A 7-Day Oman Road Trip Itinerary for the Adventure Lover

Oman, to me, represents all that I love about travel: authentic experiences, local connections, and breathtaking, awe-inspiring nature. It is a travel destination of rich experiences and joyful encounters, every day full of something unexpected and always accompanied by a side of dates and gahwa. 

In February 2023, I embarked on a solo trip car-camping my way through this small Middle Eastern Country. I set off from Muscat in a 2022 Outlander, determined to make the most of the week I had to spend. Between adventures planned and unexpected, I came away with a deep love for Oman and its people. Not only is Oman still off-the-beaten track for many travelers, but it’s also one of the safest destinations in the world.

This 7-day Oman Road Trip Itinerary breaks down everything I did during my week in Oman, including the nitty gritty of camping along the way. If you’re more of a hotel traveler not to fear – I’ve also included a recommendation at every stop. Hey, I get that showering with a water bottle isn’t for everyone! 

So let’s hit the road, shall we?

Itinerary at a Glance

DAY 1 – Muscat – 57.2KM
DAY 2 – Bandar Al Khairan, Bimmah Sinkhole – 172KM
DAY 3 – Wadi Shab – 172KM
DAY 4 – Misfat Al Abriyeen, Al Hamra – 246KM
DAY 5 – Jebel Shams – 50KM
DAY 6 – Wadi Damm, Nizwa – 169KM
DAY 7 – Nizwa & Return to Muscat – 161KM

🚘 NOTE: I rented a 4WD for my Oman road trip, which I HIGHLY recommend. While this itinerary is written from a 4WD perspective, I have included alternatives when necessary if you do not have an all-terrain vehicle. Look out for this symbol throughout the guide for 2WD alternatives.

Prepare for Your Trip

Here are a few things to note before heading out on the road.

• SECURE A VISA: Most nationalities need a visa to enter Oman. Click here to apply online for your tourist visa. Note: As of 2023, all GCC residents can obtain a visa-on-arrival in Oman.
• RENT A CAR: Obviously, you’ll need a car for a road trip! I was able to find a great deal on my Outlander from RentalCars.com. Many rental companies have discounts for long-term rentals, or far-advance bookings. 
• 4WD VS. 2WD: I HIGHLY recommend renting a 4WD when traveling in Oman. Even some of the most popular tourist destinations require 4WD to access, so you’ll ensure you won’t miss out. Plus, some of the best campsites are off the beaten track.
• TRAVEL INSURANCE: An absolute must for adventure travelers, especially when traveling alone. I personally use Visitors Coverage to keep myself ensured while I travel. Their plans cover everything from unexpected injuries to flight cancellations.
• LOCAL CULTURE: Oman is a Muslim country. Omanis are deeply hospitable, so please be respectful in return by keeping your knees and shoulders covered and respecting local culture. You are only required to cover your head when entering mosques. 
• SIM CARDS/DATA: I highly recommend purchasing a local SIM card when arriving in Oman. I bought 6GB of data from Renna Mobile for 5 rial ($13) at the Muscat International Airport. You can also organize an international plan with your carrier depending on the length of your stay.
• OFFLINE MAPS: Even with data, I recommend downloading offline maps for traveling in Oman. Especially in the mountains, signals can be spotty, which is why apps like Maps.me are a lifesaver in a pinch.
• WILD CAMPING: Wild camping is completely legal in Oman, which means you can pitch your tent almost anywhere! There are a few exceptions – including protected nature reserves and private land. These areas are usually clearly marked. 

Recommended Reading: Camping in Oman: The Ultimate Guide from a Solo Female Traveler

Route Map

This map outlines my entire 7-day Oman Road Trip Itinerary, from where I camped to where I ate (when I wasn’t eating peanut butter sandwiches!) You can download the map with Google Maps to use as a helpful guide when you’re out on the road. 

Before Your Road Trip Begins

I arrived in Oman on a Friday evening, so after picking up my rental car I actually opted to stay at the Mutrah Hotel in Muscat’s historic district on the first “unofficial” night of my road trip. It was a nice way to relax and get ready, and I was able to spend a little time exploring the Mutrah Souk in the evening.

