Al-Ula

There are just a few spots on the planet where you may feel like a genuine adventurer probing the unknown. The sense of discovery is quickly destroyed by a forest of selfie sticks in many historic places. But in AlUla, Saudi Arabia's first UNESCO World Heritage Site, out in the desert in the country's northwestern corner, you might be able to live out your ambition of becoming an adventurous archaeologist for a day. Despite having all of the makings of a bucket list-topping global destination — ancient tombs that remain as the legacy of 7,000 years of human civilization, stunning natural rock formations and canyons, a plethora of adventure sports options, and cutting-edge art installations — AlUla remains largely off the global tourism radar, giving you plenty of space and time for reflection with the vast desert's silence and the monumentality of its natural assets.

AlUla is a natural outdoor museum that shows rock formations, canyons, and cliffs that equal the breathtaking wonders sculpted by its ancient residents. The bizarre rock outcroppings dotting the countryside are ideal for exploration on foot, bicycle, 4x4, or Arabian horse. "It varies greatly from one rock to the next," Ponzo explains. "You can gaze in those rocks and see whatever you want." One of the most well-known is Jabal AlFil, or Elephant Rock, where you can even arrange for a special banquet. There are now a variety of hiking paths for people of all fitness levels to enjoy the breathtaking scenery. Because of the region's well-known dark sky, stargazing in AlGharameel and other sites is a popular way to end the evening.