Saudi Arabia is one of the world’s most historical, culturally diverse and naturally endowed nations. Most people also associate it with religion and Islamic people, but the Kingdom boasts beautiful terrains and thrilling adventure experiences.
From the mountains to deserts, it has everything for every traveller, who wants adventure and discovery in Saudi Arabia. Immediately here, we present to you the eleven adventurous places in Saudi Arabia that should be visited.
1. The Edge of the World (Jebel Fihrayn)
Situated just a few hours’ drive from Riyadh, the Edge of the World is one of the most exciting attractions in the country. Its name is derived from the steep rock formation that plunges precipitously into the depths of a boundless sandy waste. The prospects can be seen from horizon to horizon.
This is most probably the best destination for hiking. It is not easy to get to the edge; the trek may take 2-3 hours, depending on the speed, but the top view is terrific. Trekkers also like to go camping since there are no city lights to distort the magnificent view of the stars at night.
2. Al Wahbah Crater
This volcanic crater is roughly 250 km north of Taif. This gigantic hole measures 2 kilometres in width and 250 meters in depth. It is a remarkable geological structure, and visitors enjoy caving down to the salinated water in the base.
It will take 1-2 hours to climb up to the centre of the crater, though the steepness of the terrain may determine the ability of hikers. When one enters it, he is enclosed by a view resembling a salt desert, thus giving a rather spooky feeling. The most interesting thing for Muslims is they can explore all these exciting places along with Umrah. According to travelling experts, you need to choose the month of Ramadan because of the blessed month according to the Islamic Calendar and also you can explore more places. All you need is Ramadan Umrah packages from any good agency. The climb back up is somewhat rigorously inclined; however, those who love exercise should consider themselves lucky to have the chance to undertake the challenge.
3. Red Sea Coast Region
The Red Sea coast is a true paradise for lovers of water activities and diving, as it is one of the best diving destinations. Other cities, such as Jeddah or Yanbu, have clear seas and many sea organisms.
The Red Sea is well known for its beautiful coral gardens, rich marine life and the geography of the underwater world. You cannot miss any, including reef fish, sea turtles, and dolphins. Tourists can swim or scuba dive, snorkel on the beaches, kitesurf and go deep-sea fishing. The area is also ideal for first-timers who want to have their first encounter with water activities.
4. Hiking in the Asir Mountains in Abha
Further south, the Asir Mountains rise from the sandy terrain and provide a cooler climate than the central Saudi Arabian desert. This city at the edge of the mountainous range is predominantly green, has a cooler climate and boasts exciting trails leading to Abha city.
For lovers of mountainous hiking, there are many routes to follow within the Asir National Park. Trails vary between strolls and treks, and one particular is climbing Jebel Sawda, Saudi Arabia’s tallest mountain. Sights include small forests, stunning views, and local wildlife. This area is appropriate for people seeking excitement and discovering the great outdoors.
5. The Rub al Khali Desert
Rub al Khali, also known as the Empty Quarter, is one of Earth’s most famous and least populated sand deserts. It is a vast area cover by dunes between Saudi Arabia, Oman, UAE, and Yemen.
As for adventure travellers, this desert has to offer all kinds of attractions ranging from dune bashing to sand boarding or even taking a ride on a camel. Due to the immensity of the desert, one feels lonely, and an eerie silence permeates the atmosphere. The Rub’ al Khali is also suitable for night camping because stars light the skies. If you ever wanted to trek in the desert with almost no people around to bother you and amazing sceneries to marvel at, this is where you need to go.
6. Madain Saleh (Al-Hijr)
One of the UNESCO-listed sites, Madain Saleh or Al-Hijr, is a highly ancient site in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. Similar to the famous tourism site of Petra, Jordan, this place consists of many Nabataean rock-cut necropolis and beautifully carved façade.
Besides being an ancient city, Madain Saleh offers adventure in hiking and exploration. Tourists can stroll around rock formations, hike dunes, and explore the desert on foot or on camels. It’s a perfect place for lovers of history, with stunning views of natural landscapes that attract tourists who like different adventurous activities.
7. Wadi Lajab (Jazan)
Wadi Lajab is situated in the Jazan region and is undoubtedly one of the most attractive destinations for those who like adrenaline. This wadi (valley) is commonly known as ‘the heaven of the desert’ thanks to the green vegetation, water pools, and high cliffs that line most parts of it.
