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Doha may seem like a city full of shiny buildings. You might even make the mistake of thinking there’s nothing beyond that, but the city and its surrounding areas are a playground for adventure.
Hot Air Ballooning
One of the best ways to experience Qatar is from up in the air, made possible by the availability of hot air balloon rides. These allow you to take in the beautiful desert landscape, contrasting with the skyline at sunrise or sunset. Visit between October and December for the season’s best balloon rides. December also hosts a 10-day balloon festival. Speak to your hotel to arrange a ride for yourself.
Souq Waqif
Could shopping at a marketplace be an adventure? Not always, but in Doha at Souq Waqif, it certainly is. The souq has a long history, dating back a century, and you can still see its heritage in the narrow alleyways lined with spice stalls, fabric shops, and artisan boutiques.
The air, heavy with the aroma of spices and oud, signals that the souq is near and transports you back in time. From traditional garments to perfume and incense, jewellery, and souvenirs you’ll want to take home, this souq is a dream for shoppers who appreciate authenticity.
It’s just a hop from Souq Waqif Boutique Hotels by Tivoli, which feature some of the best restaurants in Doha.
Dune Bashing
Qatar’s desert is vast, stretching as far as the eye can see. With endless golden sands, rolling dunes, and wide, flat plains under the Arabian sky, it attracts adventurers from all over the world. It’s an impressive backdrop and perfect if you’re seeking a bit of adventure.
One of the best things to do here is dune bashing. What is it, though? It’s essentially off-road driving across massive sand dunes, and it’s every bit as wild as it sounds. Strap yourself into a 4×4 with a skilled driver and get ready for an adrenaline-pumping ride up and over the dunes in the blazing sun.
Most tours will sort out pick-up and drop-off, so all you need to do is hold on and enjoy the ride.
Scuba Diving
The desert and dunes are classic features of Doha, but the city is also home to some amazing dive sites along the coast. With warm waters and abundant marine life, Doha has become something of a diving hotspot. Scuba diving is an experience you won’t want to miss while you’re here.
There are plenty of dive sites in Doha, from Katara Beach to the Poseidon Dive Centre and the Old Club Reef. Founded in 2011, Poseidon is one of the top places for both beginners and experienced divers alike. The club offers training and guarantees a safe and fun, and diving experience for all skill levels.
For something a little out of the ordinary, head to the Old Club Reef, which is an artificial dive site with sunken cars and coral that provide a truly unique underwater adventure.
Safari Adventures
If there’s one thing you should do in Doha, it’s a desert safari. With its endless golden sands and sweeping views, the Qatari desert is beautiful, and there’s more than one way to get your adrenaline pumping. The inland sea is a highlight, but a safari adventure takes the experience to the next level.
You can choose a half-day, full-day, or even an overnight tour. What does a safari tour involve? Lots of fun activities, including camel rides, dune bashing, sandboarding, and camping.
Morning and evening safari tours are packed with action, but an overnight safari is just as rewarding – imagine sleeping under the stars, savouring delicious traditional food, and enjoying a cultural show.
Kayaking
It’s time to put those muscles to work. Kayaking is one of the best ways to spend a weekend in Doha, and it’s an activity the whole family can enjoy. It’s a bit of a workout and requires some effort, but the scenery more than makes up for it.
Head to Al Thakira, home to the country’s largest mangrove reserve, cherished by both birds and wildlife. Paddling through the mangroves is a truly unique experience, so while you’re in Doha, make sure you have time for it.
Wakeboarding
No idea what wakeboarding is? It sure does sound exciting, doesn’t it? It’s a combination of snowboarding and waterskiing – fast, thrilling, and perfect for those who love speed. Across Doha, there are plenty of places to try it.
The Diplomatic Club near Pearl Doha and Qatar Water Sports are popular spots for wakeboarding. These private beach clubs give tourists the chance to try this exhilarating activity. Don’t worry if you’ve never done it before. As long as you have good balance, strength, and a ‘yes, I can do this’ attitude, you’re good to go.