop for the day 1 in Tiwi.
Where to Stay
Here are some suggestions you can consider for staying in Tiwi overnight.
- Budget/Mid-range: Sur Plaza Hotel, Tiwi Sunrise Motel
- Charming stay: Sama Tiwi Lodge (close to Wadi Shab start point for Day 2)
Tip: Book dinner in advance if staying in Tiwi — limited options at night
Day 2: Wadis, Caves, and Turtles
Start: Tiwi
End: Ras Al Jinz
Distance: 150 km (3 hours)
Activities
Top of the morning to you all! Welcome to day 2 of our 7-day Oman road trip itinerary. Eat a full-calorie breakfast because today we will be hiking a bit. Don’t worry, though. The result will totally worth it. Get ready to immerse yourself in a tiny bit of paradise along Oman’s coastline, Wadi Ash Shab.
Wadi Ash Shab Hike & Swim
You can bet that anywhere in Oman, starting with the word “Wadi”, should be a wonderful oasis. This is also true about Wadi Ash Shab. Start early to avoid the midday sun. Park under the bridge near Tiwi and take a short boat ride across the stream (1 OMR round-trip). Hike ~45 minutes into the wadi, and you’ll face dream-like natural pools and waterfalls. Swim through freshwater pools and reach the hidden waterfall cave.
Majlis al Jinn Cave (Optional for Adventurous Travelers)
This giant underground chamber is hidden on the Salmah Plateau, about a 1-hour off-road detour from Tiwi. It will be an unforgettable experience in Oman. The unique natural surroundings of this cave are breathtaking. But make sure you go there prepared. You’ll need a 4×4 and preferably a guide, unless you’re experienced with cave trekking. Besides, entry into the cave requires special permission and advanced arrangements (for serious cavers).
However, if you’re not up for the cave itself, the Salmah Plateau drive is worth it for mountain views.
Drive to Ras Al Jinz
After exploring Wadi Ash Shab, it’s time to travel further along the coastline. Something magical awaits you on the northeastern side of Oman. But before we get there, stop for photos near Khabbah Cliffs. Also, keep an eye out for small villages and dramatic cliffs.
Check-In & Relaxation at Ras Al Jinz Turtle Reserve
By the evening, you should have reached Ras Al Jinz. Settle into your room or eco-tent at the reserve. This is the place in Oman where sea turtles lay eggs, and you should be able to see them. But don’t get too excited yet. Guided tours happen at night. While you’re waiting there, you can chill with sea views or take a walk along the beach.
Sunset Walk or Visit Sur (Optional)
If you’re up for more, drive back to Sur before sunset. It’s a beautiful city in Oman where you can visit Sur Dhow Yard (traditional shipbuilding) and Al Ayjah Lighthouse. It will be a 40-minute drive.
Drive back to Ras Al Jinz for dinner. Plus, sea turtles are waiting for you there.
Turtle-Watching Tour at Ras Al Jinz
After dinner, it’s time to take a nighttime guided walk on the beach to witness green sea turtles nesting. If you’re lucky enough and visit there in the right season, you’ll see baby hatchlings, too. Tours last about 60 to 90 minutes.
Where to Stay
- Ras Al Jinz Turtle Reserve Eco-Lodge – cozy, comfortable, and on-site for night tour.
- Luxury alternative: Sur Grand Hotel (if you want to stay outside the reserve)
Day 3: Ras Al Jinz to Wahiba Sands
Start: Ras Al Jinz to Jalan Bani Bu Ali
End: Bidiyah or Al Wasil desert camp
Distance: 200 km (2 hours and 54 minutes)
Activities
Breakfast & Checkout at Ras Al Jinz Turtle Reserve
Rise and shine, everyone, day 3 of our Oman road trip has just started. We call day three the desert day. Enjoy the morning breeze and a light breakfast after the turtle tour from the night before. Then, pack up for your inland drive to Wahiba Sands. Today, we’re having our longest road trip.
Before we get to our desert camp in Al Wasil, there’s an interesting detour to Jalan Bani Bu Ali. So, start earlier to save some time for that as well.
