Travelers seeking a taste of adventure while enjoying the luxury of a well-organized day trip will find the Nofa Wildlife Park Safari from Riyadh a compelling option. This experience blends wildlife viewing, scenic drives, and visits to exclusive resorts, making it a well-rounded outing for those interested in both nature and comfort.
What makes this tour appealing? First, you get to see a diverse array of animals including zebras, giraffes, cheetahs, and hippos, many of which are endangered or threatened species. Second, the drive through the desert offers spectacular views and a glimpse into Saudi Arabia’s natural landscape beyond the city. Lastly, the inclusion of several resorts — like the Nofa Golf Resort and Nofa Equestrian Resort — adds a touch of luxury that elevates the experience.
One consideration? The tour is quite full day, so it may not suit travelers with limited mobility or those seeking a more relaxed pace. Overall, it’s best suited for curious travelers eager for a day of wildlife, scenic landscapes, and exclusive resort visits, especially those who enjoy guided adventures.
Key Points
- Wildlife Diversity: Over 700 animals including giraffes, cheetahs, and pygmy hippos.
- Scenic Drives: Short desert journey providing stunning vistas.
- Luxury Resorts: Visit the Nofa Golf and Equestrian Resorts.
- Family-Friendly: Suitable for most travelers, excluding pregnant women, those with back issues, or allergies.
- Flexible Booking: Reserve now, pay later, and cancel up to 24 hours in advance.
- Value for Money: Combines wildlife, scenery, and resort visits in one package at $280 per person.
Introduction to the Experience
Imagine spending your day exploring a vast wildlife park where animals roam freely in large enclosures, and you’re comfortably seated in a private vehicle. That’s exactly what the Nofa Wildlife Park Safari offers, right from Riyadh. This journey combines close animal encounters with scenic drives through the Saudi desert, all wrapped up with visits to high-end resorts.
What’s particularly attractive about this tour? First, it’s a chance to see a wide variety of animals—from elegant giraffes towering over your vehicle to swift cheetahs that might be just a few feet away. Second, the landscape itself is a highlight, with the desert scenery adding a rugged, authentic touch to the safari. Third, the inclusion of visits to the Nofa Resorts offers a luxurious counterpoint to the wild adventure, making the day both exciting and relaxing.
One thing to keep in mind is that this tour is quite activity-packed, so it’s best for those who enjoy a full day of sightseeing and don’t mind some outdoor time. It’s a fantastic choice for families, wildlife enthusiasts, or anyone wanting a break from city sightseeing with an emphasis on nature and comfort.
Looking for more options in Riyadh Province? We've reviewed plenty of other experiences.
What You Can Expect from the Tour
Starting with the Safari Drive
Your day begins with a pickup in Riyadh and a comfortable ride out to the Nofa Wildlife Park. The drive itself is a treat, offering a glimpse into Saudi’s desert landscape and the chance to see the Nofa Golf Resort and Equestrian Resort from afar. The highlight? The safari tour in a private vehicle where animals are free to roam in large, naturalistic enclosures.
Travelers consistently mention how knowledgeable guides make the experience more engaging. One reviewer noted, “Our guide was incredibly informative, sharing stories about each species and their conservation status.”
Animal Encounters
The park hosts over 700 animals, including zebras, wildebeest, hippos, giraffes, and cheetahs. You’ll get close enough to snap photos of the giraffes stretching their long necks or the zebras munching on grass. Many reviews mention that seeing the cheetahs up close was a highlight, especially given how rare such encounters are in many parts of the world.
Some guests appreciated that the animals appear well cared for, with one reviewer commenting, “The enclosures felt spacious, and the animals seemed healthy.”
More Great Tours NearbyScenic Desert Drive & Resort Visits
After the safari, you’ll enjoy a short drive through the desert landscape, which offers a different perspective on Saudi Arabia’s natural beauty. During the drive, you’ll also see the Nofa Golf Resort, which provides a picturesque backdrop for the safari.
The tour then continues to the Nofa Equestrian Resort, where you can learn about horse riding and see the equestrian facilities. The Nofa Walk, a designated scenic route, offers additional opportunities for photos and light exploration before heading back.
Practical Details & Comfort
Transportation is in a comfortable vehicle, and the entire day is arranged to maximize your sightseeing while minimizing hassle. Given the tight schedule, wearing comfortable shoes and bringing essentials like sunscreen, a hat, and water is recommended.
The Value of the Tour
At $280 per person, this tour offers a lot of value for wildlife lovers and those seeking a combination of adventure and luxury. Entrance to the park, the safari, and visits to multiple resorts are included, meaning you won’t be surprised by hidden costs. The guided aspect ensures you get expert insights and a smooth experience, even if you’re unfamiliar with the area.
