top of page
  • TikTok
  • Instagram
  • YouTube
  • Pinterest

A 6 day Desert Adventure in Oman

  • Writer: Sweet Travel Tales
    Sweet Travel Tales
  • Sep 10, 2023
  • 7 min read

A 6 day road trip through Oman is an unforgettable adventure!

The Sultanate offers a perfect blend of rich history, stunning landscapes, and authentic culture, all without the crowds of mass tourism. But above all, we were touched by the genuine hospitality of the Omanis.


Whether you're interested in exploring ancient forts, immersing yourself in traditional Omani culture, or embarking on fun family outdoor activities, Oman has something for everyone. Here are some of our top recommendations, family proof!

Oman is one of Arabia's true gems - a land of rugged coastlines and vast deserts where tradition and progress go hand in hand.

Day 1: Muscat, embracing ancient tradition and modernity


Begin your journey in Muscat, Oman's vibrant capital. Here, the Arabian Sea meets majestic mountains, and the city offers a great introduction to Oman’s fusion of ancient tradition and modern influences.



Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque: Start your day with a visit to this stunning architectural gem, known for its grand design and impressive prayer hall. It's one of the largest mosques in the world and features intricate Islamic art and a massive Persian carpet.


Royal Opera House

The Royal Opera House was brought to life as a visionary project by Sultan Qaboos, aiming to place Oman on the global cultural map. The creation of the opera house was a key part of his vision to renew and enrich the country's cultural life.


Architecturally, it is an elegant fusion of Omani craftsmanship—with intricate geometric patterns, carved wooden details, and decorative stonework—and modern design principles that create a sense of openness and grandeur.


Day 2 : Roam the mineral coast line


After leaving Muscat behind, you’ll be driving along Oman’s beautiful Coastal Highway, which offers stunning mineral views and access to some of the country’s most serene beaches and villages.



Al Bustan Beach: The first stop takes you to Al Bustan Beach located just outside of Muscat, nestled between the Al Hajar Mountains and the sea.

It’s often regarded as one of the most scenic and tranquil beaches along Oman’s coastline. With its turquoise waters, golden sands, and dramatic mountain backdrops, it is the perfect spot for a refreshing break before heading to Sur.

A wadi is a freshwater ecosystem and a type of fluvial landform, which is considered any type of geological feature that is related to rivers or streams

Wadi Shab: The second stop of the journey is Wadi Shab, a breathtaking canyon that is famous for its natural pools, waterfalls, and lush greenery.

You’ll need to take a boat across the wadi to start your hike, but once you reach the trail, it’s a relatively easy 45-minute walk to the stunning pools.


Fins Beach: After your Wadi Shab adventure, continue down the highway and if you have time, make a stop at Fins Beach, known for its dramatic cliffs and clear blue waters. It’s a peaceful, unspoiled spot, perfect for a short walk or a quick dip.


By lunchtime, you'll reach the fisherman’s town of Sur, One of Oman’s most charming coastal villages. Sur is famous for its dhow (traditional wooden boat) building heritage and its laid-back atmosphere.

Stop at a local seafood restaurant and enjoy fresh grilled hammour (local fish) or shuwa (slow-cooked lamb) served with rice.


Dhow Building Yard: Sur’s dhow shipyards are a must-see. You’ll see craftsmen building these traditional boats by hand, using ancient techniques passed down through generations.


Sur Lighthouse & the Old Town: Stroll along the beach and visit Sur’s Lighthouse. From there enjoy a great view of the coastline, the perfect spot to take few pictures.

Just a three-hours drive from Muscat, experience the primal power of the desert from the comfort of luxe camps. Let's hit the road on our Oman desert adventure!

Drive to Wahiba sands also known as the Sharqiyah sands. With Sur behind you, it’s time to head inland towards one of Oman’s most iconic landscapes: Wahiba Sands.


The desert is just a few hours’ drive from Sur, but the change in scenery is dramatic. The road cuts through the edge of the Al Hajar Mountains, where jagged peaks slowly give way to the endless golden sand dunes that can rise as high as 100 meters. As you leave the concealed road for a dust one, you might come across wild camels!

Enjoy sunset in the Wahiba sands
Enjoy sunset in the Wahiba sands

Arrive in Wahiba Desert Camp site just before dusk. After a busy day, it’s time to settle in the desert camp. Many camps in Wahiba Sands offer a unique blend of comfort and authenticity.

You'll sleep in traditional Bedouin-style tents, which offer a cozy retreats.


At sunset, the colors of the dunes change dramatically, so we've decided climb up a dune to watch the stunning natural spectacle.


Time for dinner & stargazing

The evening in the desert is magical, the clear skies are perfect for stargazing.

Dinner at the camp usually consists of a traditional Omani barbecue, with delicious dishes like shuwa (slow-cooked lamb), hummus, and flatbreads. The Omani dishes are just delicious!


Day 3: Explore Wahiba Sands and the Bedouin Culture


Let's start the day with some fun outdoor adventures with the family: want to go camel riding, dune bashing or sand boarding? We've tried it all!