Depending on when you will arrive in Oman, a comfortable night in Muscat is a great way to start your trip. Check out Fort Guesthouse, Naseem Hotel, or for a little bit of luxury, Crowne Plaza Muscat. 

DAY 1: 7-Day Oman Road Trip

EXPLORING MUSCAT, TRAVEL TO BANDAR AL KHAIRAN – 57.2KM

Our trip begins as most travelers to Oman do, with a day spent in its soulful capital city. Muscat has yet to see some of the infrastructure booms of other Gulf regions, and still has an old-world charm that draws you in at every step. It’s the perfect place to get your bearings for the trip ahead while still getting a feel for Oman in its winding alleyways and intricate mosques. 

Morning: Visit the Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque

In the morning, get up early and start your day at the Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque, the largest mosque in Oman.

The mosque is located a short drive through the city, its five minarets rising from within the rocky peaks in the distance. It is a striking feat of architecture because of its sheer size and scale, but does not feel gaudy, rather featuring intricately carved lattice work and beautiful mosaics at every turn. 

Visitors are welcome to visit the men’s prayer hall, where you can admire the 8-ton chandelier and intricately painted designs on the walls. Keep an eye out below your feet – the 21-ton prayer carpet took over 600 artisans to complete. 

Photographers will relish in the way the light bounces off the marble floors and coffee-colored walls. Tip: for the best light (and least amount of visitors) try to visit the mosque right when it opens at 8AM.

The Grand Mosque is open to non-Muslim visitors from 8AM-11AM Sunday-Thursday, and is closed on Fridays. Entrance is free. 

Please note that the Grand Mosque has a dress code for visitors. Women should be completely covered – long sleeves and long pants with hair covered. Men should have their shoulders and knees covered when visiting. You will be asked to remove your shoes when entering the prayer hall, so slip-on shoes are recommended. 

Afternoon: Stock on up supplies

With a big week of driving ahead, it’s best to spend a little time your first day stocking up on supplies for your trip. You can get everything you need – from food stuff to camping gear – at Lulu Hypermarket or Carrefour, two of the biggest chains in Oman. 

You’ll likely run into these chains again throughout your trip, but I recommend stocking up now, as they can become sparse as you leave the larger cities behind.

Evening: Drive and camp at Bandar Al Khairan

Located about an hour from Muscat is the winding coastline of Bandar al Khairan, a landscape dotted with turquoise fjords and colorful coral reefs. This will be our starting point for Day 2, so I recommend getting there early enough that you can set up camp in the daylight before enjoying an epic sunset over the sea. 

The Bandar Al Khairan viewpoint is up a winding but paved road with epic views into the fjord below. It’s a perfect spot to park, cook a meal, and even pitch your tent to spend the night if you chose. 

Alternatively, there are a few beaches quite close by if you prefer to sleep in the sand. One beach is accessible by car – directly below the final turnoff to the viewpoint and down a steep dirt road. I only recommend this beach if you are a skilled driver and have an all terrain vehicle. You can always leave your car at the top and carry your camping gear to the beach for a night by the ocean. 

DAY 2: 7-Day Oman Road Trip

BANDAR AL KHAIRAN, BIMMAH SINKHOLE, PEBBLE BEACH – 172KM

On the second day of our road trip, we’re dipping our toes (literally!) into the natural beauty of Oman, beginning with the stunning southern coastline. Don’t forget to pack your sunscreen and snorkel goggles as we head out into the winding fjords of the Gulf of Oman. 

Morning: Explore Bandar al Khairan

Rise early to beat the heat and head out on the Bandar al Khairan trail to find your own private beach to spend the morning. The trail begins at the viewpoint and continues along the jagged coastline, winding back and forth and passing numerous small beaches in the process. 

There’s no exact ending point to this trail, rather feel free to stop when you find the perfect secluded spot. Don’t forget to pack your snorkel goggles – the water is still and crystal clear, perfect for spotting fish. 

There are plenty of fishermen who offer boat tours of the Daymaniyat Islands, located off the coast of Bandar Al Khairan. If you’d rather not snorkel on your own, this can be a great way to experience the wildlife. Here’s a highly recommended tour from Viator, departing from Muscat. 

