Disfruta Tours is proud to present the Hijrah Ride Tour 2026 to the South African cycling community.
The Hijrah Ride is a cycling journey inspired by the historic migration of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ and his companions from Makkah to Madinah. Our goal is to take at least 25 riders on this tour starting in Makkah and visiting towns like Khulais, Mastorah and Badr before reaching Medinah.
Destination Information
Makkah
Makkahlies in a narrow valley in western Saudi Arabia, surrounded by rugged granite hills of the Hejaz Mountains rising above 900 m. Despite its arid climate, the city has sustained life for centuries through sources like the Zamzam Well. Its global significance is rooted in being the birthplace of the Prophet Muhammad and the spiritual centre of Islam, anchored by the Kaaba within Masjid al-Haram. Once a key caravan trading hub, Makkah evolved into a religious capital shaped by successive Islamic empires, and today remains the focal point for millions of pilgrims performing Hajj and Umrah.
Madinah
Madinah lies about 450 km north of Makkah, set within a fertile oasis surrounded by volcanic plains and dark basalt landscapes. Formerly known as Yathrib, it became central to Islamic history after the Hijrah of the Prophet Muhammad in 622 AD, marking the foundation of the first Muslim community. At its heart is Al-Masjid an-Nabawi, one of Islam’s holiest sites and the resting place of the Prophet. With nearby landmarks such as Mount Uhud and Quba Mosque, Madinah developed into a centre of faith, learning, and community life, offering a calmer, more reflective atmosphere that gently concludes the journey.
Accommodation
3 Nights - (Makkah) Park Taj Hotel
Taj Park Hotel is a modern 4-star hotel located in the Taysir district of Mecca, offering comfortable and well-equipped rooms with air conditioning, Wi-Fi, and on-site dining. Situated within a short distance of Masjid al-Haram, the hotel provides convenient shuttle services for easy access to the Haram. With its clean, spacious rooms and friendly service, it offers a practical and comfortable stay for pilgrims performing Umrah
3 Nights - (Medinah) Golden Tulip
Golden Tulip Al Zahabi is a well-located hotel in central Medina, just a short walk from Al-Masjid an-Nabawi. The hotel offers air-conditioned rooms, free Wi-Fi, breakfast services, and essential amenities designed for a comfortable stay. Its prime location near key religious sites and local attractions makes it a convenient and accessible choice for pilgrims visiting the city.
Full Package Itinerary
Day 1 – Wednesday 2nd December 2026 – Departure
Today marks the beginning of your journey as you depart for Saudi Arabia. Prepare for an experience that blends endurance, spirituality, and history along one of the most meaningful routes in the world.
Day 2 – Thursday 3rd December 2026 – Arrival in Jeddah / Transfer to Makkah
Upon arrival in Jeddah in the early morning, you will be welcomed and transferred to Makkah.
After hotel check-in, you will take part in a guided group Umrah led by a spiritual guide, allowing you to settle into the purpose of the journey. The remainder of the day is at leisure to rest and recover from travel.
Day 3 – Friday 4th December 2026 – Jumuah / Preparation Day
Today begins with Jumuah prayers at Masjid al-Haram.
The rest of the day is free for personal reflection or additional عبادah (worship). Later, you will unpack and assemble your bicycles, ensuring everything is ready for the ride ahead.
Day 4 – Saturday 5th December 2026 – Event Briefing & Tawaf Widaa
The day begins with an official event briefing, covering route details, safety protocols, and support logistics for the cycling journey.
You will then perform Tawaf Widaa (farewell tawaf), marking your spiritual departure from Makkah as you prepare to begin the physical journey toward Madinah.
Day 5 – Sunday 6th December 2026 – Day 1 Cycling: Makkah to Khulais
After an early start in Makkah, the journey begins at approximately 3:00 AM, with riders setting out under the quiet desert sky.
The route toward Khulais covers approximately 84 km and takes riders through the outskirts of the city into open desert landscapes. The terrain is relatively flat, making for a steady and manageable ride, ideal for settling into the rhythm of the journey.
A planned stop is made along the route near Al-Nawariya Station at around the 35 km mark, allowing time for hydration, rest, and regrouping.
Riders can expect to arrive in Khulais between 11:00 AM and 2:00 PM, depending on pace and conditions. Accommodation is arranged in a traditional Istiraha (private guesthouse), where participants can recover and recharge.
In the evening, a light stretching session is followed by a team briefing for the next stage. Meals are provided, and the day concludes with reflection and rest.
