Our tip for Zanzibar: Swimming with Dolphins & Blue Safari with Locals

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Snorkeling, Blue Safari  & Swimming with Dolphins

Zanzibar is a gorgeous island in East Africa, surrounded by the Indian Ocean, off the coast of Tanzania. The natural surroundings are beautiful, and you encounter many wild animals like monkeys, bush babies, turtles, and dolphins.

Dolphins are immensely fascinating beings, they have always captivated me. I have already had the privilege to swim with these majestic creatures in Mauritius and Kenya. There we were quite lucky to see them. In Zanzibar, the chance of encountering them are much higher. Even on the way back from a snorkeling trip, we saw some. This time, however, I could hear them, and I am convinced, call them! It was an unforgettable experience!

East Africa Diving

We went on a snorkeling trip from Zuri Zanzibar with East Africa Diving. That we ended up swimming with dolphins, was an absolute coincidence. Usually, everybody goes to the south to see dolphins. Our tour started in the north and went to the Mnemba Atoll. We were actually already on the way back when a few divers spotted the dolphins.

Immediately, we were told: “Put your snorkeling gear on, and get into the water!”

I was so excited that I struggled to put my mask on and got into the water relatively late and the dolphins were already far off. The divers were lucky and got into the water much quicker. Thanks to the calm waters, I could hear their whistling crystal clear. So, everyone got back onto the boat, (it is not that easy to get on to a rubber duck) and followed the dolphins, but once again, they were much faster. 

I was adamant about seeing them! Everybody was making their way back onto the boat, but I stayed in the water, floating in the vast ocean. At a distance, I could see their fins. Luckily, it took some time for everybody to get onto the boat, so I had time on my side. I tried to call them, as I have seen them do in the Maldives, by whistling. There I was, alone in the ocean, whistling and whistling, when suddenly their fins came closer into sight. They really came back.  

The whole school of dolphins, about 40 of them, came at me, and slowly swam around me! And they even made different sounds, almost as if they were purring. This was extraordinary! I will never forget these 25 seconds. 

But, let me start at the beginning…

Ally picked us up by boat early in the morning from Zuri Zanzibar and dropped us off at the diving school.

East Africa Diving is located on Nungwi beach in the north of Zanzibar and is led by the South African Delene. She is assisted by a great team of Zanzibar captains, International PADI instructors, and PADI divemasters.

Wild cows obviously also feel very much at home on the beach. 

After putting on our diving and snorkeling gear, off, we went on the 8 meters long “Zodiac” out to sea in the direction of Mnemba Atoll.

Divers have the chance to explore the coral reef to its full extent here. 

There is also plenty to see for snorkelers. Although we must say, we did find it better in the south. The coral reefs there are healthier and much more bustling with sea life. 

And then we were so lucky to encounter the dolphins on our way back. Ally said, that out of seven days he usually encounters them on five. So the probability of seeing some dolphins is quite high!

Blue Safari & Dolphin Cruise with Locals

Most dolphins can be found around Kizimkazi, in the south of Zanzibar. As you have to leave quite early for the dolphin cruise, it is ideal to also stay in the area.

A perfect starting point for a Blue or water safari, and a dolphin cruise is the Eco Dolphin Safari Lodge. The accommodation is basic but cozy, and the prices are low!

The locals pick you up early in the morning with a fishing boat. After a quick stop to collect the snorkeling gear at Kizimkazi fishing village, we made our way to Pungume Island, passing numerous fishing boats on our way. 

The snorkeling here is fantastic. I have not seen such a well-preserved and colorful reef in a long time. There is a myriad of fish in the pristine reef. The perfect snorkeling spot! 

After about an hour to an hour and a half’s snorkeling, we went to a deserted sandbank.

There we had some time for swimming and relaxation while the captains prepared a delicious BBQ.

There were fresh fish, lobster, Chapati, an East African grilled bread, with homemade dip. Yummy! And honestly, it was the best lobster we had on our entire Zanzibar trip. Freshly grilled by the locals, it was the best by far!

