Alice Morrison, an intrepid explorer from Edinburgh, has recently achieved a significant milestone in her ambitious goal to become the first person to traverse the length of Saudi Arabia from north to south. Embarking on her epic 2,500km journey on New Year’s Day at the border with Jordan, Morrison, accompanied by her trusty camel companions Juicy and Lulu, as well as local guides, has successfully covered 930 kilometers to reach the revered Prophet’s Mosque in Madinah.
Unveiling Saudi Arabia’s Rich Tapestry
During her seven-week expedition, the 61-year-old adventurer averaged an impressive 23km per day, taking approximately 33,000 steps daily. Armed with fluency in Arabic, Morrison immersed herself in the country’s vibrant history, unearthing ancient ruins, Bronze Age tombs, and artifacts from the historic Hejaz railway. Venturing into the Wadi Al Deesah desert, she joined forces with Saudi Arabia’s first female wildlife rangers to explore conservation initiatives aimed at reintroducing extinct flora and fauna into the desert ecosystem.
Reflecting on her experiences, Morrison expressed her awe and appreciation for the warm hospitality and cultural richness she encountered along the way. “Saudi has surprised and delighted me. I was worried that what I was doing would be considered foolish, but on the contrary, I have been encouraged and showered with hospitality with every step,” she shared. Morrison’s journey not only unveiled the hidden gems of Saudi Arabia but also showcased the resilience of its people and the depth of its historical legacy.
Challenges and Triumphs of the Expedition
Walking alongside her beloved camels, Morrison found solace and joy in their company, despite the occasional mischievous antics of her spirited companion Juicy. She humorously recounted, “Lulu is an angel, but Juicy is a bit more sparky and occasionally disgraces us by eating municipal flowers or rolling in her ceremonial finery in dust patches.” Amidst the rugged terrain and scorching temperatures, Morrison’s unwavering determination and adventurous spirit propelled her forward, uncovering new archaeological wonders and engaging with local communities along the way.
As the seasoned explorer gears up for the second stage of her epic odyssey, scheduled to commence in October 2025 and culminate near Najran in December 2025, she reflects on her past exploits. From traversing the Sahara and Morocco to cycling the length of Africa and running around Mount Everest, Morrison’s thirst for adventure and discovery knows no bounds. Her remarkable feats, chronicled in books, documentaries, and podcasts, serve as a testament to the enduring spirit of exploration and the power of human resilience in the face of daunting challenges.
In a world where boundaries are meant to be pushed and horizons expanded, Alice Morrison’s remarkable journey across Saudi Arabia stands as a testament to the enduring allure of the unknown and the transformative power of exploration. As she sets her sights on the next chapter of her adventure, one thing remains certain – the path ahead is paved with discovery, courage, and the unwavering spirit of a true explorer.
