JEDDAH: The “Black Scorpion” cave in the Northern Borders region is a new spot for adventure enthusiasts and researchers.
The cave, which is 160 kilometers west of Rafha governorate near the village of Al-Habka, is more than 500 meters deep, the Saudi Press Agency reported.
Its name comes from the cave entrance, which is similar to the shape of a black scorpion’s body when the moon is in its full phase on the 15th of the lunar month, adding to its allure, according to the report.
The Black Scorpion has three internal passages that narrow and widen and rise and fall in various places trough which visitors can walk.
Several trenches branch off in different directions, increasing its complexity. The cave’s geological features make it an ideal destination for environmental and geological tourism.
The town of Al-Habka, where the cave is located, was once a vital source of water in the desert because of its numerous wells and is known for its rich archaeological heritage.
The cave is home to a range of wildlife, including wolves, hyenas and foxes. Two years ago, the National Center for Wildlife discovered several cheetah carcasses in the area underscoring its importance for wildlife conservation.
According to Begess Al-Falih, a cave enthusiast and member of the Afaq Society for Astronomy, 542 caves and sinkholes have so far been discovered in the Northern Borders region.
He said that the “Black Scorpion” cave is just one of many cave tourism hotspots in the area. These natural wonders provide a rare opportunity for visitors to explore geological formations dating back thousands of years.
