Traveling from Jeddah to Taif is a popular journey for both tourists and locals in Saudi Arabia. Whether you’re heading to the cool mountainous city of Taif to escape the coastal heat of Jeddah or planning a spiritual detour from your pilgrimage route, understanding your travel options is essential.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the best ways to travel from Jeddah to Taif, including by taxi and bus. We’ll also cover the Jeddah to Taif distance, and even share important info like the Makkah to Taif taxi fare for those coming from the holy city.
Jeddah to Taif – A Popular Route in Saudi Arabia
The journey from Jeddah to Taif is not just scenic, but also historically and culturally significant. Jeddah, the bustling port city on the Red Sea coast, serves as the main entry point for pilgrims heading to Makkah and Madinah. Taif, on the other hand, is a serene mountain city known for its cooler climate, rose gardens, and breathtaking natural beauty.
This route is frequently used by tourists, pilgrims, and locals alike, making transport options widely available and efficient.
Jeddah to Taif Distance
The Jeddah to Taif distance is approximately 170 kilometers (around 105 miles) when traveling via the Al Sail Al Kabeer Road. This is the most direct and commonly used route and typically takes about 2 to 2.5 hours by car, depending on traffic and weather conditions.
Alternatively, you can travel via Makkah, which adds a little more distance but offers the chance to visit two important cities in one trip. If you’re already in Makkah, the route from Makkah to Taif is roughly 87 kilometers and takes around 1.5 hours by car.
Jeddah to Taif Taxi – Fastest and Most Comfortable Option
Taking a Jeddah to Taif taxi is the fastest and most comfortable travel option, especially for families, tourists, or business travelers. Taxis are available 24/7 and can be booked easily through ride-hailing apps like Careem or Uber, or through private taxi companies offering intercity rides.
Benefits of Taking a Taxi:
- Door-to-door convenience
- AC and comfort, especially in hot weather
- No waiting time or stopovers
- Flexible timing
Estimated Jeddah to Taif Taxi Fare:
The average taxi fare from Jeddah to Taif ranges between SAR 300 to SAR 450, depending on the vehicle type, time of day, and the company used. SUVs or luxury vehicles may cost more.
It’s always a good idea to agree on the fare before the trip if you’re not using a meter-based app.
Jeddah to Taif Bus – Budget-Friendly and Reliable
For budget travelers, students, or solo commuters, the Jeddah to Taif bus service is a reliable and economical option. Buses run regularly and are operated by reputable companies like SAPTCO (Saudi Public Transport Company).
Key Features of the Bus Journey:
- Affordable pricing – tickets usually cost between SAR 40 to SAR 60
- Comfortable seating with air conditioning
- Multiple departure times daily
- Luggage space included
Travel Time:
The bus ride usually takes around 3 to 4 hours, including rest stops. It’s slightly longer than by taxi due to fixed routes and scheduled breaks.
You can book your ticket online through SAPTCO’s official website or buy it at the bus terminal in Jeddah.
Makkah to Taif Taxi Fare – A Quick Reference
If you’re traveling from Makkah to Taif, taxis are also available and are commonly used by pilgrims during Umrah or Hajj seasons who wish to visit Taif for a short break or sightseeing.
Makkah to Taif Taxi Fare:
The Makkah to Taif taxi fare usually ranges between SAR 200 to SAR 300, depending on the type of car and the pickup point in Makkah. As always, prices may vary during peak seasons or holidays, so it’s advisable to confirm the fare in advance.
Which Travel Option is Best for You?
| Travel Option | Time | Comfort | Cost | Ideal For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Taxi (Jeddah to Taif) | 2-2.5 hrs | High | SAR 300–450 | Families, tourists, business |
| Bus (Jeddah to Taif) | 3-4 hrs | Medium | SAR 40–60 | Budget travelers, students |
| Taxi (Makkah to Taif) | 1.5 hrs | High | SAR 200–300 | Pilgrims, quick trips |
Travel Tips for Your Jeddah to Taif Trip
- Start Early: Mornings are the best time to travel to avoid traffic and enjoy daylight sightseeing in Taif.
- Dress Accordingly: Taif has a cooler climate compared to Jeddah, so bring a light jacket, especially if you’re visiting during the winter months.
- Book in Advance: During peak tourist seasons or religious festivals, it’s wise to book your taxi or bus ticket in advance.
- Carry Snacks and Water: While buses may stop at rest points, it’s good to have essentials with you, especially during long rides.
Conclusion
The journey from Jeddah to Taif is convenient, scenic, and offers multiple transport options depending on your budget and comfort preferences. Whether you choose a Jeddah to Taif taxi for speed and ease or opt for a Jeddah to Taif bus to save money, your travel experience is bound to be memorable.
Understanding the Jeddah to Taif distance and planning accordingly ensures a smoother trip. And if you’re making a stop from Makkah to Taif, knowing the taxi fare can help you avoid overpaying.
No matter how you travel, Taif awaits with its lush mountains, rose farms, and fresh air—a beautiful escape from the coastal plains of Jeddah or the sacred atmosphere of Makkah.
