Elephant Rock (Jabal AlFil)
جبل الفيل
A natural sandstone boulder about 52 metres tall that looks like an elephant with its trunk lowered. At dusk, sit in the sunken seating areas to watch the sunset and the stars.
Elephant Rock (جبل الفيل) lies in the desert about 11 km northeast of AlUla town. It is a freestanding red sandstone boulder shaped by millions of years of wind and water erosion, about 52 metres tall. An eroded arch and a drooping rock column in the middle form the elephant’s “body” and “trunk,” making it AlUla’s most recognizable natural landmark. Around the boulder, several sunken seating areas are set into the sand. At night there are bonfires and warm lamps, and the nearby café serves Arabic coffee, drinks and snacks. The best time to visit is late afternoon. Walk around the boulder for photos, then sit down to watch the sun turn the rock orange-red. After nightfall, with no light pollution around, you can see the stars. Entry is free, and café purchases are extra. Transport: take a taxi or drive from the old town area of AlUla, about 15 minutes. Winter nights are cold, so bring a jacket.
Opening hours
About 15:00–23:00 (confirm on site)
Nearby sights
- Dadan
- AlUla Oasis Heritage Trail
- AlJadidah Arts District
- AlUla Old Town
- Jabal Ikmah
- Harrat Viewpoint
- Hegra (Mada'in Salih)
- Maraya Concert Hall