I am considering doing a day trip from Makkah to Taif and was wondering if this is allowed as I know historically, foreigners could only visit Makkah and Madinah. How long does it take to get from Makkah to Taif and what is the best mode of transportation? What are some must-see attractions in Taif that I should include in my itinerary? Are there any good restaurants or cafes in the city that you would recommend for lunch or a snack? Are there any cultural or historical sites in Taif that I should make sure to visit? Are there any outdoor activities or nature spots in the area that are worth checking out? How much time should I plan to spend in Taif on my day trip?
Answered by our Expert
I am a holiday loving travel junkie who decided to make a career out of doing the thing I love most... putting together great deals on holidays for other people who are just as passionate about travelling as I am!
Dubai, Maldives, Thailand, Bali, United States, Australia and South Pacific
Beaches, City Breaks, Family, Spa & Wellness, Weddings and Honeymoon, Romantic, Luxury, All Inclusive, Cruise
Celebrity, Fashion, Food & Drink, Hints & Tips, Art, Lifestyle, Music
Yes- since 2019, visitors to Saudi Arabia travelling on a tourist visa can travel to Taif from Makkah for a Day trip.
Most destinations outside of Makkah and Madina in Saudi Arabia have long been off-limits to most tourists, due to strict entry requirements and a lack of infrastructure for tourism. However, in recent years, the country has made significant strides in opening up to tourists, and the introduction of the new Saudi tourist visa has been a key part of this effort.
The new Saudi tourist visa was introduced in September 2019 and is available to citizens of 49 countries including the UK, USA, Canada, Australia and the EU. The visa allows tourists to visit anywhere in the country for up to 90 days and can be obtained easily through the online visa application system. The visa is also multiple entry, which means that tourists can come and go from the country as they please during the validity of the visa.
Taif is a city located in the western region of Saudi Arabia and is known for its beautiful gardens and parks, as well as its cooler climate. If you are visiting Makkah and want to take a day trip to Taif, here is a guide to help you make the most of your trip:
7:00 AM: Start your day by making the one hour drive from Makkah to Taif. The drive is scenic and takes you through the mountains, so be sure to have your camera ready to capture the beautiful views.
8:00 AM: Upon arriving in Taif, make your way to the Rose Garden, which is a beautiful park that is home to over 20,000 rose bushes. The park is a popular destination during the annual rose festival, which takes place in the spring.
10:00 AM: After visiting the Rose Garden, head over to the Al-Shafa Mountain, which is a popular hiking destination in the region. The mountain offers a variety of hiking trails, ranging from easy to challenging, so there is something for hikers of all levels. The views from the top of the mountain are stunning, so be sure to bring your camera.
12:00 PM: Break for lunch at a local restaurant and try some traditional Saudi dishes such as lamb kabsa or shawarma.
1:00 PM: After lunch, visit the Taif National Museum, which is located in a beautiful old palace in the city center. The museum is home to a wide range of exhibits that cover the history and culture of the region, including traditional artifacts, photographs, and documents.
3:00 PM: Head over to the Al-Hada Mountains, which are located just outside of the city. The mountains are home to a number of hiking trails and offer beautiful views of the surrounding landscape.
5:00 PM: End your day trip by visiting the Al-Hada Waterfall, which is located in the Al-Hada Mountains. The waterfall is a beautiful sight and is a popular spot for picnics and outdoor activities.
Taif is a city that is rich in culture and history, and there is plenty to see and do during a day trip. Whether you are interested in exploring the outdoors, visiting museums, or trying local cuisine, there is something for everyone in Taif. With this schedule, you’ll be able to make the most of your day trip and see some of the city’s most popular attractions.
