Planning a trip to Oman? Prepare for dramatic mountain ranges, turquoise wadis, golden deserts, and untouched coastlines, all wrapped in warm Omani hospitality. Whether you have three days or a full week to explore, this flexible itinerary will help you make the most of your time, offering a balance of nature, culture, and comfort.
Ultimate Oman Itinerary: Best Travel Plan for 3 to 7 Days in Oman
Day 1–2: Explore Muscat
Start your adventure in Muscat, a city where traditional architecture meets Arabian sea views. Begin with a morning visit to the majestic Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque, then head to Mutrah Souq for local trinkets and frankincense. Walk along the Corniche, tour the Royal Opera House, and enjoy dinner by the sea at one of Qurum or Azaiba’s beachfront cafés.
Craving something more refined or diverse? Browse the best restaurants in Oman to discover top dining experiences across the country.
Top spots: Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque, Mutrah Souq, Al Alam Palace, Royal Opera House, Qurum Beach.
Optional: Start your day with a magical sunset dhow cruise from Mutrah Port, or explore the city at your own pace with a hop-on hop-off bus tour.
Day 3: Wadis and Old Town Culture
Leave the coast and venture toward the mountains. Stop at Wadi Shab or Wadi Bani Khalid, two of Oman’s most beautiful natural swimming holes. Bring swimwear, a dry bag, and hiking shoes. After a refreshing dip, continue to Nizwa, Oman’s historic inland capital.
Don’t miss:
- Nizwa Fort and Souq (especially on Friday mornings)
- Bahla Fort (UNESCO World Heritage Site)
- Al Hamra and Misfat Al Abriyeen villages
Day 4: Desert Adventure in Wahiba Sands
From Nizwa, drive to the vast dunes of Wahiba Sands for a taste of Bedouin life. Book a stay at a desert camp, try dune bashing, ride a camel, and enjoy Omani coffee under the stars. The silence of the desert at night is something you’ll never forget.
Day 5: Coastal Charm
Today is all about Oman’s coastal treasures. You can choose between two unforgettable experiences:
Option 1: Marina Bandar Al Rowdha or Bimmah
Start your day with a scenic boat tour from Marina Bandar Al Rowdha, just outside Muscat. Enjoy dolphin watching or simply take in the coastal beauty from the water. After the cruise, head south along the coastline to visit the famous Bimah Sinkhole, a natural turquoise pool perfect for a refreshing swim. The nearby Wadi Shab is also a great add-on if you’re up for a light hike and a swim through caves.
Option 2: Sur & Ras Al Jinz
Make your way to Sur, a historic seafaring town known for its traditional dhow shipyards and scenic corniche. After a relaxed afternoon by the sea, head to the Ras Al Jinz Turtle Reserve, where you can witness endangered green turtles nesting on the beach under the stars—an awe-inspiring natural encounter.
Key stops for this route: Dhow Shipyards, Sur Lighthouse, Ras Al Hadd, Ras Al Jinz Turtle Reserve.
Option 3: Daymaniyat Islands
Prefer snorkeling over sightseeing? Swap the drive for a boat trip to the Daymaniyat Islands, a protected marine reserve known for its vibrant coral reefs, crystal-clear waters, and chances to snorkel with turtles and reef fish. Tours leave from the Al Mouj Marina or nearby coastal ports near Muscat, making this a more relaxed, water-filled alternative.
Perfect for: Beach lovers, marine life enthusiasts, and those seeking a chilled-out day at sea.
Whether you’re by Bandar Al Rowdha or Sur, don’t miss the chance to relax at one of Oman’s top seaside cafés or sunset brunch spots.
Day 6–7: Into the Mountains – Jebel Akhdar or Jebel Shams
For those spending a full week, retreat into the cool mountain air. Choose between Jebel Akhdar (The Green Mountain), known for its rose farms and terraced villages, or Jebel Shams, home to Oman’s Grand Canyon.
Things to do:
- Balcony Walk hike (Jebel Shams).
- Visit Diana’s Point or Al Shalal Cave (Jebel Akhdar).
- Explore the ancient mud village of Misfat Al Abriyeen.
- Stargazing and sunrise views from the cliffs.
Optional Extension-Day 8–10: Salalah
If you have more than a week or want to see a completely different side of Oman, fly south to Salalah, the jewel of the Dhofar region. Unlike the arid north, Salalah bursts into green during the Khareef season (June–September), making it feel like a tropical paradise.
Top things to do in Salalah:
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Visit the lush Wadi Darbat with its waterfalls (best during Khareef)
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Walk through the Frankincense Land Museum and Al Baleed Archaeological Park
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Relax at Mughsail Beach and see the famous blowholes
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Explore the Ain Razat springs and Sumhuram ruins
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Go for a scenic drive in the fog-covered Jebel Samhan mountains
How to Get There:
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By air: 1.5-hour flight from Muscat
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By bus: A 9 to 12-hour scenic journey for adventurers
Where to Stay in Salalah:
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Al Baleed Resort Salalah by Anantara
A 5-star beachfront resort offering tropical gardens, multiple pools, a luxurious spa, and fine dining. Ideal for a high-end escape, especially during Khareef with seasonal offers like 30% off and complimentary breakfast. -
Millennium Resort Salalah
A family-friendly resort featuring spacious rooms, indoor and outdoor pools, a relaxing spa, and a beach shuttle. Great for couples and families looking for comfort with convenience.
Best Family-Friendly Hotels & Resorts in Oman
Whether you’re bringing toddlers or teens, these hotels offer comfort, activities, and plenty of space for the whole family.
Muscat
- The Chedi Muscat – Luxury and serenity by the sea.
- Crowne Plaza Muscat – Great pool, family rooms, and cliffside views.
- Mysk Al Mouj – Marina-front hotel with family-friendly dining and walking access to cafes.
Nizwa & Mountains
- Anantara Al Jabal Al Akhdar – High-end mountain resort with kids’ programs and unforgettable views.
- Golden Tulip Nizwa – Affordable and practical for exploring nearby forts and villages.
Wahiba Sands
- Desert Nights Camp – Luxury desert camping with family suites, camel rides, and starry skies.
- Sama Al Wasil Camp – More traditional and budget-friendly, with comfortable tents and desert activities.
Sur & Ras Al Jinz
- Sur Plaza Hotel – A good base for families with a pool and restaurant.
- Ras Al Jinz Turtle Reserve Lodge – Basic but educational, especially fun for kids who love nature.
Jebel Shams & Al Hamra
- Sama Heights Resort – Jebel Shams – Chalet-style lodging with amazing mountain views.
- The View Oman – Al Hamra – Boutique lodge perched over a valley, peaceful and scenic.
Oman is a land of contrasts, desert and sea, mountains and markets, ancient history and modern luxury. Whether you’ve got three days or seven, this itinerary offers a seamless path through Oman’s most iconic experiences. Pack your curiosity, your camera, and maybe a light jacket for the mountains, you’re in for an unforgettable adventure.
