Saudi Adventure Deep
About Saudi Arabia
Jeddah – Abha – Riyadh UNESCO World Heritage sites, ancient buildings backing onto bustling souks and picturesque streets, and a sweeping coastline full of adventure and entertainment. There really is only one Jeddah, where excitement awaits those who travel from near or far. Prepare to be dazzled by the sights and sounds of Saudi Arabia’s historic gateway to the holy city of Mecca. Tourists can expect to be wowed by the beauty of the Red Sea, paired with a typically warm reception from Jeddah’s residents, who have been welcoming international visitors since 552 BCE. Located in the untouched southwest of Saudi Arabia, Abha in the Aseer region is lush, green, and surrounded by scenic mountains, while a short distance away is the urban hub of Khamis Mushait. Generally, the mountainous location is around 10 degrees colder than other parts of the Kingdom. Cable cars traverse the city, so even the modes of transport are a breath-taking voyage, while at night neon green lights illuminate the mesmerizing Green Mountain (Jabal Thera). For sky-high excitement, the Al-Dabab Walkway to the south of the city offers a panoramic view of the whole area. Welcome to Riyadh, the birthplace of modern Saudi Arabia, where old-world charm meets 21st-century vision. Riyadh translates to “the Gardens,” a reference to the area’s past that dates back to the 14th century when the land was revered for its fertile soil, many canals, and trees. Today it is home to the country’s capital: a modern metropolis with a thriving financial and business center and a growing cultural scene. It’s a city rich in history, boasting myriad forts, palaces and museums, and some of the country’s most colourful souks. As you discover a new side of yourself in Arabia, you’ll discover the many facets of Saudi’s capital.
Itinerary
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Day 1
Meet & greet at Jeddah Airport & transfer from airport to hotel. Check-in at hotel in Jeddah city. Set the relaxation setting to maximum, with the opportunity to explore what locals call the Maldives of Jeddah. Around 40 minutes away by boat, Bayada Island is a haven of natural beauty, with turquoise waters and striking coral reefs that are home to all sorts of marine life. You can swim or snorkel to see everything up-close, or kick-back and sunbathe on your vessel with a selection of food and beverages.
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Day 2
On this tour, you will visit Old Jeddah, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and go shopping at Souk Al-Alawi. You will also visit the Naseef House museum and Bab Makkah, the traditional gateway to the holy city of Makkah. After that, you will go to the Central Fish Market and choose your own fresh seafood to eat, and then walk along the nearby promenades. Next, you will go to King Fahd's Fountain, a 312m high water jet, and walk along the Al-Hamra Corniche, looking out for outdoor sculptures. The tour will end back at the gathering point.
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Day 3
On this day, you will travel to Abha city and check in at your hotel. You will then go to Rijal Almaa Village, which has been named one of the best tourism villages in the world by the UNWTO, and visit the Honey Cottage. You will also tour the village and see the basalt houses of the Qahtani tribespeople, known for their flowery headwear. You will stop for lunch and then return to the hotel.
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Day 4
Breakfast at the hotel. Head to Jabal Sawda and start trail. Located near to the village of Al Soudah, Jabal Sawda, Saudi Arabia’s highest peak at over 3,000 metres. Visitors can expect to see a range of flora and fauna, including its signature juniper trees. There are a range of trails for beginners through to more advanced hikers, all offering picture-perfect views. Enjoy lunch before departing back to the hotel. Visit Art Street. Located in the Al Muftaha Village, there are multiple galleries, museums and coffee shops displaying artworks. The central mosque features intricate calligraphy and in the Spring the flowering jacaranda trees that line the street provide a romantic setting. Dinner and return to hotel.
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Day 5
On this day, you will travel to Riyadh city and check in at your hotel. You will then go on a tour of the Souk Al Zel trading hub, which has been around for more than 120 years and is known for its handcrafted antiques and expertly woven carpets. You will also visit the Masmak Palace and the Al Masmak fortress, which was captured in a daring mission led by Abdulaziz Al Saud in 1902 and now stands as a museum. After that, you will visit the Saudi National Museum, which has more than 3,700 antiquities on display and features rotating exhibitions about the history of Arabia. After a traditional Saudi meal, you will go to Diriyah, the land of kings and heroes and the Arab Capital of Culture 2030, which is known for its Najd architecture and has a range of cultural attractions such as the Salwa Palace and Turaif Bath House.
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Day 6
Breakfast at the hotel. Free day at leisure. Top tip – once you’ve settled in, to get your bearings of Riyadh head to the Sky Bridge on the 99th floor of the Kingdom Center. With floor-to-ceiling windows perched 300m in the air, it is a great aerial vantage point to see all of Riyadh.