Our trip was organized by Astrid from the Dolphin Safari Lodge. But quite often one of the locals will walk along the beach and advertise these tours. These guys are really nice and will go the extra mile to make your trip a memorable one. And of course, they have the opportunity to make some money. In comparison to the offers at the hotel, you can get them at half price when booking directly with one of the locals. If you prefer to play it safe, booking through Astrid is reliable and good value for money.   

We had a great day with Rama and his team! Thank you so much! Actually, we planned a dolphin cruise with them for the next day, but the sun is quite harsh, and we were sunburnt after spending a whole day on the boat. So, we thought it best to take a break from the sun. 

Dolphin Safari Lodge 
Dolphin Safari Lodge has a pool, five bungalows and safari style tented accommodation, with basic bathrooms. These tents have unbeatable ocean views. There are also five Bandas beautifully set in the natural surroundings close to the water.  The location is absolutely fantastic, the local food is delicious, and the owners, their five dogs, and the Masai are lovely. The prices at this simplistic eco-lodge are unbeatable!

Promised Land Lodge 
Directly adjacent to the Dolphin Safari Lodge is the Promised Land Lodge.  We went for a walk through the lodge. It has a reggae feel, a pool, and 16 rooms. The garden is fantastic, the location is superb, and everything is well looked after.

The Residence Zanzibar – Dolphin Cruise

The Residence Zanzibar (Our Review >>) is also in the south of Zanzibar and an ideal location for dolphin cruises and snorkeling trips.

With a guide and a captain, we went out to sea early in the morning.  Mostly, these tours start very early in the morning, but you also have the chance to see dolphins later during the day.

Thanks to our excellent guides and also to the communication with other guides, we were once again lucky and also encountered dolphins on this trip.  

All of a sudden, they were there! Now, we just had to wait for the right moment to jump into the water. Dolphins are fast. But with lady luck on your side, they might swim right by you! Exhilarating! 

Info

East Africa Diving 
Snorkeling Tour: $ 60 per person from Zuri Zanzibar Beach
Nungwi Zanzibar 0000, Tanzania, www.east-africa-diving.com

Dolphin Safari Lodge 
Price: from 50 EUR / night including breakfast
Blue Safari: $ 45 per person, including lunch
Dolphin Cruise: $ 25 per person
Kizimkazi Dimbani, Tanzania,   Phone: +255 774 007 360
www.dolphin-safari-lodge.com

Blue Safari & Dolphin Cruise with the locals 
Blue Safari: $ 60 per person, including lunch
Dolphin Cruise: $ 35 per person
Sunset Cruise: $ 80 per person including soft drinks and fruits
Our local guide: Rama +255 774 114 525

The Residence Zanzibar 
Dolphin Cruise: about $ 80 per person
Mchamgamle, Kizimkazi, Zanzibar, Tanzania,   Phone: +255 24 555 5000
www.cenizaro.com/theresidence

Transportation: To get from A to B on Zanzibar, we can highly recommend our driver Bamanga style! Very reliable and such a nice person!
Phone: +255 773 392 959, Facebook: Bamanga Style

Note: Naturally, many tourists would like to swim with the dolphins because it is such a great experience. But too many boats are not a good thing.  It is already a borderline scenario. The welfare of the animals and their natural habitat should be respected, as is the case in Mauritius.  If you happen to come across dolphins by chance, it is even more spectacular, and of course, then you are alone with them. You really have to be lucky, but it can happen!

Have loads of fun!

 

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Please note: The Blue Safari with Locals and the trip with East Africa Diving, we financed ourselves. Our Dolphin Cruise at The Residence Zanzibar was sponsored. Thank you so much! Nevertheless, the opinions voiced in this article are 100% our own!  

