Oman's sweeping landscapes and vibrant traditions come alive on a 10‑day self‑drive adventure. From coastal cliffs to desert dunes and mountain hamlets, every turn reveals a new wonder.

Lykkers, this guide covers distances, costs, and timing to help you plan an effortless journey across some of the Arab world's most mesmerizing vistas.

Trip Outline

Your route begins and ends in the capital, covering roughly 860 km along paved highways and scenic byways. Key stops include the southeastern port of Sur, the shifting dunes of Sharqiya Sands, and the terraced heights of the Al Hajar Mountains. Two nights in Muscat bookend the trip, offering downtime and city highlights at the start and finish.

Best Time

The optimal season falls between September and April, when daytime highs hover around 25 °C. Cooler mornings and evenings make desert camping and mountain hikes far more pleasant than in the scorching summer sun. Expect fewer crowds and more hotel availability at this calmer time of year.

Car Hire

Rent a mid‑size sedan for about $35 per day through a local rental platform, with optional satellite navigation system and insurance from $10 extra daily. Fuel costs average $0.30 per liter, so budget around $80 for the full 860 km, depending on your vehicle's efficiency. Car pickups in Muscat airport or city center are available from 8 am to 10 pm, and drop‑off fees may apply for after‑hours returns.

Day 1–2

In Muscat, spend two days exploring coastal corniches and modern landmarks at your own pace. A guided tour of the Royal Opera House costs $10 per person and runs daily at 10 am, while Muttrah Souq welcomes between 9 am and midnight without an entry fee. Budget $15 for traditional Omani dishes like Chicken shawarma wraps or halwa sweets at local cafés, and use taxis (from $5 one way) to navigate the city.

Day 3

On day three, drive 200 km southeast toward Sur, a journey of roughly 2.5 hours via Highway 17. Pause at the limestone sinkhole of Bimmah, free to visit and perfect for a 30‑minute swim break. Continue 25 km to Wadi Shab, where a $5 park entry and $1 boat taxi across the wadi lead to a 45‑minute hike to emerald pools and hidden waterfalls. Arrive in Sur by late afternoon to settle into a $70 hotel near the harbor.

Bimmah Sinkhole

Day 4–5

Dedicate your fourth day to Sur's historic dhow yards, where traditional wooden ships are handcrafted at no cost to visit, followed by panoramic views from Al Ayjah watchtower, free entry. On day five, head 100 km inland to the Sharqiya Sands, arriving in time for a $20 dune‑bashing safari and a sunset view from the highest dune. Book Desert Nights Camp for $120 per tent, including dinner, breakfast, and a stargazing session. Plan for a 3‑hour convoy drive and arrive before 5 pm to settle in before nightfall.

Day 6

Morning on day six brings a two‑hour drive to Wadi Bani Khalid, where natural pools await with no entrance fee and $2 parking. Spend 2–3 hours swimming and relaxing under palm canopies by turquoise waters, with a simple café on site for Omani coffee at $3. This laid‑back oasis offers a refreshing midpoint before the mountain leg of the trip.

Day 7

Next, ascend into the Al Hajar Mountains over a winding 150 km stretch taking about three hours by road. Base yourself in Misfat Al Abriyeen, staying in a guesthouse for $60 per night and sampling local dates and tea for $2. Wander the ancient mud‑brick alleys on a one‑hour guided walk, learning about falaj irrigation systems built over a thousand years ago. Dinner costs around $12 for a platter of grilled lamb with rice, served at a family‑run eatery.

Day 8–9

On day eight, drive 120 km southwest to Nizwa in about two hours, arriving in time for a $5 entry to the hilltop fort. Browse Nizwa Souq from 8 am to 10 pm for pottery pieces starting at $3 and sterling silver khanjar replicas for $25. The following morning, journey 20 km to Bahla Fort, a UNESCO site charging $3 for admission, then head to Al Hoota Cave ($7 including a 20‑minute train ride) for a two‑hour subterranean exploration. Return to Nizwa by late afternoon and dine on sweet halwa and black tea at a market stall for under $5.

Day 10

Your final day covers the 200 km trip back to Muscat in about 2.5 hours, with a departure by 8 am recommended to avoid traffic. Stop at Qurum Beach for a quick swim (free access) and grab lunch in a seaside café for around $10. If time allows, visit the National Museum before 5 pm for $3, showcasing Oman's maritime and cultural artifacts, then return your rental car by 6 pm and prepare for your evening departure.

Conclusion

This 10‑day self‑drive adventure marries coastal charm, desert thrills, and mountain serenity into one seamless journey. Expect a daily budget of $150–200 for lodging, meals, fuel, and activities, totaling around $1,800. With detailed costs, driving distances, and timing tips, you can travel confidently and savor every vista. Pack your sense of wonder and get ready to write your own unforgettable chapter in Oman's timeless landscape.