Choose from 633 Fun Things to Do in Middle East And Africa
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Aswan Botanic Garden
Designed by Lord Kitchener, the 16-acre Aswan Botanic Gardens is home to trees, flowers and plants from India, Africa and even the world beyond. Travelers can relax in the wide-open spaces of this garden’s breathtaking natural beauty or wind through the extensive exhibit hall of towering palm trees. More than 400 species of subtropical vegetation exist in this urban oasis that’s just a Nile cruise away.
Practical Info
The gardens are located west of Elephantine Island on Kitchener’s Island in Aswan, Egypt. They are open from 8 a.m. until 5 p.m. from October through April and from 8 a.m. until 6 p.m. between May and September. Admission is EL15. Travelers can access the gardens on a felucca or motorboat.
Address: Kitchener's Island, Aswan, Egypt
Hours: Oct-Apr 8am-5pm, May-Sep 8am-6pm
Admission: 15 LE
From $ 15
Fountains Square
Fountains Square, also commonly called Parapet in reference to its old name, sits in the heart of downtown Baku, where it attracts locals and visitors alike to its shops, restaurants and cafes. The tree-lined plaza gets its name from numerous fountains located throughout the square, many of them built during the Soviet rule of Azerbaijan.
Since it’s so close to the city center (and since most of Baku is walkable), chances are most visitors will end up in Fountains Square at one point or another. It’s a great place to kick back and feel the pulse of the city.
Practical Info
Fountains Square is liveliest during the evening hours and on weekends, when locals come here to relax.
Address: Baku, Azerbaijan
Hours: 24/7
From $ 50
Ashdod Cruise Port
Ashdod is Israel’s largest seaport and a popular stop for cruise ships from lines like Azamara, Celebrity, Silversea, and Oceania. Strategically located along the Mediterranean Sea coast, the Ashdod Cruise Terminal is the gateway to Tel Aviv, Jerusalem, and the Holy Land.
The Basics
The most popular day trip destination from Ashdod is Jerusalem, 44 miles (71 kilometers) east, which is about a 1-hour drive. Shore excursions typically take in the highlights of the holy city, including the Temple Mount, Western Wall (Wailing Wall), the Church of the Holy Sepulchre, and Al-Aqsa Mosque.
Many tours also combine a tour of Jerusalem with nearby Bethlehem, where sacred sites include the Church of the Nativity, the Milk Grotto, and Manger Square; or a visit to the Dead Sea coast to float in the mineral-rich waters. The beachfront metropolis of Tel Aviv is also easy to visit on a half- or full-day tour, located just 30 minutes north of the port. In Ashdod itself, the main attraction is the archaeological site of Givat Yonah (Hill of Jonah).
Things to Know Before You Go
- Shore excursions typically include port pickup and drop-off.
- Modest dress is required to visit many of the holy sites, so be sure to pack accordingly.
- Direct trains run from Ashdod to Tel Aviv, while buses connect the port with Jerusalem.
- Taxis are available from outside the cruise terminal.
How to Get to Ashdod from the Port of Ashdod
Ashdod is located around 3 miles (5 kilometers) from the cruise terminals and walking is prohibited in the port area, so you must take a taxi or catch one of the shuttle buses. The most convenient way to reach Tel Aviv or Jerusalem is to visit as part of a guided shore excursion.
Port Information
The official currency is the new Israeli shekel (NIS). Arabic and Hebrew are the official languages, but English is widely spoken, especially around the main tourist areas. The passenger area at Ashdod cruise terminal has a cafeteria, two duty-free shops, and a currency exchange counter.
Port Information
The passenger at Ashdod port offers a cafeteria, two duty-free
shops and a currency exchange counter. The official currency is the New
Israeli Shekel (NIS), and you’ll find ATMs at Ben Yehuda Pedestrian
Mall. Arabic and Hebrew are the official languages, but English is
widely spoken, especially in the tourist areas.