Afternoon: Swim in the Bimmah Sinkhole

If you’re still up for some swimming, Bimmah Sinkhole is a nice stop along the road to our next campsite. 

Local legend says that this local-swimming-hole was created from a falling star that struck the earth. Further legend swears that a monster lurks in the deep waters, waiting to prey upon those that come for a quick dip. In fact, some locals call the spot Bimmah as Bayt Al Afreet, which translates to “home of the demon.”

Don’t let these legends scare you away – Bimmah Sinkhole is a local favorite and a great spot to cool down right off the main highway. With the mountains one direction and the ocean the other, it’s a striking landscape, even more so when you enter into the crater and immerse yourself in the deep blue water. 

The sinkhole is free to enter, and open from 8AM-8PM. As this is a local favorite, please be sure to dress modestly, and consider swimming in t-shirts and shorts. 

Evening: Camp at Pebble Beach

You’ll be able to tell right away where this beach gets its name. Rounded white pebbles spill into the ocean, perfect if you’re keen on skipping. Keep an eye out as the sun sets for bioluminescent plankton illuminating the shore. 

Located only 5 minutes from Wadi Shab, our first destination for Day 3, this is the perfect spot to camp and relax in anticipation of an early morning tomorrow. Take a quick walk to the caves on the north end of the beach before clocking in early, we’ve got a big day tomorrow. 

DAY 3: 7-Day Oman Road Trip

WADI SHAB, SIFA BEACH – 172KM

Get ready to get your adrenaline pumping, because today we’re venturing out on one of Oman’s most incredible hikes – complete with waterfalls, swimming holes, and hidden caves only accessible by swimming. 

Morning: Go Canyoneering at Wadi Shab

From our campsite, it’s only a 5-minute drive to Wadi Shab. This wadi is one of Oman’s most popular hikes for a reason – it’s extraordinary. Sweeping mountains tower above the lush wadi, spotted with shimmering emerald pools. Tiny fish tickle your ankles as you swim deeper into the water, eventually encountering a cave only accessible via a tiny channel. Maneuver your way through, and you’ll be rewarded with a stunning waterfall hidden within.

I was hesitant about this place being overhyped before I visited, but after returning I can confidently say, it absolutely deserves every accolade it gets. However, because of its popularity, it tends to get crowded later in the day. I recommend getting to the site as early as possible, preferably between 7-8AM to avoid crowds. 

To access the pools, you’ll first need to take a short boat ride from the parking area to the trailhead. This costs 1 rial each (cash only). From the trailhead, the hike is a moderate 45 minute hike to reach the pools. Click here to read my full guide to hiking Wadi Shab in 2023. 

Afternoon/Evening: Grab a late lunch and find a place to camp

After a few days exploring the coastline, it’s time to head up into the Hajar towards the city of Al Hamra. I personally broke up this trip – doing about half the drive in the evening and the second half the next morning. Muscat is located right in the middle, so if you’re craving a night in a hotel, this is a great time. 

First things first, after a long morning of exploring Wadi Shab you’ve earned yourself a treat. The nearby town of Tiwi has a few dining options, but hear me out – this random coffee shop adjacent to the Oman Oil Station has the best mango juice I’ve ever tried. Don’t knock it ‘til you try it. 

The campsite I ended up choosing was a little off my route– back out towards Bandar Al Khairan at Sifa Beach. If you’re short on time, I’d recommend a campsite along the road to Al Hamra – Qantab Beach is right outside of Muscat and has some beautiful rock formations right off the coast.

DAY 4: 7-Day Oman Road Trip

MISFAH AL ABRIYEEN, AL HAMRA – 246KM

Today, we’re heading deep into the Hajar Mountains to explore Omani culture amongst the mud-brick buildings of Misfah and Al Hamra. These towns, nestled beneath Oman’s tallest peak of Jebel Shams, feel like being transported back in time. Winding paths follow trickling falajs through the date palms and you’ll constantly be stopped by locals with offers of gahwa and dates. If you’re lucky, there might just be some halwa too. 

