Marvel at Saudi Arabia's 'Little Petra' Madain Saleh, explore the timeless rock villages of the Asir Mountains, visit local farming communities in the worlds largest Oasis, Explore Riyadh, visit ancient souqs, learn about the Muslim religion in the birthplace of Islam, be astounded by the stunning underwater scenery of the Red Sea, take a Bedouin 4WD tour through the Al-Nafud Desert to view prehistoric rock art.
Salaam Alekum! and welcome to The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. This desert kingdom is the birthplace of Islam, Arab culture and language, the holy cities of Mecca and Medina, The Hajj and of course all that oil. Saudi Arabia has just opened its doors to tourists and Intrepid are proud to say that we're the first major company to offer trips this great land of astonishing natural beauty. From enormous oases, lush mountain regions, underwater beauty of the Red Sea to the spectacular desert interior - this land has all the intrigue of the Arabian Nights.
With its captivating culture this country is ours to explore as we journey from Riyadh, across the barren desert landscape to the stunning mountain villages of the Asir Mountains, journey through the Al-Nafud desert to view prehistoric rock art and marvel at the Nabateaen masterpiece of Madain Saleh and finish in Jeddah located on stunning Red Sea. You will be touched by the warmth and hospitality of these people, and the profound beauty of their land.
Physical Rating: 2 Culture Shock Rating: 3 Accommodation: Guesthouses/hotels (13 nts), desert camping (1 nt) Transportation: Public and private bus, 4WD, flight, taxi, walking. Trip Style: Intrepid Original Group Size: Maximum of 12 travellers per group Departure: Departure is guaranteed, subject to 4 people travelling Budget: Allow USD $200 for meals not included.
Call (800) 533-5343 for more information or to book today! Mention code 6068926
Tour Operator
Intrepid Travel
Duration
15 Days
Escorted
Escorted - Yes
Itinerary
Day
Destination
Description
Days 1-2
Riyadh
Explore the kingdom's capital on a walking tour through this high tech oasis of glass and steel buildings, shopping malls, elegant mosques and the beautiful palaces. The following day, journey back in time at the evocative ruins of Dir'aiyah, the first capital of the Saud clan. Continue on to the birthplace of Wahhabi Islam and to the Acacia Valley for sweeping views of the desert plains below, once the old pilgrimage route to Mecca. On the return journey, pick up a camel or two ath the Souq al-Jamal.
Day 3
Al-Hasa Oasis
Where else but Saudi Arabia can you travel from the world's largest oil field, Al-Ghawar, to the world's largest oasis, Al-Hasa in the space of an hour?
Days 4-5
Najran
Start the morning among the lively sights, sounds and smells of Al-Hasa's livestock souq. A short flight takes us to Najran, home to a fascinating mix of Bedouins and Arabs, whose robes are adorned with the tradition Jambiyya dagger. Our local guide takes us to explore the Al-Aan Palace, old stone houses, the souq and fairytale fort.
Days 6-7
Abha
Travel through the stunning Asir National Park, keeping an eye out for the elusive Arabian leopard, en route to the deserted village of Habalah. The name means 'rope valley', so-called because it was once only accessible by rope ladders. Now-a-days there's a cable car up to the village so we can relax and enjoy the breathtaking mountain views along the way. There's time to explore more mountain villages of the region before we head to the lush green village Abha!
Day 8
Taif
A long, windy, but spectacular drive takes us to the summer capital of Taif. At an altitude of 1700m the government moves to its cooler climes to escape the scorching summer heat.
Days 9-10
Desert Safari
After a morning walking tour through the many sights of Taif, journey past the holy city of Mecca to Jeddah for a short flight to Hail. This is our base for a 4WD desert safari into the Al-Nafud Desert. Visit 5,500 year-old rock carvings, before camping under the stars with our new found Bedouin friends as traditional music, mystical fables and the scent of stew fill the night air.
Days 11-12
Madain Saleh
Situated between palm groves and some forbidding red sandstone cliffs is the delightful mud brick town of Al-Ula. Visit the famous Hejaz Railway, built in 1900 to make it easier for pilgrims to reach Mecca.The following day travel to Madain Saleh, one of the most impressive sights in the whole kingdom. Home to a huge collection of 2,000 year-old tombs, this town is an incredible reminder of the ancient civilisations, pilgrims, explorers, trade caravans and armies that have passed through. Top off the day with a sunset visit to the rock formations of Saharat Al-Fil.
As the traditional gateway to Mecca, Jeddah has seen pilgrims, traders and travellers of all sorts throughout the centuries. Take a final walking tour around this most cosmopolitan city. Many of the houses are built from Red Sea coral and the sea is just 25 km away. An optional scuba diving trip is a great way to end this Saudi Arabian adventure.
Dates/Pricing
Disclaimer
* The prices listed are based on the costs and exchange rates current at the
time of printing/posting. Intrepid reserves the right to alter these prices
at any time. For trips departing between 01 January 2007 and 31 December
2007, the land price of your trip is guaranteed when you have paid in full.
For trips departing beyond 31 December 2007, prices are indicative only. The
itineraries and dates online and in our printed brochures are applicable
from 01 January 2007 until 31 December 2007. Beyond 31 December 2007 dates
and itineraries are indicative only and are subject to change. All
information is accurate to the best of our knowledge at time of
printing/posting, but please note that changes to our trips (which can be
significant) can and do occur. Intrepid will make every effort to keep you
informed of any changes, but cannot be held liable for any alterations made
to the published itineraries. Please refer to our website for the most
recent update to any trip. Please note that these conditions apply to
Intrepid group trips only. Variations may apply for Intrepid Independent
trips.
Loss of monies paid applies to all cancelled reservations. The date of trip
cancellation is the date on which the written cancellation is received by
Intrepid.
Please ask your Travel Agent about our full Booking and Cancellation
Conditions.
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