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The Residence Zanzibar by Cenizaro, Zanzibar, Africa – Exotic Hideaway

Africa, Honeymoon, Spa, Tansania, Videos, Zanzibar 0 Comments

Romance, Monkeys & Dolphins at a Luxurious Beach Resort

Monkeys climb and jump around in the trees, while bright yellow birds build their nests in the palm trees and in the turquoise blue ocean you can meet dozens of dolphins. The Residence Zanzibar is an absolute paradise for humans and animals alike.

Located directly on a beautiful kilometer-long beach in the south of Zanzibar, the resort is set, in the middle of a 32-hectare lush, tropical garden.

Zanzibar is about 40 km off the east coast of Tanzania. With its palm-fringed white sandy beaches, warm-hearted people, quaint fishing villages, fragrant spice plantations, colorful markets, monkeys, dolphins and bush babies, it is a fabulous paradise in the Indian Ocean.

All 66 villas have their own pool with garden or sea ​​views and offer a lot of privacy. You might even see a cute, small Elephant shrew scurry by and watch the monkeys climb onto the umbrella and to take a peek inside the villa.

Zanzibar has a lot of monkeys. The Red Colobus monkeys are endemic to Zanzibar. They were saved from extinction thanks to the efforts at the national park, Jozani Forest. However, these red monkeys leave the forest that is 27 km away and comfortably climb the trees at the resort. And the cheeky Black monkeys or White-throated monkeys, seem to be just as at home here.

Interview with Bruce Bowan
… the passionate General Manager of the Resort

“Our biggest asset is our people and I as a general manager I´m very proud of our team!” – Bruce Bowan

Karibu /Welcome

The elegant design of the luxurious 5-star resort is inspired by African, Omani, British and Indian influences. Everything blends in beautifully with the tropical garden and the natural surroundings.

The hospitality is typically African – loving and warm.

The monkeys sometimes even make themselves at home on the armchairs in the lobby.

Happiness comes in Waves

The beach at the resort is swept every morning. It is bright, white and miles long. The bathtub-warm water of the ocean is crystal clear and perfect for swimming at high tide.

Life is cool by the Pool

For relaxation and during low tide, the huge infinity pool beckons.

The sand may brush off.
The salt may wash away.
The tans may fade.
But the memories will last forever!!

In the afternoon, ice-cream is served as a refreshing snack at the pool.

 

The glass front overlooking the sea is quite spectacular!

Pool Villa Hideaway

Luxury Garden Pool Villa 

The 155 square meter villas are traditionally furnished and offer plenty of space and luxury with a separate living room and bedroom.

The lounge decks have wicker armchairs and loungers overlooking the private pool and nature. Of course, a sea view is unbeatable, but even this hidden location in the tropical garden has its charm.

The king-sized covered bed ensures a deep, peaceful sleep – even with open doors. Fantastic!

One morning, the monkeys woke us. They also wanted to have a look at the villa. When they did not find any food, they decided to move on.

 

If you prefer privacy, you can enjoy every meal on your terrace.

With great attention to detail, the lovely employees take care of the villa and sometimes surprised us with a bouquet of flowers, flower petals on the bed or in the bathtub. Employees like Marseline, are the heart and soul of the resort!

The bright, spacious bathroom has chic double basins, a freestanding bathtub, a separate shower and private garden with outdoor shower. Here the small weaver birds bustle about.

From the bathtub, one can observe the small, bright, yellow birds building their nests. So cute to watch.

Ocean Front Pool Villas

The beautiful beachfront villas are situated right on the beach and offer breathtaking panoramic views of the ocean from every room. Pure romance!

Each villa has bicycles that one can use to explore the resort with.

While exploring, you might come across a few monkeys. And be warned, they are quite inquisitive. One jumped onto my leg, and the cheeky little bugger showed me its bum. Funny!

Good Food is Good Mood

The Dining Room

The Dining Room serves Indian, Arabic and Mediterranean cuisine with a traditional Zanzibar twist.

Breakfast, lunch and dinner are served here with wonderful views of the beach and the sea.

