This route brings a new challenge to your off-roading experience – thick mud. Desert driving still makes up a significant part of this route, but the lakes are a mix of marshland and mud. Areas where the water has receded are very hazardous, as the mud can appear solid from a distance. The lush marshlands and wildlife make this a great route for an outing with families or friends, and it’s highly recommended that you travel in groups in case anyone gets stuck in the mud.

  Sarat al Hubayl Lake

To reach Sarat al Hubayl Lake, you turn off the main road and follow a fence along a sandy and muddy track. Drive slowly and cautiously to avoid the muddy ruts. As you continue along this track, it merges with the lake’s edge, and you will be treated to a close-up view of the lake and its inhabitants. Sarat al Hubayl Lake is an excellent place for birdwatching. With a bit of luck you might even spot some flamingos.

  Marshland

Marshland is a type of wetland formed when an area of land is covered by water for long periods of time. The desert meeting the marshlands on this route is a jarring sight, as the two living in harmony seems so unlikely. The barren desert is suddenly replaced by the bustling ecosystem of the marshlands, which is home to a large variety of wild grasses, insects and birds.

IMPROVING IRRIGATION

When you near the marshlands on this route, you will notice a narrow, manmade canal full of water. Relatively shallow, this canal is an irrigation channel that allows for the movement of water to and from the marsh. A project spearheaded by the Saudi Irrigation Organization, this irrigation channel was constructed to enhance agricultural productivity and improve the irrigation and drainage methods currently in use across the area.

NATURAL VEGETATION

When you visit Sarat al Hubayl Lake, you will see wild grasses, reeds, sedges and small flowers like the desert hyacinth. While it can be tempting to touch the natural flora, remember to leave the plants alone so you do not disturb this delicate ecosystem.

DRIVING DIRECTION

The drive is a mix of sand tracks and marshland driving. There are multiple off-road tracks that have been developed over time – perfect for a day’s exploration.

  1     From Highway 612, take a left turn along the canal. Follow the track as it bears right towards Sarat al Hubayl Lake.

  2     When you reach the T-junction, take a left and head around the edge of the marshland. There are numerous tracks to explore in this area.

  3     The track eventually meets a pipeline. Follow it for 2.7km.

  4     The pipeline is crossed by powerlines. Follow the powerlines back towards Sarat al Hubayl Lake for approximately 6.4km.

  5     Eventually you’ll come across a sand track on the right which takes you back into the marshland. Stay on the track until you reach the main road.