About this activity
Transportation:
Price Range:
Experience Duration:
Itinerary
Day 1: Muscat
Upon arrival in Muscat, after clearing customs and collecting your luggage, your driver will welcome you and transfer you to your hotel. After check-in, the rest of the day is yours to relax and explore the charming city of Muscat.
As the oldest city on the Arabian Peninsula and the capital of the Sultanate, Muscat offers a unique blend of modernity and tradition. Discover its fascinating mix of contemporary architecture and historic sites: from the lively Muttrah Souq, with its aromatic spices and artisan treasures, to the majestic Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque, and the peaceful Corniche along the harbour.
Take a relaxing walk through the city streets, immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere, or simply unwind at the hotel after your journey.
Enjoy dinner at your leisure, sample local Omani cuisine or dine at one of the city’s many international restaurants. Reflect on your first impressions of this captivating destination, where ancient culture meets modern life. Overnight in Muscat. (Meals included: - / - / -)
Day 2: Muscat – Explore at Your Own Pace
After breakfast at the hotel, you will be handed the rental car, giving you the freedom to explore Muscat and its surroundings. Spend the day discovering the city’s hidden gems or venture to nearby attractions. Whether you choose to dive into Muscat’s rich history, relax on its pristine beaches, or experience local culture and cuisine, the day is entirely yours to shape.
Take the opportunity to visit iconic sites such as the Royal Opera House, the Bait Al Zubair Museum, or the scenic Qurum Beach. Alternatively, head out of the city to explore Oman’s stunning landscapes, such as Bimmah Sinkhole or the picturesque coastal village of Qantab.
Enjoy the flexibility of free meals, allowing you to dine wherever you prefer, whether at a traditional Omani restaurant, a seaside café, or an international dining spot, the choice is yours. Return to the hotel in the evening to relax after a day of personal exploration. Overnight in Muscat. (Meals included: B / - / -)
Day 3: Muscat – Sinaw – Jabreen – Bahla – Nizwa
After breakfast, set off toward Nizwa, the cultural heart of Oman. Along the way, stop in Sinaw, a charming town known for its rich heritage and traditional way of life. Explore the historic village and wander through the lively stalls of the local Souq, where you’ll find everything from fresh produce to handmade crafts, a true glimpse into daily community life.
Next, continue to Jabreen Castle, one of the most beautiful and best-preserved forts in Oman. Famous for its intricate architecture, this castle is a masterpiece of Islamic art and design. Admire the carefully painted ceilings, stucco decorations, and intricately carved wooden grilles on doors and windows, all reflecting the peak of Omani craftsmanship during its golden age.
Along the route, make a photo stop at the imposing pre-Islamic Bahla Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Surrounded by ancient mud walls stretching up to 12 km, this massive clay fortress stands as a testament to Oman’s architectural legacy and historical significance.
Continue your journey to Nizwa, where you’ll check in upon arrival. We recommend spending some time exploring the famous Nizwa Souq, renowned for its exquisite handicrafts, including finely decorated ceramics, handmade silver jewellery, and traditional Omani daggers (khanjar). The lively atmosphere and colourful stalls make it the perfect place to buy unique souvenirs or simply immerse yourself in local culture.
Enjoy the flexibility of free meals, allowing you to dine at your leisure, tasting traditional Omani dishes or exploring local restaurants. Overnight in Nizwa. (Meals included: B / - / -)
Day 4: Nizwa – Ibra – Wadi Bani Khalid – Wahiba Sands
After breakfast, drive toward the scenic Wahiba Sands desert, a vast expanse of golden dunes stretching endlessly across the horizon.
On the way, stop at the lively Women’s Market in Ibra, an authentic local market where women from nearby villages gather to sell fresh produce, spices, textiles, and handmade crafts. This is a wonderful opportunity to engage with the local community, interact with friendly vendors, and experience traditional Omani life.
