Saudi_Adventure

SPIRIT OF ADVENTURE

Discover sandsports

Thrill seekers are well catered for among the deserts of Saudi, with sand boarding, dune bashing, and sand skiing awaiting adventurous travellers. Head to Rub Al Khali for an action-packed desert safari in a 4x4 and spectacular views across the dunes as the sun sets. To soak up those views at a slower pace, opt for the no less thrilling option of a camel safari at Al Thumama Desert. This is a majestic way to experience the desert and will bring you closer to the traditions and customs of the land. To really get the blood pumping, you’ll want to go dune bashing, and where better to give it a go than Saudi’s second largest desert, Al Nafud. Go speeding over the soft dunes on what will feel like a 30-minute desert rollercoaster, before lunch at your camp – it’s a hell of a way to work up an appetite.

From the mountainous terrains of the southwest to the vast deserts in the southeast and all the vibrant coastal beauty on either side, the varied topography of Saudi is as surprising as it is spectacular. For those with an adventurous spirit, there can hardly be a more enticing destination in the world. Here’s how to have an unforgettable experience in this enormous adventure playground.

For galaxy gazers, Moon Valley, just an hour from Jeddah, is the perfect place to light a bonfire, enjoy a stunning sunset and start picking out the constellations in the clear night sky.

Moon Valley, Jeddah

Star Attractions

Camping in Saudi’s Great Outdoors is always going to guarantee you some spectacular stargazing. But there are some spots, even in this astro-tourist's paradise, that stand out as absolute musts. Here are four of the best of them.

CAMPING WILD

What better way to connect with a destination’s landscape than by camping out in its natural beauty? In Saudi, you can sleep under the stars in the desert while experiencing a taste of authentic Bedouin hospitality or pitch a tent at one of the many national parks for spontaneous adventures. At Al Thumamah National Park in Riyadh, you have all the freedom and beauty of a wild camping experience with the benefit of road side vendors and access to things like quad bike rentals and horseback riding. If it’s UNESCO-class beauty and wildlife you’re after, visit Al-Asfar Lake to the east of Omran city. This shallow wetland, popularly known as Yellow Lake, is home to many migrating birds and indigenous plant species and is a breathtaking place to camp out in especially during the winter season. For those who prefer their camping to be more styled than wild, Caravan by Habitas is a super chic glamping experience in AlUla, where accommodation comes equipped with en-suite bathrooms, air conditioning, private outdoor decks and surround sound systems.

OCEAN adventures

Saudi is as perfect for aqua-adventurers as it is for landlubbers, with excellent diving, snorkelling, watersports and sealife-spotting opportunities along its captivating coastline. Dive among unspoiled corals and shipwrecks in the warm waters off Jeddah, and expect to come face to face with turtles, clownfish and eels. Resurface to try kitesurfing and waterskiing at one of the many beaches. At Half Moon Bay near Khobar city, go for a dip and drift lazily along the famously beautiful beach that makes this such a popular destination. Marine bikes and all sorts of other more high-octane watersports equipment are also available to rent here. If you’d rather be close to the water rather than actually in it, hop around the many restaurants of King Abdullah Economic City and enjoy wonderful sea views and fine dining.

Look out for shooting stars in the remote area of Gharameel, or watch the clear sky dance with galactic activity above the region’s famous giant geomorphological wonders.

Gharameel, AlUla

peak Thrills

Saudi isn’t well known for its mountainous landscapes – but it should be. Places like Asir National Park in the Asir region are among the country’s most remarkable destinations, with Jebel Soudah – thought to be Saudi’s highest mountain – dominating the terrain. Spending time exploring the nature trails and wild hikes of this 1,600km2 park is a must, and with numerous camping options available you’re able to dedicate a few days to doing just that. Those with a need for speed can rent a mountain bike and whizz along the dedicated pathways, while visitors seeking the best scenery should embark on the breathtaking cable car ride through the clouds for spectacular views of the mountain. Climbing enthusiasts will find a variety of routes on the ominously named Wall of Shadows, a shaded crag in Al Sharaf Park, Tanomah, and equally attractive options in the mountainous village of Al Shafa.

This huge valley in the Province of Tabuk is a favourite among local walkers. Expect massive sandstone cliffs and pillars and lush palm trees everywhere you look.

Wadi al Disah, Tabuk

Thirty-five minutes from Taif, this 1,000-year-old route through the Alhada Mountains allows visitors to hike through history, passing ancient boulders laid to reinforce the path during the Ottoman Empire.

Camel Owners Trail, Jeddah

It may be famous for its sparkling night sky, but Moon Valley is also a great daytime destination for hikers. Hike up Moon Mountain and take in the breathtaking sunset before returning to base camp for a well-earned BBQ.

Moon Valley, Jeddah

This ancient road is just 45 minutes from Riyadh. It’s steep and rocky but well worth the effort, with walkers treated to stunning views of Tuwaiq Mountain.

The Caravan Trail, Aba AlQid

The tallest mountain in the Tabuk province, this region is a walker’s paradise, with ancient stone carvings, varied hiking routes, and an annual blanket of snow.

