To the Edge of the World: Our Desert Misadventure in Saudi Arabia
We only had one day in Riyadh, and we decided to make it count by driving to the famous Edge of the World, a dramatic cliff formation dozens of kilometers outside the city. What we did not expect was that this day trip would turn into one of the most dangerous adventures of our travels.
Armed with a rental SUV and Google Maps, we headed into the desert. The problems started when the app confidently showed roads where none existed. We found ourselves navigating through dried-out riverbeds, guessing which sandy track might lead somewhere. At one point, we got completely stuck in the soft desert sand, far from any help or cell signal.
The final stretch proved the most challenging: the last two kilometers had to be covered on foot in scorching 50°C heat. Every step felt heavy, but the reward was worth it. Standing at the Edge of the World, gazing across the endless expanse below, was truly breathtaking.
Looking back, had we known how dangerous this trip would become, we probably would have chosen a guided tour instead. But sometimes the most memorable adventures are the ones you stumble into unprepared.
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