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Top 5 Places to Visit in Oman: The Ultimate Self-Drive Holiday Guide
Planning a trip to Oman?
Whether flying into Muscat for a short getaway or a full-blown road trip, Oman is one of the best-kept secrets in the Middle East for a memorable vacation. With world-class roads, dramatic landscapes, and a wealth of hidden gems, it’s the ideal destination to hire a car and explore at your own pace.
Here are our top 5 must-see places in Oman:
1. Wadi Shab – Hidden Pools and Canyon Walks
Wadi Shab is one of Oman’s most stunning natural wonders and is only accessible by car. With no public transport, this is a classic self-drive Oman experience.
Top experiences:
• Hike through narrow gorges to hidden pools.
• Swim in turquoise waters and discover secret waterfalls.
Travel tip: Wear water shoes and start early to beat the heat.
Drive time from Muscat: 1 hr 30 min
2. Nizwa Fort & Souq – Culture You Can Drive To
Located just two hours from Muscat, Nizwa is a top day trip or overnight stop for anyone on an Oman road trip.
Top experiences:
• Climb the 17th-century fort tower for panoramic views.
• Visit the famous Friday goat market for a taste of tradition!
• Shop for silver, pottery, and spices at the Souq.
Travel tip: Arrive before 8 AM on Fridays for the market.
Drive time from Muscat: 2 hours
3. Salalah & Khareef Season – A Green Oasis in the Desert
If you’re landing in the south, Salalah is your ideal base for discovering Oman’s tropical side. During the Khareef monsoon (June–September), the region transforms into a lush, misty landscape of waterfalls and greenery.
Top experiences
• Drive through Wadi Darbat to see seasonal waterfalls, lush valleys, and roaming camels.
• Visit Mughsail Beach and its natural blowholes, then explore the nearby frankincense trees of Jebel Samhan.
Travel tip: During Khareef season, Salalah is very popular — book your car hire from Salalah Airport in advance to avoid missing out.
Drive time from Salalah Airport: 30 - 60 minutes
4. Wahiba Sands – Desert Driving Adventure
For a true Arabian adventure, drive into the Wahiba Sands. This desert is one of Oman’s top attractions for thrill seekers.
Top experiences:
• Dune bashing with a guide or on your own (if experienced).
• Overnight stays in traditional Bedouin camps.
• Stargazing in the vast desert silence.
Travel tip: If you’re heading into the desert, it’s best to park on the edge and join a guided tour — local experts know the dunes inside out and make the experience unforgettable.
Drive time from Muscat: 3 hours
5. Jebel Akhdar – Mountain Roads & Rose Gardens
If you're renting a 4x4, Jebel Akhdar is a must. While the road to the top is fully paved and not considered off-roading, a 4WD is legally required due to the steep incline and sharp mountain curves. It’s a scenic and thrilling drive that rewards you with access to breath-taking views and peaceful villages that few tourists get to see.
Top experiences:
• Drive through dramatic mountain scenery.
• Visit mountain villages, rose terraces, and fruit farms.
• Stay in a luxury cliffside resort.
Travel tip: Take it slow and enjoy the views — the drive-up Jebel Akhdar is part of the adventure, with plenty of scenic spots to stop and snap a photo.
Drive time from Muscat: 2.5 - 3 hours
Final Thoughts
Oman offers an unforgettable blend of culture, adventure, and natural beauty — from desert dunes and mountain peaks to hidden wadis and coastal gems.
Renting a car with Green Motion at Muscat Airport or Salalah Airport gives you the freedom to explore at your own pace, uncovering authentic experiences and hidden gems along the way.
Start your journey the moment you land — book your next road trip with Green Motion today.
