Highlights of Saudi Arabia

After breakfast, start your tour by visiting the National Museum of Saudi Arabia. Established in 1419 as part of the King Abdulaziz Historical Center in Riyadh, this museum offers an impressive collection that showcases the entire history of Saudi Arabia. It covers topics such as the Saudi royal family, the formation of the kingdom, and the political context. The exhibits include antiques, manuscripts, and documents arranged chronologically. The museum consists of eight main halls, including the Hall of Man and the Universe, Arab Kingdoms, Pre-Islamic Era, Prophet's Mission, First Saudi State, Unification of the Kingdom Hall, Hall of Hajj, and Two Holy Mosques. The museum also features interesting examples of Arabian and Islamic art and architecture. Some highlights include a Prehistoric Elephant Skeleton, a huge meteor found in the Saudi Arabian desert's Empty Quarter, Rock Graffiti from the pre-Islamic era in the Hejaz region, a replica of the Rosetta Stone, and the Mada'in Salah Rock-cut tombs. Afterward, enjoy a walk through the National Museum park, which boasts beautiful outdoor gardens and is considered one of the best gardens to visit in Saudi Arabia. In King Abdulaziz's historical park, you can enjoy the open area with your family. Then proceed to the Hall of King Abdulaziz, which showcases old cars used by the king. Next, visit the Masmak Palace, one of the most important palaces built by King Abdulaziz. This palace was originally built to accommodate his family and follows the traditional Najdi architectural style, using only local building materials. Take the opportunity to capture some amazing photos inside Masmak Palace.

Afterward, visit the Dira Souq, a traditional Saudi market famous for its variety of old copper and brass objects, including silver daggers, Bedouin jewelry, and dresses. As you enter the market, you'll be greeted by the fragrance of sandalwood. Dira Souq is a great place to buy antique carpets and other Saudi heritage antiques.

Conclude your day with a visit to Al Masmak. Explore Saudi Arabia's roots through fascinating exhibitions featuring maps, photographs, historical artifacts, artworks, and audiovisual attractions. A short documentary re-enacts the capture of the fortress by King Abdul Aziz, and you can still see his spearhead embedded in the wooden gate.

(Optional) Riyadh Food Tour Overnight in Riyadh

After breakfast, embark on a drive to Jebel Fihrayn, popularly known as "the Edge of the World," located 120 km from Riyadh. Standing atop the 1,000-foot high escarpment at Jebel Fihrayn, you'll be treated to an uninterrupted view of the horizon in all directions, giving you the sensation of standing at the edge of the world. The experience is exhilarating, captivating your body, mind, and soul.

These cliffs rise dramatically from the desert, resembling a natural wall stretching toward the sky. When you stand on the cliffs and gaze toward the horizon, you'll witness the sky seemingly melting into the barren earth.

The Edge of the World (Jebel Fihrayn) is an unexpected and awe-inspiring geological wonder located in the rocky desert northwest of Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. This site earned its nickname due to the unobstructed view of the horizon from atop the escarpment.

Part of the longer Tuwaiq Escarpment, it drops down 1,000 feet into an ancient ocean bed. As you stand on the cliffs, you'll spot dried rivers winding across the land and observe camels moving far below. These camels and their herders follow a well-trodden path, as an ancient caravan route once passed within the shadow of this majestic site.

Overnight in Riyadh

Enjoy breakfast and then drive to Ushaiger heritage village, where you will experience the charming nature and ancient architecture of Saudi Arabia while immersing yourself in Saudi customs and traditions.

Hidden in the heart of the Najd region, an oasis-filled area located 200 km northwest of Riyadh, Ushaiger Heritage Village provides a glimpse into a slower-paced Saudi society of the past. The village was first settled by Bedouins 1,500 years ago and became a popular stopping point for pilgrims crossing to Makkah due to its springs, low-brimmed olive and palm groves, and its convenient location.

Ushaiger, which means 'little blonde' in a naming quirk, reflects the nearby red mountain that towers over the village's yellow mud houses. The village still has a small community of residents who utilize its schools, shops, and mosques. Walking through its narrow lanes is like entering a living museum adorned with traces of an ancient way of life.

Enclosed by thick walls, Ushaiger is a labyrinth of winding alleyways, shaded pathways, and timber-framed walkways that cross between hundreds of mud houses. The village is divided into districts and features groves of palm trees. It includes a cluster of beautifully renovated houses that showcase the stunning Najdi architecture, characterized by distinctive triangular windows, roofs, and intricately carved wooden doors. Some of these houses still bear the names of the families who once resided in them.

Overnight in Riyadh

After breakfast, drive to Onaizah city in Al Qassim Province, located in the center of the province. Start your tour with a visit to a cultural farm, where you'll have the chance to observe Saudi farmers cultivating their lands using traditional methods. You can also enjoy a cup of traditional tea with them during their break time.

Next, visit the folklore art center and explore the Musukaf cultural market. We will ensure that you get the most out of this trip and gain an understanding of the lives, work, and traditions of the countryside people. You will visit traditional markets, local coffee shops, and rural restaurants. Our tour guide will showcase the most interesting and unique places, introducing you to the wonderful people and their way of life.