The walk through the wadi is sometimes up and down, and you must jump over small rocks; sometimes, the water is a little high. To the adventurous, this combines hiking and climbing, and some even end up in water. On both sides of the river, the depths rapidly grow steep, and the cliffs on the sides rise one over the other, creating an unreal landscape. On the other side of the river, the area’s natural landscape is excellent in contrast to the desert.
8. Farasan Islands
The Farasan island in the Red Sea is an ideal vacation spot for adventurous travellers. Stretching between the Jazan region of Yemen and the Horn of Africa, these islands are famous for their aquatic sites, clear water, coloured corals, and aquatic animals.
Visitors can enjoy diving, snorkelling, and kayaking in the Farasan Islands. The Coral reefs there are among the healthiest, stretching down the Red Sea; hence, they attract many visitors or enthusiasts of marine life. On land, adventurous people can walk around the islands or ride bikes through the area, see the ruins of old structures and the Gazelles, and take advantage of seeing the region’s beauty up close.
9. Discovering the Two Holy Lands of Makkah & Madinah
Initially, Makkah and Madinah were acknowledged as the most sacred places in the Muslim world, but both cities offer tourists more than religious destinations.
Makkah – Jabal al-Nour and Jabal Thawr
Meanwhile, Makkah tourists can tour around Jabal al-Nour, which means the “Mountain of Light.” Hira Cave is situated here, and this is where the first revelation to our beloved Prophet was received. Muslims can have customised Umrah deals to explore all of these places. For example, if you live in Bradford, you can have Umrah packages Bradford from any good travel agency and can explore many interesting places while performing Umrah.
Though it is a bit of a steep climb, the terrain is quite manageable when you reach the top; the feeling of such a place with our forefathers and seeing the view of Makkah just gives me goosebumps. The other site is Jabal Thawr, an alleged historical site where the Prophet sought asylum during his Hijrah to Madinah.
Madinah – Uhud Mountain
Other places promoted for their adventurous appeal include Mount Uhud in Madinah. MVP 4 & 5 Mountain Uhud is also an important site because the battle of Uhud took place there. On the one hand, it provides an opportunity to get a good view of the city, make a short and not very challenging ascend, and learn a little about Islamic history.
10. Jebel Alma or Jebel Al-Lawz (Mountain of Almonds)
Jebel Al-Lawz is found in the northwestern part of the Kingdom near Tabuk and is among the distinguished mountains within the country. It carries the visible signs of having been one of the routes of escaped slaves, as others consider this mountain to be none other than Mount Sinai of the biblical creation, adding a twist to the narrative.
Standing at about 2,580 meters, Jebel Al-Lawz is one of those parts of Saudi Arabia that experiences snow during winter. It boasts a thrilling hiking and climbing experience because the mountain offers several steep routes. The first thing is the breathtaking views of the surrounding terrain that one can see once at the top of the hill during sunrise or sunset. This mountain is ideal for those who enjoy trekking, as the history of this particular mountain will indicate.
11. Al Soudah (Abha)
Al Soudah is one of the country’s peaks in the Asir region near Abha. This cold region has many green climbs and beautiful scenery, and hence, it is mainly associate with tourists who are doubtless nature admirers or expanders.
Al Soudah is perfect for hiking and trekking. Some tracks go through the trees and lead to high-altitude views. For adventurous people, paragliding is always available in the region. It is an ideal place for flying because of the steep rock faces and good winds, which will make your flight quite thrilling while you see the beautiful rocks of the mountains.
Conclusion
Besides the historical and cultural sites, Saudi Arabia offers diverse, adventurous activities to tourists. From trekking along steep rocky edges to scuba diving through the crystal waters, the kingdom has a lot of adrenaline to thrill lovers. After visiting one place on this list, you will have a fantastic experience, whether you are a hiker, scuba diver, or just a fan of beautiful views.
While the Kingdom focuses on attracting more international tourists, these gems remain more or less off the beaten path but are worth visiting now. All these adventurous sites are fascinating for thrilling or nature-loving visitors and will make their holidays memorable. Therefore, carry your luggage, wear your travelling shoes or diving gear and look closely at Saudi Arabia!