AlUla and the Red Sea

📍 AlUla airport - AlUla (50 km): 45 mins Art City - Jabal AlFil (Elephant Rock) (20 km): 20 mins

Fly to AlUla, home to Saudi Arabia’s first UNESCO World Heritage Site. Situated deep in the desert, the draw to AlUla is its remarkable natural rock formations and canyons, extensive and varied pre-Arabic rock art, and immaculately preserved tombs built more than 2,000 years ago by the Nabataeans, and for most travellers the biggest highlight of their Saudi adventure.  

It's a vast area with many highlights. To appreciate this, let’s first climb up to the Harrat Viewpoint before diving into all the history around. The road snakes up sharply, away from the red rocks and onto a black and seemingly endless plateau. Discover the viewpoint towering over the old city and let your guide put things into perspective.

Next, head for the green zone that is AlUla oasis and enjoy a cup of coffee at The Pink Camel, situated beautifully amid the date farms. Take a stroll where lush palm trees sway and the smell of citrus fills the fresh air, adding to the oasis-feeling that AlUla still retains. Follow the winding, shaded Oasis Heritage Trail through the orange grove, hear birds and imagine how the nomads of the past found water and refuge from the desert here. Exit the lush oasis at AlJadeeda, an area known also as ‘Art City’ which has a colourful vibe with street art and exhibits spread along the pedestrian streets. 

When the sun starts to set it is the right time for a pilgrimage to Elephant Rock. Set in golden desert sands and climbing into the blue Arabian skies, the rock (also known as Jabal Alfil) is one of AlUla’s most impressive geological marvels.  

After sunset, continue to AlUla Old Town for a stroll around this charismatic neighbourhood.  Once the crossroads of the Silk Road and the Incense Route, the Old Town today is an enchanting mix of ancient alleys, trendy restaurants and upmarket souvenirs shops. Savour dinner at one of the charming restaurants nestled in the atmospheric old town.

In AlUla, you’ll be staying at the luxurious Banyan Tree Hotel. The property’s elegant tented villas meld traditional design elements with modern amenities and boast spectacular views of the surrounding Ashar Valley.

Overnight in AlUla

Inclusions:

🍗 Dinner

📍 AlUla - Hegra (20 km): 20 mins Hegra - AlUla Historic Town (20 km): 30 mins

Start with a visit to the Nabataean site of Hegra “Premium tour” by private 4x4 vehicle, which was the southern capital of the Nabataean kingdom, dating back to the first century BC. Today, visitors follow their rawee, or storyteller, to explore several of the more than 100 well-preserved monumental tombs, most with elaborate facades carved from rock formations scattered around the desert. After the excursion, return to the hotel to relax before starting the afternoon tour..

The adventure begins with a pick-up from the hotel in a Land Rover Defender 130 in the afternoon. Upon arrival at the Sharaan Nature Reserve, guests will receive a stainless steel water bottle and an informative briefing from a dedicated Conservation Guide.

The safari through canyons and valleys offers opportunities to explore vast rock formations, ancient inscriptions, and fragrant fields of local flora. As sunset approaches, a short hike leads to a breathtaking viewpoint of the expansive valley and canyons, accompanied by delicious canapés.

The evening continues at the camp, where lantern-lit canyons create a magical atmosphere. Guided by the Conservation Guide, participants will use UV lights to spot nocturnal creatures and learn about their importance in the ecosystem. A sumptuous four-course South African-style "braai" will be served, featuring grilled meats, vegetables, sides, and delightful desserts.

The experience concludes with a cozy bonfire and immersive stargazing session, allowing guests to observe stars and planets through a telescope. The return to the hotel is scheduled between 9:30 PM and 11:00 PM, marking the end of an unforgettable seven-hour journey.

Overnight in AlUla

Inclusions:

☕ Breakfast, 🍗 Dinner

Head out for a half-day hiking journey amid AlUla’s stunning valleys where desert trails and hidden passageways amid red sandstone create a labyrinth of trails to explore. The hike starts close to AlUla, after a surprising 4x4 drive through a scenery of yellow sand and red cliffs. Although it gets hot during the day, the steep walls provide shade. The two-hour hike follows the canyon floor on a surface of sand and rocks. Although there is no real trail, the guide will lead the way across small boulders and rocks, with an occasional scramble to reach the next section. 

