I’ll never forget the first time I caught sight of Oman’s rugged mountains and golden deserts spreading out before me. It was a surreal moment that marked the beginning of one of the most memorable road trips of my life. Oman is famous for its dramatic landscapes, historical forts, and warm hospitality, and I was determined to experience it all from behind the wheel. Buckle up and get ready to follow me on an epic journey through the heart of this Middle Eastern gem.
My adventure began in Muscat, the charming capital city of Oman. Before setting off, I spent a couple of days exploring the city’s highlights—like the exquisite Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque, where its intricately designed chandelier and mosaic floors had me standing in awe for quite some time. I also wandered through Muttrah Souq, taking in the scent of frankincense and the vibrant colors of traditional Omani handicrafts.
Once my rental car was packed up and ready to go, I hopped in and started driving along the coastal highway. The crystal-clear waters of the Gulf of Oman sparkled on my right, while the towering Hajar Mountains loomed on my left. I knew I was in for an unforgettable ride.
As I ventured away from the coast, the roads wound upwards into the Hajar Mountains. My destination was Jebel Shams, known as the “Grand Canyon of Oman.” The drive was a test of my nerves, with steep inclines and hairpin turns, but every mile was worth it. Along the way, I passed through small villages and marveled at ancient terraced farms built along the mountain slopes.
When I finally arrived at Jebel Shams, I parked the car and headed for the famous Wadi Ghul, the canyon viewpoint. The panoramic vistas of jagged cliffs and deep valleys took my breath away. It’s one thing to read about these sights, but quite another to see them in person—trust me, you won’t want to leave.
Next, I made my way down to Nizwa, a city rich in culture and history. Nizwa’s iconic fort stands as a testament to Oman’s defensive past, and I spent hours exploring its passages and learning about local legends. On Fridays, the Nizwa Souq comes alive with the bustling goat market, where farmers and traders from around the region gather to buy and sell livestock. Even if you’re not in the market for a goat, it’s an unmissable cultural experience.
I also couldn’t resist sampling some delicious Omani cuisine at a local restaurant—spicy shuwa (tender, slow-cooked lamb) and fragrant qahwa (Omani coffee). The flavors were unlike anything I’d tasted before, and I knew I’d never forget them.
No trip to Oman would be complete without venturing into the Wahiba Sands. As soon as I turned off the main road and onto the sandy tracks, the terrain changed dramatically. Rolling dunes, shifting shapes in the wind, and golden horizons as far as the eye could see—it felt like I was in another world.
I spent the night in a desert camp, where traditional Bedouin hospitality made me feel right at home. After a thrilling dune-bashing experience (my heart raced as we navigated the soft sand slopes), I settled by the campfire under a clear, starry sky. Waking up to a desert sunrise was pure magic—seeing the sun creeping over the dunes, painting them in shades of pink and orange, was an image I’ll forever cherish.
Continuing my road trip, I headed toward the coastal city of Sur, famous for its dhow-building yards. These iconic wooden boats have been a symbol of Oman’s seafaring heritage for centuries. I wandered around the yard, watching skilled craftsmen at work and appreciating the time-honored techniques they still use today.
From Sur, I visited the nearby Ras Al Jinz Turtle Reserve, where I was lucky enough to witness endangered green turtles laying eggs on the sandy shore at night. Watching these magnificent creatures up close, under the guidance of the reserve’s expert rangers, was a humbling and unforgettable experience.
On my way back toward Muscat, I decided to make a stop at Wadi Shab—arguably one of the most gorgeous wadis in Oman. After a short boat ride across the water, I followed a rocky trail that took me past clear turquoise pools and lush greenery. The highlight was swimming through a narrow gap in the rocks that led into a hidden cave, complete with a small waterfall. It felt like something out of a secret paradise, and I couldn’t help but linger there, soaking in the serenity.
My Omani road trip was everything I hoped it would be—filled with breathtaking scenery, rich cultural encounters, and a sense of adventure around every bend. If you’re planning a trip of your own, consider the following tips.
Plan Your Route: Be sure to research your itinerary in advance, especially if you’re heading into mountainous or desert areas. Google Maps is helpful, but it’s wise to keep an offline map or a GPS on hand, just in case.
Rent a 4x4: If you plan on exploring off-road areas like Jebel Shams or Wahiba Sands, a 4x4 is strongly recommended for tackling steep or sandy terrain safely.
Check the Weather: Oman can get extremely hot, especially in the summer. Visit between October and April for cooler temperatures and more comfortable driving conditions.
Embrace Local Culture: Dress modestly and respect local customs. Omanis are known for their hospitality, and you’ll likely find them eager to share a cup of coffee or offer advice on hidden gems.
Stay Flexible: Some of my favorite discoveries happened when I followed a sign that pointed to a wadi or a fort I hadn’t heard of before. Don’t be afraid to take a detour—you never know what amazing experience might be around the corner.
Oman, with its blend of pristine coastlines, expansive deserts, and majestic mountains, offers a road trip experience that’s truly one of a kind. Every winding road and sandy dune tells a story of history, tradition, and natural beauty. And trust me, once you’ve felt the thrill of driving through the rugged landscape and witnessed those jaw-dropping sunrises and sunsets, you’ll be planning your next Omani adventure in no time.
