Visiting AlUla is like stepping into an open-air museum of human history. The tours here are refreshingly well-organized and authentic, cutting through the tourist fluff to deliver real cultural experiences. I’m particularly fond of the Elephant Rock excursions for their perfect mix of geology and ancient history. The full-day guided tours are worth every penny – they’re thorough and expertly paced. For nature lovers, the Wadi Al Disah trips showcase some of Saudi Arabia’s most dramatic desert landscapes.
I especially recommend the private morning tours, when the desert light creates perfect photo opportunities and temperatures are manageable. Group tours work well for budget travelers and social butterflies, while private options offer more flexibility for serious photographers and history buffs.
Let’s explore the standout tours that make AlUla a must-visit destination.
Good To Know
- The Elephant Rock Tour, operated by Gray Line – Kurban Tours, offers a unique geological formation experience starting at $68 per person.
- The AlUla Day Tour provides a private guided exploration of ancient sites and cultural heritage, with an excellent rating of 3.0 out of 3 reviews.
- The Full-Day Guided Tour in Al Ula City offers a comprehensive exploration of the city, priced at $1,163.77 for up to 4 travelers.
- The Full Day Hegra and Dadan & Ikmah Tour explores ancient sites with iconic landmarks like Elephant Rock and Lion Tombs, although it has a lower rating of 2.3 stars.
- The 3-day Private Al-Ula Historical Tour offers an immersive exploration of AlUla’s ancient sites over three days, suitable for private experiences.
Elephant Rock Tour in AlUla
The Elephant Rock Tour in AlUla offers visitors a chance to witness the natural wonder of Elephant Rock, a unique geological formation resembling the trunk and body of an elephant.
Operated by Gray Line – Kurban Tours, the tour includes entrance fees for a hassle-free experience, with late afternoon travel to avoid the daytime heat.
Pickup from Al Ula hotel is provided by an English or Arabic-speaking driver-guide, with the tour starting at 4 PM and drop-off at the Winter Park after the excursion.
While the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible and requires a moderate level of physical fitness, it has received mixed reviews, with some visitors claiming the access to Elephant Rock is free and can be done independently.
However, those who’ve enjoyed the tour highlight the excellent service and the relaxing atmosphere at Elephant Rock, as well as the availability of local refreshments, including coffee and juice, after 4:30 PM.
Priced from $68 per person, the Elephant Rock Tour in AlUla offers a unique opportunity to explore this natural wonder.
Read our full review: Elephant Rock Tour in AlUla Review
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AlUla Day Tour
Why not explore the rich history and natural wonders of AlUla on an immersive day tour? This private guided tour provides in-depth insights into the region’s ancient sites and cultural heritage.
Accompanied by an English-speaking local guide, you’ll discover the mud-brick houses of Old Town, marvel at the UNESCO-listed Hegra tombs, and be awed by the stunning Elephant Rock formation.
The tour includes air-conditioned private transportation and hotel pickup and drop-off, ensuring a comfortable and convenient experience.
While the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, the operator is happy to assist with any accessibility needs. Children are welcome but must be accompanied by an adult.
With a rating of 3.0 out of 3 reviews, this tour offers a balance of historical exploration and authentic local experiences, including the opportunity to try delectable regional cuisine.
Keep in mind the tour’s cancellation policy, which allows free cancellation up to 24 hours before the start.
For your accommodations, the nearby Friday Suites in Al-Ula, owned by Abo Faisal, come highly recommended.
Read our full review: AlUla Day Tour Review
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Full-Day Guided Tour in Al Ula City
Set out on a captivating full-day guided tour of Al Ula City, where visitors can enjoy the region’s rich history and breathtaking natural landscapes.
Operated by PLT, this tour offers a comprehensive exploration of this enchanting destination in Saudi Arabia, starting from $1,163.77 per group of up to 4 travelers.
During the tour, you’ll enjoy a delicious lunch, snacks, and have all fees and taxes covered. Transportation and a professional Saudi tourist guide are also included, ensuring a seamless and informative experience.
The tour is suitable for those with a moderate physical fitness level, and infants can sit on laps.
With a flexible cancellation policy and the option to reserve now and pay later, this full-day guided tour in Al Ula City is an excellent choice for those seeking to discover the wonders of this captivating region.
The tour operates on Monday through Sunday, with start times between 1:00 PM and 2:00 PM, from November 5, 2024, to December 30, 2025.
Read our full review: Full-Day Guided Tour in Al Ula City Review
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Full Day Hegra and Dadan & Ikmah Tour
This full-day tour allows travelers to discover the captivating ancient sites of Hegra, Dadan, and Ikmah in AlUla.
The tour features visits to the iconic Elephant Rock, the Lion Tombs of Dadan, and pre-Arabic inscriptions, all while traveling in a modern, air-conditioned vehicle.
However, the tour’s overall rating of 2.3 stars out of 6 reviews suggests that the experience may not meet expectations.
Negative experiences reported include poor communication, service issues, and the tour feeling more like a ride to a bus station than a guided experience.
Travelers have also criticized the high costs, suggesting it’s overpriced for the services provided.
As an alternative, it’s recommended to consider using local transportation and purchasing admission tickets independently to potentially save money and have a better experience.
