British explorer Alice Morrison, 61, successfully completed the first stage of her 2,500 km expedition across Saudi Arabia on Friday. Starting at the Jordanian border on New Year’s Day, she trekked 930 km to Madinah’s Prophet’s Mosque, averaging 23 km daily with camels Juicy and Lulu.
Morrison joined Saudi Arabia’s first female wildlife rangers in Wadi Al Deesah to explore initiatives reviving extinct species. Her journey highlights women’s evolving roles, including collaborations with Princess Abeer Al Saud and entrepreneur Sara Omar.
I’ve made it!! I’m standing outside the Prophet’s Mosque in Madinah. I’ve walked 930km and finished the first stage of my endeavour to become the first person to walk across Saudi north to south. pic.twitter.com/I4uoqp2ljt
— alice morrison (@aliceoutthere1) February 14, 2025
Ancient Treasures and Cultural Revelations
The explorer uncovered Bronze Age tombs, 4,000-year-old petroglyphs, and remnants of the Hejaz Railway. In AlUla, she studied Dadanite lion tombs with archaeologist Wissam Khalil, a region she featured in her BBC series Arabian Adventures.
Despite concerns about skepticism, Morrison praised Saudi hospitality and historical richness. “Saudi has surprised and delighted me,” she remarked, noting discoveries like stone axes and tribal waterways. Her camels added levity, with Juicy’s antics stealing the spotlight.
Next Steps: Stage Two Begins October 2025
The five-month trek, split across two winters due to heat and Ramadan, resumes in October 2025. Morrison will traverse from Madinah to Yemen’s border, documenting climate impacts and Saudi modernization.
A veteran explorer, Morrison previously crossed Morocco’s Sahara and cycled Africa. At 61, she aims to inspire mid-life adventurers, proving “life experience” fuels daring dreams610. Follow her journey via podcasts and social media.
