Lush green valleys surrounded by mountains and escarpments with water flowing freely aren’t something you’d expect to see in a desert kingdom, but the many beautiful wadis of Saudi Arabia will pleasantly surprise you. Lush palm trees, waterfalls and stunning 360-degree views make wadis a perfect spot for hiking or a day out.

Here are 5 gorgeous wadis in Saudi Arabia that will totally give you wanderlust:

5. Wadi Lajab, Jizan Province

Located in the southwestern region, Wadi Lajab lies between two mountains, and is known for its lush green vegetation. One of the coolest features is that this wadi delivers more fresh water than any other wadis in Saudi Arabia. There are even some beautiful places to take a dip!

 

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4. Wadi Al Bardani, Bareq

One of the greenest valleys in Saudi Arabia, the water flows year round in Wadi Al Bardani. The name translates to “land of shade” and with the wadi being surrounded by mountains, its clear to see how it got its name. The scenery is breathtaking and the perfect place for a picnic spot. Stop, take pictures, and even watch some animals graze on the super verdant grass.

 

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3. Wadi Namar, Riyadh Province

This gorgeous desert oasis is just a short drive from Riyadh, making it the perfect day out. There’s a dam, a lake and a park at Wadi Namar, not to mention a stunning waterfall. A more developed wadi, this one has facilities for visitors including restrooms, walkways, and prayer areas. It’s pretty much the perfect escape from the city life.

 

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2. Wadi al-Disah, Tabuk

You can’t visit the Tabuk region without a trip to this super popular wadi. It’s surrounded by high sandstone cliffs and is a large green valley with palm trees and citrus trees galore. Water flows down to the valley from the surrounding mountains keeping the valley lush and green. This is a great spot for camping or hiking.

 

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1. Wadi Hanifa, Riyadh

City dwellers seeking a serene getaway can escape to Wadi Hanifa for an outing and be surrounded by palm trees, picnic areas and more. It’s an ideal spot for birdwatching so be sure to bring your binoculars. It’s one of Saudi’s developed wadis making it an ideal spot for those who want a natural environment but with some amenities.

 

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