The Latest Sharjah Safari Season is Guaranteed to Make You One With Nature
Numerous creatures are all set to welcome you to their UAE home. Come join the party.
When one thinks of the UAE, images of urban paradises, oil fields or barren deserts usually come to mind. But Sharjah Safari offers a captivating alternative by presenting diverse wildlife in meticulously crafted habitats at the Al Bardi Reserve. Indeed, opening the fourth edition of the eco-tour on September 23rd, the largest safari outside the African continent is all set to dazzle human visitors. This unique experience includes a chance to view 50,000 birds and animals from 1,200 species that are residing in African-inspired landscapes and eco-systems.
The 8-square kilometre park boasts a varied topography that ranges from vast plains to tropical forests. In fact, the area features eight distinct environments that are microcosms of various regions in Africa. These zones are a thriving tribute to 1) The Coast; 2) the Niger Valley; 3) To Africa; 4) the Kalahari; 5) Moremi; 6) Serengeti; 7) Savannah; and 8) Ngorongoro. Yes, this is UAE’s answer to the Las Vegas Strip which showcases replicas of the World’s Seven Wonders.
From 8:30 am to 6 pm, Safari guests will have plenty of scenic beauty to imbibe - as they journey across rocky mountains, small lakes, canyons, wetlands, waterfalls and African-like terrain. And with a reported 300 new animals and birds beginning life this year, spectators can revel from seeing mothers suckle and play with their young (among other momentous life occasions). Observing the behaviour and habits of this expansive menagerie will be the order of the day. What’s more, African trees and shrubbery serve as appealing embellishments to the Reserve.
This environmental and wildlife conservation programme is the initiative of Ruler of Sharjah – Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi. His Highness’ Environment and Protected Areas Authority (EPAA), has done a fine job at marketing the upcoming Safari period. Yes, the department is offering tour tickets, ranging from AED 40 to AED 275 for adults and AED 15 to AED 120 for children aged 3 to 12 - depending on the mode of transport and other facilities. There is even the option for private tours for groups of 15, 9 or 6, which range in cost from AED 1,500 and AED 3,500.
If fatigue and hunger sets in mid-tour, guests have the chance to chow down or grab a pick-me-up at Safari Camp or Zanzibar Village. But tourists will have to further fortify themselves with necessary equipment. These include: hat, sunscreen, shades, walking shoes, field glasses, camera and water bottle. To add to the splendour and enjoyment of the Safari, there will be interactive games and awareness workshops from families to partake of. Sharjah Safari truly makes for a “wild” experience.
