Joanna James
From rock climbing to wetlands and views of majestic mountains and even sea kayaking experiences, Abu Dhabi offers plenty of natural attractions to visitors.
Located a car ride away from Dubai, Ras Al Khaimah, Wadi Ghalilah is called the stairway to heaven. This 1500 meter climb is ideal for experienced and enthusiastic climbers as it is quite challenging. The trail which connects an Omani village to Ras al Khaimah is rife with narrow paths, cliffs and steep rocks. Once you've braved the tough ascent, you will be rewarded with a spectacular view.
Thousands of flamingos create a pleasantly pink spectacle at the Al Wathba Wetland Reserve in Abu Dhabi. The wetland reserve is home to over 200 migratory bird species and visitors can view these creatures of the sky from the comfort of the bird hide. As you walk along the trails of Al Wathba, you will realize that the area is an amalgamation of many ecosystems that include freshwater habitats, saltwater environs, shrubs and even dunes. Incidentally, the area is called the Flamingo City.
Initially a wildlife reserve, Sir Bani Yas Island now caters to visitors with its abundance of wildlife, resorts, coastal area and even archeological sites. The island frequently comes up in Google searches for Abu Dhabi Beach Resorts as it offers visitors a chance to enjoy watersports such as sea kayaking and diving. Many visitors book a few days at resorts such as Anantara Sir Bani Yas Island Al Yamm Villa Resort to enjoy the island's wildlife, beach entertainment and simply spend a few days relaxing in this natural ambiance.
Hatta is where all the locals go to escape the heat. Choose to hire a cab or drive to this milder clime as the journey itself will provide you with varying and arresting landscapes to see and admire. You will pass the desert and feel it call you just before entering a mountainous area with plenty of greenery. In south Hatta you will find the Hatta Dam flanked by blue-green depths and a mountain. Let your adventurous spirit run free with the outdoor activities available in the area. You can go mountain biking or hiking in the mountains or else opt to go camping. The Hatta Lake is a great place to paddle along in your Kayak.
The Mangrove National Park is part of the Government's efforts to spread awareness about preserving mangroves and the vital source of life these provide. You can kayak or paddle board to observe the area or go on a boat safari. The clear waters near the mangrove roots provide ample opportunities to view the biodiversity below and near the roots. You may even catch a glimpse of mysterious turtles beneath the roots. Blue swimmer crabs live comfortably near the mangroves and dolphins pass by the area on their way to do what dolphins in the seas.
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.
