I can hardly contain my excitement as I prepare for my upcoming trip to AlUla for the incredible Winter at Tantora festival. The thought of experiencing the magic of the desert during this vibrant season fills me with anticipation.
From catching the hot air balloon ride to exhilarating activities like hiking, camel riding, and four-wheel drive adventures, I know this journey will be nothing short of extraordinary. Join me as I embark on a winter escapade that promises unforgettable moments and endless thrills!
Catching the Majestic Sunrise at Elephant Rock
As an early riser, I can’t wait to witness the breathtaking sunrise at Elephant Rock. The thought of standing in the midst of nature’s artwork, as the first rays of sunlight paint the sky with hues of gold and orange, is truly exhilarating. I can already imagine the awe-inspiring moment when the majestic rock formations come to life, bathed in the warm glow of dawn. It’s a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to connect with nature’s grandeur and capture a picture-perfect moment that will forever stay etched in my memory.
Hot Air Balloon Ride
If you’re ready to take your adventure to new heights, a hot air balloon ride is an absolute must! At dawn, we got ready at our resort and our pre-arranged driver picked us up at 5 am. The sky gradually lit up as we reached the take-off site after a 35-40mins drive. Many international hot air balloon pilots await to take us up to the sky.
As I soared above the desert, a gentle breeze carried me through the vast expanse of Tantora, revealing its hidden treasures from a unique perspective.
The sight of ancient ruins and the sprawling oasis beneath me was nothing short of breathtaking. Floating effortlessly amidst the clouds, I felt an indescribable sense of freedom and serenity that only the skies could offer.
Four-Wheel Drive Excursions: Conquer the Desert in Style
For an adrenaline rush like no other, I’ve signed up for a heart-pounding four-wheel drive excursion. Just the thought of zooming across the rolling sand dunes, feeling the wind in my hair, and experiencing the thrill of conquering the desert’s challenging terrain gets my heart racing with excitement.
We started off our day of desert adventure with the four-wheel drive ride. With expert drivers leading the way, he made sure we had our goggles on and seat belts fastened. We navigate the desert’s natural obstacles, all while relishing the incredible vistas that unfold before my eyes. It’s a high-speed adventure that promises to leave me breathless and with a mouth, ears and hair full of sand.
Hiking Adventures in the Desert Wilderness
I’ve always been a lover of outdoor adventures, and the thought of exploring the diverse landscapes of AlUla on foot has my heart racing.
Guided by knowledgeable and experienced guides, we set out on thrilling hikes through rugged canyons, towering sandstone mountains and volcanic rocks formed by dramatic lava flow in the past.
The anticipation of discovering hidden ancient rock art, hearing captivating stories of civilizations past, and being surrounded by the untamed beauty of the desert wilderness fills me with an electrifying sense of wonder. While taking each step and embracing the thrill of the unknown, the guide pointed wolf tracks which are present in the area.
After the hike, we are served Arabic coffee, dates and some local snacks at the resting point set up for the hikers. Sunset during winter in AlUla is really beautiful. It was glowing up the sky in gorgeous orange and pink.
Camel Riding: An Authentic Arabian Experience
To truly immerse myself in the rich Arabian heritage, I’m eagerly looking forward to riding a camel through the enchanting desert dunes. The thought of swaying along with these magnificent creatures, feeling the gentle rhythm of their steps, and gazing at the expansive desert vistas is incredibly enticing. It’s a chance to connect with the ancient Bedouin traditions and experience the desert as they did, creating a bond with these incredible animals while embracing the