Overnight in Al Qassim

Enjoy breakfast and drive to Hail city, an important oasis situated on ancient caravan trade routes due to its central position and wells fed by the drained-off nearby water. Visit Faid ancient city (pre- ) and the volcano crater.

Continue driving to Hail city and transfer to your hotel. Then proceed to Aja Rosy mountains, where you can enjoy a picnic with your family and have time for hiking. Aja Rosy mountains offer breathtaking views and a serene environment.

Overnight in Hail

After breakfast, transfer to Hail airport for your flight to Jeddah. Upon arrival, you will be transferred to your hotel.

Overnight in Jeddah (Optional) Jeddah By Night Tour

After breakfast, embark on a drive to the stunning Al Wahbah Crater, a relatively unknown natural wonder in the heart of Saudi Arabia. Located about 350 km away from Jeddah, on the western edge of the Harrat Kishb basalt plateau in the Hejazi region, Al Wahbah Crater is a volcanic crater. Measuring 4 km wide and 250 meters deep, this vast hollow features an opaque lake at its center. Al Wahbah Crater was previously believed to have been formed by a meteorite impact, but research by geologists in the 1960s revealed that it is actually a maar crater. These types of craters are shallow depressions created by volcanic eruptions when groundwater comes into contact with hot lava. According to local legend, Al Wahbah Crater was formed when two mountains, Tamia and Cotton, once stood in the area. Tamia fell in love with Cotton after a flash of lightning illuminated its beauty. In her attempt to reach her beloved, Tamia was shot by her jealous mountain-cousin Shelman, resulting in her crashing to the ground and the formation of the crater. During your visit, ensure you have enough food and water as there are no supermarkets or shops nearby. After exploring Al Wahbah Crater, drive back to Taif, where you will be transferred to your hotel. Overnight in Taif

After breakfast, start your tour with a visit to Shubra Palace, an impressive vestige of old Taif. The palace features latticework windows, balconies, and interior marble from Carrara. It used to be the residence of King Abdul Aziz and later King Faisal. Although the palace is currently undergoing renovation, you can still appreciate its historical significance and capture photographs from the outside.

Next, visit Al Rudaf Park, a beautiful place to relax and enjoy the beauty of nature. The park features music fountains, grassy areas, small rock mountains, and playgrounds for children. It offers a pleasant atmosphere for families.

Continue your tour by visiting Bab Alrea, a triple-arched gate leading to Taif's old city. It provides access to a market area where you can find fruits, vegetables, and spices.

Explore Taif's Heart Mall, the oldest and best shopping mall in Taif. It offers an exciting experience where you can shop, play, eat, and have a splendid time with your family.

Then, visit Al Shafa mountain and Al Hada mountain. These mountains offer enchanting and attractive views, making the drive along them one of the most beautiful and important mountain roads in the region. You'll encounter different plants, trees, herbs, and fruit bushes, along with natural resources like honey, rose gardens, and various herbs.

Al Shafa mountain, known as Jabal Dakkā, is the highest mountain in the area and provides a challenging but rewarding walk or climb. The panoramic views from the top are breathtaking. If you prefer a more leisurely experience, you can take a cable car journey up to Al-Hada Mountain, where you'll find an upscale restaurant and hotel.

Travel back to your hotel in Jeddah, enjoying the comfort of the journey.

Notes: Wear comfortable and closed shoes for this tour. Overnight in Jeddah

After breakfast, begin your tour by visiting Jeddah's historical downtown area, known as Al-Balad. This area, also referred to as the "Old Town," is where many of the oldest families used to live and work. Al-Balad is characterized by old buildings, a traditional souk, and numerous restaurants, allowing visitors to stroll through its ancient streets and experience the traditional ambiance of the old town.

During the historical tour of Old Town, you will explore lesser-known local spots, such as Beit Nassif, Makkah Gate (for a photo stop), Historical Jeddah North Gate (photo opportunity), and other historical houses. This tour offers a unique opportunity to witness the blend of traditional architecture and modernity, discover hidden gems in the old market, explore hidden galleries, and visit local food shops that are unknown to most tourists.

You will also visit Al Shafi Mosque, the oldest mosque in Jeddah, and Al Tayebat International City Museum. The museum provides an extensive collection that showcases Saudi history, architecture, interior decoration, and Islamic art from Saudi Arabia and other Islamic countries. With its four floors of exhibits, you can explore pre-Islamic artifacts, exquisite Islamic manuscripts, old coins and weaponry, stunning furniture, pottery, traditional Saudi dress, and replicas of home interiors from different regions.

Conclude your tour with a ride along the New Jeddah Corniche, a 30 km coastal resort area along the Red Sea. This scenic corniche features a coastal road, recreational areas, pavilions, and large-scale civic sculptures that offer a delightful backdrop for photographs.

(Optional) Jeddah Food Tour Overnight in Jeddah

After breakfast, your tour leader/driver will transfer you to the airport and assist you with the final departure formalities.