If stargazing is your forte, AlUla might be the perfect place for you! The ancient city in Saudi Arabia has achieved a new milestone by receiving the DarkSky Park Certification from DarkSky International. Furthermore, The remote desert location, clear skies, and ancient wisdom make it a haute destination for stargazers and astronomy scientists alike! Here’s all about the massive development
AlUla Receives DarkSky Park Certification
The ancient city of AlUla is well renowned for its deep-rooted history in astronomy and rich heritage in stargazing. So, it came as no surprise that the city received the prestigious DarkSky Park Certification from Dark Sky International. Dark Sky International confers certification upon locations that meet the criteria for minimizing light pollution and preserving the natural night sky. As a global dark sky destination, the Al Manara site and Gharameel received the certification, marking the first of its kind in the entire MENA region. This recognition has established AlUla’s position as a global hub in astro-tourism and dark sky destinations.
Discover AlUla’s Best Spots for Unforgettable Star Watching Adventures!
If you’re an avid stargazer, you must visit AlUla! After all, the ancient city of Saudi Arabia is known for its deep-rooted connection with the stars and astronomy sciences. Meanwhile, its remote desert location with skies as clear as a polished diamond make it an exceptional spot for stargazing in AlUla. The stupendous hike through AlUla’s Sharaan Reserve is a 4-km trail offering a peaceful escape. At SAR265, visitors will be delighted with 3 hours of panoramic view of the surrounding area and a canopic view of celestial bodies. However, it’s worth noting that all tours require advance booking due to the influx of demand!
Another great place is the Harrat Viewpoint, which blesses viewers with an epic view of the rich landscape. You can stand on top of the world and overlook the luscious AlUla and Dadan Oasis, deep canyons, and stunning rock formations. Besides being completely free of cost, hundreds of stars are visible to the naked eye. The telescopes at the lookout offer an even closer view of the stunning celestial displayed above. Visitors can rest on a sofa and enjoy being cosied up to fire pits as the darkness descends and the stars come up. A piece of advice for those to aim to reach new heights! Wear a jacket at the Harrat Viewpoint as the location is often breezy and cold.
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Stunning Locations For Stargazing In AlUla To Camp Under The Stars
For those who aren’t big on hiking for 2 hours or have a fear of heights, fear not, as camping under the stars might be your best bet! The Camping at Pangaea Centre is an excellent location to observe rock formations, fertile farmland and open space. Whilst you rejuvenate and reconnect with nature, the nightfall gazes above the skies offering a stellar view of the constellations. Further, At SAR173 per person, you are free to explore the starlit skies without a tour guide!
The stargazing in AlUla tour at Gharameel takes the cake for offering a perfect evening of celestial wonder. At just SAR397 per person, visitors meet at the Husaak Centre at sunset to set up a camp. The 3-4 hour tour, complimentary with dinner and a tour guide allows visitors to catch a glimpse of the Milky Way and unique rock formations! Moreover, Visitors experience the unending glory of crystal clear night skies free from light pollution.
So, pack on your telescopes, wisdom for the stars and jackets to experience a starry night adventure at AlUla! Book your tickets and reservations with AlUla as soon as possible!
Where: AlUla, Saudi Arabia
Age: 8-10 years and above
Cost: SAR 265- Sharaan Reserve, SAR 173-Pangaea Centre, SAR 397-Gharameel
Cover Image Courtesy: ExperienceAlUla/Insta X Canva Stock Images
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