Arrive at Desert Entry Point (Al Wasil or Bidiyah)
Arrive at the town of Al Wasil or Bidiyah to reach the desert camps. We will explore their traditional menus for lunch. Here’s a list of our top 10 picks of Wahiba camps for your Oman road trip:
- Desert Nights Camp (Al Wasil)
- 1000 Nights Camp (Al Wasil)
- Luxury Desert Camp Oman (Bidiyah)
- Sama Al Wasil Desert Camp (Al Wasil)
- Starry Domes Desert Camp (Bidiyah)
- Safari Desert Camp (Bidiyah)
- Canvas Club Luxury Tents (Al Wasil)
- Arabian Oryx Camp (Bidiyah)
- Rashid Private Camp (Bidiyah)
- Nomadic Desert Camp (Bidiyah)
Before getting there, note that:
- Many desert camps offer parking and pickup by a 4×4 to reach the camp itself.
- If you’re driving yourself, be sure your 4WD is ready and you’ve deflated tires.
Desert Activities & Sunset
After lunch and a quick rest time, it’s time to explore the adrenaline-inducing activities of the desert. Start by dune bashing with an experienced guide. Drive through the vast sands of Wahiba.
If you’re not a fan of thrilling activities, you can try camel riding. Trust us, there’s nothing more calming than slowly riding through the endless sands on a camel. Moreover, you can visit a Bedouin family tent to get lost in the desert life even more. It will become an unforgettable experience.
And what’s a better way to end a day in the desert than a scenic sunset view? Reminder: take a camera with you.
Dinner & Stargazing
The wonders of the Wahiba desert aren’t over yet. After having your Omani-style dinner at one of the camps, save some time for stargazing. Wahiba has virtually no light pollution. The magical night sky mixed with the silence of the desert will be a transcendent experience.
Where to Stay
- Luxury: Desert Nights Camp
- Mid-range: Sama Al Wasil or 1000 Nights Camp
- Eco/local: Nomadic Desert Camp
Day 4: Wahiba Sands to Ibra – Ghost Towns & Heritage
Start: Wahiba Sands Camps
End: Ibra
Distance: Maximum 60 km (one hour)
Activities and Attractions
Desert Sunrise & Breakfast at Camp
Day 5 cannot start more epic than watching the sunrise over the dunes. Believe us, it’s totally a different energy from sunset. So, we absolutely suggest waking up early for the this great even.
Right after enjoying a hearty breakfast, we’ll move back from the edge of nothingness to society. This day is all about ghost towns and historic sites of eastern Oman.
Detour to Al Mintarib (Optional)
Before moving to Ibra, we suggest taking a little detour to the Al Mintarib fort. It’s located in the Bidiyah town. If you’re camp is near Bidiyah, Al Mintarib is almost on your way to Ibra. And if you have chosen Al Wasil camps, Bidiyah is almost 10 kilometers away. Therefore, it is worth it to spend some time to visit another old fort in Oman.
Drive from Wahiba Sands to Ibra
Our next stop is Ibra. It won’t take much time to get from Wahiba Sands to Ibra (almost a one-hour drive). If you have extra time before lunch in Ibra, look out for Al Mudayrib Watchtowers. They’re the ruins of old mudbrick towers rising over a palm oasis. It can be a good photo spot.
Lunch in Ibra
Finally, we arrived at Ibra, one of the most prominent historical towns of Oman. It’s also famous for the Souq Al Arabiya or the Women’s Souq. But, before we get there, we must eat something for lunch. Try Al Masharef Restaurant, a small roadside diner, or simple local food. Also great chance to try camel meat or chicken Majboos.
Ibra Old Quarter & Women’s Souq (if it’s Wednesday)
For the rest of the day, we will explore Ibra. Walk the abandoned mudbrick village. You’ll feel like you’re walking through a time capsule. And if it’s a Wednesday, check out the Women’s Souq. It is a rare, women-only market in Oman. If you’re a male tourist, respect the customs and seek permission.
You can also visit many old houses that are privately owned but open if you ask politely. A few local guides offer walking tours or invite you in for Omani coffee.
Chill Night in Ibra
After the crazy experiences of the previous night in Wahiba Sands, we think a chill night in Ibra is a good way to balance your road trip through Oman. Besides, we need a break before heading toward the mountains tomorrow. Relax under palm trees, visit a café, or hang out at your guesthouse rooftop.