Continue to the spectacular Wadi Bani Khalid, one of Oman’s most picturesque Wadis. Famous for its deep, crystal-clear natural pools surrounded by dramatic rock formations and lush vegetation, this oasis offers a refreshing break from the desert heat. Take time to swim in the turquoise waters or simply relax and enjoy the serene beauty of this hidden gem.
As the day unfolds, arrive at your traditional tented camp in the heart of the Wahiba Sands. Check in and settle into your desert retreat, enjoying the stunning views of undulating dunes. Benefit from the freedom of free meals, allowing you to savour local flavours or dine under the stars in this magical setting.
Spend the evening embracing the tranquillity of the desert, accompanied by the soft rustle of the wind and the brilliance of the starry sky above. Overnight at the camp in Wahiba Sands. (Meals included: B / - / -)
Day 5: Wahiba Sands – Sur – Muscat
After breakfast, enjoy free time to explore the charming coastal town of Sur, a place steeped in maritime history and tradition. Visit the renowned dhow yard, where skilled artisans continue to build these iconic traditional Omani boats using age-old techniques passed down through generations. The craftsmanship on display is a testament to Oman’s rich maritime heritage.
Next, head to the scenic Al Ayjah Lighthouse, a historic landmark offering breath-taking views of the Omani coastline and the turquoise waters of the Gulf of Oman.
After exploring Sur, begin your return journey to Muscat. Along the way, enjoy the scenic landscapes and reflect on the cultural and natural highlights of your trip. Arrive in Muscat in the afternoon, check in to your hotel, and relax after the adventures of the past days.
Enjoy the flexibility of free meals, allowing you to dine at your own pace, whether sampling local Omani specialities or exploring the city’s international cuisine. Overnight in Muscat. (Meals included: B / - / -)
Day 6: Muscat – Departure
After a memorable journey through Oman’s enchanting landscapes and rich cultural heritage, it’s time to say goodbye.
You will be transferred to Muscat Airport for your final departure. May your journey home be as inspiring as your adventures in Oman, carrying with you cherished memories and the timeless beauty of this remarkable land. (Meal included: Breakfast)
Safe travels, and we hope to welcome you back soon!
Suggested Hotels:
Muscat: Royal Tulip Muscat, Intercity Muscat or similar
Nizwa: Intercity Hotel Nizwa or heritage INN
Wahiba: Desert Rose Camp or similar
Highlights
- Visit UNESCO-listed Bahla Fort
- Explore the capital city of Muscat
- Discover the stunning Wadi Bani Khalid
- Experience the tranquility of Wahiba Sands
- Enjoy free meals at local restaurants
Includes
- Accommodation for 5 nights
- Standard-category 4WD from Day 2 onwards
- Daily breakfast
- Arrival and departure transfers
- International flights
- Travel insurance
- Meals not specified in the itinerary
- Personal expenses
- Oman visa
- Entrance fees to sites indicated in the programs
Details
Discover the Soul of Oman at Your Own Pace
This is not a guided tour. It’s your journey.
With keys in hand and horizon ahead, you’ll drive through ancient villages, golden deserts and mountain oases, discovering Oman on your own rhythm.
From the elegance of Muscat to the silence of the Wahiba Sands, from bustling souqs to nesting turtles and timeless forts, this self-drive adventure blends freedom with authenticity.
You choose where to stop, when to pause, and how deeply to dive.
And we make it seamless: from airport transfer to rental car, trusted routes and handpicked accommodations, so you travel with confidence, comfort and curiosity.
Welcome to Oman, as few experience it.
Know Before You Go
Each 4WD can carry up to 4 passengers in addition to the driver.
Luggage allowance for 4WDs: one medium-sized suitcase per person.
Dress appropriately when visiting religious sites.
Respect local customs and traditions.
What To Bring
Comfortable clothing and shoes.
Swimwear
Sunscreen.
Camera to capture stunning landscapes.