Watch traditional falconry displays or trawl modern malls on the oil-rich Gulf island of
Bahrain. You'll be fascinated by Bahrain's rich cultural heritage from
the narrow streets of Manama'ssouk bazaar to Bronze Age excavations and Portuguese forts. Take a camel ride
through the desert, stopping for a rest under the shady iconic Tree of Life.
Background
The Kingdom of Bahrain, an archipelago of 33 islands in the Persian Gulf, has an area
of just 275 square miles but enjoys 100 miles of coastline. Although not as strict
as nearby Saudi Arabia, Bahrain remains a Muslim country so remember to dress
conservatively. Starting in the north of Bahrain, the airport is on Muharraq
Island next to Manama, Bahrain's capital city. Visit Manama
for Portuguese architecture, mosques and ancient excavation sites. Then head
south to the Al Areen Wildlife Sanctuary and Bahrain's highest
point, Jabal ad Dukhan, before jumping aboard a traditional Arab dhow sailing
boat to the Hawar Islands.
Urban
Manama is Bahrain's bustling capital where you can haggle for gold in
the souk market near Bab al-Bahrain city gate or buy fashion and
electronics in modern shopping malls. Take a sunset stroll along the waterfront
promenade or visit white domed Al-Fateh Mosque, Bahrain's largest.
Inside the Bait al Quran museum you'll find beautiful displays of
calligraphy. Explore the excavations next to the Portuguese fort at UNESCO-listed
Qalat al-Bahrain and in the Saar district. Or learn about
Bahrain's centuries of history at the National Museum.
Rural
Heading south, make time to see the A'ali Royal Tombs and Burial
Mounds between Isa and Riffa. Visit the traditional colonnaded
Bahraini house in Al-Jasra where the ruling Amir was born. Then climb
Bahrain's highest peak, the mist-circled 400-foot-high Jabal
al-Dukhan. Meditate under the isolated 400-year-old Tree of Life or see
Arabian Onyx at the Al Areen Wildlife Sanctuary. Ride a camel, fly a falcon
or just get away from it all with a trip around the Hawar Islands on a
traditional dhow boat.
One of the busiest airports in the Middle East, Bahrain International Airport flies
almost nine million passengers a year from its one hectic terminal. The 8km taxi
ride to the centre of the island's capital Manama takes 15 minutes.
Please note that you won't be able to make changes to your hotel or car booking. If you want to change your booking you will have to cancel your current booking and make a new booking. This can be done on ba.com.
We cannot guarantee that the same hotel room or car rental option will still be available if you have to cancel and make a new booking.
