A Guide to Taking a Guided Tour of Hegra in Al-Ula

Have you ever heard of the ancient Nabatean site of Hegra in Al-Ula, Saudi Arabia? This incredible location features some of the most recognizable and iconic ancient structures in the world, and it’s become increasingly popular for tourists in recent years.

If you’re looking for a truly unique experience and absorbing culture during your travels, taking a guided tour of Hegra must be top on your list of things to do. Here’s a guide to what you should expect from a guided tour of Hegra in Al-Ula.

What is Hegra?

Hegra is the ancient site of several former Nabatean cities that flourished between c.312 BC and c. 106 AD. The Nabateans were an ancient Arab tribal people who rallied forces of their own to bring peace and prosperity to the desert oasis of Al-Ula and its surrounding region. During its peak, Hegra was home to up to 20,000 people living off the land and was a key trading post on the Silk Road.

The site has been perfectly preserved over the centuries and cemented Al-Ula’s place on the global map as a truly one-of-a-kind historical site. Hegra was declared a Unesco World Heritage Site in 2008, so you can be sure that they’ll be plenty to explore during your guided tour.

What to Expect from a Guided Tour of Hegra

Taking a guided tour of Hegra provides visitors with the opportunity to explore the site’s impressive ancient architecture and monuments. One key feature visitors should look out for is the Escarpment Wall, which is believed to have been built in c. 250 BC and runs for over 3 km. On close inspection, you’ll be able to see remnants of Nabatean inscriptions, which helps give us an insight into their lives and culture.

Another highlight of the Hegra Guided Tour are its archeological monuments. Twenty of them have been discovered so far, most of which act as tombs since they could easily be blocked off after placing coffins inside. One unique monument is the South Monument, which features two façades instead of one and is a rarity among Nabatean sites.

Another important area to explore with your guide is Hegra’s so-called Citadel, which is essentially its urban center. Ancient walls enclose part of the ruins here, offering protection from invaders and hiding from earthquakes during the Nabatean dynasty. Of particular interest are the three distinct gates that correspond to various public roads.

Along with learning about Hegra’s past, your guide will also be able to provide you with interesting facts and stories that make sites like these so special and unique. It’s a powerful experience to be able to explore ancient ruins right in front of you that are thousands of years old — one that can never be replicated in any other way.

Tips for Taking a Hegra Guided Tour

Before taking your guided tour at Hegra, it’s advised to book your tickets in advance. This can easily be done online via GetYourGuide. As tickets are limited for most tours, this gives you a greater chance at booking yourself a spot on the tour and avoid unnecessary stress when you arrive onsite.

A Guided tour of Hegra isn’t particularly challenging, so you can expect a leisurely day filled with plenty of surprises and discoveries along the way. When planning your visit, remember to bring sunscreen with you as the heat can often become unbearable in the middle of the day during high season, as well as comfortable walking shoes as most tours require you to walk around for extended periods throughout the day.

Conclusion

Taking a guided tour through the ancient streets of Hegra is a truly incomparable experience that grants us direct access to a much more distant past. The magnitude of this historical site will leave you mesmerized, while expert guides can provide us with interesting facts that go beyond the ruins themselves and offer much-needed context to better appreciate them.

For those looking for a unique cultural experience that can only be found on location and away from the crowds, going on a guided tour at one of Saudi Arabia’s most awe-inspiring ancient sites should absolutely be top on your list! To book your tickets online before your visit, head over to GetYourGuide.

An Insider’s Guide to Al-Ula: Uncovering the Hidden Gems

Tucked away in the northwest of Saudi Arabia, Al-Ula is a desert oasis that boasts a rich cultural heritage and breathtaking natural beauty. While there are popular attractions like the ancient Hegra site and the Al-Ula Old Town, there are plenty of hidden gems for travelers who dare to venture off the beaten path. Here’s an insider’s guide to the lesser-known, but equally fascinating spots in Al-Ula.

Local Attractions: Discovering the Hidden Gems

While Hegra and the Al-Ula Old Town are must-see attractions, there are other hidden gems that are equally as fascinating. The Al-Khuraybah fort, located about 25 km from the city center, is a well-preserved defensive fortress that dates back to the Ottoman Empire. The fort offers stunning views of the desert landscape and is the perfect spot for a picnic. For those who appreciate geological formations, the Al-Khuraybah Rock Art Site is a sight to behold. The site features ancient rock carvings that depict scenes of daily life and wildlife in the region.

Dining Spots: Tasting the Flavors of Al-Ula

While Arabic cuisine is a no-brainer, for a truly authentic culinary experience, we recommend you try the traditional Bedouin dish, Zarb. This succulent meat dish is cooked in an underground oven that is dug up after hours, and the result is a juicy, aromatic feast. For tourists who prefer a more modern dining experience, the Al-Ula Winter Park is the perfect place to relish on a cup of traditional coffee while enjoying the light-and-sound show that takes visitors through an immersive historical experience.

Cultural Experiences: Immerse Yourself in the City’s Traditions

For a glimpse into the city’s cultural fabric, make sure to attend the Al-Ula Baloot competition, a traditional card-game, that is hugely popular in the Arab world. The game is played with full gusto and quite the process, expounding on the bonds among the players and their spirit of letting loose and enjoying each other’s company. The Ashar Festival of Al-Ula is another event you don’t want to miss if you happen to explore the city during the month of November. The festival is a celebration of heritage, with music, theater, and folk dance performances, as well as exhibitions of local handicrafts and artworks.

Local History: Discovering Al-Ula’s Past

For history buffs, there is no shortage of captivating stories from Al-Ula’s past. The city used to be a hub of trade and commerce, and the ancient Al-Ula Trains were essential to the city’s economic growth. Visitors can still see the remnants of the train tracks today and get a glimpse of the bustling trade that once took place in Al-Ula. Additionally, the Al-Ula Palace Museum is a treasure trove of artifacts that date back to the Lihyanite dynasty.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Suggestions: Unforgettable Experiences

For a truly memorable experience, we recommend taking a hot air balloon ride over the desert landscape, at sunset the mesmerizing view is captivated by a palette of colors that creates an unforgettable spectacle. Why not also plan a nighttime outdoor movie night at the Winter Park, complete with traditional Arabic snacks and blankets for a cozy ambiance? Or explore the desert settlement on horse, discovering the city’s ecosystem in a different way.

Al-Ula is a city that unveils the Middle East’s secrets and shares them with the world in a way that is unforgettable in every way possible and offers tourists an authentic Arabian journey.