Asir National Park is a massive protected area encompassing over 6,490 square kilometers in Saudi Arabia’s Asir region. Established in 1981, it holds the distinction of being the first national park ever designated in the country.
The park’s unique feature is the dramatic elevation change. Asir National Park stretches from the shores of the Red Sea all the way up to the Sarawat Mountains. This range in elevation creates a beautiful and diverse landscape, encompassing everything from coastal plains and foothills to dramatic mountains and valleys.
In A Nutshell
| ✦ Best For | Birdwatchers and nature lovers |
| ✦ Fun Fact | Saudi Arabia’s first national park |
| ✦ Size | 6,500 square kilometers approx |
| ✦ Biodiversity | Over 300 species of animals and birds |
| ✦ Facilities | 67 camping sites and hiking paths |
| ✦ Timings | Open year-round, every day |
| ✦ Best Time to Visit | March-May |
When In Asir National Park…
🥾 Go hiking in the wilderness
Hiking along the Jabal Soudah trail in Aseer National Park is a fantastic way to explore the beauty and untouched wilderness of the region. The 15 km trail winds its way through juniper forests, meadows, and rocky outcrops, offering stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.
🏕 Pitch a tent and sleep under the stars
The park has over 67 campsites, all conveniently marked on a map and equipped with parking, restrooms, and picnic tables. There are even nature trails, playgrounds, and scenic lookouts to keep everyone entertained. Apart from these campsites, the rest of the park remains wild and undisturbed.
🦅 Enjoy uninterrupted birdwatching
Head out during the summer to catch sight of a variety of bird species. Keep your eyes peeled for yellow-beaked marvels, griffon vultures, African olive pigeons, tawny eagles, little rock thrush, and the Asir magpie, an endangered Arabian bird found only in the mountains of Asir.
🚴 Go mountain biking on a rocky terrain
Asir National Park offers epic mountain biking adventures for adventure seekers. The rocky climbs and high altitude will test your limits, but the reward is breathtaking views of Jabal Sawda’s mountains and endless acacia forests. Aim for August for the most comfortable conditions.
🚠 Take a cable car ride from Jabal Soudah
Want to relax and soak in the park’s amazing views without breaking a sweat? Take the cable car from Jabal Soudah, Saudi Arabia’s highest peak at 9,839 ft. You’ll be rewarded with incredible panoramic views of the deep valleys below, all the way to the southern Red Sea coast.
Where is Asir National Park located?
Located near Abha, Asir National Park stretches for 1,600 square kilometers between the Saudi Arabian desert and the Red Sea coast. Encompassing both marine and terrestrial areas, the park is surrounded by majestic mountains and cliffs, including Jabal Soudah, the tallest in the entire kingdom at an impressive 3,000 meters.
A stunning variety of distinct plant communities thrive within the park’s diverse zones. Mangroves fringe the coast, while the coastal plain is covered with pockets of desert vegetation. As you climb into the western foothills and mountains, acacia trees, junipers, and even olive trees become more prominent, alongside a tapestry of other flora and fauna. The park teems with animal life as well.
Stay Near Asir National Park
Blue Inn Hotel, Abha: With a warm and inviting atmosphere, this hotel boasts elegant interiors, attentive staff, and amenities like free WiFi, free breakfast, an indoor pool, a fitness center, and an onsite restaurant.
Citadines Abha: Situated just a short distance from the Abha Airport, Citadines offers a variety of amenities including an outdoor swimming pool, a fitness center, a sauna, a hot tub, a restaurant, a 24-hour front desk, and free WiFi throughout the property.
Abha Palace: Abha Palace Hotel is about 30 minutes from Abha Airport. The rooms offer views of the lake and surrounding mountains. Guests can enjoy cable car rides starting from the station next to the hotel until the Green Mountain.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is Asir National Park located?
Asir National Park is situated in the southwest region of Saudi Arabia, along the Sarawat Mountains. The park boasts a unique and diverse landscape. You’ll find towering mountains, juniper forests, deep valleys, and seasonal waterfalls. The climate is cooler and wetter compared to other parts of Saudi Arabia.
What activities can I do in Asir National Park?
The park offers a variety of activities for nature lovers. Hiking, camping, picnicking, and wildlife watching are popular options. There are also opportunities for rock climbing and birdwatching.
What kind of wildlife can I see at Asir National Park?
The park is home to a variety of animals, including Arabian leopards, hyraxes, wolves, and numerous bird species. With some luck, you might even spot an Asir magpie that is native to the region.
When is the best time to visit Asir National Park?
The most comfortable weather is during the spring (March-May) and fall (September-November) months. Temperatures are mild, and there’s less chance of precipitation compared to the winter.
Are there any accommodations available inside Asir National Park?
There are limited options for camping within the park. However, there are several hotels, resorts, and lodges located in the surrounding towns and villages that offer comfortable accommodations.
