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The Ultimate Roadtrip through Oman
Not sure where to begin your road trip through Oman? Don’t worry—we’ve got you covered. If the idea of navigating desert roads, mountain passes, and coastal gems feels overwhelming, just keep reading. This detailed 8-day itinerary through Northern Oman will guide you every step of the way. From hidden wadis to ancient forts and sweeping sand dunes, discover the perfect route to experience the best this breathtaking region has to offer.
SUMMARY OF OUR 8-DAY ROUTE
Day 1: Muscat
Day 2: Snorkelling trip to Daymaniat Islands
Day 3: Jebel Shams hike and Exploring Misfat
Day 4: Discover Jibreen Castle, Bahla fort and Nizwa
Day 5: Visit the Oman across the ages Museum and drive to Wahiba Sands
Day 6: Explore Wadi Bahni Kalid and drive to Sur
Day 7: Tour Ras Al Jinz and visit Wadi Shab and Wadi Tiwi/Mibam
Day 8: Muscat
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THE FULL ROADTRIP THROUGH OMAN
Day 1: Muscat
Muscat is the perfect starting point for your journey through Oman. Nestled between the rugged Hajar Mountains and the sparkling Gulf of Oman, the capital offers a unique blend of tradition and modernity. Unlike its glitzy Gulf neighbors, Muscat has preserved its authentic charm; with no towering skyscrapers, but plenty of cultural depth.
Dedicate your entire first day to exploring the city at a relaxed pace. The heat and jet lag can be intense, so give yourself time to adjust.
To truly experience Muscat’s highlights, you’ll need at least two full days. We chose to split our visit: one day at the beginning of the trip, and one at the end. This worked perfectly, allowing us to alternate between nature and city life, and making it easy to reach the airport for both arrival and departure.
Curious about Muscat’s top highlights? Keep reading on the next page to discover all the must-see spots
Day 2: Daymaniat Islands
We stretched out day two for a snorkeling trip to the stunning Daymaniyat Islands, a protected marine reserve off the coast of Muscat. The boat ride took a while—and in our case, it was quite a wild journey across choppy waters—but once you arrive, you're greeted by crystal-clear turquoise seas and a handful of rocky islands rising from the ocean.
The underwater world here is absolutely magical. We’ve never seen so many sea turtles in one place—gliding gracefully through coral gardens and schools of fish. It’s a true paradise for snorkelers and nature lovers, and without a doubt, one of the highlights of our trip.
After the snorkeling tour, we had a 3-hour drive ahead to reach our next accommodation, located close to the hiking trail planned for the following day. It was the perfect way to transition from ocean to mountains, with nature continuing to surprise us at every turn.
Day 3: Jebel Shams and Misfat
We kicked off the day bright and early to begin our hike at Jebel Shams, Oman’s highest peak—and trust us, that early start is worth it. Not only do you avoid the midday heat, but you’ll likely have the trail almost entirely to yourself. There’s something magical about walking in silence, surrounded only by dramatic cliffs and endless views.
From the very first steps, the scenery is jaw-dropping. It’s hard to believe that just yesterday we were snorkeling in turquoise waters, and now we’re hiking at over 3,000 meters altitude. The contrast is surreal. Oman truly is a land of extremes—and that’s what makes it so unforgettable.
If you're curious about the route, trail tips, and what to expect along the way, read the next article for a detailed guide to one of the most breathtaking hikes in the country.
One of the best things about starting your Jebel Shams hike early is that you still have the whole afternoon free for extra adventures. After our hike, we drove toward Nizwa for the next two nights—but made a spontaneous stop in Misfat Al Abriyeen along the way. And wow… what a discovery.
Misfat isn’t always mentioned in travel guides, but it absolutely deserves a spot on your itinerary. It was the first time we saw Oman as a true green oasis—lush palm groves, terraced gardens, and narrow paths winding through mudbrick houses. It’s almost surreal to witness so much greenery in a country where rain is rare. The contrast with the dry mountains we’d just hiked through made it even more magical.
If you want to learn more about this hidden gem, check out this detailed guide to Misfat Al Abriyeen with tips, walking routes, and photos that show just how special this place really is.
Day 4: Castles & Forts Discovery Day
After arriving in Nizwa the night before, we kicked off the day with a full itinerary of cultural gems in the region.
First stop: the stunning Jabreen Castle. Surrounded by lush date palm plantations, this 17th-century castle feels more like a royal residence than a fortress. With over 50 rooms, beautifully painted ceilings, and winding corridors, you can easily spend hours getting lost in its peaceful atmosphere. Jabreen was once a center of learning, and its architecture reflects both elegance and intellect.
From there, we drove to Birkat Al Mouz, a village of ancient ruins nestled at the foot of the mountains. Wandering through the crumbling mud-brick houses gives you a real sense of traditional Omani life. But be careful—some parts of the ruins are unstable, so watch your step. Just around the corner, we found Heritage Café, a cozy spot for lunch
Next up was Bahla Fort, Oman’s first UNESCO World Heritage Site. This massive mud-brick fortress dates back to the 12th century and was once the stronghold of the Banu Nebhan tribe. Its towering walls, labyrinthine passages, and ancient watchtowers tell stories of trade, defense, and spiritual life. Though the fort has undergone restoration, it still retains its raw, historic charm.
