AlUla is a beautiful region in Saudi Arabia that’s known for its unparalleled beauty. With expansive windswept deserts and naturally-shaped rocks, it is home to relics from the Nabaetan civilisation that once lived on earth. However, if you are planning a trip to AlUla, three days and two nights will be enough to explore the beauty of this expensive landscape at a leisurely pace. To ensure that you can experience all of this and more, we have laid out a three-day itinerary for AlUla just for you. Take a look!
AlUla Itinerary
What To See
1. Hegra
AKA Saudi Arabia’s first UNESCO World Heritage Site, this place is absolutely worth a visit with your loved ones during your trip. As you get a glimpse of the past, you get to take a look at more than 110 well-preserved burial tombs that have been carved from desert rock. It is here that the elite lie resting with some chambers, even carrying inscriptions, describing the person lying in there. It costs SAR95 per person, and you might want to book this in advance in order to avoid any last-minute hassle.
2. Jabal AlFil (Elephant Rock)
Another must-visit site in AlUla, this is a special landmark. The natural marvel has been shaped by millions of years of erosion and stands at a height of 52 m. You don’t need tickets to enter this place, but you might want to book a guided tour so that you are well-informed about the beautiful landmark.
3. Old Town Of AlUla
This is another must-visit location in AlUla, which features settlements from the 12th century. Standing the sands of time, this was once a key settlement on the pilgrimage path from Damascus to Makkah. The 14 Gates were overlooked by a 45 m high fort, which was a defensive lookout fort dating back to the 10th century. The old town tour costs SAR70 per person and lasts for about one or 1.5 hours. However, the Old Town Market Street is free to visit and is available year-round. The schedules are updated periodically for both, so you might want to keep track of the same before you visit.
Where To Go
5. Harrat Viewpoint
One of the must-visit places in AlUla, it is situated at a height of 1,219 metres. While Alula has numerous lookout points, not many are quite as epic as this one. It feels like you’re standing at the edge of the world overlooking the desert when you visit this place. It’s actually the summit of a volcano, and it opens late in the afternoon. This allows the visitors to gaze down at the oasis and enjoy the wonderful Saudi sunset.
This Heritage Trail is all about experience. While there are no tickets required for this, all ages are welcome to experience this unguided tour. As you experience the palm-shaded path and picture-perfect setting, it’s a perfect way to soak in the beauty of this desert. The art district is brought alive with a lively souq where Oud music spills over the balcony. With the smell of freshly baked bread wafting through the air, welcoming tourists. This art district is something that must be on your radar. It is home to numerous restaurants and cafes, which offer everything from gourmet coffee to splendid oasis-to-table dining experiences. Pedestrian-friendly streets have a unique vibe of their own and it’s truly a vibe!6. AlUla Oasis Trail
7. Aljadidah
Also Read: 5-Day Saudi Arabia Itinerary: Where To Go, What To See, Budget, And More
Where To Stay
8. Banyan Tree AlUla
There are multiple places to stay in Alula, and Banyan Tree is definitely something that has to be on your radar. If you’re looking for a luxurious stay as you journey through time during your stay. This five-star hotel is deeply inspired by the magical surroundings of the Ashar Valley. Featuring breathtaking surroundings, the sweeping desert with towering sandstone and rugged rock formations, they have elegant tented villas that speak of Arabian opulence.
This is the only hotel within the kingdoms of the first UNESCO World Heritage Site, and it seems to integrate into the desert’s inspiring beauty. With ancient rock human structures, you get a taste of the desert life through the luxurious rooms, which were originally old houses. These overlook wildlife reserves and are home to indigenous bird species and rare desert animals, thereby offering a fantastic experience. Truly one of the most popular hotels in AlUla, this resort is a sustainable one. As you explore the beauty of the desert, staying at the property is an experience like no other. From sunrise yoga on Ashar Ddeck to live music by local talent, the program has been designed in such a way that you have a relaxing experience.9. The Chedi Hegra, AlUla
10. Our Habitas AlUla
What About Budget?
A trip to AlUla is going to be a little on the expensive side. Accommodations are going to be quite expensive if you go for a five-star experience and in the middle of the desert. However, something a little further away would be a bit cheaper. Booking tickets in advance for the flights can help you secure better deals and save money. Not to mention, eating at local restaurants can also help you save money.
So, with these crucial details out for you, make sure to plan your trip to this beautiful region in Saudi Arabia.
Cover Image Courtesy: Internal & Canva
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