18
Harrat Khaybar
559km
35km
Driving MODERATE
Best for SPECTACULAR VIEWS
Recommended for DISCOVERING SAUDI’S GEOLOGY
Saudi Arabia is not only home to deserts and mountains, it is also home to large volcanic fields which were formed over five million years. Known as 'harrat' in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, this terrain appears almost moon-like with its black lava fields and craters. This area is named after Khaybar, an oasis that lies a few kilometres away.
STICK TO THE ROUTE
This drive follows a flat, paved road that slowly takes you up to an elevation of 1,300m. The road eventually turns to dirt track, offering a more varied driving experience. Practice caution and follow the route closely as the terrain is full of broken slabs and sharp rock fragments that can damage car tyres.
Black Volcanic Crater
For a better view of the area, climb or drive up Jabal al Qidr to check out the mountain-top crater and see the endless black lava fields that make this area famous. From a distance, the fields of solidified lava might be mistaken for the sea. It is said to be the longest stretch of lava fields, almost reaching the Prophet’s Mosque in Al Madinah.
Mustatil (Stone Structure)
The mustatil stones were first discovered in the black volcanic fields in the 1970s. Thanks to satellite imagery, we now know there are thousands more stone sculptures of varying shapes spread across this area. To see all the stone structures an aerial view is required, but don’t let this stop you from visiting and exploring the site on foot.
THE NORTH-WEST OF SAUDI ARABIA IS HOME TO OVER 2,000 DORMANT VOLCANOES AND 12 LAVA FIELDS. THE LAST VOLCANIC ERUPTION WAS IN 1256, LASTING SEVERAL DAYS WITH LAVA STRETCHING OVER 23KM.
White Volcanic Mountain
The contrasting black and white volcanoes are the result of a range of different rock types. The foothills where the black basaltic lava fields and white volcanoes meet are an absolute must see.
White Volcanic Crater
Driving to the crater of Jabal al Bayda is relatively safe, but you may want to stretch your legs and take a short hike up instead. As you make your way over the edge of the crater, you will be treated to a spectacular panorama. If you like to live life on the edge, try driving around the circumference of the crater.
DRIVING DIRECTION
This dramatic route passes through some rough terrain and steep tracks. From point 4, the exploration of the volcano should only be attempted by experienced off-road drivers.
1 Turn right off the main road and continue on a gravel track.
2 There are many opportunities to explore the lava field, including a hiking trail to the Black Volcanic Crater. When you have finished traversing the area, return to the main track.
3 Continue driving through the lava field.
4 From here, the route gets trickier so drive cautiously. All tracks allow you to explore the volcano. Once you have finished, return on the same route back to the main road.
