The Sultanate of Oman combines majestic mountains, golden deserts and pristine coastlines to provide an excellent driving experience for those who appreciate both natural beauty and cultural richness. Road travel stands as the optimal method for both experienced travelers and newcomers to fully explore the Sultanate. A rental car allows you to uncover hidden treasures and take spontaneous detours while fully experiencing Oman’s diverse natural settings.
Oman combines road trip excitement with hidden wonders as travelers move from Jebel Akhdar’s cool heights to the Wahiba Desert’s vast sands. Renting a car allows you to enjoy both comfort and flexibility during your travels while maximizing your experience in this remarkable country.
This guide shows you the top car hire routes that lead you through rugged mountains and tranquil deserts as well as every point in between.
Route 1: Muscat to Jebel Akhdar – The Mountain Marvel
Distance: \~160 km
Estimated Time: 2.5–3 hours
Begin your journey in the lively capital city of Muscat. Begin your journey on Route 15 to Nizwa after visiting the Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque and Royal Opera House and proceed following signs to reach Jebel Akhdar (Green Mountain).
Highlights Along the Way:
The ancient village of Birkat Al Mouz features lush date plantations next to the UNESCO-listed aflaj irrigation systems.
The Nizwa Fort & Souq serves as an ideal spot for visitors to experience Omani cultural traditions while purchasing handicrafts and tasting local dates.
The Jebel Akhdar Plateau is accessible only by 4WD vehicles and features elevated terrain with refreshing cool air alongside rose terraces and expansive panoramic views. The cliffside villages of Al Ayn and Al Aqur should not be overlooked during your journey.
Tip: Travelers must use a 4WD after passing the checkpoint to ascend Jebel Akhdar. Your rental agreement should explicitly permit off-road driving to allow for deep exploration.
Route 2: This trail leads from the historic city of Nizwa through to the core of the Wahiba Sands Desert.
Distance: \~200 km
Estimated Time: 2.5–3 hours
From the ancient alleys of Nizwa, head southeast to Bidiyah, the gateway to Oman’s most famous desert: Wahiba Sands (also known as Sharqiya Sands).
Highlights Along the Way:
Ibra stands as one of Oman’s historical towns with its notable traditional souq and heritage houses.
Al Mudayrib stands as an off-the-beaten-path location that features an ancient village paired with historic watchtowers.
Once you reach Wahiba Sands you will encounter endless golden dunes stretching beyond sight. The unforgettable experience of this destination includes dune bashing activities, camel riding adventures, and stays in desert camps.
Note: Although desert camps provide transportation to the dune edges the rental of a 4WD car enables access to more secluded areas enhancing the desert experience.
Route 3: The coastal route from Muscat to Sur provides a peaceful seaside driving experience.
Distance: \~200 km
Estimated Time: 3–4 hours
The journey along Route 17 between Muscat and Sur stands unmatched as a scenic and leisurely coastal drive. The path follows the outline of the Arabian Sea while providing access to numerous natural sites.
Highlights Along the Way:
Hikers and swimmers will find Wadi Shab fascinating with its turquoise pools and hidden cave waterfall.
The Bimmah Sinkhole is an open limestone cavity containing clear emerald water that provides an ideal spot for a cool swim.
The Ras Al Jinz Turtle Reserve offers a distinctive experience for observing green turtles as they nest on the beach during nighttime hours.
Bonus: The dhow shipyards of Sur are renowned because they handcraft traditional boats using age-old methods.
Route 4: Salalah Loop – The Khareef Experience
Distance: \~400 km loop
Estimated Time: 3–5 days
From June to September every year the Khareef (monsoon) season turns Salalah into a lush, green wonderland in southern Oman. Car rental options provide travelers the freedom to discover both coastal roads and lush natural scenery at a leisurely speed.
Highlights Along the Way:
Ayn Razat & Ayn Khor encompass picturesque springs adjacent to lush hills perfect for picnicking.
Mughsail Beach features dramatic cliffs along with natural blowholes.
From Jebel Samhan visitors can enjoy sweeping views across wadis with chances to see Arabian leopards occasionally.