Read our full review: Full Day Hegra and Dadan & Ikmah Tour Review
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3-day Private Al-Ula Historical Tour
The 3-day Private Al-Ula Historical Tour provides travelers with an immersive exploration of AlUla’s captivating ancient sites. Rated 2.5 out of 5 based on 2 reviews, the tour includes breakfast, lunch, and dinner for 2 days, as well as round-trip airport transfer.
Guests will be picked up from Prince Abdul Majeed bin Abdulaziz Domestic Airport, where they should look for a banner with “Mytrip” upon arrival.
The tour isn’t suitable for those with serious medical conditions or wheelchair users. Infants must sit on laps, and infant seats are available. Participants must have confirmation of booking and bring their passport and COVID-19 insurance.
While one reviewer praised the tour for its clear historical explanations and relaxing time at a palm farm, the overall ratings indicate room for improvement.
Travelers should consider this tour if they’re seeking a private, immersive experience in AlUla, but may want to explore other options as well.
Read our full review: 3-day Private Al-Ula Historical Tour Review
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Full-Day Tayma Tour From Alula
For those seeking to delve deeper into the rich history of the region, the Full-Day Tayma Tour from AlUla provides an immersive experience.
Departing at 8:00 AM, this tour transports travelers to the ancient site of Tayma, located just a short distance from AlUla. With English or Arabic driver assistance, the tour accommodates up to 30 participants, offering a personalized and intimate exploration.
The tour includes pickup from your hotel in AlUla, transportation, entrance fees, and a provided lunch and water. After a journey of approximately 30-60 minutes, you’ll arrive at the historic site of Tayma, where you’ll have the opportunity to discover its fascinating past.
Though not wheelchair accessible, the tour is suitable for most travelers.
However, it’s important to note the concerns raised in the reviews, which highlight a previous tour cancellation and poor communication from the provider.
Before booking, it’s advisable to verify the current reliability and quality of the tour.
Read our full review: Full-Day Tayma Tour From Alula Review
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Half Day Dadan & Jabal Ikmah Tour
Exploring the ancient wonders of Dadan and Jabal Ikmah is a must-do activity for those visiting AlUla. This half-day tour, operated by Gray Line – Kurban Tours, offers a glimpse into the rich history of the region.
Priced from $22 per person, the tour accommodates up to 30 travelers and includes pickup and drop-off at Winter Park in Al Ula, as well as driver assistance in either English or Arabic.
The tour covers the entrance fees, allowing participants to fully enjoy the archaeological sites. However, personal expenses like food and beverages aren’t included.
Confirmation is received at the time of booking, and the pickup time can vary from 30 minutes to 1 hour before the tour start, with details provided via email a day prior.
While the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, it’s suitable for most travelers.
It’s important to note that the tour has a non-refundable cancellation policy, so travelers should plan accordingly.
Read our full review: Half Day Dadan & Jabal Ikmah Tour Review
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Wadi Al Disah Full Day Tour With Hotel Pickup
Immersing visitors in the breathtaking landscapes of AlUla, the Wadi Al Disah Full Day Tour offers a comprehensive exploration of this captivating region. Priced from $627.00 per person, this tour is operated by Gray Line – Kurban Tours and includes hotel pickup, an English-speaking driver-guide, lunch, and entrance fees.
The tour commences at 8:00 AM, with pickup 30-60 minutes prior, and concludes at the guest’s hotel in AlUla. The Wadi Al Disah Full Day Tour is accessible to most travelers, though it isn’t suitable for wheelchair users. Confirmation of the pickup time will be provided via email a day before the tour.
Travelers can book the tour with the option to reserve now and pay later, and free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the experience starts.
With its private nature, this tour ensures that only your group will participate, providing a personalized and exclusive experience in the stunning Wadi Al Disah of AlUla.
Read our full review: Wadi Al Disah Full Day Tour With Hotel Pickup Review
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Frequently Asked Questions
What Is the Best Time of Year to Visit Alula?
The best time to visit AlUla is during the cooler months of November to April. The weather’s mild, making it ideal for exploring the historic sites and outdoor activities. Visitor crowds are also smaller compared to the hotter summer months.
Are There Any Age Restrictions for the Tours?
There are typically no age restrictions for tours in AlUla, though certain activities may have minimum age requirements. Families with children are welcome, and tour operators often offer specialized tours and accommodations to cater to different age groups.
Can I Customize the Tour Itinerary to Fit My Preferences?
Yes, you can typically customize tour itineraries to fit your preferences. Many tour operators offer flexible options allowing you to tailor the experience to your interests and needs within the available tour offerings.
What Should I Bring for the Outdoor Tours?
You should bring comfortable walking shoes, sun protection like a hat and sunscreen, plenty of water, and snacks for the outdoor tours. Dressing in layers is also recommended to accommodate changing weather conditions.
Are the Tours Accessible for People With Disabilities?
The tours are generally accessible for people with disabilities, though accessibility may vary across different tour options. It’s best to check with the tour operator in advance to ensure the specific tour meets your needs.
The Sum Up
AlUla offers a diverse array of tours that showcase its rich history and stunning natural beauty. From the iconic Elephant Rock to the ancient sites of Hegra and Dadan, visitors can explore the region’s captivating landmarks. Whether you prefer a day-long excursion or a multi-day private tour, AlUla’s guided experiences provide an immersive and informative way to discover this remarkable destination.