Address: Ashdod, Israel
From $ 83
Dahshur
Think of Dahshur as pyramid-proving grounds: Although not nearly as famous at the pyramids of Giza, the structures here pre-date the Great Pyramids and highlight the engineering progress and understanding that took place on the way from a stepped structure to a true pyramid. The royal necropolis at Dahshur comprises a two-mile (3.5-kilometer) field of pyramids that date back between the fourth and 12th dynasties, and although 11 structures once dotted the landscape, only two remain: the Red Pyramid and the Bent Pyramid. Nearly identical in size, these two pyramids are the third-largest in the country after the two biggest at Giza. The Red Pyramid is the older of the two and the only one that visitors can actually enter.
Archaeologists believe that Snofru, the first Pharoah of the fourth dynasty, commissioned Dahshur's most notable pyramids, and, as the Bent Pyramid with its crooked peak illustrates, not all takes were entirely successful. It towers above the sand not far from the Nile's fertile green band and is believed to have been the first try at a smooth-sided true pyramid.
It’s said thousands of people spent decades building the ultimately-flawed Bent Pyramid before trying again just over a mile to the north with the Red Pyramid, incorporating some lessons learned and a different type of stone, which shines red after the rains. Some Egyptologists think the Red Pyramid is where Sneferu was buried.
Practical Info
Dahshur is located 22 miles (35 kilometers) south of Cairo. Visitors hoping for pyramid photos free of tourist throngs and camel touts should consider a visit to Dahshur instead of Giza. Regular private and group tours from Cairo incorporate Dahshur with additional stops to visit the pyramids of Sakarra, Memphis City and sometimes Giza as well. It is possible to take in all of these sites in a half-day, but at least a full day tour is recommended if you plan to enjoy multiple sites. Entrance fees to Dahshur are around L$40 ($5 USD) and are often included in the price of package tours.
Address: Cairo, Dahshur, Egypt, Egypt
Hours: Daily 8am-5pm
Admission: LE 20
From $ 11
Armenian Quarter
Jerusalem’s Armenian Quarter dates back to the fourth century and remains the oldest Armenian diaspora on earth. Centered around the St. James Monastery, the quarter is ripe with religious, cultural and historical monuments that make it worthy of a visit.
Travelers can explore the Cathedral of St. James and the halls of St. Toros Church—two of the oldest structures in the quarter, or wander the grounds of Alex and Marie Manoogian Seminary—a modern school for those studying holy traditions. The Helen and Edward Mardigian Museum of Armenian Art and Culture highlights the artistic contributions of Armenians and the St. Toros Manuscript Library is home to the second-largest collection of Armenian manuscripts in the world.
Practical Info
The Armenian Quarter is located in the southwestern part of the Old City. Travelers can enter through Zion or Jaffa Gates.
Address: Jerusalem, Israel
From $ 49
Bur Dubai Village
Bur Dubai Village, located near the mouth of Dubai Creek, takes visitors back in time through a series of heritage villages complete with recreated architecture and local artisans practicing their crafts using traditional techniques. For shoppers, the village is a great place to find unique, handmade items to take home as souvenirs or gifts.
Long before the skyscrapers and palm-shaped islands, Dubai’s economy relied heavily on pearling. Teams of men would spend months at a time at sea diving for the rose-colored pearls produced in the Persian Gulf. One of the most unique experiences at the Bur Dubai Village is the opportunity to learn more about the city’s pearl diving culture and watch a demonstration of how it’s done.
Bur Dubai Village is open every day of the week, but Friday hours are limited and many of the shop will be closed. After you’ve toured the heritage village, set aside some time for a meal or drink by the waterside.
Address: Dubai, United Arab Emirates
From $ 39
Byblos
When even the Phoenicians (an ancient society who populated Lebanon as far back as 1,200 BC) consider a place to be old, then you know it’s legitimately old. Such is the case with Byblos, A UNESCO World Heritage site so steeped in history it’s regarded as one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world. Dating back over 7,000 years, the ancient city now known as Jbail has been the home for civilians and soldiers since the dawn of modern humanity.
The modern city of Byblos is located just 23 miles (37 km) north of Beirut. While the coastal cafés and Mediterranean beaches are a heavy tourist draw, so too are the archeological ruins and the vibrant souks which lay scattered about the cobbled streets of the old town. Of all the ruins in Byblos, the most notable is Byblos Castle (Crusader Castle) which was rebuilt by the Crusaders in the late 12th Century and is open for public touring.
