desert light tours

Uluru Desert Lights

Enjoy the newest show at Uluru, Wintjiri Wiru an iconic experience where you will witness the Mala story brought to life like never before including a sunset picnic dinner. With 3 nights you’ll have time to explore and enjoy the field of light at sunrise and much more.

Tour Inclusions

Book this package with  one  of the accommodation options below:

Option 1: Outback Hotel 3 night stay in Uluru at the Ayers Rock Resort in a standard room.

Option 2: Desert Gardens 3 night stay in Uluru at the Ayers Rock Resort in a garden view room.

Option 3: Sails in the Desert 3 night stay in Uluru at the Ayers Rock Resort in a superior room.

And, all bookings for this package include the following:

• Wintjiri Wiru Sunset Dinner light show including:
• Transfers from Ayers Rock Resort in an air-conditioned coach
• Welcome cocktail & canapes
• Sunset views out to Uluru & Kata Tjuta
• Dinner hamper featuring native ingredients
• Beer, wines & soft drinks
• Uluru Sunrise & Field of Light Tour including: 
• tea, coffee or hot chocolate at the sunrise viewing area
• Uluru Audio Guide  for Self-Guided Touring around Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park.
• Free Return Ayers Rock Airport Transfers .
• Free Indigenous Activities Program .
• Free use of the Ayers Rock Resort Shuttle bus service.
• Free in-room WiFi .
• Free parking .
• Free 3 Day National Park Entry Fee .

Please note: availability is limited at Ayers Rock Resort this month and next month.

Final package price may vary depending on your choice of accommodation. Please be aware flights are not included in the package price. However please speak to one of our NT Now Travel specialists for the best available fares at the time of booking.

Choose your travel option

Accommodation:

In the heart of Australia's Red Centre, Sails in the Desert hotel beautifully contrasts Uluru's raw natural beauty with a decidedly premium outback holiday experience. Soaring white sails crown Ayers Rock Resort's Sails in the Desert hotel, shading 228 beautifully appointed rooms and suites. In a destination where one of the world's oldest cultures still thrives, the mystery, colour and wisdom of the local Anangu people is interwoven into every facet of Sails in the Desert's modern design. This hotel features an expansive gumtree lined swimming pool and a diversity of modern dining, bar and lounge options. Relax and feast in the brasserie-style Ilkari Restaurant or let time tick by as you enjoy cocktails, music and Indigenous-inspired cuisine in the Walpa Lobby Bar, or curl up on one of the daybeds and enjoy a casual lunch and cocktail by the pool. Sails in the Desert's stunning Mulgara Gallery takes you on an exploration through the unique styles and breathtaking stories of Indigenous art. Find each of your senses lulled into complete relaxation as you give in to one of the Red Ochre Spa's treatments.

Imagine waking up to a sunrise view of Uluru, blazing red under a sunny Outback sky. Desert Gardens Hotel boasts the only rooms with views of Uluru in Ayers Rock Resort. Perched within an oasis of native gardens, the hotel’s 218 elegant guestrooms provide a relaxing retreat from a day of adventure. Accommodation options are diverse, from deluxe rock view rooms to shady poolside rooms, each located under a canopy of towering gumtrees and garden beds dotted with native shrubs and flowers. Once you've satisfied the urges to explore the magic within Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park, you will find free guided walks through Desert Gardens Hotel's substantial and authentic native gardens just outside your hotel door. All of Ayers Rock Resort's luxuries and conveniences, including numerous lookouts, Red Ochre Spa and the shops, tour & information centre and cafés located at the Resort Town Square, are within easy walking distance or accessible via the free shuttle bus.

Australian hospitality has its own style that combines both professionalism and genuine warmth. You'll find this authentic brand of service at the Outback Hotel. Comfortable, affordable hotel rooms with private bathrooms are perfect for the demands of travellers looking for quality service in relaxed surroundings. The rooms feature air-conditioning and heating and have tea/coffee making facilities. As a guest at the Hotel you have access to all the facilities the resort has to offer, including shopping, visitor centre, tour desk, and more. This is a place where friendships are made and good times are had by all. Grab a bite to eat served alongside some great music, great conversation, and a few good laughs at the Outback Kitchen, select your preferred cut of meat or fish, including steaks, kangaroo, emu sausages, and barramundi, and cook it yourself at the Outback BBQ, or swap stories of your day's adventures with a cold beverage at the Outback Bar. Alternatively, opt for the peace and quiet of the Bough House Restaurant.

