Tourism
Intrepid Travel’s Saudi Arabia trips offer tourists a unique opportunity to explore a country that is closed off to most of the world. Although many are unfamiliar with Saudi Arabia, it is actually an ancient and intriguing country with a wealth of cultural experiences and incredible landscapes. Saudi Arabia has long been a destination for the intrepid traveler, but in recent years, it has opened its gates to the wider world. The tourism industry in Saudi Arabia is growing quickly, and Intrepid Travel now offers tours of the major cities like Riyadh and Jeddah, as well as of more remote areas like the Empty Quarter.
Tourists are often surprised when they first arrive in Saudi Arabia. It is a land of stark contrasts, with gleaming skyscrapers set against the backdrop of a desert landscape. Visitors can take a range of tours, from desert safaris to shopping malls to historical tours. As an Islamic country, conservative dress codes apply, and tourists must respect local customs and traditions. Intrepid Travel’s Saudi Arabia trips include a mixture of traditional and modern experiences, designed to give tourists a taste of local life.
Intrepid Travel’s trips to Saudi Arabia focus on the country’s unique culture and history. Tourists can explore the country’s ancient sites, such as the iconic Hegra Fortress near Riyadh, the Red Sea city of Jeddah, and the historically significant UNESCO World Heritage site of Mada’in Saleh. Along the way, travelers will be introduced to traditional Bedouin life, sample delicious local cuisine, and gain insight into the country’s complex religious and social customs.
What’s more, Intrepid Travel’s Saudi Arabia trips include many different activities to suit the interests of all travelers. For example, visitors can go mountain biking in the desert, or take a camel ride through the ancient ruins of Mada’in Saleh. Tourists can also take a hot air balloon ride over the stunning landscape, or visit a local market for a taste of traditional Saudi culture.
Saudi Arabia may not be the first place that springs to mind when planning a holiday, but it is undeniably a country of immense beauty and culture.
Wildlife
One of the best aspects of taking a trip to Saudi Arabia with Intrepid Travel is the chance to experience some of the country’s amazing wildlife. The Empty Quarter is home to some truly incredible creatures, such as the iconic Arabian Oryx and the graceful Arabian Sand Gazelle. The landscape of the Empty Quarter is also an adventure in itself, with towering sand dunes, palm fringed oases, and ancient mudbrick villages.
For keen bird watchers, Saudi Arabia is a paradise. The country is home to 900 different species of birds, including raptors, waterfowl, waders, and shorebirds. Whether you’re on a bird watching tour or simply exploring the countryside, you’ll be able to spot a wide range of birds, ranging from eagles and falcons to doves and sand grouse.
The kingdom is also well-known for its marine life, with a number of pristine coral reefs that are home to a wide variety of colorful fish. Many of the country’s pristine beaches are also home colonies of nesting turtles, providing a beautiful and unique sight. Diving and snorkeling tours are available from Intrepid Travel, allowing visitors to explore the kingdom’s marine life up close.
For those who prefer to stay on dry land, Saudi Arabia is also home to a wealth of mammals, including ibex, Arabian leopards, and wild cats. There are also several national parks and protected areas where visitors can take part in a range of activities, from safari tours to desert expeditions.
Culture
One of the highlights of a trip to Saudi Arabia is the chance to explore the country’s vibrant culture. Saudi Arabia is a deeply traditional country, offering unique insights into Islamic beliefs and practices. Intrepid Travel’s tours cover a range of cultural aspects, from local festivals and celebrations to traditional markets and ceremonies.
In the cities, tourists can experience some of the country’s most vibrant sights and sounds. The bustling souks of Riyadh sell a range of exotic spices, clothes, and souvenirs, while the mosques of Jeddah provide a compelling insight into Islamic architecture. In the countryside, travelers can find small villages and communities where life carries on as it has for centuries.
Saudi Arabia is also known for its traditional Bedouin culture and hospitality. Tourists can stay in Bedouin camps in the desert, and take part in activities like camel riding and falconry. Bedouin guides are available from Intrepid Travel to ensure visitors gain an authentic cultural experience.
Whether visitors are seeking a glimpse into traditional Arabian life or a taste of the country’s modern culture, they will find plenty to explore with Intrepid Travel’s Saudi Arabia trips.
Local Cuisine
Intrepid Travel’s Saudi Arabia trips offer visitors a chance to sample some of the country’s unique and delicious cuisine. Saudi Arabian cuisine is a combination of Middle Eastern and Mediterranean flavors. While most of the dishes are meat-based, vegetarian options are also available.
Popular dishes include kabsa, a saffron-spiced rice dish served with lamb or chicken, and kibbeh, a fried dish made of bulgur, onions, and spices. Desserts are often flavored with dates, honey, and spices, and many restaurants and cafes offer traditional Arabic coffee and tea.
In addition to traditional dishes, visitors can also find some of the country’s modern culinary creations. Jeddah’s beachfront area is renowned for its seafood restaurants, while in Riyadh, visitors will find a range of international cuisine, from Japanese to Mexican.
Those who are staying at a Bedouin camp can enjoy the opportunity to sample a range of local dishes, cooked over an open fire. For a truly authentic experience, visitors can enjoy a traditional Bedouin dinner, with dishes such as salatah (a tomato-based dish), hummus (a chickpea-based dip), and falafel (fried chickpea balls).
Adventure Activities
As well as its stunning landscapes and fascinating culture, Saudi Arabia also offers a range of thrilling adventure activities. Intrepid Travel’s tours of Saudi Arabia include a range of adrenaline-pumping activities, such as sand skiing, four-wheeling, and hot air balloon rides.
For those seeking a more extreme experience, there are a number of extreme sports available, including paragliding, rock climbing, and canyoning. Tourists can also try their hand at camel riding, camel racing, and dune-bashing.
Intrepid Travel’s Saudi Arabia trips are also a great way to explore the country’s spectacular mountain ranges. Visitors can take a guided trek through the rugged terrain of the Asir Mountains, or explore the caves, gorges, and canyons of the Empty Quarter. There are also opportunities to go rafting on the Red Sea, explore the ancient ruins of Mada’in Saleh, or go hiking in the country’s national parks.
No matter what type of adventure you’re looking for, Intrepid Travel’s Saudi Arabia trips offer a unique combination of culture and adrenaline-pumping activities.
Luxury Accommodation
Those looking for a luxurious experience can find plenty of high-end hotels and resorts in Saudi Arabia. Riyadh is home to some of the finest hotels in the Middle East, offering deluxe rooms and suites in mix of old-world opulence and contemporary luxury. Visitors can also find a range of luxury beach resorts in Jeddah, featuring pools, spas, and activities like diving and sailing.
Intrepid Travel’s tours of Saudi Arabia also offer the opportunity to stay in a traditional Bedouin camp. Guests can sleep in cozy tents, relax by the campfire, and sample some of the delicious local cuisine. Tourists can even take part in camel rides or wildlife safaris, as well as star gazing and storytelling around the campfire.
Those wishing to explore Saudi Arabia’s modern cities can find a range of international hotels and resorts. Popular cities like Riyadh and Jeddah offer a range of high-end accommodations, ranging from international chains to boutique hotels.
No matter what type of experience you’re looking for, Intrepid Travel’s Saudi Arabia trips offer something for everyone.
