Nature & Outdoors in Alula

One of AlUla's many geological marvels, set in golden desert sands and climbing three storeys into the sky. With its "trunk" and "body" of this formation, it is also known as Elephant Rock.

Experience the enchantment of a desert stargazing tour led by local experts. Far from city lights, marvel at constellations aglow.

For thousands of years, travellers on popular pilgrimage and trade routes in north-western Saudi Arabia often stopped in city hubs to do business and rest. Many of the visitors left messages, inscriptions or rock art, carved and etched into stone to mark their journey through the extraordinary landscapes that now comprise AlUla.

Thousands of years of wind and water have turned sandstone rocks into works of art. Throughout AlUla's desert landscape you will find these natural hidden treasures.

Drive to the peak of one of AlUla's highest points and look out to view the beauty of the oasis, old town and wonderous landscape.

This lush sanctuary in the windswept Saudi Arabian desert has provided life to AlUla's residents, travellers, flora and fauna for thousands of years. Today, it's an agricultural epicentre waiting to be explored.

Throughout the region, you’ll see sand-drifted canyons, red-rock cliff faces, black basalt atop towering mesas and more unique outcrops and rock formations — all surrounded by seas of desert sand deposits. These imagination-spurring rock formations add to the wonder of AlUla, as some have naturally taken the forms of humans, animals and architectural structures.

In addition to its enchanting history and culture, AlUla is home to raw, breathtaking wilderness and an array of diverse flora and fauna. At Sharaan Nature Reserve, 1,500 square kilometres (579 square miles) of soaring red-rock canyons, sprawling desert and valleys carpeted in delicate wildflowers offer a treasure trove of natural wonders.

Take to the desert after dark and the tranquil ambiance that surrounds you on the 4km walk.

Follow the pack leader on a leisurely bike ride crossing through the sand dunes and surrounded by AlUla’s unique landscapes.

Weave your way through the beautiful AlUla Oasis. This 2 hour tour is self-guided and at your leisure.

AlUla is a fantastic place for stargazing. At AlGharameel, you can enjoy a traditional bedouin set-up, with an expert guide on hand to tell you about the stars and constellations, and how they relate to AlUla’s culture and history.

Hike up to Alfath mountain peak to catch an unforgettable view of AlUla oasis, with millions of palm trees below you.

Lace up your hiking shoes and hit the mountains for a half day journey led by an expert guide through the rocky terrain and deep pools of water.

Take a journey to both the ancient and recent past. Uncover preserved tombs, sandstone outcrops, historic dwellings and monuments, both natural and man-made, that hold 200,000 years of largely unexplored human history.

By day, tour heritage sites, enjoy mountain hikes and experience thrills on zipline tours and dune buggy rides. By night, relax with stargazing and other activities.

From contemporary artists creating pieces made for the stunning desert backdrop to local artisans continuing the tradition of ancient handicrafts, the spirit of creativity and ingenuity can be discovered in every corner of AlUla.