An ancient hub of commerce for transporting shipments of papyrus paper, (byblos is the Greek word for papyrus), Byblos is also revered as the birthplace of the modern alphabet. Millennia of ruins and history aside, modern day Byblos is a rapidly expanding coastal retreat awash in open air beach bars overlooking the Mediterranean Sea. A viable alternative for those looking to see-and-be-seen outside of Beirut, Byblos is a fascinating mosaic of history and hedonism which deserves a spot atop the itinerary of any Lebanon traveler.
The modern city of Byblos is located just 23 miles (37 km) north of Beirut. While the coastal cafés and Mediterranean beaches are a heavy tourist draw, so too are the archeological ruins and the vibrant souks which lay scattered about the cobbled streets of the old town. Of all the ruins in Byblos, the most notable is Byblos Castle (Crusader Castle) which was rebuilt by the Crusaders in the late 12th Century and is open for public touring.
An ancient hub of commerce for transporting shipments of papyrus paper, (byblos is the Greek word for papyrus), Byblos is also revered as the birthplace of the modern alphabet. Millennia of ruins and history aside, modern day Byblos is a rapidly expanding coastal retreat awash in open air beach bars overlooking the Mediterranean Sea. A viable alternative for those looking to see-and-be-seen outside of Beirut, Byblos is a fascinating mosaic of history and hedonism which deserves a spot atop the itinerary of any Lebanon traveler.
Additional Info
A taxi from Beirut to Byblos should cost around $35.00 USD. You can also take any bus going North from from Charles Helou Station towards Tripoli. Ask to be dropped at Byblos and you will need to walk 0.5 miles from the stop to get to the town.
Address: Lebanon
From $ 49
Byzantine Church (Petra Church)
Located within the ancient city of Petra, the Byzantine Church (or Petra Church) was first constructed in the fifth century AD, on top of Nabataean and Roman ruins, and expanded in the sixth century AD before being destroyed by fire and earthquakes. It’s still being excavated, but visitors can view its well-preserved mosaics.
The Basics
Excavation of the Byzantine Church, discovered by American archaeologist Kenneth Russell in 1990, started two years later and continues to this day. A protective tent covers the three-aisled basilica, measuring about 85 feet (26 meters) by 49 feet (15 meters) and paved with 230 feet (70 meters) of well-preserved mosaic tiles depicting animals real and mythical, nature, and personifications of the seasons, the elements, the ocean, the earth, and wisdom. Fragments of wall mosaic have also been found, as well as examples of marble church furnishings, some of which have been restored.
Visit the Byzantine Church and other Petra highlights, such as the Treasury and the Monastery, on a guided tour. Those with more time can take a multi-day tour of top Jordan attractions, including Petra, Jerash, and the Dead Sea. Tours also originate from either Eilat or Tel Aviv in Israel and include single-day and multi-day options.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Wear comfortable, sturdy shoes to explore Petra, as there will be a lot of walking.
- Bring sun protection and lots of water, especially in the summer.
- A small café near the Byzantine Church offers snacks and tea.
- Restrooms are available near the café by the church.
How to Get There
The Byzantine Church is located within Petra. It can be found on the north slope of Colonnade Street and to the east of the Winged Lion Temple. From Colonnade Street, it’s about a 10-minute walk uphill to the church.
When to Get There
It’s best to visit Petra in the early morning or late afternoon to beat the crowds and the heat. The main area of the Byzantine Church is covered, which provides some respite from the sun and heat.
The Petra Scrolls
In 1993, archaeologists found 152 carbonized papyrus scrolls in the church dating to the sixth century AD. Known as the Petra Scrolls, they represent one of the largest collections of ancient writing ever discovered in Jordan. The scrolls are still being deciphered, but they appear to be the records of one extended family living between AD 528 and 582 and include contracts dealing with marriages, dowries, inheritance, and division of property. Some of these documents can be viewed at the Jordan Museum in Amman.
Address: Petra, Jordan
Admission: Varies
From $ 1,219
Darajani Market
Travelers looking for an authentic East African experience need look no further than the crowded stalls and narrow passes of Darajani Market. From early morning until late at night locals and visitors alike wander between merchants selling tree-ripened fruits, freshly caught fish, savory stews and spicy local delights.
