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Elephant Rock is a natural wonder in Saudi Arabia, located in the AlUla region in the country's northwest. Carved by wind, water, and sand, it's named after its resemblance to an elephant's trunk thrust into the ground.
Standing approximately 52 meters tall, Elephant Rock is one of the most iconic rock formations in the AlUla region. Its sunsets are particularly stunning, attracting numerous visitors. At sunset, the rock is stained golden by the setting sun, creating a captivating scene against the surrounding desert landscape. At night, Elephant Rock appears even more enigmatic under the starry sky.
If you plan to go to Elephant Rock to watch the sunset, the afternoon in winter (December to February) is a more suitable time because the sun sets earlier at this time and you can enjoy the beautiful sunset glow in the evening.
In spring (March to May) or autumn (September to November), the climate is more pleasant and suitable for activities such as hiking and sightseeing.
【Recommended Activities】
→Watch the sunset
In the evening, the afterglow of the setting sun dyes the rocks golden yellow, which contrasts with the surrounding desert landscape, forming a charming picture. You can go there in the afternoon and choose a suitable location to enjoy the beautiful sunset.
→Explore the surrounding area
Southwest of Elephant Rock, there's a beautiful pot-shaped rock formation with a naturally formed cave resembling a kettle. From there, you can get a panoramic view of Elephant Rock. You can also drive through the desert to the foot of the rock and then hike up to it for a unique desert experience.
→Experience local activities
The scenic area offers helicopter rides, zip lines, valley swings and other recreational activities. You can choose the activities that suit you according to your interests and physical condition and experience the excitement and fun.
【Recommended Play Time】
2-3 hours
Free and open
→Saturday to Wednesday
16:00 to 12:00 the next day
→Thursday to Friday
14:00 - 12:00 AM the next day
Elephant Rock, or "Jabal al-Fil," is a natural rock formation located in the desert of Al-Ula, Saudi Arabia. It gained its name due to the shape of the rock, which resembles an elephant. This site is part of the greater Al-Ula region, known for its historical significance, including ancient Nabatean ruins and archaeological sites. The rock formation draws visitors due to its unique shape and its role in Saudi Arabia’s growing tourism industry.
Elephant Rock is located in the Al-Ula region of northwestern Saudi Arabia, about 30 kilometers from the city of Al-Ula. It is best accessed by car, taxi, or private tour. Public transportation options are limited, so most visitors rent a car or join guided tours to reach the site.
Elephant Rock is open year-round. The best times to visit are during the cooler months, from October to March, as the temperatures are more comfortable. Early morning and late afternoon offer the best light for photography and fewer crowds.
The entrance fee to visit Elephant Rock is typically around 50-100 SAR. Tickets can be purchased at the site or online through authorized tour operators and the official Al-Ula tourism website.
It is recommended to book tickets in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons (winter and early spring). Booking a few days in advance is advisable to secure a spot on popular tours and activities.
Exploring Elephant Rock itself takes around 30 minutes to 1 hour, depending on how much time you spend taking photographs and enjoying the views. If you plan to explore the surrounding desert or participate in a guided tour, you may want to allocate 2-3 hours for the whole experience.
Guided tours are available in both Arabic and English. Audio guides may also be available as part of the tour, providing information about the geology, history, and cultural significance of the area.
Start by approaching Elephant Rock from the base to get a close look at its elephant-like shape. Then, take a walk around the surrounding area to capture the best views and explore the nearby desert landscape. If available, consider a short 4x4 ride to get higher vantage points or to explore other nearby formations.
Currently, there are no light shows or nighttime visits to Elephant Rock. However, desert stargazing tours are available in the Al-Ula region, offering an opportunity to enjoy the night sky in the desert.
Elephant Rock can get crowded, especially during the peak tourist seasons in winter and early spring. The least crowded times are on weekdays and during the early morning or late afternoon hours.
There are no full-service facilities directly at Elephant Rock, but there are rest areas and basic amenities such as toilets. For food and water, it’s advisable to bring your own supplies or visit nearby Al-Ula for more options.
The site is somewhat accessible for elderly and children, though some areas may require walking on uneven terrain. For disabled visitors, the site may be challenging due to the natural desert environment, but some parts of the site may still be accessible by vehicle.
Cash is accepted at the site, but credit cards and mobile payments (e.g., Apple Pay, Google Pay) are also widely accepted in nearby facilities like hotels and restaurants.
Yes, there are many halal food options available in the restaurants of Al-Ula, including vegetarian and vegan dishes in most places catering to local and international visitors.
There are souvenir shops in Al-Ula where you can find traditional Saudi handicrafts, jewelry, and desert-themed items like sandstone figurines and local textiles.
After visiting Elephant Rock, taxis and private car rentals are the best options for continuing your trip. You can also join guided tours that cover multiple attractions in Al-Ula.