Windswept deserts, ancient ruins, wildlife-filled landscapes, local traditional handicrafts, and fascinating history – discover it all with our 3 Day Saudi Arabia & Hegra Tour From Riyadh. Hegra, also known as Madain Saleh and al-Hijr, is Saudi Arabia’s most iconic and popular historical site, a UNESCO World Heritage marvel that will transport you back thousands of years to the ancient Nabatean kingdom. There, you’ll find 111 monumental tombs, some decorated with majestic facades on the sandstone massifs such as Jibal Ithlib. You’ll travel to Dedan, an ancient oasis, for other fascinating archeological remnants attesting to thousands of years of human history and the influences of different cultures and empires that took hold of the region. You’ll enjoy incredible scenery and wildlife at Sharaan Nature reserve, enjoy local cuisine and handicrafts, and see natural wonders like Elephant Rock. This jam-packed 3-day adventure is a unique off-the-beaten-path experience that highlights the history, culture, and nature of the Al Ula region of Saudi Arabia, with your choice of stay at an eco-farm accommodation or a 4-star resort hotel.
3 DAY HEGRA & SAUDI ARABIA TOUR PACKAGE FROM RIYADH ITINERARY
DAY 1 - ARRIVAL
- Arrive independently to Al Alu Airport from Riyadh. The 6 am flight is recommended in order to ensure a smooth itinerary.
- After your arrival at Riyadh airport, you will be transported to the second-oldest school in Al Ula.
- You’ll learn about the local traditional handicrafts passed down through generations and enjoy a delicious lunch of homemade cuisine.
- Then, head out into the wild natural beauty of Sharaan nature reserve in a vintage 4x4.
- The sprawling 1500 kilometer reserve features landscapes of red rock canyons, wildflower-carpeted fields and vast desert vistas.
- Learn about the reserve, established to protect the delicate local ecosystem.
- Return to Al Ula.
- Overnight at accommodations in Al Ula.
DAY 2 - MADAIN SALEH
- Head out to see Saudi Arabia’s most famous attraction: Hegra.
- Marvel at the incredible ancient tombs and elaborate facades of this ancient Nabatean city, formerly known as Hijra.
- Learn all about the ancient history of Hegra and its wider surrounding region, getting a glimpse into the lives of its former inhabitants.
- See the 19th century station of the Ottoman-era Hejaz Railway that linked Damascus to Makkah, and remnants of triclinium (diwan in Arabic) - three-bench forms where people would sit and watch musicians play.
- Then head to Elephant rock, or Jabal Al Fil, to see this red sandstone sculpture “carved” by thousands of years of natural erosion.
- Then you will head to fascinating Dedan to see the remnants of its ancient kingdom, whose culture mixed Arabian traditions with influences of surrounding empires.
- See the Lion Tombs of Dedan, remarkable remnants that hint at the region’s Mesopotamian influence.
- After a day chock full of adventure, return to your accommodations for the evening.
- Overnight in Al Ula.
DAY 3 - DEPARTURE
- You will be transported to the Al Ula Airport in accordance with your departure time.
INCLUDES
3 Days of Transportation
Fully guided tour
Entrance fees
2 Overnights in a Bedouin Camp in Hegra
Breakfast on day 2+3
Lunch and Dinner on day 1+2
EXCLUDES
Flights
Drinks
Personal travel insurance
Gratuities
WHAT TO BRING
Walking Shoes
Water
Hat
Sunscreen
Passports
info
What is Riyadh famous for?
Why is Riyadh called the cultural capital of Saudi Arabia? Riyadh is known as the cultural capital of Saudi Arabia due to its numerous cultural centres. Among them are the King ʿAbd al-ʿAzīz Historical Centre, the National Museum, and the National Library.
Is Riyadh a city in Saudi Arabia?
Riyadh is the capital and largest city of Saudi Arabia. The name Riyadh is derived from the plural of the Arabic word rawdha, which means "garden". It is situated in the center of the Arabian Peninsula and is home to 4,854,000 people, and the urban center of a region with a population of close to 7 million people.