Morning: Drive and explore Misfah al Abriyeen

Depending on how far you drove the day prior, the first order of business is to drive to Misfah al Abriyeen. This tiny town is nestled high within the Hajar mountains, 1000 feet above sea level. Not to worry if you don’t have 4WD – nobody is allowed to access this town by car, and visitors are asked to leave their vehicles on the paved road outside the village and enter by foot. 

Despite the traditional mud-brick homes constructed with roofs of palm fronds, Misfah is still a thriving town. The town is home to active date farms, and visitors are invited to enter into the winding falaj system and explore the trails through the palms, where you might encounter a few date farmers along the way.

My favorite spot in Misfah was a viewpoint within the date farm, looking out over the town and into the valley below. The exact GPS coordinates for this spot are 23°08’20.0″N 57°18’35.6″E

Please be respectful when exploring Misfah, keeping in mind that it is still an active town. Do not try to enter buildings that are not explicitly open, and keep your knees and shoulders covered at all times. 

Afternoon: Visit Bait Al Safah and Enjoy Sunset in Al Hamra

Ten minutes down the mountain from Misfah is the Old Town of Al Hamra, another historic village filled with crumbling mud-brick homes, many of which are also surprisingly inhabited. Take some time to wander through the old town – many of the buildings are as old as 400 years. 

In the evening, the village almost appears to glow as the sun reflects off the honey-colored buildings. Tip: try to visit at sunset for the best photos of the village. 

Within the Old Town is Bait Al Safah, a living history museum dedicated to the preservation of Omani culture. This quirky museum is housed within a restored Omani home, giving visitors a look into how life would have looked in the village years ago. 

Inside, sit in the kitchen as women prepare fresh khubz (Omani bread) on a hot plate. Upstairs, learn about traditional Omani clothing, then take a break for some gahwa (Arabic coffee) and sweet, fresh dates picked directly from the surrounding mountains. I think Bait Al Safah does an extraordinary job in preserving these traditions in a respectful way and presenting them to visitors in a way that appreciates Oman’s diverse history.

Entrance to the museum costs 3 rial ($7.75 USD). I personally think it is well-worth the price.

Evening:  Eat Mandi and camp with a view

I personally didn’t feel like cooking for myself this evening of my trip, so I stopped by Reem Al Yamen Restaurant in Al Hamra Town for a bit of mandi and rice, a Yemeni dish popular throughout the Gulf. Afterwards, I camped at a nearby lookout my guide from Bait Al Safah had recommended, which had epic views over Al Hamra. 

Back up the mountain in Misfah is a more formal campground, complete with proper showers. If you’re craving a real shower at this point in your journey, this is a great spot to camp. Cost is 5 rial ($13 USD) per campsite.

DAY 5: 7-Day Oman Road Trip

JEBEL SHAMS, BALCONY WALK – 50KM

We’re about to hike the highest peak in Oman, Jebel Shams. This mountain towers over the landscape at a height of 3,028 meters, resting beside the colloquially-called “Grand Canyon of the Middle East,” Wadi Ghul. The deep canyon and striking mountain make for absolutely unbelievable views the entire way.

Morning: Drive to the peak of Jebel Shams

In the morning, take your time making your way up the mountain to the peak of Jebel Shams. The route is quite windy, and is full of unparelled views, so you’ll want to take your time getting to the peak anyway. From Al Hamra to the peak (W6 on most maps) the drive is about 1-1.5 hours without stops. Bring a packed lunch to enjoy once you reach the top.

The road is only paved for half the route. You’ll soon encounter an unpaved, rather bumpy road that is only accessible with 4WD. I do not recommend attempting to drive it in a 2WD – you will get stuck. 

🚘 If 2WD is your only option and you want to visit Jebel Shams, I recommend going with a guide who can transport you. Here is a highly recommended tour from Viator that includes private transport and hiking opportunities.

Afternoon: Hike the Balcony Walk

My favorite hike on Jebel Shams, the Balcony Walk takes you around the rim of Wadi Ghul with epic views of the canyon the entire time. The hike isn’t especially strenuous – about 9km out and back with ~400m of elevation – but is more difficult on the way back, so plan to reserve some energy for the return trip. I recommend hiking in the afternoon, as the position of the sun will lead to more shade in the canyon.

