Wildlife in Bahrain
Including Al Areen Wildlife Park and Hawar Islands Nature Reserve. On the map.
The vibe
Wildlife spotting is centered on desert birds, marine life, and a few endemic species in protected wetlands. Winter brings migratory birds, while marine life can be seen year‑round. The experience is quiet and intimate, often guided by local nature groups rather than large tour operators.
Al Areen Wildlife Park
Southern
Derek Morrison from Kuwait, Kuwait / Wikimedia Commons (CC BY 2.0)
Al Areen Wildlife Park is a dedicated nature reserve and breeding center in Bahrain protecting native Arabian wildlife. Visitors come to see endangered species such as the Arabian Oryx, sand gazelles, and Arabian wolves in a semi-natural desert environment.
Access. Located in Sakhir, accessible by car or taxi from Manama. Inside the park, visitors can tour the reserve via guided electric bus tours or walking paths in designated areas.
Notes. Best visited during the cooler winter months from November to March. Respect wildlife viewing rules and stay on designated paths.
Hawar Islands Nature Reserve
Southern Governorate
Petr Kadlec / Wikimedia Commons (CC BY-SA 2.0)
The Hawar Islands form an archipelago off the coast of Bahrain recognized internationally as a vital sanctuary for seabirds and marine life. It hosts the world's largest breeding colony of Socotra cormorants, alongside dugongs and migrating dolphins in the surrounding waters.
Access. Reached via a scheduled ferry or private boat charter from Al Dur Jetty on the main island of Bahrain. Guided boat tours around the islands offer close views of marine and avian wildlife.
Notes. Access to certain sensitive breeding zones is restricted to protect nesting birds. Overnight stays require booking at the island resort.