The breakfast selection is extensive with fresh juices, freshly prepared egg and hot dishes!

Almost all the hotel staff in Zanzibar, come from mainland Tanzania. Together with Mr. Shams, they take care of the physical well-being of their guests with a lot of dedication.

With a little luck, the monkeys also enjoy breakfast in the trees right by the restaurant. The red fruits or sugar sachets at the tables are very tempting.

And even at the main restaurant, the weaver birds are very busy building their intricate nests. One really is surrounded by animals everywhere.

The Dining Room Bar

The quaint bar is right next to the pool and is perfect for a refreshing drink by the pool or at sunset.

The bartenders are passionate about making colorful cocktails and snacks.

Jetty Sundowner

Sundowners on the jetty with canapés and delicious wine is especially romantic. You can relax and enjoy the incredible ocean view.

Dinner is served as a themed buffet or a set menu, and the selection is very diverse.

At the Indian buffet, the chef himself can sometimes be seen at the oven preparing delicious naan bread.

The food is delicious, and every evening another exciting meal awaited us.

Roasted Duck Breast 
Sweet Potato Purée & Crispy Vegetable Mango Chutney with Star anise

Entertainment in the evening is also taken care of. These three “flowery” singers, for example, always ensure that there is a great mood at dinner on Thursdays.

Beach BBQ

With dinner on the beach, all the guests can enjoy a delicious BBQ accompanied by live music with their feet in the sand.

The Pavillion

On some evenings, you can choose between The Dining Room and The Pavillon. In this somewhat remote restaurant, Mediterranean and dishes from the Middle East are served, with a touch of oriental culture and traditional music.

Keep calm and Spa on

The Spa, led by the Indian Spa Manager, has six spacious treatment pavilions, a large whirlpool, a sauna and a steam room. A variety of relaxing and beautifying treatments from the UK spa brand ila are offered. Indian Ayurveda treatments will be added soon.

Ila means “earth” in Sanskrit. Natural plant and mineral ingredients ensure well-being, healing and relaxation.

The relaxation massage is excellent and highly recommended. The charming and experienced therapists genuinely understand their craft.

After the massage, you can relax in the large whirlpool.

Activities

Yoga, tennis, cycling, fitness center activities, kayaking, paddle boat hire, Hobie cat sailing and snorkeling are included. Kite surfing, deep sea fishing, dolphin safaris, dhow cruises and scuba diving are available at an additional cost.

Yoga
One can always join a yoga class at the new yoga pavilion amidst the natural surroundings at the spa in the afternoon. It is conducted by the Spa Manager himself and is a marvelous balancing experience.

Kids Club
Children from 4 years old can visit the resort. The Smiling Monkey Kids Club has a daily changing, exciting program just for them. 

Cooking class 
The cooking class is really cool. With Abduly and a lot of fun and simple ingredients we learned how to cook a delicious fish curry with spinach and ugali (similar to polenta). Delicious!

Recipes: Zanzibar Fish Curry | Chicken Curry with Chappati | Spinach

Dolphin Cruise 
Of course, the ultimate highlight is a boat tour with the chance to see some dolphins and even swim with them. Most boats in Zanzibar, go out to sea very early, but you still have the opportunity to find dolphins later in the day. And then there are fewer boats around.

Thanks to our excellent guides, we were lucky! When you find dolphins, you wait for the right moment and jump into the water! The dolphins are skilled swimmers, but for a few moments you can swim with them, observe them under water and sometimes even hear them.

 

Blue Safari
For snorkeling, you should take a trip to Pungume Island. The reef there is still pristine, and there are tons of beautiful, colorful fish. Add lunch on the beach, and you have a winning combination, a perfect day on the beach and in the sea.

Spice Tour
A Spice Tour, to the spice plantations, is a must. You also get to know the country and its people a bit better.

We visited the ZITO Spice Farm. So interesting!

