Oman is one of the most beautiful countries in the Middle East. It has dramatic desert scenery, beaches, mountains, cultural cities, and many places to explore at a leisurely pace. What better way to get around this unique country than a self-driving road trip?
A 7-day Oman self-drive itinerary covers many highlights in and around the country. From Muscat to the canyons of Jebel Shams and Wahiba Sands, the weather is sunny and the scenery is stunning. This perfect road trip for those who have already experienced car rental Oman style, fast, flexible, and road-trip ready. Ready to discover new roads that are less crowded and vistas that are less photographed?
This Oman self-drive itinerary lets you maximize your time on the road while still being manageable, scenic, and immersive. Whether you travel alone, as a couple, or with family, this guide provides the perfect itinerary for a one-week Oman road trip.
Day 1: Arrival in Muscat and City Exploration
Highlights: Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque, Mutrah Corniche, Royal Opera House
Arrive in Muscat, the capital city, and the cultural and economic center of Oman. Take a taxi or Uber to Muscat International Airport to collect your rental car and then drive to your hotel.
Muscat is easy to get around with paved roads, clear signage in English and Arabic, and not much traffic compared to other Gulf countries.
Explore the Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque, an architectural marvel and one of the largest mosques in the country. You can visit the mosque in the morning if you are a non-Muslim.
After that, head over to the Royal Opera House for a taste of modern Omani culture. Then, visit the bustling Mutrah Souq, an ideal place to buy souvenirs and spices. Walk around Mutrah Corniche, a seaside promenade lined with cafes, restaurants, and shops.
Finish the day with a relaxing stroll along Mutrah Corniche with a sea view and a delicious meal at one of the waterfront restaurants.
Driving Tip: Muscat has plenty of parking, and it is not difficult to find a place to stay. Keep your drives short within the city and during the daylight hours.
Day 2: Muscat to Sur via Scenic Coastal Route
Distance: ~200 km
Highlights: Bimmah Sinkhole, Wadi Shab, Fins Beach
Drive southeast out of Muscat on Route 17. This coastal highway is one of the most scenic in the country, offering views of the Gulf of Oman and endless blue skies.
Visit the Bimmah Sinkhole, a natural pool of turquoise water. A local manhole-cover-sized hole in the ground, but a refreshing swim.
Keep hiking through palm trees and rocky paths to reach the Wadi Shab valley. This is a freshwater oasis with pools, caves, and lush vegetation. Bring a waterproof bag and wear good hiking shoes.
Head for Fins Beach for a quick picnic and swim and then arrive in Sur, a small coastal town known for its dhow-building tradition. Stay overnight in Sur.
Finish the day with a meal at one of the restaurants along the beach with fresh seafood.
Driving Tip: Keep some water and snacks in your car at all times. Gas stations are common in Muscat and major towns and cities, but they can be far apart in rural areas.
Day 3: Sur to Wahiba Sands via Ras Al Jinz
Distance: ~250 km
Highlights: Ras Al Jinz Turtle Reserve, Al Kamil, Desert Camp Experience
Wake up early and visit the Ras Al Jinz Turtle Reserve. You may see turtles nesting or hatching depending on the season. This is a magical experience for families and animal lovers.
Drive inland from the coast, toward the Wahiba Sands desert, also known as Sharqiyah Sands. Stop at Al Kamil to pick up supplies if necessary.
From here, head to your desert camp and switch your rental car to a 4WD or take the arranged pick-up by the camp. It is essential to use a 4WD in the desert, as the roads are sandy and challenging to pass for regular vehicles.
Spend the evening at your desert camp, enjoying traditional Bedouin-style surroundings, an Omani dinner under the stars, and a camel ride. One of the most memorable parts of the Oman trip.
Driving Tip: You will have to leave your sedan at the rental desk if you cannot rent a 4WD in the desert. Desert camps often provide pick-up from designated parking areas near the start of the desert, depending on your rental company.
Day 4: Wahiba Sands to Nizwa
Distance: ~200 km
Highlights: Ibra, Birkat Al Mouz, Nizwa Souq
Wake up and watch the sunrise in the desert before setting off for Nizwa, one of the most historical cities in Oman. On the way, stop by the old town of Ibra, famous for its abandoned mudbrick buildings and Friday market (make it on a Friday for the full experience if you can).
Before reaching Nizwa, make a stop at Birkat Al Mouz, a traditional village, to see the ruins and falaj (water channels) irrigation system. Birkat Al Mouz is also a nice place for photos and light hiking through banana trees and date palms.
