If you are a fan of mountains and unspoiled nature, then Jabal Daka is your next destination. This majestic mountain is one of the most prominent natural landmarks in the Taif region, with an altitude ranging between 2500 and 2900 meters above sea level, making it the highest peak in the area. Jabal Daka is characterized by its stunning views, cool atmospheres even in the summer, and a unique story about sunset that has made it the subject of scientists’ studies.
Whether you are looking for an adventure in the embrace of nature, or you want to escape the heat of the cities to refreshing mountain atmospheres, or you want to experience watching the sunset from the highest point in the area — Jabal Daka offers you all of that and more. In this comprehensive guide, we take you on a full tour to learn everything you need before visiting.
A Historical Glance at Jabal Daka
Jabal Daka, also known as ‘Jabal Dakka’ or ‘Mount Daka’, is part of the Western Sarawat Mountains in Hejaz. The mountain’s name has been associated with the people of the area since ancient times, who used it as a natural landmark to determine times, especially during the month of Ramadan.
Jabal Daka is famous for a unique and interesting story: Due to its high altitude, the sun remains visible on its peak for an additional two minutes after sunset in the surrounding areas. This natural phenomenon caused controversy about the time of Iftar in Ramadan, leading to the formation of a committee of senior scholars — including Sheikh Abdullah Al-Mutlaq, a member of the Senior Scholars Council — who visited the mountain personally to observe the sunset, and decided that the summit residents do not adhere to the official time but to the actual sunset. A story that shows the interplay between nature and daily life in the Kingdom.
Location and Access
Jabal Deka is located 20 kilometers southwest of the city of Taif, in the Makkah Al-Mukarramah region. The mountain overlooks the Shifa Tourist Center, one of the most prominent resorts in the Kingdom. The mountain can be easily reached via the Shifa road, which is a paved and beautiful road that passes through stunning natural views.
From Riyadh: The distance is approximately 850 kilometers via the Haitham Highway (6-7 hours by car).
From Jeddah: The distance is approximately 160 kilometers via the Taif Highway (2 hours by car).
From Mecca: The distance is approximately 130 kilometers (1.5 hours by car).
The best way to reach it is by private car, and cars can be rented from any major city.
Activities and Experiences in Jabal Deka
Sunset Viewing
The most famous and beautiful experience in Jabal Deka is watching the sunset from the summit. Imagine you are standing at an altitude of approximately 3000 meters, and the sky transforms into an artistic canvas of shades of orange, red, and purple, and the sun takes its extra time to disappear below the horizon. An unforgettable scene, which has made the mountain a destination for professional photographers and nature lovers.
Hiking and Climbing
Jabal Deka is an ideal destination for hiking and climbing enthusiasts. The vegetation at the bottom of the mountain is dense with pines, then gradually thins as you ascend to the summit. The journey to the summit requires moderate fitness, but the views you will see along the way are worth every step. It is recommended to start the journey in the early morning to avoid midday heat.
Enjoying the Cold Weather
In winter, the temperatures on the summit of Jabal Dukha drop to below freezing, offering a rare opportunity to see frost and even snow in some years. Even in summer, the weather remains pleasant and refreshing – an ideal destination to escape the heat of Saudi Arabian cities.
Wildlife Viewing
Jabal Dukha boasts remarkable biodiversity, and its most prominent inhabitants are the Barbary macaques (Hamadryas), which roam the area freely. Visitors can observe these monkeys in their natural habitat, while maintaining a safe distance and not feeding them. Ancient juniper trees cover the mountain slopes, adding a breathtaking view.Visiting the Shifa Tourist Resort
Just 7 kilometers from the center of Shifa, a tourist resort is located offering accommodation and hospitality options for visitors. You can combine a visit to Jabal Dukha with a stay at the resort to enjoy the mountain atmosphere for several days.Practical Information
- Location: Southwest of Taif, Makkah Region
- Altitude: 2500-2900 meters above sea level
- Entry: Free – The mountain is open to everyone without fees
- Best time to visit: October to April (Pleasant and refreshing weather)
- Best time to watch the sunset: Half an hour before sunset – Don’t forget to take a picture of the scene!
- Accommodation: Hotels and resorts in Shifa and Taif
Tips for Visitors
- Wear warm clothes — Even in summer, the weather at the summit is cold and winds can reach high levels. Bring a jacket even in July!
- Carry enough water and food — There are no commercial facilities on the mountain itself. Make sure to stock up your car and picnic basket before ascending.
- Respect wildlife — Do not feed the Barbary macaques or get too close to them. They are wild creatures and can be unpredictable.
- Quad bike preferred — The main road is paved, but some side trails may require a quad bike to reach the best viewpoints.
- Photograph the sunset panorama — The view from the summit at sunset is indescribable. Bring a camera and a fully charged phone, and a tripod if possible.
- Visit the nearby Shefa center — Don’t limit your trip to just the mountain. The Shefa center is a comprehensive tourist destination with services, restaurants, and parks.
Question and Answer (FAQ)
Q: Is Mount Daka suitable for families with children?
A: Yes, families can visit the lower areas and enjoy hiking and the views, but climbing to the summit may be difficult for young children. Visiting the nearby Shefa center is an excellent family option.
Q: What is the best time of year to visit Mount Daka?
A: The best period is from October to April, when the weather is mild and refreshing. In winter (December-January), temperatures drop below zero and snow may be seen.
Q: Is it true that the sunset on Mount Daka is delayed by two minutes?
A: Yes, due to the towering height of the mountain, the sun remains visible at the summit for an additional two minutes after setting in the surrounding areas. This unique phenomenon has made the mountain a subject of interest to scientists.