Guests have noted that the tour strikes a good balance between structured activities and free time for photos or relaxing strolls. It’s also flexible—if you want to customize part of the day or extend the visit to a particular area, the guides are often accommodating.
However, keep in mind that meals and drinks are not included, so packing some snacks or planning for lunch is wise. Also, this experience isn’t suitable for pregnant women, people with back problems, or those with animal allergies, based on the tour restrictions.
Detailed Breakdown of the Itinerary
Morning Pickup and Desert Drive
Expect to be picked up early in Riyadh, with most tours starting around 7:30 or 8:00 am. The drive out to Nofa takes roughly an hour, during which you can enjoy scenic views of the Saudi desert. The guides often share interesting facts about the landscape and the purpose of the parks.
Wildlife Safari
The safari itself lasts about 2 hours. The vehicle is typically a private, air-conditioned one, providing a comfortable environment as you get close to the animals. Guides are knowledgeable and eager to share facts about each species, their habitat, and conservation efforts.
Guests appreciate the chance to capture amazing photos, especially when animals approach the vehicle. Many reviews remark on the professionalism and friendliness of the guides, which adds to the overall enjoyment.
Resort Visits and Light Exploration
Post-safari, the tour includes visits to the Nofa Equestrian Resort, which showcases Saudi Arabia’s horse culture. The Nofa Walk offers a brief but scenic route to enjoy more views of the grounds and desert scenery.
Return to Riyadh
The day wraps up with a comfortable drive back to Riyadh, usually arriving around 4 or 5 pm, depending on the pace and group size. Some tours include a chance for a quick refresh or photo stops along the way.
Authentic Insights from Reviews
Reviews highlight the expert guidance as a major plus, with several mentioning that guides “made the experience enjoyable and informative.” Visitors also note that seeing the animals in naturalistic settings felt more genuine than typical zoo visits. The stunning desert vistas offered during the drive are frequently described as a highlight, with one traveler mentioning, “It’s like seeing a different Saudi—vast, wild, and beautiful.”
Some visitors express a desire for longer or more in-depth visits, but most agree that the tour offers great value for a full day’s adventure. The flexibility to cancel up to 24 hours beforehand is also appreciated, especially for travelers with changing plans.
The Sum Up
This private safari tour to Nofa Wildlife Park from Riyadh is a compelling choice for wildlife enthusiasts, families, and anyone eager to experience Saudi Arabia’s natural landscape beyond the city. The combination of animal encounters, scenic desert drives, and visits to luxurious resorts creates a well-rounded day that balances adventure with comfort.
While it’s a relatively full schedule, the professional guides and carefully curated stops make the experience smooth and enjoyable. If you want to see exotic animals, enjoy stunning desert views, and relax in upscale surroundings, this tour hits the right notes.
However, it’s important to consider personal mobility and dietary needs, as the tour is quite active. For travelers wanting an authentic, guided experience that combines wildlife and scenic beauty, this is a solid, value-packed option.
FAQ
What is included in the tour?
Transportation in a comfortable vehicle, entrance to Nofa Wildlife Park, the safari tour, and visits to Nofa Golf Resort, Nofa Equestrian Resort, and the Nofa Walk are all included.
Are meals or drinks included?
No, meals and drinks are not included, so travelers should bring their own or plan to purchase food during the day.
How long does the safari last?
The safari typically lasts about 2 hours, giving ample opportunity to see various animals and take photos.
Is the tour suitable for children?
While the tour is family-friendly, it may not be suitable for very small children or those with mobility issues. Check with the provider for specific age restrictions.
Can I cancel the booking?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility if your plans change.
Do I need to bring anything?
Yes, comfortable shoes, a sun hat, camera, sunscreen, and water are recommended to stay comfortable and prepared during the outdoor activities.
Is the tour suitable for pregnant women?
No, pregnant women are advised not to participate due to the nature of the activities.
Are guides fluent in English?
Yes, the experience provider offers guides who speak English, which helps ensure smooth communication.
How do I book the tour?
Reservations can be made online via GetYourGuide, with the option to keep your plans flexible and pay later.
What is the best time of year to do this tour?
While not explicitly mentioned, considering Saudi Arabia’s climate, cooler months—like winter—are generally more comfortable for outdoor activities.
This safari offers a rare glimpse into Saudi Arabia’s wildlife and natural beauty, wrapped in the comfort of guided tours and luxury resorts. It’s a day well spent for those wanting more than just city sightseeing—an authentic taste of wildlife, scenic landscapes, and upscale relaxation.
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