If you want to see a peaceful and green place in Saudi Arabia, Tanomah is a great choice. It is in the south, in the Asir Mountains, and it is cooler than most cities in the country. You will see tall cliffs, green forests, and fresh air.
The best way to visit Tanomah is by car. You can stop at nice viewpoints, take photos, and explore small villages. If you are renting a car in Saudi Arabia, it gives you the freedom to travel at your own time and visit many nature spots. Our Tanomah travel guide will show you what to do, what to see, and how to enjoy a smooth road trip.
The nearest place to rent a car before your trip to Tanomah is in Abha, a city about 1 hour and 43 minutes away by car. The drive covers around 116 kilometers and follows Route 15. If you are flying into the region, it’s best to land at Abha International Airport, where many rental services are available. To make things easier, book your car in advance online so you can avoid delays and pick the vehicle that fits your travel plans.
To rent a car in Saudi Arabia, you must be at least 21 years old and hold a valid driving license. You can use an international driving permit or a license from your home country. Most car rental offices will also ask for a credit card and a copy of your passport. Check the car’s insurance and fuel policy before driving off. Ensure you understand the traffic rules, especially in rural areas like Tanomah, where you may see fewer road signs in English.
For this type of trip, the best vehicle is a compact SUV or a sedan with good ground clearance. Some places in Tanomah are on hilly terrain, and a stronger car will help you drive more safely. An SUV also gives you more space if you're traveling with family or bringing gear for hiking or picnics. Air conditioning is a must, even in cooler mountain areas. Finally, choose a car that is comfortable for long drives and has a reliable GPS or phone holder so you can follow the route easily.
Tanomah is a peaceful mountain town surrounded by red peaks and deep green forests. The trails, trees, and wildlife make it ideal for hiking, climbing, and birdwatching. Here are the best activities to experience in Tanomah:
You will find well-known trails in Sharaf National Park and nearby hills, perfect for slow walks or serious treks. Local guides will explain the flora, wildlife, and terrain. These trails are cool, shaded, and not too crowded. They offer good air, lovely forest views, and peaceful paths.
The rocky cliffs near Tanomah are famous for having the country’s first bolted climbing route. This means fixed anchors are already in place, so you can climb safely. These red peaks are solid and beautiful, with wide views. It’s ideal for new climbers too. Climbers often camp nearby and enjoy the quiet evenings.
Some of the unique birds you might spot include the Black scrub robin, Arabian babbler, and Rüppell's weaver. You may also see bright-colored birds like the Arabian golden sparrow and the Rufous-capped lark. Birds such as the Arabian partridge, Yemen warbler, and Yemen serin are harder to find but can be seen if you are patient. These birds live in the mountain areas and often stay near water or shaded places. If you’re lucky, you could also catch a glimpse of birds flying high, like the Sooty falcon, White-winged tern, or White-eyed gull.
Because of its height and mountain location, Tanomah stays cool even when most of the Kingdom gets hot. That’s why it’s a favorite summer spot. You’ll enjoy fresh breezes, shaded walking paths, and restful places to sit under the trees. For many, a road trip to Tanomah is the perfect way to relax away from crowded cities or busy beaches.
Tanomah sits high in the Sarawat mountain range, which keeps it cool all year. This is especially true in summer when lowland cities are hot and dusty. Here, you’ll find fresh wind, clean views, and mild weather. People come from Jeddah or Riyadh just to breathe this air.
Camping in Tanomah is simple and peaceful. There are open grassy areas where you can set up your tent, cook food, and rest. Nights are clear and quiet, with bright stars and mountain air. You’ll hear birds and maybe wind in the trees. This kind of camping is common among locals and easy to try. Some parks also allow overnight stays.
Tanomah is calm. It’s not crowded like many tourist cities, but it has places to eat and rest. If you enjoy grilled dishes, try Al Nakheel Restaurant, which is popular for its meat plates. Reef Tanomah has a local buffet with rice, soups, and other warm meals for something simple and filling. These restaurants are easy to find, and parking is usually not a problem.