Jabal Al Lawz, Tabuk

The tallest mountain in the Tabuk province, this region is a walker’s paradise, with ancient stone carvings, varied hiking routes, and an annual blanket of snow.

Jabal Al Lawz

Wilderness walks

Five incredible hiking destinations for an off-grid adventure

Project Director: Tom Warner Words: George Clode Editor: Laura MacBeth Senior Designer: Loraine Fajutag Images: Visit Saudi, Getty Images, Shutterstock and Alamy

Produced by Independent Ignite

Partner content

PARTNER CONTENT

At Al Thumamah National Park

Al-Asfar Lake

Caravan by Habitas

YELLOW LAKE

RIYADH

ALULA

King Abdullah Economic City

Half Moon Bay

Khobar city

JEDDAH

Al Thumama Desert

Rub Al Khali

Al Nafud

RIYADH

Asir National Park

Al Sharaf Park

Jebel Soudah

Asir

JEDDAH

Al Shafa

Haql Shipwreck Beach

Spotlight on:

In Tabuk Province, about 55km south of Haql city, lies one of Saudi’s more intriguing hidden attractions. A mysterious, partially submerged shipwreck can be seen jutting out of the waters of a picturesque, half moon-shaped beach. With the jagged mountainscape in the background and pristine waters all around, the rusting hulk looks wildly out of place. But that, along with the sparse information about it and the effort it takes to get there, is all part of its allure. The wreck is apparently that of a Greek cargo ship that ran aground 43 years ago; how it ran aground remains unknown. Snorkelers, divers and swimmers enjoy exploring the wreck and the coral reefs around it, while photographers can take unique snaps of the ship’s imposing industrial silhouette against such a beautiful natural backdrop. If you’re looking to spend a few hours at your own private paradise beach with a side-helping of mystery, a visit to Haql Shipwreck Beach should be high up on your priority list.

Expect a gloriously eerie light to develop after sunset in An Nafud as the moonlit sky shines down upon the deep orange sands of this vast desert expanse.

An Nafud, Hail

With their highest point standing at around 6,000 feet above sea level, these peaks bring you as close to the night sky action as you can hope to get. Perfect for astro adventurers.

Al Figrah Mountains, Medina

The majestic sandstone formations of Tabuk make for even more dramatic sights and shapes as you gaze at the sparkling skies. Head to Wadi Al Disah in the Prince Mohammed bin Salman Reserve – a beautiful, untouched valley boasting crystalline streams, flowing springs, and lush palm trees.

Wadi Al Disah, Tabuk

The majestic sandstone formations of Tabuk make for even more dramatic sights and shapes as you gaze at the sparkling skies. Head to Wadi Al Disah in the Prince Mohammed bin Salman Natural Reserve – a beautiful, untouched valley boasting crystalline streams, flowing springs, and lush palm trees.

Tabuk

Look out for shooting stars in the remote area of Gharameel, or watch the clear sky dance with galactic activity above the region’s famous giant geomorphological wonders.

Gharameel, AlUla

Expect a gloriously eerie light to develop after sunset in An Nafud as the moonlit sky shines down upon the deep orange sands of this vast desert expanse.

An Nafud, Hail

With their highest point standing at around 6,000 feet above sea level, these peaks bring you as close to the night sky action as you can hope to get. Perfect for astro adventurers.

Al Figrah Mountains, Medina

The majestic sandstone formations of Tabuk make for dramatic sights as you gaze at the skies. Head to Wadi Al Disah in the Prince Mohammed bin Salman Reserve – a beautiful valley boasting crystalline streams and lush palms.

Wadi Al Disah, Tabuk

CAMPING WILD

What better way to connect with a destination’s landscape than by camping out in its natural beauty? In Saudi, you can sleep under the stars in the desert while experiencing a taste of authentic Bedouin hospitality or pitch a tent at one of the many national parks for spontaneous adventures. At Al Thumamah National Park in Riyadh, you have all the freedom and beauty of a wild camping experience with the benefit of road side vendors and access to things like quad bike rentals and horseback riding. If it’s UNESCO-class beauty and wildlife you’re after, visit Al-Asfar Lake to the east of Omran city. This shallow wetland, popularly known as Yellow Lake, is home to many migrating birds and indeginous plant species and is a breathtaking place to camp out in especially during the winter season. For those who prefer their camping to be more styled than wild, Caravan by Habitas is a super chic glamping experience in AlUla, where accommodation comes equipped with en-suite bathrooms, air conditioning, private outdoor decks and surround sound systems.

OCEAN adventures

Discover sandsports

This huge valley in the Province of Tabuk is a favourite among local walkers. Expect massive sandstone cliffs and pillars and lush palm trees everywhere you look.

Wadi al Disah, Tabuk

Camel Owners Trail, Jeddah

Moon Valley, Jeddah

This ancient road is just 45 minutes from Riyadh. It’s steep and rocky but well worth the effort, with walkers treated to stunning views of Tuwaiq Mountain.

The Caravan Trail, Aba AlQid

The tallest mountain in the Tabuk province, this region is a walker’s paradise, with ancient stone carvings, varied hiking routes, and an annual blanket of snow.

Jabal Al Lawz, Tabuk

Tabuk

Wilderness walks

Five incredible hiking destinations for an off-grid adventure