In addition to nutmeg, pepper and the lipstick fruit, there is much to discover. You should also use the opportunity to buy some spices and take them home. You will not get them any fresher than here!

Mr. Butterfly (watch video) is already a bit of a celebrity. With ease, he climbs the highest palm trees and even sings while doing so. And he sings very well indeed!

With a lot of passion, unique things are made from palm leaves for the visitors. Impressive!

Jozani Forest 
At Jozani Forest, the chance to see monkeys is about 50%. At The Residence, it is nearly 100%. We really saw monkeys every day. The Jozani Forest and the mangroves are still worth a visit.

Honeymoon & Wedding

The Residence is the ideal spot if you are looking for some romance. The possibilities for romantic dinners on the beach are endless.

Honeymoon Special
Honeymooners get 25% discount and an exotic fruit bowl, beach bag, a local pareo “Kitenge”, and a romantic dinner during their stay. A minimum stay of four nights applies, and the special is valid up to 9 months after the wedding.

Conclusion

We felt very much at home at The Residence Zanzibar! The variety of animals makes it utterly unique – almost as if you were in the wilderness!  Going for a leisurely ride on the bikes through the resort, taking a refreshing dip in your own pool or enjoying the sunset at the enormous infinity pool – extremely relaxing and very romantic! With great attention to detail, no effort is spared to ensure that guests have a memorable stay. The location, directly on the beach and the proximity to the dolphins, is perfect. And the endearing employees are the icing on the cake, they make your holiday unforgettable. Highly recommended!

Room: 66 pool villas with sea or garden views (one or two bedrooms)
Flight duration: about 11 hours nonstop from Germany to Zanzibar with Condor, about 15 hours with Emirates via Dubai
Transfer: 58 km from the airport, about an hour and fifteen-minute drive, we can highly recommend Bamanga style as a driver and guide
Vaccinations: Hepatitis A, Yellow fever (we were not checked, but without it, entry is not possible)
Air Temperature:22 – 32 degrees Celsius
Water Temperature: 24 – 27 degrees Celsius
Time difference: CET +2 hours
Best travel time: December and January are hot and dry;  July to September is mostly dry with pleasant temperatures; March to May is rain season; Short rain showers are possible at other times.
Price: from 575 EUR / night including half board in the Luxury Garden Villa
Special offers: 25% discount from 4 nights (bookable 15 days in advance) including half board
Activities: Dolphin Cruise, Cooking Class, Spice Tour, Yoga, Water Sports and much more
Highlights: Superb pool villas with loads of privacy, chance to meet monkeys, dolphins and beautiful snorkeling areas are close by, dedicated staff, delicious food, beautiful infinity pool
Perfect for: Romantics, Nature lovers, Animal lovers, Couples, Honeymooners,   Families


The Residence Zanzibar
Mchamgamle, Kizimkazi,
PO Box 2404 Zanzibar, Tanzania
P 255 245 555 000
reservation-zanzibar@theresidence.com
www.cenizaro.com

Top 25 Hotels, Africa – TripAdvisor Traveller Choice 2019
Top 25 Luxury Hotels, Africa – TripAdvisor Traveller Choice 2019
Top 25 Hotels for Service, Africa – TripAdvisor Traveller Choice 2019
Top 10 Hotels, Tansania – TripAdvisor Traveller Choice 2019
Top 10 Luxury Hotels, Tansania – TripAdvisor Traveller Choice 2019
Top 10 Hotels for Service, Tansania – TripAdvisor Traveller Choice 2019
Zanzibar’s Leading Resort – World Travel Awards 2016
Top 10 Hotels for Romance, Tanzania – TripAdvisor Traveller Choice 2014

Last year, we also visited the beautiful The Residence Mauritius!

Do you like this article? Then make our day and share it!
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Note: Our stay was sponsored by The Residence Zanzibar. Thank you so much! Nevertheless, the opinions expressed in this article are as always, 100% our own!  