While Darajani is mostly a food-lovers paradise, with plenty of vendors selling fresh ingredients and homemade delights, visitors can also find some random items, like brand new electronics, spare tires and modern clothing shipped in from overseas. Travelers should be prepared to haggle for the best price—particularly on fragrant spices—one of the best souvenirs from a trip to Zanzibar.
Practical Info
The market is also known as Estella Market and Marikiti Kuu. It is located on Darajani Road near the Anglican Cathedral of Christ, just off Creek Road. It’s best to visit during the early morning, when items are at their freshest and shops are fully stocked.
Address: Market Street, Zanzibar Town, Tanzania
Hours: Daily sunrise to sunset
From $ 40
Dar Batha Museum
One of Fez’s most notable museums, home to a vibrant collection of Moroccan arts and crafts, the Dar Batha Museum (Museum of Moroccan Arts) makes a worthwhile additional to any sightseeing trip, offering a unique insight into Fez’s artistic heritage.
The vast permanent collection includes everything from hand-painted ceramics to antique Berber carpets to gold-plated astrolabes, alongside traditional jewelry, leatherwork, earthenware, woodwork and embroidery, with artifacts dating from the 14th century to modern-day. The surroundings are equally impressive, with the museum housed in a beautiful Hispano-Moorish palace built by Moulay el Hassan in the 19th-century and featuring a tranquil garden and café.
Practical Info
Dar Batha Museum is located in Fez Medina (Fez el-Bali), close to the Madrassa Bou Inania, and is open Wed-Mon from 8.30am-12pm and 12-6pm. Adult admission at the time of writing is 10 dirham.
Address: 5, Place Batha Oued Fejjaline, Fez, Morocco
Hours: Wed-Mon from 8.30am-12pm and 12-6pm.
Admission: Adults 10 dirham
From $ 50
Burj Khalifa
The Burj Khalifa is the tallest building on the planet, soaring 2,717 feet (828 meters) high with more than 160 stories set in a stepped design that narrows as it climbs, syringe-like, to the sky. The design is patterned after the repetition of a single geometric shape, meant to echo Islamic art. Bringing a new meaning to the term skyscraper, the building is part of the massive downtown Dubai complex of offices, hotels, shopping malls, entertainment precincts, and apartment buildings.
When to Get There
The Basics
With a Burj Khalifa admission ticket, travelers can ride the high-speed elevator to the 124th-floor At the Top observation deck for stunning 360-degree views over Dubai and the Persian Gulf. It's also possible to ride to the exclusive, 125th-floor and then go even higher to the 148th-floor At the Top SKY deck (the tallest viewing platform in the world at 1,821 feet or 555 meters), watching a multimedia presentation on the way and then taking in the sights through the deck's floor-to-ceiling glass walls. If you'd rather not get so high, wander through through the gardens and fountains of Burj Khalifa Park, or shop till you drop at the Dubai Mall, located inside the building. Along with a huge variety of shops such as Galeries Lafayette, Bloomingdale's, and Marks & Spencer, the mall features an aquarium, ice rink, Sega theme park, and movie theater.
With a Burj Khalifa admission ticket, travelers can ride the high-speed elevator to the 124th-floor At the Top observation deck for stunning 360-degree views over Dubai and the Persian Gulf. It's also possible to ride to the exclusive, 125th-floor and then go even higher to the 148th-floor At the Top SKY deck (the tallest viewing platform in the world at 1,821 feet or 555 meters), watching a multimedia presentation on the way and then taking in the sights through the deck's floor-to-ceiling glass walls. If you'd rather not get so high, wander through through the gardens and fountains of Burj Khalifa Park, or shop till you drop at the Dubai Mall, located inside the building. Along with a huge variety of shops such as Galeries Lafayette, Bloomingdale's, and Marks & Spencer, the mall features an aquarium, ice rink, Sega theme park, and movie theater.
Just about every Dubai city tour stops at the exterior of the Burj Khalifa, with some including tickets to the Burj Khalifa observation decks. Comprehensive tours of Dubai, the most modern city in the United Arab Emirates, often also stop at other top Dubai attractions such as the Dubai desert (for a desert safari or dune bashing), Ski Dubai, the Dubai Aquarium, the Dubai Fountain, and the Burj Al-Arab.