A rental car lets you explore this misty region comfortably while discovering its concealed natural wonders.
Route 5: The journey between Muscat and Al Hamra and Misfat Al Abriyeen reveals the enchanting allure of traditional Oman.
Distance: \~220 km
Estimated Time: 3 hours
Explore Oman’s historic heartland by taking a drive away from Muscat’s contemporary urban landscape. The mountain villages of Al Hamra and Misfat Al Abriyeen showcase the essence of traditional Omani life through their beautiful settings.
Highlights Along the Way:
Tanuf Ruins: A hauntingly beautiful abandoned village.
This public-accessible cave located in Al Hoota exhibits underground lakes together with stalactites among the limited caves available in this region.
Misfat Al Abriyeen serves as a picturesque village showcasing mud-brick houses and falaj irrigation systems alongside banana plantation hiking trails.
This destination provides travelers with perfect opportunities for photography and nature walks while offering cultural immersion experiences.
Route 6: This route from Muscat to Ras Al Hadd offers both wildlife viewing opportunities and wilderness exploration.
Distance: \~230 km
Estimated Time: 3–4 hours
Travel east from Muscat to reach Ras Al Hadd if you love nature. The coastal region is recognized for its wildlife sanctuaries alongside tranquil beaches.
Highlights Along the Way:
Quriyat is a tranquil seaside town that serves as an ideal spot for a fast seafood meal.
Wadi Tiwi presents a dramatic canyon landscape that features terraced villages beside pools with crystal-clear water.
The turtle reserve at Ras Al Jinz provides eco-tourism activities that benefit conservation initiatives.
A perfect destination for both families and couples this route features sea views alongside wadis and marine life.
Route 7: Jebel Shams Loop stands as the Grand Canyon of Arabia.
Distance: \~250 km
Estimated Time: Full-day round trip
The mountain road from Nizwa or Al Hamra leads to Jebel Shams which stands as Oman’s highest peak. The path demands a 4WD vehicle because of its steep nature yet provides unmatched rewards.
Highlights Along the Way:
Wadi Ghul features stunning cliffside views and is often referred to as Oman’s Grand Canyon.
Jebel Shams Viewpoint presents sweeping views of jagged peaks and profound valleys.
The Balcony Walk trail which hugs the mountain edge attracts many visitors because it provides excellent opportunities for photography.
You need a rental car that provides strong traction and air conditioning for this journey. To fully appreciate the changing light of the canyons you should begin your journey early in the day.
When you plan your car rental journey through Oman follow these essential tips.
Remote areas often lack petrol stations for refueling your vehicle. Fuel your vehicle before entering mountainous areas or desert regions.
GPS applications such as Google Maps function correctly but travelers should carry paper maps for use in regions where signal reception is weak.
Ensure your international driving permit remains valid and follow all speed limit signs while driving.
When preparing for your trip make sure to bring several water bottles, snacks, a first-aid kit and your phone charger.
Renting a car offers the most convenient way to explore Oman because it allows travelers to discover the country’s diverse landscapes at their own pace.
Oman offers travelers a unique blend of various landscapes while allowing the freedom to discover them with no rush. Outside main cities, public transportation remains scarce while guided tours impose limitations. Driving your own vehicle enables you to manage your travel itinerary freely and explore hidden paths that you might not find otherwise.
Oman offers a secure driving experience thanks to its high-quality roads and the friendly nature of its citizens. Renting a car lets you fully explore Oman, whether you visit the Al Hajar Mountains, cruise along the Arabian Sea, or traverse the Wahiba Sands.
Final Thoughts
Oman is a paradise for road-trippers. A journey through Oman becomes unforgettable because each region provides unique experiences supported by excellent highways and picturesque routes. Every kilometer on your journey through misty mountains and sunlit deserts adds another chapter to your travel story.
Begin your journey by packing your luggage while planning your route but make certain to obtain a rental car that complements your adventurous spirit. Proper wheels will enable you to reach Oman’s most awe-inspiring sights through a simple drive.