Nature parks and forest trails are some of the most visited spots in Tanomah. They show off the area’s green side, and many are easy to reach by car. These trails are safe, cool, and family-friendly.
After spending time in the city, driving to Tanomah’s green parks offers a peaceful escape. You should not miss two parks: Al Sharaf Park and Al Mahfar Tourist Park. Both parks are easy to reach by car and show you the real nature of southern Saudi Arabia.
Al Sharaf Park is found on the western slopes of Tanomah, giving you wide views of the mountains and valleys below. This high park is great in the late afternoon, when the light is soft and the animals come out. You might see cows, goats, or buffalo walking across the fields, especially during quiet hours. Al Mahfar Tourist Park is larger and more active. It is a popular getaway for people from Abha and nearby towns. The area is filled with green trees, wild plants, and native animals you won’t find in other regions. People come here to camp, hike, and enjoy group barbecues.
Mount Mun’aa is one of the highest spots near Tanomah. Its smooth rock surface was shaped by years of rain and flowing water from nearby dams. You can reach the base easily by car and take a short hike from nearby roads. It’s best to visit early in the morning or during sunset, when the air is cooler and the light is soft. From the top, you can see green forests and several small villages, including Al Sharaf, Al Qura, and Al Makhwah.
The best time to see the Tanomah Waterfall is during the rainy season, which usually happens from April to July. This is when the Dahna Dam fills up from the rains and begins to overflow, sending water rushing over the rocks near Dahna Village. The waterfall becomes loud, fast-moving, and full of energy. It’s a short and easy walk from the road, and local residents can show you the best view spot.
Tanomah is a top place for guided outdoor experiences. Here are some adventure tours to try:
This trip is for people who want to hike over rocky paths and learn basic climbing with ropes. It takes you into areas that look wild and untouched. You’ll pass red rocks, deep bushes, and steep hills. The tour also gives you time to rest and enjoy the views.
This trip shows you parts of Tanomah and the wider Asir region. You’ll visit heritage villages, hike in green valleys, and learn about local culture, plants, and people. This experience blends nature with education. It’s not a challenging walk, but exploring each stop takes time. Most visitors plan this as a full-day tour and start from The Outpost after driving to Tanomah in the morning.
If you want a challenge, try this trip to the highest viewpoint in the region. You’ll hike through steep forest paths and rocky edges. The view from the top shows deep valleys and far-off peaks. The air is cold, even in summer. You can do this in a group or alone, but guides are helpful. If you’re planning a road trip to Tanomah, this is one of the top stops.
Tanomah has many scenic spots that are easy to visit with your car. These natural areas are perfect for slow drives, quiet breaks, and nature walks. You’ll find forests, waterfalls, valleys, and farms that grow herbs and fruits. These are the top places to visit in Tanomah:
This seasonal waterfall flows only when the dam nearby is full. Water runs over smooth rocks and falls down the mountain slope. It’s loud and fast. You can reach it by car and walk a short way. If you're driving to Tanomah, stop here when the weather is good. The flow is strongest in early summer after heavy rain.
Tanomah’s forests have old, fragrant juniper trees. These trees grow close together and fill the air with a fresh scent. Forest trails pass under their branches, offering peace, shade, and good birdwatching. You can start these walks from parks like Al Sharaf or King Salman. This is the best way to see the beauty of Tanomah.
In some areas, you’ll find farms with grapes, figs, pomegranates, and herbs. The air smells like mint and basil in the right season. These places are not crowded, and you can stop your car to walk around.
Tanomah offers cooler weather, green landscapes, and space to slow down. It’s a smart choice for a break from city life, especially if you enjoy hiking, birdwatching, and quiet roads. You’ll find forest parks, mountain viewpoints, and small villages that are easy to explore by car.
Final Rentals is a trusted car rental service in Saudi Arabia. You can book online, pick up your car at Abha Airport, and choose a vehicle that fits your trip, like an SUV for mountain roads. Start your journey and enjoy the drive to Tanomah without any hassle.