What to do:

Experience Wintjiri Wiru, a brand new experience at Uluru. Take your seat in the open-air desert theatre set upon a dune top. You'll be greeted with delicious cocktails, infused with native ingredients while taking in the incredible views of Uluru and Kata Tjuta. Embark on a culinary adventure with a gourmet dinner hamper where native ingredients are combined with modern culinary techniques to create a masterpiece for the palette. Then, as darkness falls, witness the Mala story brought to life like never before with ground-breaking technology. Choreographed drones, lasers, and projections will light up the desert sky in a modern, artistic expression of an ancient Anangu story.

Never has an early morning start been more rewarding. The silent morning air that encompasses the desert landscape of Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park is filled with gasps and amazed ‘ooohs’ and ‘aaahhs’ as the first group to wander through the desert paths are met by four acres of flowing fibre optics lights. With the majestic Uluru in the background, begin to fall into silence as you take in what is truly an unforgettable and life-changing experience. These otherworldly spheres of light are internationally acclaimed artist Bruce Munro’s latest art installation, Field of Light, and his largest to date, with him and his team installing more than 50,000 slender stems crowned with radiant frosted glass spheres in a remote desert area within sight of majestic Uluru.

Uluru Audio Guide has over 100 stories covering Uluru’s Aboriginal culture, history, geology and everything in between. The audio guide is available as both a downloadable app or a physical device that can be hired from our reservations desk. The audio guide is is designed to allow your own Self-Guided Touring around Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park. 

Package terms

On sale until   31 July  2024. For travel until 31 March 2025. Pricing based on the Outback Hotel for travel from 1 Nov 2024 to 31 Mar 2025, seasonal supplements apply outside these dates, pricing is based on dynamic pricing and is subject to change. Blackout dates may apply and some inclusions may be closed over public holidays. From Prices and inclusions are correct as of 22 April 2024 and may be subject to change due to availability, surcharges, fees or taxes without notice. Offer may be withdrawn at any time without notice. Prices are based on per person twin share. Please contact us on 1800 854 897 or [email protected] to enquire. Airfares and transfers are additional unless otherwise specified. For full terms and conditions and details on our refund policy, view our booking conditions. E&OE.

Per Person Twin Share

Offer ends: 31 July 2024

Valued up to $4,590

Valued up to $6,029

Offer ends: 15 July 2024

Valued up to $1,193

Valued up to $1,204

Valued up to $1,657

Valued up to $1,694

Valued up to $1,189

Valued up to $1,039

Valued up to $1,797

Valued up to $1,717

Valued up to $2,277

Valued up to $669

Valued up to $2,890

Valued up to $1,285

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We respectfully acknowledge and honour the Aboriginal people of the Northern Territory and recognise the continuation of culture, connection to lands, water and country. We pay our respects to Elders past, present and future

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The Best Desert Safari Tours for First-Timers

Home / The Best Desert Safari Tours for First-Timers

• July 12, 2023

Discover the Best Desert Safari Tours for Beginners

Are you ready to embark on an unforgettable adventure in the mesmerizing deserts? If you’re a first-timer looking to experience the thrill and beauty of the desert, choosing the right safari tour is crucial. From exhilarating dune bashing to tranquil sunset views, there’s a desert safari tour perfectly suited for beginners like you.

This comprehensive guide will explore the  best desert safari tours , provide essential tips, and help you make the most of your first desert safari experience.

Best Desert Safari Tours for Beginners

Tour 1: experience the thrill of dune bashing.

One of the most popular activities in desert safari tours is dune bashing. Strap in for an adrenaline-pumping ride as skilled drivers navigate through the sandy dunes in a 4×4 vehicle. Feel the rush as you go up and down the steep slopes of the desert, creating lasting memories and unforgettable moments.

Tour 2: Enjoy a camel ride and traditional Bedouin camp

Immerse yourself in the rich Bedouin culture by embarking on a tour that offers camel riding and a visit to a traditional camp. Mount a camel and explore the desert like a true desert traveller. Afterwards, unwind at a Bedouin camp, where you can savour traditional cuisine, witness captivating cultural performances, and try traditional activities like falconry or shisha smoking.

