Your Ultimate Self Guided Road Trip Through Middle East’s Five Most Enchanting Historic Landmarks

Embarking on self-guided road trips can be an exhilarating adventure. To have the best experience, choose your destination after careful research. In addition to carrying maps, tools, and adequate food & water supply, make sure that your vehicle is in good condition. Set a budget for fuel and consider a mix of hotels, motels, and cabins to rest the day. It’s that easy! So, if you’re planning to take a self-guided road trip, then doing so in the Middle East is a great idea. After all, whether it’s exploring ancient cities, surfing vivacious festivals, or embarking on self-guided road trips, the Middle East has kept tourists coming back for more. The historic landmarks here relay the tales of a rich history making it an iconic getaway for a self-guided road trip. We have listed a few of them for you!

Best Historic Landmarks In Middle East For A Self-Guided Road Trip

1. Ajloun Castle, Jordan

Nestled in the dense hills of Northern Jordan, the Ajloun Castle is a 12th-century Muslim fortress standing 1,250 metres above the sea.  The castle is a half-hour drive from Amman, offering spectacular rural landscapes as you drive your vehicle towards Jordan’s. The exhibition of museums with informative artefacts makes Ajloun Castle a sought-after tourist spot for self-guided road trips. Furthermore, the Roman City of Jersah is another tourist spot to explore on a long drive, as it is renowned for its local markets.

2. Alexandria, Egypt

One is bound to fall short of words while describing the rich cultural heritage and coruscating beauty of the most famous city in Egypt. The Catacombs of Kom El Shoqafa, the Citadel of Qaitbay, and the Bibliotheca Alexandrina pay tribute to ancient libraries. The Coptic monasteries, Wadi El Natrun, and the comprehensive views of the majestic Mediterranean Sea are a much-needed escapade from life’s occasional tantrums.

3. Liwa Oasis, Abu Dhabi

The Liwa Oasis on the edge of the Rub Al Khali Desert in Abu Dhabi is a haven filled with sandbanks and date palm plantations. In addition to the picturesque drive, the Liwa Oasis encapsulates travel enthusiasts into a never-ending array of camel farms and the Emirates National Automobile Museum. If you are lucky enough to catch the Liwa Date Festival during your self-guided road trip, you will witness tonnes of visitors celebrating the humble ‘date’ filled with thrilling contests.

Also Read: From Bazaars to Mountains, Here’s All That I Saw On My Solo Trip To Uzbekistan

4. Jebel Hafeet Road, Tawam

The Jebel Hafeet Mountain Road located on the border of UAE and Oman is a popular biker spot for self-guided road trips. In fact, it is also one of the most photographed roads in the world! The extremely challenging topographies of the road make for an adrenaline-filled challenging drive. Moreover, hosts cycling competitions bringing fitness, history and travel enthusiasts under a common umbrella of appreciation.

5. Petra, Jordan

We couldn’t help but include Jordan once again! A road trip to Petra is a must-have on the bucket list of every travel bravado who loves awe-inspiring architecture. The rose-red cliffs, stunning rock-cut architecture, and water conduit evidently make Petra a UNESCO World Heritage and one of the seven wonders in the world.

If you wish to experience a conduit for happiness, an escape from stress and an architectural wonder for marvel, the Middle East is the perfect fit for you. A self-guided road trip in scenic tranquil and ancient history inspires a deeper appreciation and interconnectedness for timeless stories. 

Cover Image Courtesy: Canva