Things to Know Before You Go
How to Get to the Burj Khalifa
Previously known as Burj Dubai, the iconic Burj Khalifa is located at the First Interchange on Sheikh Zayed Road, not too far from the central business district. Taxis and buses run along Sheikh Zayed Road, the Red Line metro stops here and a free shuttle runs from major hotels.
- Burj Khalifa tickets are required to access the structure's observation decks.
- An At the Top admission ticket includes access to levels 124 and 125, while an At the Top SKY ticket allows access to levels 124, 125, and 148.
- Kids under 4 years old enter free.
Previously known as Burj Dubai, the iconic Burj Khalifa is located at the First Interchange on Sheikh Zayed Road, not too far from the central business district. Taxis and buses run along Sheikh Zayed Road, the Red Line metro stops here and a free shuttle runs from major hotels.
When to Get There
Both ticket options have prime and non-prime hours, with higher prices during prime hours. For At the Top tickets, prime hours are from 3:30pm to 6pm daily; for At the Top SKY, prime hours are from opening until 6pm.
Address: Sheikh Zayed Road, Dubai, United Arab Emirates
Hours: Daily
Admission: AED 125-300
From $ 17
Aspire Zone (Doha Sports City)
Aspire Zone, also known as Doha Sports City, was founded in 2003 in anticipation of the 2006 Asian Games as an international sports destination featuring state-of-the-art training facilities and sporting venues.
At the heart of the complex stands Khalifa Stadium, a 50,000 capacity sporting venue used for the biggest sporting events (particularly soccer matches). The Hamad Aquatic Centre houses five floors of facilities for swimming, water polo, diving and other aquatic sports, while the Aspire Dome boasts the distinction of being the world’s largest multi-purpose dome. The Ladies Sports Hall provides additional multi-use facilities for women’s sports.
The Torch Doha Hotel offers luxury accommodations within the Aspire Zone, while Villaggio, Doha’s most popular shopping mall, houses international brand shopping. At Aspire Park, visitors and locals alike will find recreational paths, green spaces, playgrounds and a cafe set at the edge of a lake.
Practical Info
The easiest way to get to and from Aspire Zone is by taxi; it’s about a 20-minute drive from central Doha.
Address: Sports City Street, Doha, Qatar
From $ 190
Franschhoek Motor Museum
On the grounds of the L'Ormarins farm in Franschhoek, home to Antonij Rupert Wines, is the Franschhoek Motor Museum. This collection of more than 200 cars is the personal collection of Johann Rupert, who runs the wine estate. The cars span more than 100 years of car-making history, and the models on display (a selection that rotates periodically) are in impeccable condition.
In addition to the cars, the Franschhoek Motor Museum also showcases some historical motorcycles and bicycles, as well as motoring memorabilia. There are four buildings on the estate which hold cars, each grouped by its make.
Practical Info
The Franschhoek Motor Museum is a little less than 40 miles east of Cape Town. The museum is open Monday-Friday 10am-5pm and weekends 10am-4pm. Admission is SAR60 for adults, SAR50 for seniors, and SAR30 for children 3-12.
Address: R45, Franschhoek 7690, South Africa
Hours: Mon-Fri 10am-5pm, Sat-Sun 10am-4pm
Admission: Adults: SAR60; Seniors: SAR50; Children: SAR30
From $ 45
Dar el-Bacha
Rue Dar el-Bacha marks the northern edge of Marrakech’s Central Medina — the city’s heart and soul. This area is also home to many of Marrakech’s top shops, restaurants and hammams. Walk along the road, and you’ll find shops selling antiques, Oriental rugs, Berber jewelry and housewares, as well as a handful of fondouks — a sort of Middle Eastern caravanserai — dealing in artisan wares like bags, tapestries, hand-painted tile and ottomans.
Dar Moha, ranked among the city’s top Moroccan restaurants, occupies a beautiful riad along Dar el-Bacha, where diners can eat al fresco around a patio swimming pool. For a bit of relaxation after a day wandering the medina, Dar el-Bacha boasts two excellent spas, the more traditional, public Hammam Dar el-Bacha (the largest traditional hammam in the city) and the upmarket, spa-style Hammam de la Rose.
