AlUla for a first safari

AlUla is one of the best choices for a first safari.

Suitability: ★★★★★

Sharaan Nature Reserve lies north-east of Hegra in AlUla and covers about 1,500 km² of canyons and sandstone mountains. Arabian oryx, gazelles and ibex have been released there, and it is planned as a future release site for the critically endangered Arabian leopard.

Why AlUla for a first safari?

• 3–4 days are enough for a good experience.

What awaits you in AlUla

• Safaris in Sharaan Nature Reserve, about 1,500 km²
• Nubian ibex, gazelles and red-necked ostrich
• Trails such as the Hidden Valley hike
• Hegra and Elephant Rock
• A rewilding programme preparing for the Arabian leopard's future return

Wildlife you may encounter: ibex, gazelles, oryx, foxes, ostriches and birdlife.

Suggested time on the ground: 3 to 4 days. AlUla airport has domestic flights from Riyadh and Jeddah. Sharaan Nature Reserve is about 45 minutes from the Old Town and is visited on guided safaris and hikes; children must be at least eight for safaris.

Activities that fit

game drives and cultural visits.

When to go

The best period overall is November to March.

Sharaan reserve experiences pause for summer and resume in the cooler months.

Other destinations for a first safari

• Dubai Desert United Arab Emirates
• Sharqiya Sands Oman
• Sir Bani Yas Island United Arab Emirates
• Ras Al Jinz Oman
• Ras Al Khaimah Desert United Arab Emirates
• Khor Al Adaid Qatar

Full AlUla guideBest safaris for a first safari

No trips are listed for this destination yet. Send a request and we will check with providers.

Sources: Experience AlUla – Sharaan Nature Reserve · Royal Commission for AlUla – Sharaan Nature Reserve announcement · Weather Spark – AlUla climate
Figures are approximate averages and vary from year to year.