There are many areas of Riyadh where the desolate landscape bears a distinct resemblance to Utah in the American Southwest – an iconic desert where isolated plateaux stand amid tall rock towers and canyons, the sides of these formations dropping away steeply to the desert floor.

   Jibal al Bakarat

While not quite as tall as those in Utah, Jibal al Bakarat and its adjacent geological landforms share this characteristic shape – a flat, butte-like top flattened by the gradual process of erosion over millions of years and steeply inclined sides.

The raw aesthetic of the landscape is even better from above. Hikers can scout the perimeter of Jibal al Bakarat to set off on a moderate ascent, minding the loose rocks and rubble to reach the plateau for beautiful views over the landscape below. This route also encircles other nearby low-rise mountains, which take on a shifting palette of ochre, greys and taupe throughout the day. Aside from a camel farm or two and the small community of Mishash as Suhul, it feels otherwise devoid of human life, silent except for the bark of a dog from a nearby farm.

CAMELS IN NUMBERS

Weight 
400-600KG
Height 
1.6-2M
Life Span 
AROUND 40 YEARS

STAYING THE NIGHT

There is a scarcity of trees along the route so campers might want to anchor their site near the base of an outcrop for some shelter if spending the night before heading off the following morning to explore. Be prepared for a rocky sleep – camping cots are recommended for this surface.

  Ad Dirah al Qadimah

Believed to be over 300 years old, this village boasts lush greenery, meandering camels and remnants of a traditional way of life. This must-see experience includes walking among mudbrick ruins and taking in the beautiful natural scenery. Make sure to indulge in a breezy afternoon spent sipping traditional Arabic coffee, known as 'gahwa', and eating dates.

NAJDI ARCHITECTURE

The ochre-coloured village of Al Qasab Old Town, located north-west of Riyadh, is surrounded by farmlands, flowing springs and verdant palm groves. It’s wonderful to spend time walking through its narrow passageways and admiring its distinct architecture. Decorated with small triangular windows typical of the Najdi style, the village houses were built using soil and silt gathered from the nearby wadis. The ceilings were thatched with palm branches and leaves, and mud plaster was used to add decorative elements to the exterior.

DRIVING DIRECTION

This route passes through the small community of Mishash as Suhul and traverses an arid landscape of rocky, uneven terrain. It can be hard going on the car, so stick to the tracks where possible.