Address: Marrakesh, Morocco
From $ 35
Dades Gorge
A winding strip of blacktop known by locals as the “Road of a Thousand Kasbahs” leads to the famous Dadès Gorge in the beautiful countryside of Morocco. This scenic drive is lined with hundreds of Islamic cities, fortresses, palm trees and desert sands, which make it one of the most epic roads in the country, but traveler say it’s the rolling red hills of the Dadès Gorge that are truly worth the trip.
After navigating switchbacks by car, visitors can wander the quiet trails of this scenic destination on foot and enjoy a steaming cup of Moroccan mint tea at the top of the gorge. Breathtaking vistas and uninterrupted views of rolling read rocks make for a memorable resting place and quiet escape before embarking on a return trip to the city.
Practical Info
Dadès Gorge is located between the Atlas Mountains and Jbel Saghro of the Anti-Atlas range. The access road is roughly 40 kilometers long and provides stunning views of the surrounding landscapes.
Address: Morocco
From $ 64
Damascus (Shechem) Gate
Damascus (Shechem) Gate, considered the largest and most beautiful entrance to Jerusalem’s Old City, has served in this capacity since Agrippa ruled during the first century BCE. As it stands today, the gate dates back to 1537. Crusaders referred to it as St. Stephen’s Gate, as it’s located not far from the site of Saint Stephen’s martyrdom.
Flanked by two towers, the gate serves as the main access point to the Old City from East Jerusalem, and once inside, visitors find themselves amid an authentic market in the Muslim Quarter where locals shop for clothing, crafts, spices, baked goods and other food items.
Practical Info
The Damascus Gate is located on the north side of the Old City. The area gets really crowded, so if you’re more than a little claustrophobic, consider entering the Old City through one of the other gates.
Address: Jerusalem, Israel
From $ 325
Bwindi Impenetrable National Park
Nearly half the planet’s remaining mountain gorillas live within Bwindi Impenetrable National Park in Uganda. It’s one of only three places in the world where travelers can see this critically endangered animals in the wild. Located in Southwestern Uganda, Bwindi covers 124 square miles (320 square kilometers) of plains and mountain forest famous for its biodiversity. Besides the iconic gentle giants, some 120 species of mammals, 348 species of birds and 202 species of butterflies live amid the 200 tree and 100 fern species.
While the park is a birdwatcher’s paradise (sighting 150 species in a single day isn’t uncommon) and has more mammal species than any of Uganda’s other national parks, visitors come to this UNESCO World Heritage site to track mountain gorillas. Each morning, trekkers head out into the forest in search of one of about a dozen gorilla families (between 300 and 400 individuals).
Practical Info
The best time to track gorillas is during the dry months from December to March and June to September, but permits are easier to get ahold of during rainier months.
Address: Southwest Uganda, Uganda
Admission: By permit
From $ 767
Aswan High Dam
Built in the 1960s as an engineering marvel, the Aswan High Dam changed the face of Egypt by increasing the cultivable land by 30% and doubling the country's available electricity supply. The dam also created what was then the world's largest artificial lake: Lake Nasser. This body of water would have covered the important Abu Simbel Temple monuments if not for support from UNESCO and a worldwide appeal for funds to move them to higher ground, a massive feat that was eventually successful.
The dam itself is massive, containing 18 times the material used to build the Great Pyramid of Giza (Khufu). At 11,811 feet long (3,600 meters) and 364 feet tall (111 meters), the Aswan High Dam provides visitors with wonderful views up and down the Nile River.
Practical Info
The dam is near Aswan, at one end of Lake Nasser. It is best visited by organized tour that also allows for exploring other nearby sites.
Address: Aswan, Egypt
Hours: Open daily
Admission: 8 L.E.
From $ 30
Arusha National Park
This national park, stationed in the northeastern region of Tanzania, is located an easy drive from the center of Arusha, making it a popular stop for travelers to this beautiful and diverse city. Despite its relatively small size, Arusha National Park offers visitors a unique opportunity to explore some of East Africa’s diverse environments, as well as gain access to many of the continent’s most famous mammals.
