Trails of Arabia

Riyadh, once a walled desert way station, is now a modern metropolis showcasing Saudi Arabia’s wealth and culture. Explore its organised streets, bustling souks, striking mosques, and vibrant neighbourhoods. Visit the iconic Al Faisaliah Tower for panoramic views of the city and the surrounding desert, offering a striking introduction to the kingdom.

For early arrivals, an optional 4x4 trip to the Edge of the World provides dramatic cliffs overlooking endless plains. Enjoy a stroll along the horizon, relax on a traditional takwa picnic seat, and sip freshly brewed Arabic coffee as you take in the unrivalled scenery.

Explore Riyadh’s rich history and modern contrasts. Start at Al Masmak Fortress, a 150-year-old clay citadel in the heart of the old town, then wander the traditional souks of Al Zel and Bisht. Visit Murabba Palace and the National Museum to gain insight into Saudi Arabia’s past.

After lunch, see the striking King Abdullah Financial District, including its modern mosque and lively cafés. Conclude with a visit to Ad Diriyah, the restored UNESCO World Heritage site and birthplace of the first Saudi state, before dinner at the Bujairi Terrace. (B,L,D)

Fly to Tabuk, the gateway to Saudi Arabia’s northwest and historic resting point for pilgrims to Mecca and Medina. After lunch at a traditional Saudi restaurant, set out on an off-road adventure into the Hisma Desert, also known as Bajda.

Drive through wild landscapes of yellow-red sands and towering cliffs, pausing for short hikes through canyons and dramatic rock formations. The skilled guide ensures a seamless journey, allowing you to fully appreciate the desert’s beauty. Conclude the day with a relaxing dinner at the camp before returning to Tabuk. (B,L,D)

Hike through Wadi Disah, a valley of remarkable natural wonders with towering sandstone cliffs, colourful rock formations, and freshwater springs that sustain lush vegetation. Follow the trail through changing scenery, pausing for photography and quiet reflection beside natural pools and dramatic rock spires.

After the hike, enjoy lunch at a nearby mango farm under the shade of fruit trees, gaining insight into local agricultural practices. Continue to AlUla, arriving in the late afternoon. Visit Elephant Rock (Jabal Alfil) as the golden light casts the desert sands and striking rock formations into dramatic relief. (B,L)

Explore Hegra, the southern capital of the Nabataean kingdom, with over 100 well-preserved monumental tombs featuring intricate rock-carved façades. A local ‘rawee’ guides you through the desert landscape, bringing the history of this first-century BCE site to life.

After lunch amid the lush AlUla oasis and date farms, set out on the Oasis Heritage Trail, a 3 km walk shaded by palm trees, citrus orchards, and small farms. Continue into AlJadeeda, the art district, before concluding at AlUla Old Town, where restored streets, traditional buildings, and boutique cafés showcase the region’s heritage. (B,L)

Begin the day with a guided hike in Sharaan Nature Reserve, following Madakel Canyon’s narrow passages carved by wind and water over centuries. Scramble over rock formations, navigate uneven terrain, and observe the desert’s unique vegetation and geological features. The hike concludes by early afternoon, leaving time to relax at the hotel or pool.

In the evening, visit Maraya, the iconic mirrored landmark in Ashar Valley. Explore its reflective façade, step inside its vast spaces, and enjoy a rooftop dinner at Maraya Social, where modern cuisine meets striking architecture and views. (B,D)

Travel through desert and volcanic landscapes to Medina along an ancient pilgrimage route, with black lava stone and dramatic mountain vistas. Visit Al Masjid an Nabawi, the Prophet’s Mosque, and take in exterior views from the square while enjoying lunch at Elaf Al Taqwa Hotel.

In the late afternoon, ascend Mount Uhud for panoramic views of the Holy City and surrounding landscapes. This historic site offers insight into Medina’s significance and provides a moment to appreciate its spiritual and cultural heritage. (B,L)

Enjoy a leisurely morning in Medina before lunch. Afterwards, travel on one of Saudi Arabia’s state-of-the-art high-speed trains to the Red Sea city of Jeddah, a journey of under two hours.

Upon arrival, meet your local English-speaking guide at the station and transfer to the hotel. Use the afternoon and evening to relax, explore nearby streets, or take in the coastal atmosphere of this historic city on the Red Sea. (B,L)

Explore Jeddah, the Red Sea’s commercial hub and gateway to Mecca. Begin at the Tayebat Museum, where traditional Al Balad architecture and interactive exhibits reveal the city’s history and Islamic heritage.

Visit the Central Fish Market to see fresh Red Sea seafood in action, followed by a seafood lunch at a nearby restaurant. Wander the atmospheric streets of Al Balad, a UNESCO World Heritage site, with its historic merchant houses and iconic roshan windows offering shade and charm. End the day with a seafood farewell dinner, celebrating local flavours and the journey through Saudi Arabia. (B,L,D)

Spend a leisurely morning at the hotel before transferring to the airport. For those with later flights, enjoy an optional Red Sea half-day adventure, including a private boat trip with opportunities for snorkelling and swimming in shallow, warm waters. (B)