For many visitors to AlUla, one of the abiding memories they take away with them are the extraordinary rocks that dominate the landscape. As well as captivating the eye with their rugged beauty, these magnificent formations also provide the arena for numerous thrilling experiences.
Standing for millions of years, the rocks of AlUla are now a playground for adventure seekers who explore their every nook and cranny with the help of modern day equipment. Abseiling down the mountains is a popular pastime, as is rock climbing that gives mountaineers a literal touchpoint to AlUla’s ancient past.
These geological marvels are the starting point for some of AlUla’s heart racing activities such as the Giant Swing which begins with a 25-minute hike to a platform. From here, intrepid thrill seekers attach to a cable and swing in a graceful 70-metre arc 85 metres above the ground. AlUla Stairway challenges visitors to climb a 45-metre suspended ladder before taking a rapid zipline back to ground level. Elsewhere, Saudi’s longest and fastest zipline awaits – a 1.5km ride that can reach speeds of 120km/h.
For hikers, AlUla is filled with trails to satisfy all levels of fitness and ability. Ambitious hikers should investigate the Journey Through Time Trail, an 8km trail through volcanic rocks, dunes and wildlife with either a sunrise or sunset departure. The Top of AlHarra Hike is a five-hour journey that affords spectacular views from Madakheel Plateau. Slightly shorter is Ridge Walk Hike, a three-hour walk that takes hikers up and then across a flat ridge overlooking AlUla’s Old Town and the lush Oasis. Shorter still is the Hidden Valley Hike, a 1.5-hour jaunt through the magnificent Sharaan Nature Reserve.
Those inspired by the AlUla Tour, which in 2024 saw 126 of the world’s best cyclists race five stages totalling 811.2km around the ancient site, might be tempted to emulate the pro riders and rent a bicycle from AlUla Bike Hub. Begin your adventure here with guidance from AlUla’s bike experts and pedal off to Hegra or attempt the 40km Inter-Urban Cycling Trail. From two wheels to three, and the environmentally friendly AlUla’s Gravity Carts – a ridiculously fun ride down the mountains on a rugged tricycle.
For history and the great outdoors wrapped up in one exhilarating package, sign up for the Hegra Wildlife & Nature Tour. Climb into an open-top 4x4 jeep for an exciting safari-style tour of Hegra’s stunning scenery that also takes passengers into beautiful areas populated by AlUla’s wild animals.
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