Safa to Marwa Tickets & Tours & Informataion April 2025

Safa to Marwa

Safa and Marwa are two small hills located within the Masjid al-Haram in Makkah, Saudi Arabia. They hold great significance for Muslims as part of the ritual of Sa’i, which is performed during the Hajj pilgrimage and Umrah. The journey between Safa and Marwa, which involves walking back and forth seven times, commemorates the actions of Hajar (the wife of Prophet Ibrahim) as she searched for water for her son, Ismail. Today, the Safa and Marwa walk is a deeply spiritual and historical experience, offering visitors the chance to reflect on an important moment in Islamic tradition while performing this ritual as part of their pilgrimage.

The Basics

The distance between Safa and Marwa is approximately 350 meters, and pilgrims walk back and forth between the two hills as part of the Sa’i ritual. This act symbolizes Hajar's struggle and faith as she sought water for her child. The entire walk consists of seven rounds: starting from Safa, moving towards Marwa, and back again. Although the original hills are no longer visible as they once were, they are now marked and housed within the expansive Masjid al-Haram. The walk is a key part of both Hajj and Umrah and must be performed by every pilgrim during these rites.

Things to Know Before You Go

When visiting Safa and Marwa for Sa’i, it's important to be physically prepared, as you’ll be walking for a considerable distance. The walk is performed in the comfort of Masjid al-Haram, where the air-conditioned environment makes it easier, but it can still be tiring, especially during peak hours. Ensure you are wearing comfortable shoes and have ample water. Also, if you’re participating in Sa’i as part of your Umrah or Hajj, it’s essential to remember that this is a spiritual act, so approach it with reverence and reflection. Non-pilgrims can also visit the area to observe the historical significance.

How to Get There

Safa and Marwa are located inside the Masjid al-Haram, the central mosque in Makkah, making it incredibly easy to access. Visitors can reach this area simply by walking from any part of the mosque. If you are in Makkah for Umrah or Hajj, you will be directed to the area where the Sa’i is performed. The walkways to Safa and Marwa are well-marked, and there are several entrances to the mosque that lead directly to this significant part of the masjid. For those staying outside Masjid al-Haram, taxis or buses can take you to the mosque, where you can easily access Safa and Marwa.

When to Get There

The best time to visit Safa and Marwa is during the cooler parts of the year, typically from November to March, as temperatures in Makkah can soar during summer. Early mornings or late evenings are ideal times to perform Sa’i, as the crowds are lighter, and the temperature is more comfortable. However, the area remains accessible and open throughout the day. For pilgrims performing Hajj, Sa’i is part of the pilgrimage ritual on specific days. It is advised to avoid peak hours to have a more peaceful experience.

Day Trips from Mekke

If you’re staying in Makkah for Umrah or as part of a religious pilgrimage, visiting Safa and Marwa is an integral part of your spiritual journey. Most pilgrims complete the Sa’i during their visit to Masjid al-Haram, so a day trip is not typically necessary. However, if you're staying in Makkah for leisure, you can visit the area to observe the sacred ritual, reflect on its significance, and take in the spiritual atmosphere. It’s also worth noting that Safa and Marwa are located near other key religious sites in Makkah, so a day trip might include a visit to other important locations, such as the Kaaba or the Zamzam Well.