Saudi Al Ula 6

Al Ula at sunset

Al Ula Vacations

See our Saudi Arabia Holidays

A true highlight of any visit to the Kingdom

Without a doubt one of the most striking parts of the country, Al Ula is home to the ancient monolith of Hegra – the twin to fabled Petra in Jordan

The north-western region of Al Ula is arguably the best example of Saudi Arabia’s rich and varied history thanks to its position as one of the stopping points on the ancient pilgrimage to Mecca. Owing to its location it has taken historical and architectural influences from all over the Islamic world and remains an important site for Muslims to this day. It is also one of the most attractive locations for travellers to visit, with incredible landscapes, fascinating historical sites and a warm and friendly atmosphere wherever you travel.

The landscapes here are framed by towering sandstone mountains with the protection that they offer from the elements, as well as the pleasant climate being one of the things that attracted pilgrims to stop in the region. Indeed, human habitation in the region can be traced back some 200,000 years, testament to the fortitude of ancient civilisations who made their homes in these remote regions.

The eponymous town of Al Ula is set in a narrow valley and dates back to the 10th century, offering visitors a chance to take a glimpse back in time and to learn more about the role the region has played in the development of the Kingdom. The Old Town is visually very striking and it is interesting to see and learn about the ancient agricultural and water management methods that are still in evidence to this day.

Away from the town you can visit sites of huge historical significance such as the rock tombs at Hegra and the region’s ancient capital city of Dadan. Hegra is one of the most iconic structures in Saudi Arabia, with the striking rock-hewn monolith known as the twin to ancient Petra over the border in Jordan whilst the latter is renowned for it’s “Lion Tombs” which are burial niches carved in to the sandstone rock and decorated with carvings of lions standing guard, a nod perhaps to how far north these magnificent beasts used to roam. The “open library” of Jabal Ikmah is also well worth a visit, with inscriptions carved in to the exposed rock.

A little further afield the ancient Nabataean Oasis is one of the many examples of verdant oases that are found in the deserts of Saudi. Originally covered in date palms and then peach, apricot and pomegranate trees it was latterly a cotton and wheat plantation and helped significantly to add to the wealth of the region.

Elizabeth Spells

I have just returned from the most amazing trip to Tanzania, booked with Far & Wild. Everything went so smoothly from the first time I spoke with them. The planning was great, the itinerary was perfect for us, and the lodges were amazing. We spent 10 nights with an amazing guide, travelling through Northern Tanzania and even got to see the migration, which was a lifetime ambition of mine. This wasn't our first safari, so we were nervous as to how it would compare, but it was spot on. We're particularly grateful that she suggested a private 'bush lunch' in the Ngorongoro Crater as the public picnic spot was very busy! I will certainly be using them again to book our next trip....we're thinking of a relaxing beach stay next time to get over the excitement of safari!

Sep 17, 2025
Orla Rhodes

Just back from another amazing F&W organised trip to Namibia with the family (8 adults). Having been there before, Alistair tailored our trip to include our favourite locations and added a new one for us, Okonjima Plains camp, which we loved.The quality of accommodation and guiding, activities, food and drinks was exceptional throughout. Although not inexpensive I felt it was good value for the level of luxury we had. Kwessi Dunes, Shipwreck lodge, Ongava, Okonjima with pit stops Windhoek (city tour recommended ), Swakopmund (Sandwich Harbour and Walvis Bay tour) and Grootberg lodge (best sundowner drive )

Jul 31, 2024
Arnhild Schia

We had a wonderful trip to São Tomé and Príncipe - a small island nation in the Gulf of Guinea with paradise (almost empty) beaches and jungle forest. It was all well organised by Far and Wild and we stayed at Omali lodge at Sao Tome, then on Roca Sundy, and Sunday Praia at Principe - a great combination of different types of resorts/hotels. Omali is close to Sao Tome town with its colonial buildings, markets, hustle and bustle. Roca Sunday gives an old plantation experience and Sundy Praia a luxury beach experience. Very friendly (from time to time a bit slow) service, great fresh food, specifically if you like fish/seafood, vegetables and fruits (almost all sourced locally). Nice temperature between 23 and 30 degrees Celsius, nice swimming conditions. We really recommend this for those who want to experience a pristine destination with few other tourists and friendly and welcoming people. The islands also feel (and I believe are) very safe. At Principe, there are no dangerous animals, snakes or whatever, and it was great to be able to hike in the jungle without being very conscious of where to put your hands and feet. Go before everyone else does!

Jul 3, 2024
Henri Papenfus

Back home again, basking in the joys of a superb safari. Every aspect you arranged for us, including linking up with Mack Air and Wild Horizons locally to transport us. The choice of camps, Camp Hwange in Zimbabwe and Muchenenje Safari Lodge in Botswana, was spot on and exactly what we had hoped for - ideally situated, comfortable, in good surroundings, and with excellent wildlife on the doorstep and throughout the wider country. The service staff in each looked after us very well, catering was excellent, and the game guides were professional, knowledgeable and helpful. The weather was, as usual for that part of the world, also good at the time of our visit. Blue skies and stunning sunsets. Warm but not too hot during the day, although quite cold at sunrise when viewing game. The viewing started. You made us happy, and we recommend you to similar safari enthusiasts with confidence.

Jun 28, 2024
AC

Far and Wild went above and beyond to make sure my trip to Zambia was special. I would definitely recommend them and their services to anyone wanting to travel to Africa.

Jun 5, 2024
Tiny

Lovely holiday at the amazing Almanara on Galu beach, a beach like no other. Far and Wild excelled themselves from beginning to end of our holiday in beautiful Kenya.... What a country!,

Jun 5, 2024
Stodge

Wow! These guys are amazing. Can’t recommend them highly enough. Friendly AND efficient! Sorted out our trip (last minute and lots of different family member needs, sorry!) in record time and everything worked like clockwork. Trip of a lifetime to the Masai Mara. Will be back (and use F&W again!)!

Jun 5, 2024
Fiona C

It was a dreamy holiday on the Kenyan Coast - Far and Wild, their efficiency and professionalism allowed us to relax and be the happiest family alive !! We cannot fault them, their care and understanding of what we wanted from a holiday ensured we had the most memorable trip. We will be booking with them again for sure!

Jun 5, 2024

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