In association with: Bahrain Tourism & Exhibitions Authority
Adventures old and new can be enjoyed on Bahrain’s land and sea
Encircled by the waters of the Arabian Gulf, the small island nation of Bahrain is steeped in a rich history.
The archipelago comprises 33 natural islands and several man-made ones, but the central Bahrain Island makes up around 83% of the country’s landmass. It’s here that visitors can uncover stories of the ancient Dilmun empire, explore the centuries-old Bahrain fort and imagine what life was like in the 1800s with a visit to a traditional Middle Eastern house.
But it’s not just history that makes Bahrain a fascinating destination to visit – it’s perfect for adventure-seekers, with a diverse offering of watersports and activities that encapsulate the destination’s culture and heritage.
Hidden gems
Visitors can get an insight into Bahrain’s past on a pearl-diving excursion. Bahrain has long been regarded as the centre of the global pearl-diving industry, with this unique tradition dating back thousands of years.
The heritage of Bahrain’s world-renowned pearl divers is well documented in the northeastern city of Muharraq. Here, the 3.5km-long Pearling Path, which is a Unesco World Heritage Site, stops by 17 noteworthy landmarks that tell the story of Bahrain’s pearling heritage.
But to really get a taste of this traditional Bahraini activity, visitors should take to the water for themselves. Set sail from the harbour in a small, motorised yacht before whizzing across the gulf to one of the many pearl-diving sites just a short distance from the shore. Whether they opt for a snorkelling or a scuba diving experience, visitors can take the plunge in pursuit of the famous, elusive pearls and get a taste of what ghawwas (divers) experienced centuries ago.
High-speed thrills
Bahrain has been synonymous with global motorsport since 2004, when it became the first country in the Middle East to hold a Formula One grand prix. Now host to one of the most renowned races of the Formula One season, and a range of other national and regional championships, it has cemented itself as a must-visit destination for motorsport fans.
But it’s not just avid race-goers who can fulfil their sense of adventure here. At the Bahrain International Circuit, nestled in central Bahrain’s Sakhir desert, thrill seekers of all kinds can take to the track themselves to enjoy the motorsport culture.
Venture across sand, rock and water in an adrenaline-pumping off-road adventure, reach high speeds in a fast-paced track drive or zip through 15 thrilling twists and turns on a motorbike.
Activities galore
From the southern island of Durrat al Bahrain to the capital Manama in the north, Bahrain’s activities and adventures span the length of the country.
Take to the ocean for some fast-paced watersports fun, such as on a jetski, or opt for a kayak or stand-up paddleboard to explore the shoreline and see the archipelago from a new viewpoint.
Thrill seekers can also head to the Gravity Indoor Skydiving Centre to experience the unique feeling of weightlessness.
Experience more of Bahrain
For clients who like to combine exploring the lesser-visited parts of a destination with a little adventure, recommend a horse-riding or cycling tour of Bahrain. Visitors can saddle up to explore along the coast of the Bahrain Fort, a Unesco World Heritage Site.
Alternatively, they can pedal the streets of Manama to enjoy skyline views and get a taste of culture at the capital’s lively Manama Souq market.
For information and inspiration, visit Bahrain’s official Instagram accounts: @tourismbh and @calendar.bh