Tour 3: Explore the desert on a quad bike adventure

A quad bike adventure is the perfect choice for the more adventurous souls. Hop on a powerful all-terrain vehicle and zip through the golden sands, experiencing the thrill of off-road exploration. It’s an exciting way to discover the desert’s hidden treasures while satisfying your inner adrenaline junkie.

Tour 4: Witness mesmerizing desert sunset views

Prepare to be awestruck as the desert sky transforms into a canvas of vibrant colours during sunset. Opt for a tour that offers sunset views, and find yourself in a prime location to capture breathtaking photographs of the desert landscape bathed in warm hues. It’s an experience that will leave you in awe of nature’s beauty.

Tour 5: Experience a magical evening of belly dancing and cultural performances

Immerse yourself in the enchanting world of Arabian entertainment. Choose a tour that includes an evening of belly dancing, Tanoura performances, and captivating fire shows. Sit back, relax, and let the mesmerizing performances transport you to a realm of mystique and wonder.

First-Time Desert Safari Experiences

When embarking on a desert safari tour for the first time, it’s natural to have questions about what to expect. Rest assured and the experience is designed to provide you with a blend of adventure, relaxation, and cultural immersion.

As you venture into the desert, you’ll have the opportunity to interact with the unique wildlife that calls this arid landscape home. From Arabian oryx to falcons, the desert’s inhabitants will captivate you with their resilience and beauty. Keep your camera ready to capture these magical encounters.

Apart from wildlife, the desert boasts stunning flora that has adapted to harsh conditions. Marvel at the sight of desert flowers and plants, each one a testament to nature’s ability to thrive even in the most challenging environments.

Photography enthusiasts will find themselves in paradise, with countless opportunities to capture the vastness and tranquillity of the desert. As the sun bathes the dunes in warm light, you’ll be presented with breathtaking, truly Instagram-worthy vistas.

Comprehensive Guide to Desert Safari Tours

When planning your desert safari tour, it’s essential to consider the different types of tours available and choose a reputable tour operator. While the options may seem overwhelming, we’ve compiled a few tips to help you make an informed decision.

Start by understanding the various types of tours, such as morning safaris, evening safaris, or overnight camping experiences. Each tour offers a unique perspective on the desert, and your choice depends on your preferences and schedule.

Research different tour operators and read reviews to ensure they provide a high-quality experience. Look for operators that have knowledgeable guides, well-maintained vehicles, and a commitment to safety. Remember, a reputable operator can make all the difference in creating a memorable desert safari.

Carefully review the tour itinerary and inclusions. Does the tour include transportation to and from your accommodation? Are activities like dune bashing, camel riding, and cultural performances included? Understanding the itinerary will help you choose a tour that aligns with your interests and expectations.

By investing time in researching and planning, you can ensure a desert safari tour that exceeds your expectations and creates lifelong memories.

Best Time for a Desert Safari Tour

The desert climate can vary significantly throughout the year, so choosing the right time for your safari adventure is important. While the desert may seem scorching during summer, the shoulder seasons of spring and autumn offer more moderate temperatures. Consider the following factors when selecting the best time for your desert safari tour:

1. Temperature

Summers can be extremely hot, with temperatures reaching unbearable levels. If you’re sensitive to heat, it’s advisable to visit during the cooler months when temperatures are more comfortable.

The popularity of desert safari tours can vary throughout the year. If you prefer a quieter experience with fewer tourists, consider visiting during the off-peak seasons. This way, you can enjoy the serenity of the desert without the hustle and bustle.

3. Weather conditions

Keep an eye on weather forecasts before planning your tour. Extreme weather conditions, such as sandstorms or heavy rains, can affect the feasibility and safety of certain activities. Choose a time when the weather is stable for a more enjoyable experience.

4. Special events

Check if there are any special events or festivals happening in the region during your visit. These events can add an extra layer of excitement and cultural immersion to your desert safari experience.

Essential Tips for First-Time Safari Adventurers

As a first-time safari adventurer, coming prepared and making the most of your experience is important. Here are some essential tips to keep in mind:

1. Dress appropriately

Wear loose, breathable clothing that covers your skin to protect yourself from the sun. Opt for light-colored fabrics that reflect heat and consider wearing a hat and sunglasses.

