10 nights from
£6395
Join us to discover this land of extreme contrast that has long been inaccessible to the western traveller. From the cosmopolitan cities of Jeddah with its Ottoman influences and the riches of Riyadh to the bustling camel markets, mud settlements and traditional stunning oasis. Discover incredible and remote heritage sites on old caravan routes, spectacular pre-historic rock art ranging from the 3rd millennium BC through the post-Classical period and Lawrence’s Arabian Deserts. One for the intrepid traveller; a land shrouded in mystery, steeped in ancient traditions, yet a land where a cultural shift and reforms are underway.
Since the days of antiquity, Saudi has occupied a pivotal position at the crossroads of Asia, Africa and Europe. Follow in the footsteps of great explorers; Antonin Jaussen, James Halladjian, Harry Philby, Lady Anne Blunt, William Palgrave, the indefatigable Victorian Charles Doughty and of course T.E. Lawrence. Discover pristine deserts, lava fields studded with volcanoes and behold great ‘cathedrals’ of fabulously weathered rock. Explore labyrinthine streets of ancient cities, where the rhythm of life is unchanged over millennia. Boasting five UNESCO World Heritage sites, the rich history of the land’s kingdoms is recorded across the landscape. Discover Al Ula, capital of the ancient kingdoms of Dadan and Lihyan, the southernmost point of Roman presence in Arabia. Explore incredible Hegra, the southern capital of the Nabatean Kingdom, second only to Petra, explore Ottoman desert castles and Lawrence’s Deserts and visit Medina, a holy city that until very recently was almost entirely inaccessible to westerners.
Saudi Arabia is a ‘dry’ country. Alcohol is illegal and should not be brought into the country under any circumstances.
Entry requirements: Everyone travelling to Saudi Arabia is required to obtain a Saudi visa. www.visa.visitsaudi.com
Travel & Accommodation
Clothing: It is no longer necessary for women to wear the abaya (the long black robe worn over clothes). Neither is it required for women to wear headscarves. Clothing should however be modest, Females should wear long dresses and tops with long sleeves. Men should not wear shorts. We will, at the start of our tours, arrange a stop to purchase an overdress for our female travellers. We would recommend that you bring a scarf or shawl for visits to religious sites (the city of Medina is considered a religious place in its entirety).
Touring services: Saudi Arabia is a country discovering tourism. Service levels in hotels may not be the same as you've experienced elsewhere, and sites occasionally close without advance warning. We will do our utmost to ensure the accuracy of the information provided. The order of sightseeing is subject to change depending on local conditions and the decision of your driver-guide. Travelling with an adventurous spirit is essential to getting the most out of this different place.
Prayer Times: Prayers are an essential part of the Saudi culture. Prayer times are respected throughout the country – by your guides and drivers and by local shops that may close briefly, up to five times a day, to observe prayer.
Air travel and taxes, transfers, 10 nights’ accommodation, breakfast daily, 9 lunches & 9 dinners, itinerary as described, services of guides and local representatives. If our specially negotiated airfares are unavailable at the time of booking, a supplement may apply.
Travel insurance, visa procurement, optional excursions, overseas airport taxes, tipping, any government taxes or compulsory charges introduced after publication.
In certain countries we recommend the currency most widely accepted rather than the local currency.
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