The start of this route is a relaxing exploration of the Ashoura forest where wildlife including camels can be seen cooling off in the water. Once you head into the desert, the tracks offer a range of off-road driving experiences – from easy tracks suitable for beginners to some challenging drives up 400m-high dunes.

To end the drive, you can stretch your legs by exploring the impressive ruins of Ghayqah Market and Village.

  Ashoura Coastal Trees

The calm water and salt-loving trees are home to a huge variety of flora and fauna. This coastal forest spans over 100km, and despite the extreme desert temperature, the Ashoura trees of the Red Sea are disappearing at a far slower rate than in any other part of the world.

  Potato Rock in Jabal al Khashah

While passing through the Mastoora Desert, take time to visit this split rock that resembles a giant baked potato. It sits amongst a group of rocks nestled in the desert plain. Locals believe that a lightning bolt may have struck this gigantic boulder, splitting it right down the middle. Its flat surface is a great place to climb and take a picture or two. It’s also a perfect spot to set up camp and spend the night.

ASHOURA COASTAL TREES

Known as the ‘guardians of the coast’, Ashoura coastal trees play a vital role in increasing the marine ecosystem’s oxygen. They are the first line of defence for coastal communities, with their above and below ground roots stabilising shorelines and slowing water flow which helps reduce coastal erosion. They also improve water quality by absorbing pollutants from runoff that might otherwise cause harm to the ecosystem.

  Ghayqah Market and Village

Located at the base of the mountain of Badr, this is a popular stopping point for pilgrims travelling to Makkah and a melting pot for trade. Wander around the stone and centuries-old mudbrick structures, making sure you visit the souq which is believed to have endured from pre-Islamic times.

DRIVING DIRECTION

Located along the beautiful western coast, this route follows well-marked tracks into the desert across a wide variety of terrain.

  1     From Highway 303, turn right and follow the track to visit the Red Sea Ashoura Coastal Trees. Return to Highway 303 and turn right.

  2     Turn left off Highway 303 and follow the track into the desert.

  3     Bear left for an easier drive or keep right to experience the high dunes. Continue 14km to reach Potato Rock.

  4     Follow the track that swings to the left.

  5     Upon reaching the pipeline, turn right following the track that runs parallel to it. This will take you to Ghayqah Market and Village.