Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
been transformed into a major tourist attraction with the arrival of the wildlife reserve, a
resort and spa, and a water park.
Al-Areen's attractions are signposted off the Zallaq Hwy, 35km from Manama (40
minutes by car). There is no public transport.
Sights & Activities
Al-Areen Wildlife
Park & Reserve
WILDLIFE RESERVE
OFFLINE MAP
(
17 845 480;
www.alareen.bh
; off Zallaq Hwy; adult/child BD1/500 fils;
8am-6pm Sat-Thu, 1-6pm Fri;
)
This interesting 10 sq km reserve, in the southwest of the island, is a conservation
area for species indigenous to the Middle East and North Africa. After a short introduct-
ory film (in Arabic only), a small bus leaves roughly every hour for a tour (with comment-
ary in Arabic and English) past some of the 240 species of birds and mammals housed in
the park. There are several herds of mature oryx with fabulous horns that make it easy to
appreciate, firstly, how this gracious animal could be mistaken for a unicorn and,
secondly, what an enviable choice of national animal it makes.
As the park is prone to changing its opening times at regular intervals, it's best to check
the website before heading out.
Lost Paradise of
Dilmun Water Park
WATER PARK
OFFLINE MAP
( 17 84 5100;
www.lpodwaterpark.com
; off Zallaq Hwy; adult/child BD15/7; 10am-6pm Wed-Mon)
With
dozens of water-themed amenities, including slides, fountains and a wave pool, you can
hear the squeals of delight for miles. There's even a sandy beach.
Al-Jazayer Beach
BEACH
About a five- to 10-minute drive west from the Lost Paradise of Dilmun Water Park is Al-
Jazayer beach, which has shady palm trees and reasonable swimming, though the water,
like the entire coast of Bahrain, is very shallow.
Sleeping
