Behind the curtain of the spiritual Islam: A glance of Saudi Arabia

2240 €, 8 Days

Saudi Arabia is one of the most enigmatic places to visit in the Middle East - a blend of ancient heritage and modern marvels. On this tour we will dive into the heart of the Arabian culture in places like the old town of Jeddah, known for its its stunning coral architecture and Madinah - one of the holiest places in Islam, the burial site of the prophet Muhammad. In AlUla we will travel back in time and learn more about the early civilisation of the region. We will explore the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Hegra, where the majestic Nabatean tombs stand as a testament to a bygone era and wander through the ancient city of Dadan.The capital Riyadh on the other hand, has an absolutely modern look – skyscraper-filled metropolis with luxury cars on the streets. And if you are a nature enthusiast, the last day of the trip will be a highlight you won't soon forget - an exhilarating journey to the Edge of the World, where you marvel at the sheer magnitude of the landscape for hours, and feel a sense of awe at the raw power of nature.

Highlights:

• Al-Balad - the picturesque old town of Jeddah
• Madain Saleh - the largest conserved site of the civilization of the Nabataeans south of Petra in Jordan
• The natural rock formation Elephant Rock
• Riyadh - the bustling capital of Saudi Arabia

View Route Map

Itinerary:

Day 1. Arrival in Jeddah
Arrival in Jeddah and transfer to your hotel for check-in and overnight. -/-/-

Day 2. Jeddah
After breakfast at the hotel, we will start our city tour of the coastal town of Jeddah. Its rich history unfolds through centuries of maritime commerce, cultural diversity, and the enduring legacy of its architectural marvels, standing as a testament to its pivotal role as a vibrant port city at the crossroads of global trade. Among the places that we will visit is King Fahd's Fountain - the highest fountain in the world, the historical quarter of Jeddah Al-Balad, famous for its old Ottoman houses, mostly constructed from coral and reinforced with wood, the Altaybat Museum (Abdul Rauf Khalil Art Museum), which houses endless collections of arts, ethnography and archaeology artifacts. Overnight in a hotel in Jeddah. B/-/-

Day 3. Jeddah - Medina
After breakfast, we start our drive to Medina, known as the second-holiest place in Islam. Here we will explore some of the most prominent mosques and historic buildings of the city. (It is not allowed for tourists to enter Al Masjid an Nabawi/the Prophet's Mosque. If possible/ we will pass by it.) Overnight in Medina. B/-/-

Day 4. Medina – Al Ula
After breakfast, we will depart for Al Ula. (about 4 hour's drive) to explore its extraordinary human and natural heritage. Today we will visit Elephant Rock formation and explore the Old Town Market area. Overnight in a farm/guest house nearby (shared accommodation). B/-/

Day 5. Al Ula - Madain Saleh - Jabal Ikmah - Dadan - Riyadh
We start our day with a visit to the archaeological site of Al-Hijr (Madain Saleh) -the first World Heritage property to be inscribed in Saudi Arabia. Formerly known as Hegra, it is the largest conserved site of the civilization of the Nabataeans south of Petra in Jordan. It features well-preserved monumental tombs with decorated facades dating back to the period between the 1st century BC and the 1st century AD. Today you have the option to visit two of the highlights of the region - the Nabataean tombs of Hegra and а combined tour of Dadan and Jabal Ikmah. Late evening flight to Riyadh. Overnight in Riyadh. B/-/-

Day 6. Riyadh
Today we will explore the highlight of the kingdom’s capital - Riyadh. We will visit, among others, the Masmak Fort - a fortress built from clay and mudbrick that played an important part in the battles for the unification of Saudi Arabia at the beginning of the 20th century. In the evening, we will visit the iconic Kingdom Centre, where you will have the option to take the high-speed elevator up to the 99th floor and take a walk on the Sky Bridge (optional activity, paid on the spot). Overnight in a hotel in Riyadh. B/-/-

Day 7. Day tour to "the Edge of the world"
Today you have some free time in the morning to explore Riyadh on your own. After lunch, we are heading to Jebel Fihrayn, also known as "The edge of the world'. With their height of 300 meters, the towering cliffs offer an astounding view over the surrounding plains. Here we will have some time to enjoy the breathtaking views, and have some tea and dinner at the campsite before heading back to Riyadh late in the evening. B/-/D

Day 8. Departure
End of service or extension to Bahrain. B/-/-

Bahrain Extension:

Day 8. Riyadh - Dammam - Manama (Bahrain)
A flight from Dammam, from where we take a public bus to Manama along King Fahd Causeway (25 km). Depending on the flight schedule, you might have a few hours of free time in Dammam before taking the bus. The bus journey takes about three hours. Overnight in a hotel in Manama. B/-/-

Day 9. Manama
Today you have free time for sightseeing and exploring Bahrain's capital. B/-/-

Day 10. Departure
Transfer to the airport on own arrangement

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Saudi Arabia - the spiritual birthplace of Islam (tips for visiting the country)

Sample hotel list

Practical / Predeparture Information

Price Includes:
6 nights at 3-4 star hotels with private facilities incl. breakfast
one night in a guest house/farm in Al Ula (shared accommodation)
Jabal Ikmah and Danan Tour
Hegra Tour
tour to Jebel Fihrayn on day 7
domestic flight Al Ula - Riyadh
all airport transfers
all ground transport
English-speaking local guides
tour leader from Penguin Travel at min. 10 people

Not Included:
International flights
insurance
tips and personal expenses
visa fee
Sky Bridge in Riyadh - 70 SAR (18-20 USD)

Additional Services:
Bahrain Extension 3 days (includes flight Riyadh-Dammam / transportation Dammam-Manama / two nights at 4**** hotel in Manama incl. breakfast): upon request 360/400 EUR dbl/sgl occupancy

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