Timeless AlUla

📍 AlUla - Jabal AlFil (Elephant Rock) (5 km): 10 mins

AlUla, home to Saudi Arabia’s first UNESCO World Heritage Site, which sits deep in the desert in the northwestern region of the country. It is an area rich in historical and geographical significance and for most travelers the biggest highlight of their Saudi adventure. 

To fully grasp its beauty upon arrival, let’s head 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 the guide put things into perspective.

When the afternoon light starts to turn golden it is the right time for a pilgrimage to Elephant Rock. Set in 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. 

Overnight in AlUla.

Inclusions:

📍 AlUla - Hegra (20 km): 20 mins Hegra - AlUla Historic Town (20 km): 25 mins

Start the day with exploring AlUla’s 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. Begin with the Nabataean site of Hegra, which was the southern capital of the Nabataean kingdom, dating back to the first century BCE. 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.

Next, head for the green zone that is AlUla oasis, situated beautifully amid the date farms. Take a stroll where lush palm trees sway gently 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 AlJadidah, an area known also as ‘Art City’ which has a colorful vibe with street art and art exhibits spread out in its walking streets. Continue exploring AlUla historic city, often called ‘the Old Town,’ a charismatic place that once sat at the crossroads of the Silk Road and the Incense Route, and that rewards a leisurely stroll. Recent renovations have turned it into a magical mix of ancient alleys and trendy restaurants and upmarket souvenirs shops. 

Overnight in AlUla.

Inclusions:

☕ Breakfast, 🥘 Lunch

📍 AlUla - Canyon Hike Starting Point (42 km): 45 mins AlUla - Sharaan Nature Reserve (23 km): 25 mins

Optional Program for Balloon Over AlUla 

Wake early for a memorable hot air balloon over AlUla. Transfer to the launch site in the pre-dawn hush, where coffee awaits. Watch as balloons fill the sky with anticipation, then gently lift off as the sun rises, revealing stunning canyons, ancient tombs, and AlUla’s remarkable landscapes from above. After landing, savor a light snack and soak in the memories of this unique adventure before bidding farewell to the balloon pilot and crew. 

Time : 05:00 - 09:00
 

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.

After rewinding at the hotel, the afternoon adventure begins in Sharaan Nature Reserve with Land Rover Defender 130 safari through canyons and valleys, uncovering ancient inscriptions, vast rock formations, and fragrant flora. As sunset nears, a short hike reveals a stunning viewpoint, paired with delicious canapés. In the evening, lantern-lit canyons set a magical scene for a guided UV light walk to spot nocturnal wildlife. A four-course South African-style “braai” follows, featuring grilled meats, vegetables, and indulgent desserts. The night concludes with a bonfire and immersive stargazing session through a telescope before returning to the hotel between 9:30 PM and 11:00 PM.

Overnight in AlUla.

Inclusions:

☕ Breakfast, 🥘 Lunch, 🍗 Dinner

📍 AlUla - AlUla airport (50 km): 45 mins

Before transferring to the airport for onward flight, enjoy the facilities of the hotel or continue your exploration of AlUla’s landscapes with other optional activities.

Departures are available from both Jeddah and Riyadh, international airports offering direct connections to destinations in Europe and Asia.

Inclusions:

☕ Breakfast