Trip Summary:
Day 1 : Riyadh - fly to Al Ula:
transfer to Airport and fly to Al Ula.
Arrival to AlUla:
Today we will take our flight from Riyadh to AlUla.
AlUla, The World's Masterpiece, is one of the oldest cities in the Arabian Peninsula and home to Hegra, Saudi Arabia's first
UNESCO World Heritage site.
A land rich in historical, geological and geographical significance, this ancient city, once at the crossroads of The Silk Road
and The Incense Route, has only recently been re-discovered by the world.
Stop for Lunch.
Maraya:
Maraya is a stunning piece of art set in the desert canyon of Ashar Valley. Designed to blend into the surrounding
landscape, it rises from the sand like a mirage. The state-of-the-art structure is covered in 9,740 mirrored panels reflecting
AlUla's beauty, making it the largest mirrored building in the world, according to Guinness World Records.
Maraya, meaning mirror or reflection in Arabic, celebrates AlUla's significant role in history as a crossroads of cultures for
centuries.
Elephant Rock:
The Elephant Rock, also known as Jabal AlFil, is one of AlUla’s many geological marvels. Unlike the ornate, hand-carved
facades of nearby Hegra’s Nabataean tombs, the "trunk" and "body" of this monolithic red sandstone beast were hewn by
natural forces—millions of years of wind and water erosion. The beauty of the unrefined structure is enhanced by its surroundings of a fine-sand sea studded with rocky outcrops, many of which are equally impressive in size and have interesting shapes and figures. The area has a very nice atmosphere with a cafe and restaurant; the seating area is built underground, filled with magical lights, so it's just wonderful to witness the sunset.
A walk in the old town:
Explore Old Market Street in AlUla Old Town and shop a variety of retail stores featuring local artisans, entrepreneurs,
cafes and more.
Cultural activations, handicraft stores, local speciality foods to name a few, are featured for guests to discover and learn
more about the wonders of AlUla.
Transfer to Hotel - Check in & overnight
Day 2 : Al Ula - later back to Riyadh:
Breakfast at the Hotel.
Hegra tour - Madain Saleh:
Today we are starting with the Madain Saleh or Hegra , which is a remarkable archaeological site in Saudi Arabia that
combines natural beauty, historical significance, and cultural heritage, making it a truly beautiful and mesmerizing
destination to explore. Here's why :
1-Stunning Architecture - Hegra boasts impressive rock-cut tombs and facades that showcase the exceptional craftsmanship of the Nabateans. The intricate details and intricate designs on the facades are awe-inspiring.
2-Scenic Landscape -The site is set amidst a captivating desert landscape with sandstone cliffs, rocky outcrops, and serene
surroundings. The combination of ancient architecture and the natural beauty of the desert makes it a unique and
breathtaking place.
3-Cultural Heritage - Hegra holds significant cultural and historical importance, serving as a testament to the ancient
Nabatean civilization and its trade networks. It provides a glimpse into the past and allows visitors to connect with the rich history of the region.
4-Unique Heritage Site - Being a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Hegra is recognized and protected for its outstanding
universal value, ensuring its preservation for future generations to enjoy.
5-Serenity and Tranquility - Visiting Hegra can offer a sense of peace and tranquility as you wander through the ancient
ruins and marvel at the beauty of the surroundings.
6-Connection to Ancient Trade Routes - Hegra was a key stop along the ancient trade routes, and its architecture reflects a blend of various cultural influences from the region.
Stop for Lunch.
Free time in Al Ula - till your departure flight.
Transfer to airport - fly back to Riyadh.