Check in at your hotel in Nizwa and have some downtime after a long day on the road. In the evening, explore the Nizwa Souq, a bustling market selling silver, pottery, and khanjars (traditional Omani daggers).
If time allows, enjoy dinner with a view of the illuminated Nizwa Fort.
Driving Tip: Nizwa has broad roads and is well-signed. Parking can be tight on Fridays but easy in town.
Day 5: Day Trip to Jebel Akhdar or Jebel Shams
Distance: ~120–180 km round trip
Highlights: Grand Canyon of Arabia, mountain villages, ancient terraces
Choose between Jebel Akhdar and Jebel Shams depending on your interests and vehicle type.
Jebel Akhdar is known for its orchards, rose gardens, and cliffside villages. You must have a 4WD to visit.
Jebel Shams is known for its panoramic views of the Grand Canyon of Arabia. There are several hiking trails here, such as the Balcony Walk, that are accessible to families and memorable for all travelers.
Pack lunch and good shoes, and leave early. The roads are winding through high inclines and canyons, but it is safe if you are careful.
Driving Tip: Jebel Akhdar has a police checkpoint. Only 4WDs are allowed in this area. Check your rental agreement for off-road permissions if needed.
Day 6: Nizwa to Al Hamra and Misfat Al Abriyeen
Distance: ~100 km
Highlights: Al Hamra Old Town, Misfat Al Abriyeen, Bait Al Safah Museum
Drive to Al Hamra, a well-preserved old town with ancient mudbrick houses. Visit Bait Al Safah, a living museum where locals show you how Omani people lived in the past.
Drive uphill to Misfat Al Abriyeen, a picturesque mountain village. Misfat is famous for its lush date plantations, white stone houses, and narrow winding footpaths.
It is a great spot for a relaxed hike or short trek along the falaj irrigation channels.
Return to Nizwa for your final night in the interior, or consider staying in one of the quaint guesthouses in Misfat for a more immersive experience.
Driving Tip: Roads to Misfat are narrow but paved. Drive slowly and watch your mirrors at hairpin bends.
Day 7: Return to Muscat via Bahla and Jabrin Fort
Distance: ~170 km
Highlights: Bahla Fort (UNESCO), Jabrin Castle
Visit two historical landmarks before returning to Muscat.
Bahla Fort is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the oldest and largest forts in Oman.
Jabrin Castle is nearby and a short drive away. This is a beautifully restored palace with detailed ceiling art and defensive architecture.
After visiting, take the highway back to Muscat and return your rental car. You can stay near the airport or Muscat City if you would like to extend your visit and enjoy some last-minute shopping or a dip at Qurum Beach.
Driving Tip: Speed cameras are common on the highways, and Oman has a zero-tolerance policy for speeding.
Oman Rental Car Tips and Essentials
Documentation: Ensure your driver’s license is valid in Oman. You may need an International Driving Permit.
Navigation: Google Maps works, but it’s a good idea to download offline maps as coverage may be poor in rural areas.
Fuel: Gas is cheap and available everywhere. However, it can be scarce in the countryside, so it is best to fill up before setting out.
Supplies: Carry water, snacks, and a basic first aid kit. A portable phone charger is also a good idea.
Budgeting a Self-Drive Trip to Oman
A 7-day itinerary can be very cost-effective with good planning. Prices may vary depending on your vehicle and type of accommodation and time of year. However, here is a rough estimate (flights excluded).
Car Rental: $30–$70 per day, depending on the vehicle
Fuel: $1.50 per gallon
Accommodation: $40–$100 per night (mid-range hotels/guesthouses)
Food: $10–$25 per day per person
Entry fees/tours: Most attractions are free or low-cost
If you are experienced in Oman car rental bookings, you will notice many similarities in Oman. They offer similar service levels in Oman, but with less traffic and more open-road freedom.
Final Thoughts
An Oman self-drive road trip is the perfect mix of culture, nature, and exploration. The country has well-maintained roads, light traffic, and plenty of natural and historical sites to discover. Oman invites you to slow down and enjoy its natural beauty from behind the wheel.
Whether you are a solo traveler, a couple, or a family, this itinerary is designed for an unforgettable experience on the road. The country is safe and accessible for international visitors, with many well-marked routes and recommended camps.
If you like to travel with the convenience and affordability of car rentals in Omani, you’ll find Oman similar but a world different and worth a visit. Less crowded, more authentic, and refreshingly raw.