Mountains of Arabia

Fly to Jeddah, Saudi Arabia's second-biggest city after Riyadh. On arrival you will be met by your driver and taken to your hotel.

With its perfect location along the Red Sea, it is no surprise that  Jeddah is the second busiest seaport in the Middle East. For centuries it has also been the main gateway to Mecca, the holiest city for Muslims. Even though over a million pilgrims each year, travel through Jeddah to Mecca, it is also perceived to be the most liberal city in Saudi Arabia and a popular tourist destination. 

A favourite past time at sunset is to saunter along the Corniche and admire the artworks along the attractive promenade, relax with a drink and watch the sun go down. Join the locals and witness the world's tallest fountain come to life in front of the Corniche. (D)

After breakfast you will be picked up by your English-speaking guide. Begin the day with a visit to the Tayebat museum to gain insightful background on Islam, Saudi Arabia, and Jeddah. Next, immerse yourself in the vibrant Central Fish Market to savour the freshest local seafood. Conclude the day with a captivating exploration of the atmospheric old town Al Balad, a UNESCO World Heritage site, brimming with traditional buildings and merchant houses. (B,L)

This morning leave the warm sea breeze of Jeddah behind and swap for some cooler mountain air. Today, there will be a big climb from sea level via Al Hada of 2,200 meters to the city of Taif. By-passing Mecca, Islam’s holiest city, the road trip continues from the flat and dry desert landscapes surrounding Mecca, to Taif. At 1,800 meters above sea level, Taif is known as the "City of Roses" and is famous for its cool temperatures and fragrant flowers. In the late afternoon, explore the bustling local market, where you can find anything from incense wood to ordinary household goods. (B,L)

Fill the lungs with cool, clear mountain air during this epic road trip that takes you along the spine of the Sarawat range. There are few more spectacular journeys than the one between Taif and Abha on the entire Arabian Peninsula. Enjoy stunning views of steep cliffs, ancient ruins, and tranquil mountain settlements. Al Bahah, at 2200 metres above sea level, is surrounded by over forty forests. Raghadan Park offers breathtaking vistas of a deep wadi gorge. Explore the UNESCO-listed village of Thee Ain to experience local life and a preserved historical site. (B,L)

The journey south along the mountain range is awe-inspiring as it winds towards the Yemeni border. At the start of the trip, the scenery is relatively gentle with watchtowers and heritage villages along the road. A highlight of this section is a settlement in a crescent-shaped valley, perched precariously at the edge of a cliff.

Further south the mountains get higher and you're close to the highest summit in Saudi Arabia, Jabal Sawda (under 3000m, and traditional Asir houses. A picnic lunch can be enjoyed in an airy park with a view into the deep valley outside the town of Abha. town. End the day by exploring Abha and, stroll through the city’s Art Street or visit the Al Dabab walkway for stunning views of the mountain scenery. (B,L)
 

Abha and the wider Asir region are awaiting exploration, with a focus on Asir culture, local traditions, architecture, and heritage. The final part of the road trip includes passing by Jabal Sawda, the highest peak in Saudi Arabia, and exploring Rijal Alma, a collection of traditional stone houses. Afterward, a beautifully restored fortress in Tabab village offers stunning views of the valley. Delve deeper into Asir heritage at the Fatima Museum of Aseeri Women, showcasing traditional design and natural painting techniques passed down through generations. (B,L)

As you head east into the rolling hills, you'll come across Al Masqi heritage village, where mudbrick is used due to the scarcity of stone. The village features an ingenious rainwater protection system and is only accessible on foot. Another point of interest is the "hanging village" of Habala, accessible via a cable car. Afterward, transfer to Abha International Airport for a return flight to Jeddah. The remainder of the day and evening of your last night in Saudi Arabia will be at your own leisure. (B,L)

Today you will be transferred to Jeddah airport for your return flight to the UK. (B)