Mecca Saudi Arabia 4 Day Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival and Holy Mosque
-
Arrival: Al-King Fahd International Airport ( Jeddah) is the main gateway for international travelers. After clearing customs, take a taxi or hire a car service to your hotel in Mecca.
-
Hotel: Stay at a hotel near the Holy Mosque such as Movenpick Hotel Mecca or Swissotel Al Maqam Makkah.
-
Activities: Visit the Grand Mosque (Masjid al-Haram) for Maghreb and Isha prayers. Explore the Kaaba, the Islamic pilgrimage site which Muslims around the world face during their daily prayers.
-
Food: Break your fast (if you’re there during Ramadan) at Al Baik, a popular Saudi Arabian fast food chain known for its delicious chicken and falafel.
-
Things to know: Dress modestly and respectfully. Women should wear an abaya and men should wear loose-fitting clothing that covers the knees and shoulders.
Day 2: Mount Arafat and Muzdalifah
-
Transportation: Hire a tour operator for this day trip as it involves traveling to significant sites for the Hajj pilgrimage.
-
Activities: Visit Mount Arafat, where Muslims perform Wuquf (standing in supplication) on the Day of Arafah during Hajj. Then proceed to Muzdalifah to collect pebbles for the next day’s ritual at Mina.
Day 3: Stoning the Devil and Mina
-
Activities: Perform the stoning of the devil (Rami al-Jamarat) in Mina, an essential part of the Hajj pilgrimage. Afterward, spend time at Jamarat Bridge.
-
Food: Eat at local food stalls in Mina or head back to Mecca for a more varied selection.
Day 4: Departure
-
Activities: Spend your last hours in Mecca visiting any areas you may have missed, or revisiting favorite spots. Make sure to offer final prayers at the Grand Mosque before departing.
-
Transportation: Head back to Jeddah’s King Abdulaziz International Airport for your flight home. If time allows, explore Jeddah’s Corniche and Al Balad district before departure.