MileHacker Logo
Day Trips & Excursions

Day Trips & Excursions

Saudi Arabia

Nearby Destinations

Khaybar: An ancient oasis town of immense historical significance, approximately 150 kilometers (93 miles) southeast of AlUla. Khaybar a role in pre-Islamic history and early Islamic events. The area features unique volcanic landscapes, ancient forts built on basalt outcrops, and remains of historical settlements. Its black basalt stone architecture contrasts sharply with AlUla's golden sandstone. Access to certain areas within Khaybar may need specific permits or a guided tour, as the region is still developing its tourism infrastructure.

Tayma: Another historically rich ancient oasis town, situated about 200 kilometers (124 miles) northeast of AlUla. Tayma archaeological sites that include a massive ancient well known as Bir Haddaj, which has been in use for centuries, and remnants of a pre-Islamic palace. It was also once home to the Babylonian king Nabonidus. Tayma a different perspective on the ancient civilizations that thrived in Arabian oases.

Transportation Options

  • Rental Car (Self-drive): This the most flexibility for exploring Khaybar or Tayma at your own pace. Your International Driving Permit (IDP) and a reliable GPS or navigation app.
  • Private Taxi/Driver: Arrange a private taxi or hire a driver for the day from AlUla. Agree on the fare and itinerary beforehand. This option comfort and local knowledge without the need to drive yourself.
  • Pre-arranged Tours: Some AlUla-based tour operators may organized day trips to Khaybar or Tayma. These tours often transportation, a knowledgeable guide, and any permits, a convenient and informative option.
  • Time Required: A full day trip (8-10 hours) is typical for a comprehensive visit to either Khaybar or Tayma, including travel time.

Natural Escapes

Beyond the AlUla valley, the region has vast and diverse natural landscapes for exploration.

Parks and Nature Reserves

Sharaan Nature Reserve: While mainly a conservation area, guided tours within Sharaan Nature Reserve ecological importance, rewilding efforts, and unique geology. Access is usually through specific pre-booked tours.

Scenic Landscapes

  • Harrat Uwayrid: The vast volcanic plateau dramatic black basalt landscapes and panoramic views of the AlUla valley below. Accessible via designated routes and stunning at sunset.
  • Wadi Al Fann: This valley unique land art installations integrated into the natural environment. A developing destination for art and nature.
  • Seasonal Natural Phenomena: Very rare and dependent on infrequent rainfall, but the desert can briefly transform and bloom with wildflowers and greenery after significant rain. This phenomenon is unpredictable but an unique, fleeting beauty.

Cultural Excursions

Beyond the main historical sites, the region delves into Saudi culture and history.

Sites & Villages

  • Historical Sites: Khaybar and Tayma a broader historical context beyond the Nabataean and Dadanite civilizations of AlUla.
  • Rural Villages & Agricultural Areas: Explore smaller villages surrounding the AlUla oasis for traditional farming methods, local agricultural life, and community interaction.
  • Pilgrimage Sites: Proximity of Medina that for Muslim visitors, a multi-day extension to Medina a common and meaningful journey.

Organized Tour vs. Independent Travel

Organized Tour

  • For remote or historically sensitive sites like Khaybar.
  • Inclusion of transport, knowledgeable guide, and permit handling.
  • A structured, informative, and hassle-free visit.
  • A engagement with history.

Independent Travel Self-drive

  • Greater flexibility for exploring at your leisure.
  • Management of navigation, fuel, and local regulations is your responsibility.
  • Some areas may have restricted access; a guide is beneficial.
  • Research accessibility and permit requirements thoroughly before setting out.

Example Khaybar Itinerary

  • Depart AlUlaEarly morning
  • Drive to KhaybarApprox. 1.5-2 hours
  • Explore forts & old townMorning
  • Lunch in KhaybarMid-day
  • Explore volcanic landscapesAfternoon
  • Return to AlUlaLate afternoon
  • Total duration8-10 hours
  • RecommendedGuided Tour

Day Trip Planning

For day trip planning and booking, visit GetYourGuide.

Multi-Day Extensions

For travelers with more time, combining AlUla with other Saudi Arabian destinations a richer and more comprehensive journey.