2. Stay hydrated

The desert climate can be dehydrating, so drink plenty of water throughout the tour. It’s advisable to carry a refillable water bottle to ensure you stay hydrated during your adventure.

3. Protect yourself from the sun

Apply a high SPF sunscreen and reapply it regularly. Use a lip balm with SPF to prevent chapped lips. Additionally, seek shade whenever possible and wear protective clothing to minimize sunburn and heat exhaustion risks.

4. Follow safety instructions

Listen carefully to the safety instructions provided by your tour guide and follow them diligently. Desert safaris involve certain risks, and it’s important to prioritize your safety at all times.

5. Immerse yourself in the experience

Embrace the unique opportunities the desert safari offers. Engage with your surroundings, interact with the local culture, and be open to new experiences. Don’t forget to capture memories through photographs and videos to cherish for a lifetime.

Making the Most of Your First Desert Safari

A desert safari is not just about the activities; it’s about immersing yourself in the desert environment and embracing the beauty of the surroundings. Here are some ways to make the most of your first desert safari experience:

1. Disconnect from technology

Take this opportunity to disconnect from the digital world and fully engage with your surroundings. Put your phone aside, breathe in the fresh desert air, and savor the moment.

2. Try optional activities

Many desert safari tours offer additional activities like sandboarding, henna painting, or getting a traditional Arabic makeover. Don’t hesitate to try these optional activities and add more excitement to your adventure.

3. Interact with the locals

Engage with the Bedouin people and learn about their culture and traditions. Strike up conversations, ask questions, and gain a deeper understanding of their way of life. This personal connection will enrich your desert safari experience.

4. Capture the magic

The desert landscape offers incredible photo opportunities. Take the time to frame the perfect shot and capture the awe-inspiring beauty of the desert. Whether it’s a stunning sunset or the unique patterns in the sand, let your creativity flow.

5. Enjoy the silence

The desert is known for its tranquility. Take a moment to sit quietly, close your eyes, and appreciate the peacefulness of the surroundings. Allow yourself to be present and soak in the serenity.

Unique Desert Adventure for First-Timers

If you’re seeking a truly unique desert adventure, there are a few exceptional experiences you can consider:

1. Hot air balloon rides over the desert

Experience the desert from a different perspective by taking a hot air balloon ride. Watch the sunrise as you float above the dunes, taking in panoramic views that will leave you breathless.

2. Overnight camping experiences in the dunes

Extend your desert safari by spending a night under the starry sky. Sleep in a traditional Bedouin camp or go for a more adventurous camping experience in the heart of the dunes. Wake up to the golden hues of the sunrise and indulge in a delicious breakfast in the desert.

3. Desert wildlife encounters and nature walks

Join a guided nature walk through the desert and learn about its unique ecosystem. Get up close with desert wildlife, such as the elusive Arabian oryx or gazelles. An experienced guide will help you appreciate the delicate balance of nature in this arid landscape.

First-Time Safari Travel Checklist

Before embarking on your desert safari tour, it’s essential to have a checklist of essential items to pack and important considerations to keep in mind. Here’s a list to help you prepare:

1. Clothing

Pack loose, comfortable clothing suitable for the desert climate. Include a lightweight jacket or sweater for cooler evenings.

2. Footwear

Opt for closed-toe shoes or sandals that offer support and protection. Sand can get hot, so avoid wearing open-toe shoes.

3. Sun protection

Pack sunscreen with a high SPF, a wide-brimmed hat, sunglasses, and a lip balm with SPF.

4. Water bottle

Carry a refillable water bottle to stay hydrated throughout the tour.

5. Personal medication

If you have any essential medication, ensure you carry an adequate supply.

6. Camera and accessories

Capture your desert safari memories with a camera or smartphone. Don’t forget spare batteries and memory cards.

Ultimate Desert Safari Tour for Newbies

If you’re looking for the ultimate desert safari tour that caters specifically to first-time adventurers, consider a tour designed with beginners in mind. These tours typically offer a combination of thrilling activities and cultural experiences to create an unforgettable journey. Some features of an ultimate desert safari tour for newbies include:

Dune Bashing

Experience the exhilaration of dune bashing in a well-maintained 4×4 vehicle, led by expert drivers who prioritize safety.

Camel riding and cultural experiences

Enjoy a leisurely camel ride through the desert, followed by a visit to a traditional Bedouin camp. Immerse yourself in the culture through traditional dances, henna painting, and delicious Arabic cuisine.