On the way, you’ll pass plenty of friendly mountain goats and the abandoned village of As Sab, nestled into the walls of the canyon. At its peak, this village was home to about 15 residents, who grew crops in terraces built into the side of the mountain. You can still see some of these terraces near the turnaround point of the Balcony Walk. 

The path ends at a small pool, nestled into the walls of the canyon and home to a petrified waterfall. It’s a truly stunning sight but actually much harder to find than I anticipated, as it involves a little rock scrambling and the trail becomes unclear. When you reach the terraces, stay to the left of the terraced area and head up, and you’ll find the pool after about 5-10 minutes of walking.

Evening: Camp at the peak of Jebel Shams

Prepare for some unbelievable stargazing. As the sun sets behind the mountain, the sky fills with stars, and being on the peak of the mountain makes you feel like you’re practically swimming in them. Now is the time to break out the telescope or camera. 

I recommend camping with a view over the canyon, such as here: 23.206165, 57.203428. Trust me, you’re in for an epic sunrise when you wake up the next morning. 

DAY 6: 7-Day Oman Road Trip

WADI DAMM, AL AYN, NIZWA – 169KM

Today we’re venturing into Oman’s former capital – the historic city of Nizwa. This town of winding roads and towering mosques was once the center of trade, religion, and education, and was the capital of Oman in the 6th and 7th centuries AD. These days, the city continues to embrace its roots and has gained a new title – the capital of Islamic Culture. 

Morning: Go swimming in Wadi Damm

In the morning, make your way down the mountain for a dip at Wadi Damm, one of the most stunning and secluded wadis in Oman. This hike is known for its hidden pools, characterized by their stunning overhangs of green moss. 

The hike into the wadi begins in a dry wadi bed, but you’ll soon stumble upon a dam, which you can easily cross using a set of stairs on the right. The first pool is shortly after, a crystal clear pond with a small waterfall. Stop and take a dip here, or continue deeper into the wadi. The second pool is much larger and deeper, perfect for jumping. For those that wish to continue, to the left of the pool is a small rope, which will help transport you up a rock scramble to continue your hike deeper into the wadi to more hidden pools. 

🚘 The main road from Jebel Shams to Wadi Damm is only accessible with 4WD. If you only have 2WD, you’re likely not beginning from Jebel Shams anyway. From Al Hamra, take Route 21 via Al Ain to access Wadi Damm via paved roads. When you reach Wadi Damm, rather than driving into the wadi, simply park outside and walk in (adding an extra 10-15 minutes to your journey) Click here to view this 2WD route. 

Afternoon: Visit the Al Ayn Beehive Tombs

Nearby Wadi Damm are the Al Ayn Beehive Tombs, a time capsule of the bronze age in Oman and a UNESCO world heritage site. This row of nearly perfectly preserved tombs sits atop a ridge in the valley, with the striking Jebel Misht in the background. 

These tombs are significant not only in their preservation, but also in what they reveal about life in Oman thousands of years ago. Some archeologists have even cited the tombs as evidence that Oman was the site of Magan, an ancient civilization often referenced in cuneiform texts. 

These tombs are a notable piece of archeological history, so please be respectful when visiting and do not touch or mess with the stones of the tombs. The tombs are also located above a small local farm, so please dress modestly and respectfully in case you encounter any villagers. 

🚘 If you have 4WD you can drive into the wadi right to the start of the trail to the tombs. If you have 2WD, simply park by the main road and walk around 10-15 minutes to the start of the trailhead. (2WD parking area noted on map above)

Evening: Explore the Nizwa Fort

In the evening, head over to the city of Nizwa to admire the sunset from the Nizwa Fort, one of the largest surviving castles in Oman and a popular destination in the country’s historic capital. The Omani people are extremely proud of this historic building and have taken meticulous care to preserve it and introduce it to visitors as an integral piece of Omani history. 

The Nizwa Fort was constructed in the 17th century and was a vital source of defense for Nizwa during its height as a trading destination. The fortress is huge – give yourself at least 1.5-2 hours to explore it in its entirety, and don’t forget to head up to the roof for sunrise for epic views over Nizwa city as it’s bathed in gold. 