Where to Stay
- Budget/Mid-range: Ibra Hotel, SAJ Farm Inn
- Local vibe: Ask around for traditional guesthouses — locals often offer stays
Day 5: Ibra → Nizwa – Forts, Castles & Caves
Start: Ibra
End: Nizwa
We will also visit Bahla and Al Hoota Cave.
Distance: 211 km in total (2 hours and 50 minutes)
Activities
Breakfast & Checkout in Ibra
After the chill day we spent in Ibra, a day full of adventures is ahead of us. So, get an early start. Today, we will visit the historic towns of Nizwa and Bahla and their forts. Besides, we’ll head to the mountains for the breathtaking scenery of the Al Hoota Cave.
Drive from Ibra to Bahla
It will be an almost 174 km drive that’ll take you about two hours. The road gets greener and more mountainous as you drive west. Heads up for a lot of scenic views along the road. For instance, you can stop to check out:
- Wadi Halfayn – A quick pull-over for palm groves and date farms.
- Izki – One of Oman’s oldest towns, with abandoned mud villages worth a short stop.
Bahla Fort – The UNESCO Gem
After arriving at Bahla, head for the number one attraction of the city. Bahla Fort is the largest mudbrick fort in Oman, surrounded by mystery and legends. If you like voodoo culture, you’ll love it here; locals whisper about old magic here.
Visiting the Bahla Fort will take about one hour of your time. The entry fee is about $1.30.
Lunch in Bahla
Before moving on to our next adventure, refuel your car and yourself in Bahla. For lunch, you can try Bahla Oasis Restaurant or grab local bites from street stalls. Besides, don’t miss chilled laban or lemon-mint juice. They’re super refreshing in the heat.
Al Hoota Cave – The Underground Wonder
This underground mystery is only a 30-minute drive away from Bahla. Al Hoota Cave is undeniably one of the highlights of any Oman road trip. We’ve already covered this cave in our 3-day itinerary.
Guided tours are available inside the Al Hoota with an entrance fee of 6.5 OMR ($16.89) for foreigners. Visiting this place takes about 1.5 hours. The highlight of your tour could be the dramatic limestone system, Stalactites, and the underground lake with rare blind fish.
Drive to Nizwa & Check-In
It’s time to head back from the Al Hoota Cave. A short scenic drive (about 45 minutes) through the foothills of the Jebel Akhdar range, and we’ll reach Nizwa. We will spend the night 5 here. While passing the Nizwa road, you’ll see distant fort towers, open wadis, and mountain silhouettes.
Evening Walk in Old Nizwa
Stroll around the Nizwa Souq, which comes alive before sunset. It’s also perfect for buying one or two souvenirs if you haven’t bought any. Pick up silver khanjars, clay pots, or spices. Lastly, walk up to the Nizwa Fort exterior for golden hour shots (you’ll go inside tomorrow morning).
Dinner in Nizwa
Try Al Diyar Hotel Restaurant (casual) or Bin Ateeq for a traditional Omani floor-seating experience. Local dishes we suggest trying are Shuwa, Haress, or Mandi.
Where to Stay
- Budget: Nizwa Heritage Inn
- Mid-range: Al Diyar Hotel
- Boutique: Antique Inn (with rooftop views)
- Luxury: Golden Tulip Nizwa (a little outside town but very comfy)
Day 6: Nizwa → Jebel Akhdar – Forts, Cliffs & Terraces in the Sky
Start: Nizwa
End: Wadi Bani Habib
We will visit Diana’s point on our way up.
Distance: 64 km (1 hour and 23 minutes)
Activities and Attractions
Welcome to day 6 of our Oman road trip. Today, we will explore the almighty Jebel Akhdar. Get ready because day 6 might be the most epic day of this road trip through Oman. But before we hit the road, there’s one thing left to do in Nizwa: the fort.
Nizwa Fort & Souq
Go inside the massive cylindrical tower you saw yesterday. Climb to the top for a 360° view of the city and surrounding date plantations. Besides, this place has museums and weapon displays. The entrance fee is 5 OMR ($13.00). Allow 1.5 hours for this place.
