How to immerse yourself in Bahrain’s nature

Beyond its bustling souks, glittering skyscrapers and archaeological wonders, Bahrain offers travellers a surprisingly rich natural and unspoiled world. The Kingdom lies along the East African–West Asian flyway, making it a seasonal stopover for more than 300 species of migratory bird. Meanwhile, the warm shallows of the Arabian Gulf offshore are home to pods of bottlenose dolphins and endangered dugongs – in fact, this region hosts one of the world’s largest populations of these gentle sea cows. Back on dry land, the southern desert is dotted with sand gazelles and crowned by the Tree of Life a 400-year-old tree. Meanwhile, over at Al Areen Wildlife Park, established in 1976, visitors can see Arabian oryx, ostrich and other native species protected under Bahrain’s conservation efforts. So, what are you waiting for? It’s time to go wild. 

In the middle of the desert stands Bahrain’s most unlikely resident: the Tree of Life. This 9.75m-tall Ghaf tree has survived 400 years in a place where rain is a rarity and the ground offers little sustenance. Whatever its secret, the tree’s survival has turned it into a national symbol of resilience. Visit at sunrise or sunset, when its twisted branches glow gold against the desert, and you’ll understand why it has become one of the Kingdom’s most iconic landmarks.  

Bahrain lies on one of the world’s great migratory flyways, making it a paradise for birdwatchers. Each year, more than 300 species of bird are recorded here, from flamingos massing in tidal shallows to osprey nesting on telegraph poles. The Hawar Islands, in particular, are home to one of the planet’s largest colonies of Socotra cormorants, and you’re likely to encounter regular sightings of herons, sandpipers and curlews here. 

The pristine waters around Bahrain are rich with marine life. Be sure to join a dolphin-watching tour for a chance to see pods of Indian Ocean humpback dolphins arcing out of the turquoise sea. With some luck, the likes of green turtles, gentle dugongs and schools of flying fish might also make an appearance. The waters are a delight for divers and snorkellers, too. Beneath the waves, seagrass meadows sway with marine biodiversity, while coral reefs shelter the likes of clownfish and parrotfish. 

For those who prefer their nature with a spot of sand between their toes, Bahrain’s beaches offer an easy escape. Jarada Island, for example, is known as the ‘vanishing island. This sandbar emerges at low tide before disappearing and is only reachable by boat. Stretching for around 3km along the south-west coast near Zallaq, Bilaj Al Jazayer is one of Bahrain’s most popular beaches, with the cafés and food stalls on its promenade accompanied by beanbags scattered along the shore. 

Solymar’s beach club atmosphere – complete with swaying palms, shaded cabanas and loungers lined up along the soft sands – makes it a favourite weekend retreat for locals and expats. On the northern coast of Diyar Al Muharraq, Marassi Beach is part of a luxury development, with its gentle shallows ideal for bobbing. There are also watersports, shaded picnic areas and a lively café strip.

Set on the Marassi Beach, the Cirpriani Beach Club offers the ultimate luxury, pairing fine Italian dining with a stylish setting and golden sand views.