Saudi Arabia
The Desert Kingdom
Saudi Arabia | 15 Days | FROM $14,490
departs January 22, 2027
Travel with Dr. Shirley Campbell
This immersive journey through Saudi Arabia offers a rare opportunity to experience a nation at the crossroads of ancient civilization and rapid transformation. From the historic heart of Riyadh to the rock-carved tombs of AlUla, the sacred cities of Medina, and the cosmopolitan shores of Jeddah, the program reveals layers of history shaped by trade, faith, and desert landscapes. Along the way, you’ll encounter UNESCO World Heritage sites, vibrant markets, cutting-edge architecture, and deeply rooted traditions, gaining insight into a culture that has long been hidden from view and is now opening its doors to the world.
Three moments you’ll never forget
Gaze from the cliffs of Jebel Fihrayn, where a 300-meter drop reveals an ancient seabed and sweeping desert views once crossed by caravan traders.
Walk among the rock-cut façades of Hegra, the southern Nabataean capital, and discover the trade networks and cultural exchanges that shaped this desert crossroads.
Wander the coral-stone streets of Al Balad, Jeddah’s UNESCO-listed historic quarter, and admire carved wooden balconies (rawasheen) overlooking centuries-old trade routes connecting Arabia to Africa, India, and the Mediterranean.
SOCIAL Anthropologist
Go with Shirley
Growing up just east of San Francisco, Shirley was already a curious ‘traveller’, exploring local landscapes during her formative years. Finding bone fragments and stone tools, artifacts of Native Californians, her interests were piqued. Shirley has specialized in studying the anthropology of art, convinced that understanding the ways people represent their ideas through art, in its broader...DAY 1
ARRIVE RIYADH
Arrive in Riyadh and transfer to your hotel to settle in and prepare for the journey ahead.
DAY 2
RIYADH
Explore historic Riyadh, beginning at Al Masmak Fortress, a mud-brick citadel tied to the Kingdom’s founding. Visit Murabba Palace, stroll through Souq al Zel, and continue to At-Turaif in Ad Diriyah, a UNESCO-listed heritage site showcasing traditional Najdi architecture.
DAY 3
RIYADH
Discover the National Museum of Saudi Arabia before taking in panoramic views from the Sky Bridge at the Kingdom Center. Later, journey to Jebel Fihrayn, known as “The Edge of the World,” where dramatic cliffs overlook vast desert plains.
DAY 4
RIYADH
Visit the King Abdullah Financial District, then head into the Red Sand Dunes for a traditional falconry experience and desert adventures including a 4×4 safari and sandboarding.
DAY 5
RIYADH / BURAYDAH
Travel through desert landscapes to Ushaiger, a preserved mud-brick village offering insight into traditional Saudi life. Continue across the agricultural heartland of Qassim to Buraydah.
DAY 6
BURAYDAH / HAIL
Experience a vibrant local market and explore one of the world’s largest date and camel markets. Travel by train to Hail, visiting A’arif Fort and the historic Al Qishlah fortress complex.
DAY 7
HAIL / ALULA
Visit the UNESCO-listed rock art site of Jubbah Rock Art, featuring Neolithic carvings over 9,000 years old. Continue through Sharaan Nature Reserve to AlUla. At sunset, see the iconic Elephant Rock before settling into the Old Town.
DAY 8
ALULA
Explore Hegra, the southern capital of the Nabataean Kingdom, with its monumental rock-cut tombs. Wander AlUla’s Old Town and the contemporary arts district of AlJadeeda.
DAY 9
ALULA
Visit the ancient kingdoms of Dadan and Jabal Ikma, often called Saudi Arabia’s “open library” for its concentration of inscriptions. In the afternoon, explore AlUla’s dramatic desert landscapes by 4×4. Optional sunrise hot air balloon excursion over Hegra.
DAY 10
ALULA
Stroll through the lush AlUla Oasis along the shaded Heritage Trail. In the evening, tour Maraya, the striking mirrored architectural landmark in Ashar Valley.
DAY 11
ALULA / MEDINA
Travel to Medina, one of Islam’s holiest cities. View Al Masjid an Nabawi from the exterior and visit Quba Mosque and the Museum of the Prophet’s Biography and Islamic Civilization.
DAY 12
MEDINA / JEDDAH
Visit the Hijaz Railway terminus and Dar Al Medina Museum before boarding the high-speed train to Jeddah. Enjoy the Corniche and see the distinctive Al Rahmah Mosque along the waterfront.
DAY 13
JEDDAH
Discover the Tayebat Museum and explore the historic UNESCO-listed district of Al Balad. Experience Jeddah’s dynamic arts scene and vibrant markets.
DAY 14
JEDDAH
Visit Nafisa Shams Academy to learn about initiatives empowering Saudi women and meet local artisans preserving traditional crafts.
DAY 15
JEDDAH / DEPART
Transfer to the airport for your departure, concluding your journey through Saudi Arabia’s rich cultural landscapes.
trip details
January 22, 2027 – February 5, 2027
DEPARTURE
Start in Riyadh
End in Jeddah
“It is increasingly clear that one of the routes out of Africa for our human ancestors was through what we now know as Saudi Arabia. Only recently have barriers eased, allowing archaeological investigations to reveal the importance of this region in understanding early human migration and dispersal. Together with its pre-Islamic cultures and its role as the birthplace of Islam, Saudi Arabia offers a unique opportunity to explore the secrets of the past.”
— DR. SHIRLEY CAMPBELL
Featured Accommodation
Dar Tantora – The House Hotel
Step into living history at Dar Tantora – The House Hotel, tucked within the winding lanes of AlUla’s atmospheric Old Town. This remarkable restoration of centuries-old mudbrick homes and a historic watchtower has been thoughtfully transformed into a collection of individual dar residences, each with its own character and story.
Blending traditional Najdi architecture with refined contemporary design, the property offers an immersive connection to AlUla’s heritage while maintaining comfort and understated elegance. Evenings are illuminated by candlelight and lantern glow, preserving the ambiance of the past. While modern conveniences are discreetly available in guest rooms, the gentle lighting is intentionally maintained to create a truly authentic and timeless desert retreat.
More Detail
PRICING
Per Person: $14,490
Add $4,290 for a single room
Optional Hot Air Ballooning in Al Ula: $420 per person
DEPOSIT
$2,000
GROUP SIZE
12 travelers
What’s Included
Ready to Go?
Save your spot on our expedition by booking now.
January 22, 2027 – February 5, 2027