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Al Maha, Luxury Collection Desert Resort and Spa, Dubai – Desert Adventure at the Eco-Resort

animal welfare, Dubai, Honeymoon, Honeymoon, nature conservancy, Naturschutz, Spa, United Arab Emirates, Videos 0 Comments

Bedouin legacy at a luxurious desert camp

We traveled with our driver from the airport to the desert outside of Dubai. Along the way, we saw a few Oryx antelope roaming the magical dune and desert landscape with widesand dunes as far as the eye can see.

On the horizon, a green fabled palm oasis and the cream-colored tent roofs of the Al Maha, Luxury Collection Desert Resort & Spa became visible. Twenty years ago, the buried eternal spring, fed by ancient underground lakes, was given a new lease on life here.

In the style of a typical Bedouin village, now there are 42 dreamlike suites, each with its own pool, the mainbuilding with an excellent restaurant and a spa amidst the desert in the Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve.

“Under the chairmanship of Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al-Maktoum, Emirates developed Al Maha as the first conservation eco-resort in the Gulf, preserving not only the desert and wildlife, but also the Bedouin heritage which developed within this environment. The Bedu have travelled this desert for over 5000 years. The legend of Al Maha, fact or fiction embodies our philosophy and we thank all who visit here for their participation on our history.”

The 5-star Al Maha, Luxury Collection Desert Resort and Spa, offers tranquility, a unique atmosphere, an authentic Arab cultural experience, attentive service, world-class cuisine, and unforgettable desert adventures. It is perfect for discerning travelers, couples and honeymooners!

Natural wonders & animal welfare

In 1997, the then crown prince and current ruler of Dubai, Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, financed the first reintroduction of these symbolic animals into the desert of Al Maha, to save the Arabian Oryx antelopes from extinction and protect the fragile ecosystem of the desert.

„We are increasingly aware of the urgent need to take good care of our priceless natural heritage, all the more so as Dubai is expanding so fast. The Reserve protects our last unspoiled desert and unique Arabian way of life for future generations to enjoy.“ – HH Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al-Maktoum, Chairman, Emirates & DDCR

In 1999, the Al Maha Desert Resort & Spa, with its 27 km² nature reserve, opened under the direction of Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed al-Maktoum. Almost 6,000 indigenous trees and shrubs were planted. Each one is watered via a water pipeline every 30 minutes.

The Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve (DDCR) encompassing 225 km², was set up in cooperation with the government in2003. It is the first national park in the United Arab Emirates. Since then, the Emirates has been funding its own conservation team of ecologists and wildlife specialists, and 100% of the DDCR’svisitor income goes towards the conservation and care of the animals.

Today, the population of Oryx antelopes is recovering, andabout a thousand Oryx antelopes and gazelles livehere. The desert is also the home to the Rueppell’s fox, the Arabian red fox, rabbits, the Ethiopian hedgehog, and majestic birds of prey such as ospreys, falcons, owls andeagles, as well as pigeons, colorful parakeets and many more.

The lovable Arabian gazelles can be found everywhere in Al Maha. You can experience them up close and watch them for as long as you like. They walk around freely and feel just as much at home here as the guests. We even felt a little bit observed by them.

Seductive retreat with views of the dune landscape

The stately main building is built in the style of an old fortress and offers greats view into the vastness of the desert.

Management of the Al Maha has since been transferred to Starwood (SPG), which is why it is now part of the Luxury Collection and the Marriott Hotel group.

At this all-inclusive resort, all meals, exceptalcohol, two activities per day (falconry, camel riding, Arabian horse riding, archery, game drives, dune rides, sundowners and desert walks) are part of the package.

The chic Bedouin décor lobby offers plenty of seating, traditional rugs, old Bedouin artifacts, antique rifles, copper pots, Arabic tea, a bar with snacks and coffee, a library and a small souvenir and antique shop.