After visiting the Fort, you can check out the Nizwa Souq for breakfast, light snacks, and last-minute souvenirs.
Lastly, fuel up your car. The mountain adventure is about to start.
Drive from Nizwa to Jebel Akhdar Plateau (via Birkat Al Mouz)
Before we start heading towards the Jebel Akhdar heights, let us remind you again that you need a 4×4 car to explore the mountains. There’s a checkpoint on the road that won’t allow other types of cars to pass.
The drive is about 1.5 hours and is filled with cliffs, canyons, and dramatic hairpin turns. All in all, it’s incredible. Stop at Diana’s Point at the top for an iconic view over the Saiq Canyon. It will be breathtaking.
Lunch with a View
While exploring the unforgettable roads of Jebel Akhdar, we need to find somewhere to eat. The place we suggest is the Sahab Resort & Spa. Sahab is a boutique-style resort with a gorgeous terrace. It’s also near Diana’s point for better accessibility.
Terraced Villages Hike in Wadi Bani Habib
From Diana’s point to the Wadi Bani Habib is about a 20-minute drive. There lies a semi-abandoned village in a deep valley. It’s a short, scenic hike down. Don’t forget to bring water, grippy shoes, and a camera; the views are next level.
The ancient stone villages along the cliffs are surrounded by pomegranate and rose terraces. In April, the roses bloom, and you can smell them in the air.
Golden Hour & Chill
Pick a resort you want to stay in before the golden hour. Alila or Anantara resorts are the luxury options near Wadi Bani Habib. Sahab is also a good pick near Diana’s point.
Return or check in at your hotel or head over to a viewpoint for sunset photography. After sunset, have dinner in the cooler air and serene quiet of the mountain. It’s also the perfect setting for reflection or a firepit chat.
Where to Stay
- Luxury: Alila Jabal Akhdar, Anantara Al Jabal Al Akhdar
- Mid-range: Sahab Resort & Spa
- Local stays: Sama Hotel Jebel Akhdar, The View Oman (downhill toward Al Hamra)
Day 7: Jebel Akhdar to Muscat – Scenic Descent & Soft Landing
Start: Wadi Bani Habib
End: Muscat
Distance: 166 km (2 hours)
Actitvities
Day 7, the final day of our thrilling Oman road trip. We will drive back to where we started, Muscat.
Whether you’re waking up in Alila, Anantara, or a cozy guesthouse, this is your last mountain sunrise. Have breakfast outdoors if possible, and take your time with it.
Drive from Jebel Akhdar to Birkat Al Mouz
It’ll take you around one hour to drive from Wadi Bani Habibi to the Birkat Al Mouz. Descend carefully. The road down is just as scenic as the way up. Watch the temperature rise and landscape shift from cool cliffs to rocky plains.
Birkat Al Mouz Ruins
Stop at this palm-filled village at the base of the mountain. Here, you can explore the old mudbrick houses and the Falaj irrigation system (UNESCO recognized). This stop will be short, sweet, and photogenic. It will be totally worth the time.
Drive from Birkat Al Mouz to Muscat
The last road trip through Oman is this one, just a smooth highway drive back home. The distance is about 130 km, which takes around 1 hour and 15 minutes. Do you remember the Omani playlist we mentioned earlier? It’s the last chance to listen to it and immerse yourself, once more, in the landscapes of this country.
Optional detours you can take are Samail Castle, a quick historic stop, or Fanja, a sleepy village to have lunch in.
Welcome back to Muscat
Welcome to the capital city again! We did a full circle and ended our 7-day Oman road trip itinerary. It’s time to celebrate having spent a full week on Oman’s roads and landscapes.
To celebrate this moment, how about having lunch in an authentic Omani restaurant in Muscat? Let us draw your attention to the list below. These are our top picks among Muscat restaurants to have a taste of Oman’s food and cuisine:
- Bait Al Luban – Traditional Omani cuisine in a heritage building near Mutrah.
- Rozna Restaurant – Omani dishes in a fort-style setting.
- Al Angham – Upscale Omani dining at the Royal Opera House.