Sunset views and photography opportunities

Witness the captivating beauty of the desert during sunset. Choose a tour that offers prime locations for capturing stunning photographs of the sunset over the dunes.

Optional activities

Opt for a tour that provides optional activities like sandboarding, quad biking, or falconry. These activities add an extra element of excitement to your desert adventure.

Expert guides and knowledgeable tour operators

Ensure that your tour is led by experienced guides who can provide insightful information about the desert’s ecosystem, culture, and history. Knowledgeable tour operators will ensure a seamless and memorable experience.

Affordable Desert Safari Tours for Beginners

Embarking on a desert safari doesn’t have to break the bank. There are several affordable options available that offer incredible experiences without compromising on quality. Here are a few tips for finding affordable desert safari tours:

Compare prices

Research and compare prices from different tour operators. Look for competitive rates without compromising on the quality of the tour.

Group bookings

Many tour operators offer discounts for group bookings. Gather a group of friends or family members to take advantage of these cost-saving options.

Off-peak seasons and weekdays

Consider visiting during off-peak seasons or on weekdays when prices are generally lower due to lower demand. You can still enjoy a fantastic desert safari experience while saving money.

Look for deals and promotions

Keep an eye out for special deals and promotions offered by tour operators. These can include discounts, bundled packages, or added benefits at no additional cost.

With a bit of research and careful planning, you can find affordable desert safari tours that provide excellent value for money, allowing you to embark on your desert adventure without stretching your budget.

Embarking on a desert safari tour as a first-timer is an exciting and memorable experience. You can make the most of your adventure in the desert by choosing the right tour, understanding what to expect, and following essential tips. Whether you opt for thrilling activities like dune bashing or prefer a more serene camel ride and cultural experience, the desert has something to offer every type of traveller. Immerse yourself in the desert’s beauty, tranquillity, and rich culture, and create lifelong memories of your first desert safari.

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Mount Desert Rock Light Station

Built in 1839, Mount Desert Rock Light Station is one of Maine's most remote and lonely lights. It was built on a remote, tree-less rockpile about 20 miles southeast of Mount Desert. During its long history, violent storms swept the rock, tearing away structures and stranding crews. The station was finally automated in 1977. The light, and the tiny island, is now owned by College of the Atlantic , which uses it for biological research.

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Anchorage cemetery tour celebrates the contributions of past Black leaders

On one of the nicest Saturdays so far this summer, about 200 people competed for space surrounding a tombstone at the Anchorage Memorial Park Cemetery. 

Their host for the afternoon: Cal Williams. 

For over two hours, Williams led the lively group on a journey through the cemetery, recounting the lives of prominent Black Alaskans who are now buried there. It was the second annual “Soul in the Cemetery” Juneteenth event — an opportunity for the community to not only celebrate Black history in Alaska and the lives of Black leaders, but also to remember elements of change that residents continue to work toward today. 

“As I visit these graves,” Williams said, “it causes me to reflect on how much more they could have given if they were still here and the great joy and wonders of what they did in the time that they were here.”

Williams is a longtime Alaska resident who personally knew many of the people highlighted on the tour. At each grave on Saturday, he introduced the individual laid to rest there to the crowd. 

The group’s first stop: the tomb of Elgin Jones, who founded the multi-cultural publication, The Anchorage Gazette. And in his later years, he worked tirelessly with Kids Kitchen, a group estimated to have served over one million free meals to local children in need. 

Williams then welcomed members of the crowd who knew Jones to recount the impact he had on Anchorage. Several people vied for the microphone. They remembered Jones as someone who deeply loved helping children and who worked through all sorts of logistical challenges to do his work in aiding them. 

“Brother Elgin…went by the rule of: If you’re gonna do it, do it right for the children,” said Rev. Wilbert Mickens of New Hope Baptist Church. 

The tour continued to the graves of a variety of other notable Black leaders including Richard and Anna Watts, Helen and Toby Gamble, Johnnie L. Gay, Rebecca Kinney and Rev. William B. Lyons, Sr. Their impact within Alaska spanned many realms of life, from hairdressing to chairing the Anchorage branch of the NAACP to carpentry to serving as the president of the Licensed Practical Colored Nurses of Louisiana. 