General Manager, Arne Silvis, comes from South Africa and has now been leading the Al Maha, Luxury Collection Desert Resort and Spa for 15 years with so much love and passion, that it is tangible! No wonder then that the resort has 30% recurring guest rate. We have never experienced that returning guests are welcomed as warmly as here. Here you become part of the Al Maha Family.

Glamping with safari atmosphere

Bedouin Suite

With a golf cart, we drove to our suite, of course, you can also walk, but we were told to relax, andso we did. The suites are scattered throughout the resort and offer plenty of privacy.

The Bedouin Suite is perfect for two people. The Royal and Emirates Suites are ideal for four people, andthe Presidential Suite can accommodate six people. In the small entrance area,you will find a Nespresso machine, water, a minibar, a kettle and free wine (for SPG members).

The Arabian design with its authentic antiques, dark wood, patterned Bedouin rugs and local artifacts under the big tent roof is absolutely stunning.

All doors in the light-filled suites can be opened. Gorgeous!

By the way, one is not only observed by the gazelles, but also by the countless birds. The dates and the tasty baklava pastries, which are available here as snacks, probably also have something to do with it.

Apart from the cozy sofas inviting you to relax and a desk, you will also find, binoculars and an easel with paper, pastels andpencils – such a special touch.

The bed is huge and super soft, as you would expect from the Marriott. You can sleep well and wake up to the fantastic view of the beautiful desert landscape.

The sound of birds chirping and the colors of the sky at sunrise are just spectacular! You simply have to open all the doors and become part of the magical desert landscape.

The suites are so far apart from each other and evoke the feeling of you being alone in the desert.

The view from the terrace and the infinity pool is fantastic! If there were not some exciting activities awaiting us, we could easily spend the entire day here watching the animals.

The humans are also observed.

In the beautiful bathroom with golden fittings, you will find two basins with exquisite BVLGARI products, a huge bathtub, a large rain shower and a bidet. Here you can enjoy loads of fresh air and marvel at the vast dunes.

Even though it cools down quite a bit at night, you can still use the pool, as it is heated.

Restaurant Al Diwaan

The restaurant with its large terrace has a magnificent view of the desert.

Breakfast

With birdsong all around, you can enjoy the scrumptious buffet-style breakfast while taking in the stunning view.

Lunch
Room service is available at no extra charge. If you prefer so, all meals can be delivered to your suite. Perfect if you want to spend more time away from it all.

Hajar Lounge Bar 

At the chic lounge bar, Hajar, you can enjoy delicious cocktails, fine wines or an aperitif before dinner, in- or outdoors. During the sunset hours from 18:00 to 20:00, you can even have two for the price of one.

Dinner

At the cozy restaurant, 5-course, world-class international cuisine meals are served in- or outside in the evening.

The international team of chefs ranging from Poland to Kenya lovingly takes care of the culinary preferences of the guests. There is even a list where each guest is listed, noting their likes, dislikes and any food allergies. Amazing!

The food is out of this world! Chef Piotr is passionate about food, and this can be seen and tasted in the food he serves. Star-worthy indeed, but stars are not of importance to him; his guests are!

The terrace is very romantic with the blazing fire at night. If you decide to dine outside, you can also watch the gazelles.

The service is very attentive and friendly! Absolutely perfect!

The gazelle named Boriscame by every night. So sweet!

Desert Activities

The desert activities are definitely not to be missed, even if you have to get up very early for some of them. Before any of the excursions,you meet in the lobbyand can enjoy some coffee and strengthen yourself with all sorts of delicacies.

Falconry

At sunrise, 05:30 in the summer and 07:00 in the winter, when it is still cool, one can observe the guides working with the majestic hawks and owls.

After a little historical introduction, they showed us how to work with the falcons. Impressive!  Previously, they were used by the Bedouins for hunting, and today they are the feathered darlings of the sheikhs.

The hawkstake a break for 5 months a year, as it is too hot for them in summer.

The guides cannot afford to make any mistakes, such as forgetting the food as a reward. Then the hawk could just fly away, and that will be saying goodbye to USD 5000!