The Nizwa Fort is open from Saturday-Thursday from 8AM-8PM and on Fridays from 8AM-11:30AM, then from 1:30PM-8:00PM. Entrance costs 5 rial ($13 USD) If you’re not keen on paying the entrance fee, rather wander the winding streets of Nizwa at golden hour and admire how the sun reflects off the outside of the fort, standing guard over the city. 

DAY 7: 7-Day Oman Road Trip

NIZWA, RETURN TO MUSCAT – 161KM

Our final day begins with one of Oman’s most unique cultural experiences — the Nizwa Goat Souq. It’s a final goodbye to Oman characterized by bustling markets, colorful landscapes, and all the characters you’ll meet along the way. Make sure to soak up the sunshine and drink plenty of karak tea before it’s time to say goodbye.

Morning: Explore the Nizwa Goat Market/Nizwa Souk

If you’ve timed your trip right, you’re hopefully in Nizwa on a Friday morning for the famous Goat Market. This market takes place in the center of town, with shepherds and farmers traveling for miles to sell and bid on the most beautiful goats around.

The market itself is a sight to experience. Goats are paraded through a circle of onlookers, with interested buyers shouting out their bids from the sidelines. Once a shepherd hears a price they like, they’ll basically stop traffic to make a sale. The market welcomes visitors to come and see everything in action.

Note: The Goat Market only takes place on Friday mornings, from around 6AM-9AM. 

Even if you’re not ending your trip on a Friday morning, the Nizwa Souk is still worth a visit before heading back to Muscat. Wander the aisles of colorful spices, sweet perfumes, and intricate lamps and maybe pick up a souvenir or two. 

This is the perfect place to pick up two Omani specialties – richly smelling Omani frankincense (incense for burning) and a tin of sweet Omani halwa (sweet paste with dates). A trip to Oman wouldn’t be complete without trying both.

Afternoon: Return to Muscat

It’s time to return to Muscat to complete our trip. Make sure to grab a bite to eat in Nizwa before the drive, or stop somewhere along the way for a quick bite. I actually stopped at this roadside cafeteria for some dhal, and it was absolutely delicious. 

Depending on what time you have to leave Muscat, it’s a great time to enjoy a little more of what Muscat has to offer before you head home. The Mutrah Souq is a perfect place to pick up some last-minute gifts for friends back home. It’s also located near the Mutrah Corniche, a perfect spot to walk and admire the Gulf of Oman one last time before you have to say goodbye. Watching the su set over the ocean might just be the best way to end our 7 Day Oman Road Trip.

Returning Home from Oman

If you drove to Oman from the UAE, you can actually save time by returning directly from Nizwa. Simply return via the Al Ain border, about a 2.5-hour drive from Nizwa. 

If you’re flying out of Muscat International Airport, I recommend staying close to the airport for your final night in Oman. Muscat Hills Hotel or Novotel Muscat are located right nearby, meaning you can get a little extra sleep before heading back home.

If you rented your car from Muscat Airport, remember to give yourself a little extra time to return your rental car before your flight. Luckily, all my experiences at the Muscat Airport have been extremely quick and organized. 

My Oman Travel Essentials and Gear

If you’re planning your own epic road trip through Oman, here are some of my recommendations to make your trip as smooth as possible.

• FLIGHTS: Find cheap flights to Oman on Kiwi.com and WayAway. If you’re also planning to head to Salalah, Oman’s green oasis, I highly recommend flying to cut down on time.
• HOTELS: Booking.com is my go-to for lodging around the world.
• RENTAL CARS: An essential for travel in Oman. I rented my 4WD through RentalCars.com
• TRAVEL INSURANCE: Visitors Coverage offers insurance plans tailored for every type of traveler. Click here to view their 3 most popular plans.
• ACTIVITIES: GetYourGuide, Viator, and TripAdvisor are some of the best platforms to search for activities.
• GEAR: I love my Osprey Porter 30 for travel and backpacking (plus it’s carry on size!) My waterproof Tarion camera backpack is my go-to for adventure travel, as it fits all my camera gear and daily essentials. I also can’t travel without my Water-To-Go filtration bottle.

Need Advice?

Have questions or concerns planning your own Oman Road Trip? Send me an email at brokenbootstravel@gmail.com or leave a comment below and we can chat everything from itinerary to safety.

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