- Bin Ateeq – Traditional floor-seating and classic Omani fare.
- Ubhar – Modern twist on traditional Omani food.
- Dukanah Café – Omani breakfast and rustic ambience.
- Ramssa Restaurant – Authentic Omani dishes with a local feel.
Other Muscat Activities
For the rest of the day, you can visit your favorite Muscat attractions again, or:
- Relax at Qurum Beach or Shatti al Qurum
- Visit the Oman Across Ages Museum if you’ve got more culture in you
- Catch sunset at Riyam Park Viewpoint or one last walk at Mutrah Corniche
Evening Options
Are you leaving the city before nightfall? Return your rental car and head to the airport around 3 hours before departure.
And if you’re staying one more night in Oman, book a hotel near Qurum, Al Mouj, or Mutrah and enjoy your last Omani evening with a mocktail by the sea. Below, we’ve also listed some of the top hotels you can stay in for the night in Muscat.
Where to Stay
- uxury: Kempinski Muscat, Chedi Muscat
- Mid-range: Ramada Encore, Coral Muscat
- Chill vibes: Mutrah Hotel or Muscat Hills Hotel near the airport
7-Day Oman Road Trip Cost
7-Day Oman Road Trip Itinerary Cost
The cost of a 7-day road trip through Oman for two people is around 805 to 975 OMR ($2092 – $2534). Take a look at the table below. We’ve broken down each category to sum up the expenses one by one.
| Category | OMR (Total) | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Car Rental | 350 OMR | 7 days × 50 OMR/day (4WD required for Jebel Akhdar & Wahiba Sands) |
| Fuel | 40–50 OMR | Around 1,400 km total (petrol is ~0.24 OMR/L) |
| Accommodation | 210–280 OMR | Mid-range stays (~30–40 OMR/night on avg, mostly double rooms) |
| Food & Drinks | 100–140 OMR | 2 people × ~7–10 OMR/day per person (mix of local & restaurant meals) |
| Entry Fees & Tours | 35–45 OMR | Includes Nizwa Fort, Bahla Fort, Al Hoota Cave, Turtle Tour |
| Desert Camp Activities | 25–40 OMR | Dune bashing, camel ride, optional Bedouin visit |
| Turtle Reserve Lodge | 25–40 OMR | One-night eco-lodge stay with turtle night tour |
| Misc (Tips, Souvenirs) | 20–30 OMR | Souqs, local guides, snacks, etc. |
Last Word
The best way you can explore this country, this ancient land with breathtaking wonders, is by going on a road trip through Oman. Together, we explored Muscat, the capital city; Tiwi, the coastal city of Oman; Ras al Jinz, home to sea turtles; Wahiba Sands; Nizwa, Bahla, and their historic sites; and lastly, the breathtaking cave and heights of the Jebel Akhdar.
We gathered two itineraries for a short and a long Oman road trip. Our three-day Oman road trip itinerary covers most of the must-see spots in the country. Our one-week itinerary, however, takes you on a full journey through Oman, immersing yourself in the land.
So, don’t hesitate! Book a car rental in Oman and go on to discover its landscapes.
FAQ
How many days are enough for Oman?
5 to 7 days are enough to explore Muscat, Nizwa, the desert, and some coastal or mountain areas without rushing.
Is it safe to self-drive in Oman?
Yes, Oman is one of the safest countries in the region for self-driving. Roads are well-maintained, and signage is clear in both Arabic and English.
Can I drive in Oman with an EU license?
Yes, tourists can drive in Oman with a valid EU license. An International Driving Permit (IDP) is recommended but not strictly required for short stays.
Is Oman cheap or expensive?
Oman is moderately expensive. Accommodation and alcohol are pricey, but fuel is cheap and local food is reasonably priced.
Can you drink alcohol in Oman?
Yes, but only in licensed hotels, bars, and restaurants. Public drinking is prohibited, and alcohol is not widely available outside major cities.
What is the best month to visit Oman?
November to March is the best time, with pleasant temperatures ideal for sightseeing, hiking, and desert excursions.
What is the best way to get around Oman?
Renting a car is the best option for flexibility and access to remote areas. Public transport is limited outside Muscat.