At the grave of Helen Gamble, Robin Cole Barden introduced some of the interwoven life stories of the late Gamble and her family. 

“Helen Gamble got here by my grandfather. He drove Helen Gamble from Oakland, California,” he said. “Before it was a state, when it was a territory, it was a total different land, total different community. And they thrived here because of that. Once it became a state with federal law there were Jim Crow laws and so the African Americans in Alaska and in Anchorage had to rebuild to thrive.”

Williams said so many people don’t know that part of Alaska’s history, and that’s why this tour is so special.

“Oftentimes many people have asked: I didn’t know that there were Black people here because most of the books that we’ve seen and most of the advertisement and PR about Alaska did not include — not only Black people, but not Native people,” Williams said. “And so today we acknowledge that by our presence, we appreciate those who have called upon us to pay tribute to those who have gone before us.”

Those honored throughout the event are just a fraction of the Black Alaskans who did work to build a robust Black presence in Alaska —  work that event organizers say is ongoing.

It’s important work, said Ted Ellis, acting chair of the 400 years of African American History Commission , a federally-appointed committee established in 2019 with the goal of rediscovering the 400 years of history since Africans were first brought to English colonies in 1619. Ellis and other members of the group attended Saturday’s tour.

“It’s so critically important that we realize the legacy of those who have come before us,” he said, “that we preserve those memories and those stories, that we take that and we share that and we grow and we do better as we continue to move toward excellence.”

One of the leaders that continues this work is Williams himself. The commission recognized him during the event as one of America’s 400 African American History Keepers. Williams has lived in Alaska for decades, is a past president of the NAACP Alaska chapter and committed activist working toward Black advancement nationwide.

“It is humbling and exciting to do this work,” Williams said. “I’m so happy that Darrel Hess came up with the crazy idea of going and visiting graves in this cemetery that entombed African Americans who made significant strides in development here in Anchorage, Alaska.”

Williams and the organizers of Soul at the Cemetery say they look forward to many more events to come.

Leigh Walden, Alaska Public Media - Anchorage

Related articles more from author, gov. dunleavy trims $225m with budget vetoes but leaves school funding boost intact, alaska supreme court sides with state, allows correspondence school laws to stand, ‘it’s a good win,’ outgoing anchorage mayor says of supreme court homelessness ruling.

Fuerza Regida announces new metro Phoenix concert. Here's ticket and presale info

Fresh from playing two nights in a row at Footprint Center, Fuerza Regida have announced another metro Phoenix concert date.

Bobby Dee Presents will bring the hitmaking regional Mexican music artists, fronted by Jesús Ortiz Paz, to Desert Diamond Arena in Glendale, AZ, on Nov. 27, 2024.

Fuerza Regida's tour is a testament to their rapid ascent and ongoing success. Their 2023 album, “Pa Las Baby’s Y Belikeada,” peaked at No. 2 on Billboard’s Latin Albums chart and reached the Top 15 of the Billboard 200.

The album generated billions of streams, featuring hits like “TQM” (No. 34 on the Billboard Hot 100), “Sabor Fresa” (No. 26 on the Hot 100), and “Harley Quinn,” a collaboration with Marshmello that marked their first No. 1 hit on the Latin Airplay chart (No. 40 on the Hot 100).

These achievements led to two Billboard Music Awards in 2023 and the No. 1 spot on Billboard’s Top Duo/Group year-end artist chart.

Need a break? Play the USA TODAY Daily Crossword Puzzle.

How to get Fuerza Regida concert tickets in Phoenix

The general on-sale for Fuerza Regida tickets starts at 10 a.m. Friday, July 5, at Ticketmaster.com.

Fuerza Regida presale code for Desert Diamond Arena

Prior to the general on-sale, Desert Diamond Arena will hold a presale from 10 a.m. Wednesday, July 3, to 9 a.m. Friday, July 5. The presale code is DDA24.

Reach the reporter at  [email protected] . Follow him on X (formerly Twitter)  @EdMasley .

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More than 1,300 people died during Hajj, many of them after walking in the scorching heat

CAIRO — More than 1,300 people died during  this year’s Hajj pilgrimage in Saudi Arabia  as the faithful faced extreme high temperatures at Islamic holy sites in the desert kingdom, Saudi authorities announced Sunday.

