Joanna James
Why should you plan a safari trip to Africa when you have plenty of wildlife to discover in Abu Dhabi? Did you know that Abu Dhabi is home to tigers, hyenas and giraffes? If you are a wildlife enthusiast, then you must know that there is plenty to explore here in Abu Dhabi. Let's take a quick look at what you should not miss out on:
The Arabian Wildlife Park at the Sir Bani Yas takes up half the island and spans over 41,000 ha. This park is home to over 15,000 animals which includes endangered gazelles, Arabian oryx, sheep, hares, deer, ostriches and giraffes! There is so much that will catch your eye here, including the picturesque surroundings!! There are so many activities in Abu Dhabi to try out. Make sure you book your accommodation close to such activities. For instance, you can check out properties like Anantara Sir Bani Yas Island Al Sahel Villa Resort to have access to the park!
Nestled in the outskirts of the Mohammed Bin Zayed City which is quite close to the Al Wathba Wetland Reserve is a splendid Abu Dhabi Wildlife Centre. This is a rehabilitation centre that is run for endangered species. This establishment was founded back in 2001 and the farmers helped thousands of animals over the course of the years. Currently, it is home to over 400 animals which include Bengal tigers, cheetahs, monkeys, baboons, hyenas, jaguars and likes. There is plenty to see out here! The animals are being rescued from detrimental and appalling conditions by the centre. One lion was said to be found with the claws and teeth pulled out and its nerves exposed. The centre could not release this animal to the wild for obvious reasons and now lives comfortably in a grass enclosure surrounded by a beautiful tree line.
If you are an avid birdwatcher and love to indulge in such activities, you must check out the Abu Dhabi Falcon Hospital. This hospital specialises in training and treating falcons and acts also as a research, breeding and education centre. Currently, this establishment is home to over 7000 falcons per year and it has been doing such good work since 2006. It was transformed also into a tourist attraction back in 2007 and you can join guided tours which are conducted in English, French, German or Arabic!
How about joining a dolphin eco-tour with an eager marine biologist who will teach you about the flora and fauna of Abu Dhabi Valley while you cruise through thick mangrove forests here. You will continue this journey towards Dolphin Bay where you will spot them playing and fighting each other in the shallow waters. On your way back you will spot stingrays, turtles, flamingos, herons, crabs and so much more! You will also spot a herd of gazelles running across the fields!
All you need for this tour is a pair of night goggles. As dusk settles into the night, you will see nocturnal animals come out in the open area at Al Aun Xoo. The African as well as the Asian exhibits are truly rewarding! You will see a range of animals including crocodile feeding at midnight!
A true believer that the pen is a mighty weapon, ventures into reaching the minds of every reader with the earnest hope of leaving an indelible stream of thought.
A travel writer who has a passion for fashion and a deep interest in admiring new and exotic attractions around the world.
