From arid deserts and lush green forests to archeological wonders and haute cuisine, a visit to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia will provide a study in contrasts.
Discover this beautiful and diverse country during a summer getaway and enjoy the impeccable ‘Hafawah’ or Saudi hospitality as you explore some of the most intriguing places of this country.
Jebel Fihrayn
Your ultimate getaway across Saudi Arabia must include the epic Jebel Fihrayn. Located at a distance of roughly 90 km from Riyadh and a comfortable 90 minutes drive through winding desert roads is Jebel Fihrayn, also referred to as The Edge of the World. As you drive across the ridge of the Tuwaiq escarpment you will get dramatic cliff-top views of the barren valley floor, which has earned this area it’s nickname.
Hikers can reach the edge of the cliff by a thirty minutes climb by a number of different routes. Good walking shoes are necessary as the terrain is rugged and the gravel loose in places. Options to camp overnight are available during the cooler months when the temperatures are tolerable.
Jeddah
With public art at its core by way of an array of stunning sculptures, Jeddah,today, has been transformed into an unique open air museum. The growing number of galleries bear evidence to the flourishing art scene, especially at the Athr Gallery. The second largest city of Saudi Arabia has other important landmarks and museums as well.
Enjoy rides and games at Shallal Theme Park or an African safari at Jungle Land, Jeddah’s premier entertainment venue. Marvel at the incredible King Fahd’s fountain, which soars upto a height of 800 feet. At the end of the day you can relax and shop at your heart’s content at the Red Sea Mall. You should book complete Jeddah packages to ensure you get to see the best of this Saudi city.
Abha
The capital of Aseer Province enjoys a heady location at an altitude of 2200m, thereby providing milder climatic conditions than the rest of the country.The Aseer Regional Museum, in the city center, provides a deep insight on the rich history of Abha and some artifacts of this province.
Another of Abha’s attractions is the innovative architecture due to its unique topography and different climate as reflected in the old mud and stone structures. The Aseer National Park is a major draw in Abha as it houses a variety of rare flora and fauna.
Al Wahbah
Al Wahbah is a large volcanic crater which has a salt field on its bed. Located some 250 km from the city of Taif, this area has become very popular with hikers, who make an attempt to reach the river bed, 820 feet below, and climb up again. The going is tough and only seasoned hikers can complete the trip in three hours or so. Camping options, for the not so hardy souls, are also available for overnight or multi day stay at Al Wahbah.
Only recently has Saudi Arabia has relaxed its visitor norms and opened up the country for anyone to explore unaccompanied.This strategy, to decrease dependence on oil and push for economic reform has attracted International tourists, with their new visa regime, which allows them to stay in the country for 90 days.
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