We wrapped up the day back in Nizwa, freshened up at the hotel, and headed out for one last highlight: sunset at Nizwa Fort. Watching the sun dip behind the mountains from the top of the fort’s massive tower was the perfect ending to a day filled with history, beauty, and discovery. The golden light over the old city and souq made everything feel timeless.
Yes—today was busy, but absolutely worth it.
Day 5: Oman Across the Ages Museum
and Wahiba Sands
We began our day at the Oman Across the Ages Museum, and even from a distance, the building commands attention. Rising from the desert like a futuristic fortress, it’s impossible to miss—especially since it’s set in what feels like the middle of nowhere. The architecture is bold, angular, and inspired by the surrounding Al Hajar Mountains, making it one of the most striking cultural landmarks in the country.
Inside, the museum takes you on a journey through Oman’s rich history—from ancient civilizations to its modern renaissance. The exhibits are immersive and beautifully curated, but don’t rush through. Take your time to explore each gallery and let the story unfold.
And here’s a tip: don’t skip the walk around the building itself. The exterior is just as impressive as the inside, with geometric lines, expansive stonework, and panoramic views of the desert landscape. It’s a place where architecture and storytelling meet.
After visiting the Oman Across the Ages Museum, we hit the road toward Wahiba Sands. It’s a bit of a drive, so make sure to plan enough time—especially if you want to arrive before sunset. But honestly, the journey itself becomes part of the experience.
The final stretch, as you leave the paved roads behind and head into the desert, is already an adventure. Driving solo through the vast, open landscape of sand dunes is thrilling and surreal. The silence, the shifting colors, and the feeling of isolation make it unforgettable.
Want to know more about what to expect in Wahiba Sands, from desert camps to dune bashing and stargazing? Check out this detailed article about Wahiba Sands for everything you need to plan your visit.
Day 6: Explore the First Wadi and Coastal Sur
After enjoying a relaxed breakfast at the desert camp, we continued our journey toward Wadi Bani Khalid—the first wadi we visited during our trip through Oman. It’s one of the most accessible and well-known wadis in the country, and that’s reflected in the number of visitors. Especially among the local population, this spot is a favorite, which gives it more of a tourist attraction vibe compared to some of the quieter wadis we’d see later.
That said, don’t let the crowds put you off—Wadi Bani Khalid is still incredibly beautiful. The emerald pools, dramatic rock formations, and palm-lined paths make it a stunning place to explore. If you’re short on time and have other wadis planned, you might consider skipping it. But if you do go, take the time to walk further into the canyon. The deeper you go, the quieter it gets, and soon you’ll feel like you’re swimming through a hidden paradise all on your own.
After leaving Wadi Bani Khalid, we continued our journey toward Ras Al Jinz, where we would spend the night. On the way, we made a short stop in Sur, a coastal town known for its maritime history and traditional dhow building.
At first glance, Sur doesn’t offer much in terms of major sights—except for the picturesque lighthouse, which stands proudly at the edge of the bay and makes for a great photo stop. But while the town felt quiet during our visit, we noticed signs of change. Along the coastline, new beach pavilions and facilities were under construction, hinting at a future where Sur might become a more vibrant destination.
For now, it’s a peaceful place to stretch your legs and enjoy the sea breeze before heading onward to Ras Al Jinz, where the real magic awaits—especially if you're lucky enough to witness the turtles nesting under the stars.
Day 7: Seeking for Turtles and Wadi day
We woke up before sunrise at the Sama Ras Al Jinz Resort, ready for the turtle tour we had booked through our hotel. It’s one of Oman’s most famous eco-tourism experiences, and we were excited to witness the magic of sea turtles nesting on the beach.
However, since we traveled in December, we knew the chances of seeing turtles were lower. The peak nesting season typically runs from May to September, when hundreds of turtles come ashore nightly. In the winter months, sightings are far less frequent—and unfortunately, we didn’t see any large turtles during our tour. We did spot a few tiny hatchlings crawling out of the sand, which was sweet, but we couldn’t help but wonder if the moment was staged to meet expectations.
If you’re planning to visit outside the peak season, it’s worth considering whether the tour is right for you. While the reserve is beautifully managed and the guides are knowledgeable, wildlife encounters are never guaranteed—especially in the off-season. That said, the setting is still stunning, and the educational aspect of the tour offers insight into Oman’s conservation efforts.
After our turtle tour, we began the drive back toward Masqat. But of course, we couldn’t resist making two final stops along the way: Wadi Shab and Wadi Tiwi. These two wadis are nestled along the coast and offer a completely different vibe from the one we visited earlier.
How this part of the journey unfolded, you’ll discover on the next page.
Day 8: Exploring Muscat
and Saying goodby to Oman
On our final day, we returned to Muscat, bringing our road trip full circle. After days of mountains, wadis, deserts, and coastal towns, it felt good to be back in the capital—where tradition and modernity meet in the most fascinating ways.
Curious about what to do in Muscat? You’ll find all our tips and highlights in a separate article dedicated entirely to this vibrant city.