Medina

Approximately a 3.5-hour drive or bus ride from AlUla. As the second holiest city in Islam, it spiritual significance. Muslim visitors can explore its historical mosques and sites. For non-Muslims, the city center and some historical sites (outside the Prophet's Mosque area) are accessible. It a distinct urban cultural experience.

Tabuk

Located in the north, approximately 2-3 hours drive from AlUla. Tabuk a city with its own historical sites, including an Ottoman fort, and a gateway to mountainous regions and future coastal developments like NEOM.

Red Sea Coast

Yanbu, a port city on the Red Sea, opportunities for diving, snorkeling, and coastal relaxation. Roughly 3-4 hours drive from AlUla. The ambitious NEOM project, including areas like Sindalah and THE LINE, is a future destination along the Red Sea, cutting-edge tourism experiences as it develops.

Logical Next Destinations

By Air & Land

  • Jeddah: By direct flight from AlUla. A different coastal and cultural experience.
  • Riyadh: By direct flight from AlUla. A modern capital experience.
  • NEOM: As parts of NEOM (e.g., Sindalah island resort) open, this futuristic mega-project a highly sought-after destination.

Transportation Connections

Options for Travel

  • Flights: Direct flights connect AlUla to Riyadh and Jeddah, onward travel to these major cities efficient.
  • Road Connections: Well-maintained roads connect AlUla to Medina, Tabuk, and Yanbu, self-driving or private transfers feasible.
  • Suggested Routes: Northern Route (AlUla, Tabuk, Jordan); Central Route (AlUla, Medina, Jeddah, Riyadh).

An example Khaybar itinerary:

Depart AlUlaEarly morning
Lunch in KhaybarMid-day
Explore forts, old town, volcanic landscapesMorning & Afternoon
Return to AlUlaLate afternoon
Total Duration8-10 hours
RecommendationGuided tour for permit and knowledge.

Travel Advice

  • Consider using airlines that carbon offset programs for your flights to mitigate your carbon footprint.
  • Look into tour operators in AlUla that prioritize lower-impact transportation methods or carbon offsetting for their tours.
  • For a smoother experience, pre-book all tours and transfers.
  • Pack according to the season and activities planned.
  • Stay hydrated, especially during warmer months.

Regional Day Trip Itinerary

A detailed plan for a day trip to explore destinations beyond AlUla's core.

Khaybar Exploration

An ancient oasis town of immense historical significance with unique volcanic landscapes and ancient forts. A full day is typical for a comprehensive visit.

Activities and Sights

  • Explore historical forts built on basalt outcrops.
  • Wander through the remains of historical settlements.
  • Observe the dramatic black basalt volcanic landscapes.

Tayma Discovery

Another historically rich ancient oasis town with archaeological sites, including an ancient well and pre-Islamic palace remnants. A different perspective on ancient Arabian civilizations.

Attractions

  • Visit Bir Haddaj, a massive ancient well in continuous use.
  • Explore the remnants of a pre-Islamic palace.
  • Historical sites that include an unique standing stone with an Egyptian inscription.

Transportation Options

Choices for Access

  • Rental Car (Self-drive): For flexibility and exploring at your own pace.
  • Private Taxi/Driver: Arrange a private driver for comfort and local knowledge.
  • Pre-arranged Tours: Organized day trips from AlUla often include transportation and a guide.

Organized vs. Independent Travel

Weigh the advantages of structured tours against the freedom of independent exploration for these remote sites.

Your Travel Style

  • Organized Tour: For remote or sensitive sites. Convenience, transport, guide, and permit handling.
  • Independent Travel: Greater flexibility. Manage navigation, fuel, and local regulations. Restricted access possible.
  • Research accessibility and permit requirements thoroughly before setting out independently.

Recommended Itinerary - Khaybar Day Trip

A suggested schedule to maximize your visit to Khaybar.

Morning

Depart AlUla early morning, drive to Khaybar. Explore the historic forts and old town.

Mid-day

Enjoy lunch in Khaybar. Continue exploring the volcanic landscapes.

Afternoon

Return to AlUla in the late afternoon. The entire trip typically takes 8-10 hours.

Day Trip Planning Tip

A full day trip (8-10 hours) is typical for a comprehensive visit to either Khaybar or Tayma, including travel time.
← Previous
Activities & Experiences
← Back to Al Ula
Next →
Practical Information

Next Up: Practical Information

Continue to Practical Information