Day 6 – Monday 7th December 2026 – Day 2 Cycling: Khulais to Mastorah
The day begins early, with breakfast at 5:00 AM and departure at approximately 5:30 AM.
Today’s ride covers a longer distance of around 130 km as the group continues north toward Mastorah. The route stretches across open desert plains, with long uninterrupted roads allowing riders to find a consistent pace.
Short breaks are recommended every 20–30 km to maintain hydration and energy levels.
Arrival in Mastorah is expected around 2:00 PM. Accommodation is once again in an Istiraha, providing a simple but comfortable environment for recovery.
The evening focuses on rest and hydration, followed by a relaxed group debrief and dinner. Riders are encouraged to get an early night in preparation for the following day’s stage.
Day 7 – Tuesday 8th December 2026 – Day 3 Cycling: Mastorah to Badr
After breakfast at 5:00 AM, the group departs at 5:30 AM for a 100 km ride toward Badr.
The terrain remains largely flat, with smooth road surfaces allowing for a consistent and efficient ride. Regular rest stops are again recommended every 20–30 km.
Arrival in Badr is expected at approximately 2:00 PM.
This stage carries historical significance as riders approach a region deeply rooted in early Islamic history, adding a reflective dimension to the journey.
In the evening, a team discussion and final route briefing take place ahead of the last and longest stage. Dinner is provided, followed by an early night.
Day 8 – Wednesday 9th December 2026 – Day 4 Cycling: Badr to Madinah
The final and most demanding stage begins early, with departure at 4:30 AM.
Covering approximately 155 km, this leg takes riders toward Madinah. Despite the longer distance, the route remains relatively flat, with elevation spread gradually across the journey.
A breakfast stop is scheduled along the route depending on timing and group progress.
Riders can expect to arrive between 3:00 PM and 4:30 PM, entering Madinah via the southern route (Quba side or Madinah Highway).
The journey concludes with a group arrival and photo moment, marking the completion of approximately 503 km from Makkah to Madinah.
Accommodation is arranged in Madinah, where riders can rest and reflect on the achievement of completing both a physical and spiritual journey.
Day 9 – Thursday 10th December 2026 – Free Day / Celebration
Today is yours to rest, reflect, and explore Medina at your own pace.
In the evening, a medal handover and farewell dinner will be held to celebrate the completion of this incredible journey.
Day 10 – Friday 11th December 2026 – Jumuah in Madinah
Experience Jumuah prayers at Al-Masjid an-Nabawi, one of the most serene and spiritually uplifting places in the world.
The rest of the day is free for personal time and reflection.
Day 11 – Saturday 12th December 2026 – Departure
After breakfast, you will check out of the hotel and transfer for your return journey home, carrying with you not just memories… but a story etched in effort, faith, and miles conquered
Ride Notes
All routes are relatively flat and suitable for moderately fit cyclists, though endurance is required due to consecutive riding days.
Road conditions are generally excellent, but riders should remain cautious of speed bumps and reflective road markers, particularly in smaller towns.
Weather conditions may vary, with possible wind or sand affecting certain sections.
Support vehicles are available throughout the journey for hydration, mechanical assistance, and emergencies. Riders are advised to carry sufficient water, energy snacks, and essential repair equipment.
Cost Options
HIJRA RIDE 2026
PACKAGE OPTIONS
Full Package Single Room R44 180
Full Package Quad Room Sharing R31 490 per person sharing
EXTRA NIGHT FEES
Extra nights are before or after the tour are available on request
PACKAGE INCLUDES:
- Hotel Accommodation in Makkah for 3 nights with breakfast
- Hotel Accommodation in Madinah for 3 nights with breakfast
- Group Umarah on arrival with a spriritual leader
- Accommodation on route to Madinah
- Airport Transfers
- Tour coordinator to ensure your trip runs smoothly
PACKAGE EXCLUDES
- Flights
- Visas
- Travel Insurance
- Anything not mentioned in the included
Mobile Travel App
We provide all clients with a Mobile Travel App which can be installed from both the Apple and Android app store.
The application includes offline maps which assists you in locating tourist attractions as well as the nearest restaurant, coffee shop, shopping mall, etc.
The app also includes the following features:
- Details of your tour’s day to day itinerary
- Booking tickets for various tourist attractions
- Flight updates including live flight amendments and the ability to check in to your flight via the app
- Accommodation details
- A file store where important documents relating to your tour are loaded for you
- Direct messaging with the Disfruta Sports Tours team
