Probably the highlight of every visit to Sir Bani Yas Island, the Nature and Wildlife Drive kept me on my toes throughout the long journey from Dubai. The activity is included in the hotel stay package that we booked but is also open to day trippers.
We heard that early morning is the best time to visit the wildlife sanctuary in Sir Bani Yas island as it is when the animals are out and about. Hence, we signed up for the sunrise trip a couple of days before our stay and confirmed it when we arrived at Desert Islands Resort and Spa by Anantara.
Ed and I woke up super early for the drive. We were ready 30 minutes before the actual call time! Donning neutral-colored clothing and woven hats, we also dressed the part! We're obviously too excited for this. Hahaha!
Our safari guide picked us up in a 4x4 at 6AM. We were grouped together with a couple with two kids. The enthusiasm in their eyes mirrored mine. And from what I saw, I could say that this activity is fit for all ages!
As the sun slowly rises, we drove to the protected sanctuary. On our way, our guide gave us an overview of the island, how nature is conserved and how wildlife is sustained.
Safari-ready!
our ride for the Nature and Wildlife drive
And so off we went into the wild! Our first stop? The grasslands! To see the cheetahs!
We spotted them resting on top of a hill. Just as curious as we are, they were also observing us until they spotted another 4x4 from afar. I know nothing about animal behavior, but it seemed like they were just chilling after a delightful breakfast or still waiting for prey.
Cheetahs spotted!
King of Sir Bani Yas' grassland
They are often seen on this hill in the morning. In the afternoon, they rest in shaded areas.
Our safari guide, then, took us to the other side of the sanctuary where gazelles and different species of antelopes freely roam. We even saw an Oryx - the national animal of the UAE - but sadly failed to take a good photo of it!
Arabian Sand Gazelles
a herd of spotted deer in the background
Barbary Sheep
Some of them don't really care about us...
...some does! This pretty gazelle stopped and stared while we click on our cameras!
As we drove down to a cluster of trees in the middle of the island, we saw Reticulated Giraffes! One even tried to camouflage with tree trucks. They are such gentle yet majestic creatures. Definitely the highlight of the drive for me.
First time to see a giraffe in the wild!
They feed on twigs and leaves of the trees.
They move in super slow-mo, but I didn't get bored watching!
This one tried to hide behind the tree. :)
Majestic!
Sir Bani Yas Island is a home to more than 10,000 animals. During the drive, we have also seen different kinds of birds in different sizes; from the tallest and the heaviest (ostrich) to peacocks and turkeys! Our guide also said that there hyenas somewhere in the mountains.
We made our way up to the salt dome, passing by the Majlis of the Late Sheikh, and got a superb view of the lush sanctuary. That served as an epic finish to the amazing nature drive!
Needless to say, Sir Bani Yas Island is a dream turned into reality!
Rocky terrain in the island
At the highest point of Sir Bani Yas
I was serious when I said we dressed the part! Hahah!
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