Start your day with a camel ride across the dunes. These animals are slow and steady, and they offer a tranquil way to explore the vast desert. You can ride for about an hour, experiencing the slow pace and the beauty of the landscape from a different perspective.


How about a thrilling dune-bashing adventure? Get on 4x4 vehicle, you’ll drive over the massive sand dunes, feeling the rush of adrenaline as you crest the peaks and speed down the slopes. I liked it when the driver kept saying 'you can trust my driving'!!


Sand boarding fun time !
Sand boarding fun time !

Sandboarding, time to try!

If you're feeling adventurous, you can also try sandboarding on the slopes of the dunes.

That was a highlight of our trip into the desert, a one of a kind experience.


In the afternoon, let's venture back to the dunes to soak in the vast emptiness of the desert and meet with the Bedouins.


Visit to Bedouin Family: Some desert camps offer visits to nearby Bedouin families who still live a traditional lifestyle. You can learn about their way of life, their unique culture, and perhaps share some tea and dates with them.


Day 4: On the road to Nizwa, discover Oman's heartland


After spending one last night in the desert, it’s time to head towards Nizwa, one of Oman’s most culturally rich cities. The drive from Wahiba Sands to Nizwa takes you through some incredible scenery—rugged mountains, traditional villages, and expansive date palm plantations.


Enchanting Nizwa fortress
Enchanting Nizwa fortress

Morning stroll in Nizwa – Fortress and Souq Exploration


Nizwa is known for its historic fortress and bustling souq. This city was once the capital of Oman and remains an important cultural hub.



Nizwa Fort: The Fort is a 17th-century marvel. Its imposing structure and strategic position are a key piece of Omani history. Built in 1650, it was a formidable stronghold against raiding forces that desired Nizwa's abundant natural wealth and its strategic location at the crossroads of vital routes.

The fort’s architecture is stunning, with its circular tower and beautiful courtyards made of clay and stone.


Nizwa Souq: The souq in Nizwa is a lively, traditional market where you can find Omani handicrafts, spices, silver jewelry, and the famous khanjar (Omani daggers). If your travel planning allows it, dont miss the Friday morning goat market!



Afternoon: Unwind with a view of The Jebel Akhdar Canyon


Following our visit of the market, we made our way to the hotel to unwind and take in its breathtaking views of the Jebel Akhdar Canyon.


After a busy morning of sightseeing, we checked in at the Alila Hotel, located just outside Nizwa, overlooking the stunning Jebel Akhdar Canyon. I wouldn't be mentionning this place if it weren't for its unique style blending in the rugged landscape and offering a jawdropping view of one of the deepest canyon in the arabic peninsula. You will have to drive up a scenic winding road - 4x4 only - to access this unique resort.


Jebel Akhdar: Known as the “Green Mountain,” Jebel Akhdar is famous for its terraced farms, cool temperatures, and breathtaking scenery.


It is one of the deepest valley gorge in the Arabic Peninsula. The hotel provides a unique Via Ferrata tour of the canyon, but you'd need to book in advance.



Day 5: Exploring Jebel Akhdar – Bahla Fort, Misfat, and Tanuf Villages


The next day, you’ll dive deeper into the surrounding region of Jebel Akhdar, where you can visit nearby historic sites and traditional villages.


Bahla Fort:

A UNESCO World Heritage site, Bahla Fort is one of the oldest and most important forts in Oman.

The fort’s architecture is impressive, and it provides a fascinating glimpse into Oman’s ancient history.


The surrounding area is equally captivating, with ancient mud-brick walls, lush farmland, and picturesque villages.

Bahla Fort is an outstanding example of a fortified oasis settlement of the medieval Islamic period, exhibiting the water engineering skill of the early inhabitants ...

Misfat is known for its traditional architecture and terraced farming.

The village offers an authentic experience of rural Oman, with narrow alleyways and traditional houses built from stone and mud.


Tanuf Village:

Near Misfat, you’ll find Tanuf, an ancient village famous for its ruins and its role in Omani history. The village has a unique atmosphere, and its ancient ruins provide insight into Oman’s historical and cultural heritage.



Day 6: Return to Muscat – A Warm Omani Farewell


Visit of an Omani Home

On your way back to Muscat, you might have the chance to visit a local Omani home, where you'll be greeted with mint tea and dates. This warm gesture reflects the genuine hospitality of the Omani people, offering a wonderful opportunity to connect with the culture before heading back to the city.


Back to Muscat – Wrapping Up Your Trip at Muttrah Souq:

Upon returning to Muscat, you’ll have the chance to visit Muttrah Souq one last time. This bustling market is full of energy and color, with vendors selling everything from textiles to spices, jewelry, and handicrafts. It’s the perfect place to wrap up your trip and pick up any last-minute souvenirs.


End of the Journey:

Our road trip through Oman has journeyed from the coastal charm of Sur to the expansive sands of Wahiba, through the historic marvels of Nizwa and Jebel Akhdar.


From the serene desert dunes to the refreshing mountain breeze, Oman offers a remarkable blend of adventure, culture, and natural beauty, all coupled with true Omani hospitality.

I hope you'll enjoy this trip as much as we have!

Please share your experience once you're back! Cheers



Useful Links

Comments

bottom of page