The canyon’s red sandstone is easily eroded by water and wind, creating a path that penetrates deep into the steep walls. Trees and plants are surprisingly abundant, especially in the cooler months. Along the way, the guide will point out ancient inscriptions in the stone walls dating back to various times and civilisations. Animal prints, such as hare, birds and sometimes foxes and wolves, can also be found. At the end, relax on a bedouin carpet and enjoy freshly brewed coffee or tea with a majestic view. Then, transfer back into town.

Enjoy your afternoon at leisure. Enjoy the facilities of the hotel or dip in the sparkling pool before getting out for farewell dinner to AlUla at one of its modern marvels: Maraya. Explore Maraya, the iconic mirrored landmark in Ashar Valley. Admire its stunning reflective façade of 9,740 glass panels and discover the cutting-edge design behind this world-class venue. Step onto the stage, tour its vast spaces, and experience the fusion of art, technology, and nature in this architectural masterpiece.

After the photo break at sunset, savour a special dinner at Maraya Social. Located on the rooftop of the spectacular Maraya Hall building, and owned by Michelin chef Jaso Atherton, this is one of Saudi Arabia’s best restaurants.

Overnight in AlUla

Inclusions:

☕ Breakfast, 🍗 Dinner

📍 AlUla - Turtle Bay (353 km): 4 hours Turtle Bay - Ummahat Island by speedboat: 40 mins

An exclusive experience awaits, whether it's for sharing with your loved ones or fellow travellers. These hot air balloon experiences promise to satisfy wanderlust, offering breathtaking views of the UNESCO heritage site of Hegra, Elephant Rock, and monumental rock formations.

Embark on a magical journey with a pick up from the hotel to the enchanting take-off site, where a steaming cup of coffee welcomes you. Watch in awe as vibrant balloons gracefully come to life, filling the night sky with anticipation. Feel the exhilaration as flames dance and the balloon gently rises from the ground. In a matter of seconds, the wonder of the sunrise unfolds against a stunning backdrop. Floating over canyons and tombs, insights into AlUla's rich history unfold. After the flight, bask in the glow of this unique adventure, ready to script its magic into the pages of your cherished memory book.

Check out from the hotel and embark on an overland adventure to the destination of the future, Red Sea Global—a luxury regenerative tourism destination in Saudi Arabia, boasting breathtaking beaches and pristine islands. Enjoy a scenic 5-hour drive through the serene desert landscape from AlUla to the Red Sea. Savor a boxed lunch at a picturesque spot along the way.

Upon arrival at Turtle Bay, meet the local representative and take a moment to stretch at the welcome center before continuing to the stunning Red Sea resort via a shared speedboat.  

A captivating shared seaplane transfer option is available from Red Sea Airport to your hotel. Contact us for details about this optional service. 

Experience the perfect blend of luxury and nature on islands surrounded by vibrant coral reefs, dedicated to preserving a diverse ecosystem.

Overnight in Red Sea
 

Inclusions:

☕ Breakfast, 🥘 Lunch

Savour a day at leisure at your hotel. The day unfolds at your pace, perhaps opting to lounge by the infinity pool, indulge in spa treatment or your own discovery of Red Sea, situated along the west coast of Saudi Arabia, this expansive 28,000 square kilometre paradise boasts an archipelago of over 90 untouched islands, stunning beaches, and a range of natural wonders, including dormant volcanoes, desert dunes, and mountain canyons. The Red Sea is also home to the world’s fourth biggest barrier reef, where marine life and coral thrive like nowhere else.

Optional activity: to name a few; snorkelling and scuba diving to wonder the spectacular reef system and an impressive 18th century shipwreck or mangrove kayaking through the Red Sea’s crystal clear tributaries or enjoy the thrill of sailing or other watersports such as stand-up paddle and kitesurfing are also available. Please contact us.

Overnight in Red Sea

Inclusions:

☕ Breakfast

Spend a leisurely day indulging in the luxurious amenities of the resort. Take a dip in the sparkling pool, stroll through the lush gardens, or simply relax in your elegantly appointed room, your day at the resort promises to be a serene and delightful escape.

Overnight in Red Sea

Inclusions:

☕ Breakfast

📍 Ummahat Island - Turtle Ummahat Island - Turtle Bay by speedboat: 40 mins Turtle Bay - Red Sea airport by car (22 km): 30 mins

Your Saudi Arabia journey comes to an end today. After a relaxing morning at the resort, transfer to the Red Sea Airport for your onward flight. 

Inclusions:

☕ Breakfast