Hawks and owls are beautiful and fascinating creatures!

At the end of the show,you can even hold the hawks on your own.

Wild Life Drive

By jeep, off we wenton a small safari. While listening to the fascinating anecdotes of the field guides, you can observe the Oryx, after which the Al Maha is named.

This ever-shifting desert is the largest contiguous sand desert in the world and covers most of the southern third of the Arabian Peninsula.

Field guide Gregg comes from South Africa. He has worked there at numerous game reserves and is exceptionally knowledgeable.

A ride over the dunes is pure adrenaline and quite exciting!

Camel Trek & Sundowners

The Al Maha has 16 camels. In pairs, you can ride on them through the desert.

When it starts in the afternoon, the sun slowly sets during the leisurely ride. The desert turns orange, and the atmosphere is incredibly romantic.

After about 20 minutes, champagne and snacks await the riders, and you can sit on the dunes with a sundowner and watch the sunset.

Relaxed and happy, we made our way back to camp on camelback.

If you do not want to join the camel ride, you can also go by jeep.

Of course,there are many other activities. You also have the opportunity to ride on the resort’s beautiful Arabian horses.

Timeless Spa

The luxurious spa has a sauna, steam room, whirlpool, plunge pool, a Rasul chamber, treatment rooms, for Ayurveda treatments, forinstance, a gym and an outdoor infinity pool with beautifulviews of the dunes.

Cleansing and revitalizing facials, massages, body scrubs, manicures and pedicures are on offer.

You can relax wonderfully at the huge pool with its desert views and in the relaxation room.

Events, Honeymoon & Wedding

Al Maha, Luxury Collection Desert Resort & Spa, is the perfect location for weddings, family reunions, special celebrations, andgroup events for up to 300 guests. There are so many ways to celebrate special occasions. Private dinners hosted among the dunes are very romantic.  A BBQ in the desert can even be arranged for largergroups.

Conclusion

The incredible attention to detail is evident everywhere. The service is personal and attentive. The activities are indeed an experience. The suites are beautiful, offer a lot of privacy and are absolutely perfect for relaxing. The tranquility and inspiring views are fantastic. The animals roaming freely throughout the resort are just magical – you want to watch them all day. This is an absolute paradise for nature and animal lovers!

Al Maha offers an unforgettable desert experience amidst the beautiful dune landscape combined with exemplary wildlife and nature conservation. It is a marvelous place to relax, which you miss time and again after leaving! Highly recommended for a relaxing, romantic and exciting break in the desert!

Rooms: 42 suites (Bedouin, Royal, Emirates andPresidential)
Flight duration: About six and a half hours nonstop from Germany to Dubai with Emirates
Transfer: 65 km from the airport, about a 45 to 60-minutedrive
Air Temperature: 13- 41 degrees Celsius
Time Zone: CET +3 hours
Vaccinations: Not required
Best Travel Time: November – April, in summer it can be up to 50 degrees Celsius
Price: Double room from 790 EUR per night (Low Season) including full board and two activities per day
Activities: Falconry, camel riding, Arabian horse riding, archery, game drives, dune rides, sundowner drive, desert walk, lunch or romantic dinner among the dunes
Specialities: Uniquely romantic atmosphere, beautiful suites with great private pools, excellent cuisine, fantastic desert activities
Perfect for: Romantics, couples, families (with children over the age of 12), honeymooners, discerning travelers, single travelers, nature and animal lovers

Al Maha, a Luxury Collection Desert Resort & Spa
Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve
Al Ain Rd – Dubai – United Arab Emirates
Telefon: +971 4 832 9900
www.al-maha.com

Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve
www.ddcr.org

Resort of the Year
Most impressive Hotel Feature

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Please note: Our stay was sponsored by the Al Maha, Luxury Collection Desert Resort & Spa.Thank you so much! Nevertheless, the opinions voiced in this article are 100% our own!  

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