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Wadi Rawafah
988km
50km
Driving EASY UNPAVED PATH
Best for PEACE AND QUIET
Recommended for A QUICK ESCAPE
Approximately a 100km drive from Tabuk city, this route is full of dome-like sandstones and multi-coloured mountains. Perfect for an escape into nature, the remoteness of this peaceful valley will help you unwind. Be sure to spend plenty of time in Wadi Rawafah for some hiking and history.
It’s worth starting your journey early because when the morning sun rises against the mountainous landscape and makes it change colour, the sight is truly mesmerising. Early morning is also the best time for some light hiking when you can scale the smooth, low-lying rock formations at a more comfortable temperature. Be sure to make plenty of stops along the way as there are numerous viewpoints that offer unobstructed panoramic views.
Viewpoints
With a variety of viewpoints in the area, you will have plenty of opportunities to admire and appreciate the Rawafah Valley. The vast range of impressive cliffs means there will be no issue finding a perfect spot to admire the sunrise or sunset.
Nabatean Roman Temple
Constructed by the Nabatean civilisation, the Nabatean Roman Temple in Rawafah dates back to the 2nd century CE. The temple was unfortunately damaged by an earthquake but visitors are still able to explore its remains and get a glimpse of traditional Nabatean architecture.
PALM LEAF WEAVING
Palm trees have been a reliable resource for people all over the world, including in Saudi Arabia. Its leaves and stems can be harvested all year long and are then used to make bowls, mats and baskets. They were even used as a building material for homes in the olden days. Today, palm leaf weaving has become a time-honoured craft and follows a detailed processes that begins with drying the leaves, cutting them into thin strips and then weaving them into different items.
Wadi Rawafah
A trip to Wadi Rawafah is a great way to experience some of the Kingdom’s history. This quiet wadi is full of ancient markings etched into its sandstone walls. You will need to explore on foot to get a better view of the remarkable petroglyphs covering the rocks. Look closely to spot recognisable forms such as camels.
DRIVING DIRECTION
This is a varied route with many opportunities for further exploration. With so many options, it’s best to plan your trip before heading out.
1 Take Highway 80 from Tabuk and turn left just after the bend onto the track. From here, you can drive out to the multiple wadi tracks.
2 Stay on the main track until it splits. Bear left and it will take you through the open wadis and low-lying mountains.
3 Explore the ruins of the Nabatean Roman Temple, then keep following the track along the foothills as you slowly ascend the mountain.
4 At Al Mushaqqar, stop for some breathtaking panoramic views. Turn right at the junction towards Wadi Rawafah.
5 Continue straight along the track, or turn left and venture into Wadi al Farashah to access some good hiking trails and a picturesque viewpoint.
6 Turn left off the track towards the stunning views at Wadi Ghulay.