Saudi Health Minister Fahd bin Abdurrahman Al-Jalajel said that 83% of the 1,301 fatalities were unauthorized pilgrims who walked long distances in soaring temperatures to perform the Hajj rituals in and around the holy city of  Mecca .

Speaking with the state-owned Al Ekhbariya TV, the minister said 95 pilgrims were being treated in hospitals, some of whom were airlifted for treatment in the capital, Riyadh. He said the identification process was delayed because there were no identification documents with many of the dead pilgrims.

He said the dead were buried in Mecca, without giving a breakdown.

Egypt has revoked the licenses of 16 travel agencies that helped unauthorized pilgrims travel to Saudi Arabia, authorities said.

Saudi authorities cracked down on unauthorized pilgrims, expelling tens of thousands of people. But many, mostly Egyptians, managed to reach holy sites in and around Mecca, some on foot. Unlike authorized pilgrims, they had no hotels to return to to escape the scorching heat.

In a statement Saturday, Egypt’s government said the 16 travel agencies failed to provide adequate services for pilgrims. It said these agencies illegally facilitated the travel of pilgrims to Saudi Arabia using visas that don’t allow holders to travel to Mecca.

The government also said officials from the companies have been referred to the public prosecutor for investigation.

According to the state-owned Al-Ahram daily, some travel agencies and Hajj trip operators sold Saudi tourist visas to Egyptian Hajj hopefuls, violating Saudi regulations which require exclusive visas for pilgrims. Those agencies left pilgrims in limbo in Mecca and the holy sites in scorching heat, the newspaper said.

The fatalities also included 165 pilgrims from Indonesia, 98 from India and dozens more from Jordan, Tunisia, Morocco, Algeria and Malaysia, according to an Associated Press tally. Two U.S. citizens were also reported dead.

The AP could not independently confirm the causes of death, but some countries like Jordan and Tunisia blamed the soaring heat. AP journalists saw pilgrims fainting from the scorching heat, especially on the second and third days of the Hajj. Some vomited and collapsed.

Historically, deaths are not uncommon at the Hajj, which has seen at times over 2 million people travel to Saudi Arabia for a five-day pilgrimage. The pilgrimage’s history has also seen deadly stampedes and epidemics.

But this year’s tally was unusually high, suggesting exceptional circumstances.

In 2015 a stampede in Mina killed over 2,400 pilgrims , the deadliest incident ever to strike the pilgrimage, according to an AP count. Saudi Arabia has never acknowledged the full toll of the stampede.  A separate crane collapse at Mecca’s Grand Mosque  earlier the same year killed 111.

The second-deadliest incident at the Hajj was a 1990 stampede that killed 1,426 people.

During this year’s Hajj period, daily high temperatures ranged between 117 and 120 degrees Fahrenheit (46 to 49 degrees Celsius) in Mecca and sacred sites in and around the city, according to the Saudi National Center for Meteorology. Some people fainted while trying to perform the  symbolic stoning of the devil .

The Hajj, one of the five pillars of Islam, is one of the world’s largest religious gatherings. More than 1.83 million Muslims performed the Hajj in 2024, including more than 1.6 million from 22 countries, and around 222,000 Saudi citizens and residents, according to the Saudi Hajj authorities.

Saudi Arabia has spent billions of dollars on crowd control and safety measures for those attending the annual five-day pilgrimage, but the sheer number of participants makes it difficult to ensure their safety.

Climate change could make the risk even greater. A 2019 study by experts at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology found that even if the world succeeds in mitigating the worst effects of climate change, the Hajj would be held in temperatures exceeding an “extreme danger threshold” from 2047 to 2052, and from 2079 to 2086.

Islam follows a lunar calendar, so the Hajj comes around 11 days earlier each year. By 2029, the Hajj will occur in April, and for several years after that it will fall in the winter, when temperatures are milder.

The Associated Press

'Only by God's mercy that I survived': Hajj became a death march for 1,300 in extreme heat

The annual Muslim pilgrimage to the sacred city of Mecca that wrapped up last week became a death march for over 1,300 Hajj participants who died in temperatures that climbed above 124 degrees.

Saudi Arabia's health minister Fahad Al-Jalajel, who on Sunday announced a death total of 1,301, blamed the fatalities on pilgrims "walking long distances under direct sunlight without adequate shelter or comfort."