Visitors can explore the Meru Crater funnels in the Jekukumia River, hike to the apex of Mount Meru and enjoy breathtaking views, or embark on a wildlife adventure to grasslands of the Ngorongoro Crater. Though travelers won’t find the same number of animals in Arusha National Park as some of Tanzania’s bigger reserves, they’ll still get a taste of what makes this one of the country’s most popular destinations. The park may be lion free, but plenty of wild buffalo, giraffe, zebra and monkeys roam the land, as well as an impressive number of indigenous birds. Lucky adventurers may even spot one of the rare African elephants known to graze on grassy plains.
Practical Info
Arusha National Park is home to Mount Meru, the second highest mountain in Tanzania. The park is located northeast of Arusha and less than 60 kilometers from Moshi.
Address: Tanzania
Hours: Park: 24/7, Mt Climbing Permit duration: 12 Hours
Admission: Adults $45
From $ 230
Burj Al-Arab
The sail-like silhouette of the Burj Al-Arab has become a symbol of Dubai's opulence and affluence, standing at 1,053 feet (321 meters) as the third-tallest hotel and one of the most luxurious hotels in the United Arab Emirates. Opened in 1999, the landmark boasts plenty of superlatives, including its five-star status.
The Basics
Besides shelling out to stay the night at the Burj Al-Arab, visitors have plenty of other options for viewing and touring the sumptuous landmark, which can be spotted from numerous spots around Dubai. Snap a shot of the soaring Jumeirah Beach hotel jutting out to sea on a city sightseeing tour or on a boat cruise.
When to Get There
Entering the Burj Al-Arab requires reservations, and grabbing cocktails at the Skyview Bar proves the most budget-friendly way to get inside (must be booked in advance).
Dubai's Sky-High Attractions
The Basics
Besides shelling out to stay the night at the Burj Al-Arab, visitors have plenty of other options for viewing and touring the sumptuous landmark, which can be spotted from numerous spots around Dubai. Snap a shot of the soaring Jumeirah Beach hotel jutting out to sea on a city sightseeing tour or on a boat cruise.
To get inside, choose from the hotel's many bars and restaurants available for reservation. The Sahn Eddar Lobby Lounge offers a decadent seven-course afternoon tea service, set to the sounds of live classical music with views of the hotel's amazing atrium, while the 27th-floor Skyview Bar and its floor-to-ceiling glass windows mix cocktails with stellar views over the Dubai skyline and Persian Gulf. Hungry visitors can book a traditional Arabic lunch inside the world's tallest atrium at Al Iwan, or go for a more international menu with views over the city at the 27th-floor Al Muntaha. For a romantic dining experience, book a three-course seafood dinner at Al Mahara, a restaurant with its own floor-to-ceiling aquarium. Tours of Dubai city often include a stop for photos at the Burj Al-Arab, or you can book a tour that includes afternoon tea or lunch at one of the restaurants. For a different take on the views of the UAE city, book a helicopter tour.
Things to Know Before You Go
How to Get to the Burj Al-Arab
One of the most popular Dubai attractions, the Burj Al-Arab hotel stands on its own island promontory, linked to the mainland by a private bridge—you can't miss it. It can be reached by taxi or Red Line metro via Jumeirah Road.
- The hotel is most often admired from the outside; reservations are required to enter, and overnight bookings come with a hefty cost.
- The Burj Al-Arab's dress code is smart casual; no flip flops, shorts, or beachwear allowed.
- Most guided tours allow only an outside photo stop.
One of the most popular Dubai attractions, the Burj Al-Arab hotel stands on its own island promontory, linked to the mainland by a private bridge—you can't miss it. It can be reached by taxi or Red Line metro via Jumeirah Road.
When to Get There
Entering the Burj Al-Arab requires reservations, and grabbing cocktails at the Skyview Bar proves the most budget-friendly way to get inside (must be booked in advance).
Dubai's Sky-High Attractions
Although the Burj Al-Arab is known for its height, it technically only has 28 inhabited stories. If it's views you're after, only a visit to the world's tallest building, the nearby Burj Khalifa, will suffice.
Address: Jumeirah Road, Dubai, United Arab Emirates
From $ 23