Ibri sits at the junction of several of Oman's most interesting landscapes. Jebel Shams and the Grand Canyon of Oman — the country's highest peak and deepest gorge — are within a two-hour drive east through the Hajar Mountains. The drive through Wadi Ghul to the canyon rim is spectacular in itself, and the Balcony Walk trail along the cliff edge is one of the best short hikes in Oman.
To the south, the landscape transitions with remarkable speed from irrigated date gardens to the open gravel plains that lead eventually to the Rub al Khali (Empty Quarter). For those with a proper 4WD and desert experience, the edges of the Empty Quarter are accessible as a day excursion. Al-Ayn village and the Bat Tombs (about 25 km east) are an easy half-day and can be combined with a drive up toward the mountains.