The 5-6 day odyssey of hiking and prayer drew almost 2 million pilgrims from around the world. Fatalities included a number of elderly people and those suffering from chronic diseases, A-Jalajel said. About  83% of the fatalities were among people who were not authorized to make the pilgrimage, he said.

"It's only by God's mercy that I survived, because it was incredibly hot," Aisha Idris, a Nigerian pilgrim, told the BBC.

More than 650 of those who died were Egyptian; at least two were American.

Hajj is the fifth of pillar of Islam, and all Muslims are expected to make the pligrimage at least once in their lives. Maryland residents Alieu Dausy Wurie, 71, and wife Isatu Tejan Wurie, 65, spent $23,000 on an all-inclusive travel package through a tour company registered in the state.

“They saved their whole lives for this,” Saida Wurie told CNN.

Maryland couple's death ruled 'natural causes'

Wurie told CNN her parents were in Saudi Arabia when she learned via the family group chat that the tour company did not provide the proper transportation or credentials to be authorized for the pilgrimage. A man on their tour group contacted Saida Wurie to say her parents were missing on Mount Arafat after her father said that he could not continue.

Wurie said she was later contacted by U.S. Consulate officials in Jeddah saying they were notified by the Saudi Interior Ministry that her parents had died of "natural causes." The State Department, contacted by USA TODAY, would say only that "we can confirm the deaths of multiple U.S. citizens in Saudi Arabia.  We offer our sincerest condolences to the families on their loss. We stand ready to provide all appropriate consular assistance." 

Egypt to prosecute tourism companies

Egyptian officials said the high number of deaths, most of them among unregistered pilgrims, stemmed from some companies that used a "personal visit visa (that) prevents its holders from entering Mecca" via official channels.

Prime Minister Moustafa Madbouly ordered the revocation of licenses for 16 tourism companies that provided packages for Hajj pilgrims who were not registered for the event. He also instructed that the officials of these companies be referred to prosecutors and the companies be fined to compensate the families of the deceased pilgrims.

Authorities in Jordan said they, too, had detained several travel agents who arranged unofficial travel of Muslim pilgrims.

Hajj heat deaths: 500 Egyptian pilgrims perish in 124-degree temps

Hajj has seen tragedy before

Catastrophic deaths at Hajj are not new. A stampede in 2015 killed more than 2,200 people, and another stampede in 1990 killed over 1,400 people. Four years later a stampede killed 270 people. A tent fire in 1997 killed 347. A protest turned violent in 1998, leading to the deaths of 400 pilgrims. In 2009, 77 pilgrims were killed in floods.

Contributing: Reuters

‘Babylon Berlin’ Gets Green Light for Fifth and Final Season

By Jamie Lang

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The fifth and final season of the global hit series “ Babylon Berlin ” has received an official green light, and eight new episodes will be shot this fall.

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“Babylon Berlin” writing-directing team of Henk Handlogten, Achim von Borries and Tom Tykwer will return for the show’s final season. Actors Volker Bruch and Liv Lisa Fries are also back on board.

In a joint statement, Handloegten, von Borries and Tykwer, said: “In the final season of ‘Babylon Berlin,’ we put February 1933 under the magnifying glass: Rarely has a society been torn apart more radically in such a short period of time than Germany in this chaotic month. Not only Gereon Rath and Charlotte Ritter – but all our protagonists also must realize that they only have a few options left: subordinate themselves, risk their lives in open opposition, retreat into inner emigration or flee into exile. However, this decisive month also opens the possibility of changing the course of history at the last second.”

During its run, “Babylon Berlin” sold to more than 140 territories and was watched more than 94 million times on Germany’s ARD Mediathek alone. Among its laundry list of awards, the series won the inaugural European Achievement in Fiction Series Award at the European Film Awards, four German Television Awards, the Grand Prize at the Seoul International Drama Awards, the Austrian Television Award ROMY as “TV Event of the Year,” the Premios Ondas in Spain and the Magnolia Award of the Shanghai TV Festival.

Beta CEO Jan Mojto added: “The New York Times recently published the headline, ‘Babylon Berlin, Babylon America,’ coupled with a call for readers to watch the series to understand the country’s developments and the parallels to the Weimar Republic. ‘Babylon Berlin’ is not only impressively topical, but it also resonates with audiences everywhere in the world – on both sides of the Atlantic and in over 140 territories.”

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