Did you know there is a marine eco-system to explore right on our very doorstep? Well, the folks at Al Mahara Dive Centre are educating and enlightening little eco warriors with tours around the mangroves, just an hour away in Abu Dhabi. This area is home to 75 per cent of the total mangrove forest area of the UAE, and you can explore it by kayak too.
So just what are mangroves anyway? According to the experts at Al Mahara, mangroves are trees or shrubs that grow in muddy, coastal, tropical areas which have low oxygenated soil. The slow moving tides allow sediment to accumulate and the trees are characterised by densely tangled prop roots that make them appear to be standing on stilts above the water.
These handy natural barriers stabilise coastlines, protecting them from storms, current surges, waves and tides thereby reducing erosion. They also provide a rich natural habitat and safe breeding ground for several species of fish, sea snakes and turtles. The mangroves of the UAE cover thousands of hectares of shoreline, forming an integral part of our coastal ecosystem. They also play an important part in reducing carbon emissions. And in these 4 x 4 dominated gas-guzzling Emirates, it’s good to know something is working on our behalves to somewhat even out the impact of climate change.
Making people aware of this essential ecosystem, Al Mahara tour guides regularly set off with willing voyagers eager to explore the Eastern Mangrove Lagoon National Park, and are on hand to explain the importance of these precious and picturesque waterways. All are trained in emergency first response to put nervous paddlers at ease, but previous kayaking experience is not required as full instruction is given before adventurers are let loose in the boats. Then it’s a slow, peaceful meander along the coastline with the chance to spot a variety of wild life en route.
The tours operate all year round but are a bit more comfortable once the temperature has dropped, so this time of year is preferable to the sweltering summer months. Tour times are dependant on tides, wind and temperature but are available morning, noon and afternoon. Sunset trips can also be arranged, so there are plenty of chances to catch a kayak and go discovering. Low tides mean more opportunities to spot the local birds, fish and crabs that frequent the area, but access deep into the mangroves is better during high tides. The tour guides always check the weather conditions before they set off to ensure it is a pleasant experience for all involved – and not one which will bring on a bout of seasickness. But they can’t stop the wind blowing so either the way out or the way back will be an easier journey.
It’s not just a popular trip for school kids to enjoy, as the company offers adult tours, parties and corporate team building excursions, too. Ladies-only days can also be arranged, with all tours lasting 90 minutes and offering the chance to get out of the city to spot some serious wild life, while working on those bingo wings too. Fortunate bird watchers may see egrets, cormorants, sand pipers and even pink flamingos on their travels. All the company requires is 48 hours notice, a minimum of four people, and willingness for participants to get wet.
There are facilities available back at base for showering and changing afterwards, meaning adventurers won’t have to go home with wet bottoms (never fun, especially if you have a long drive home afterwards). Paddlers are urged to take a change of clothes, a towel, some water and to slather on the sunscreen before they set off. Luckily, waterproof bags are provided for gadgets to stay dry, as there are plenty of photo opportunities along the way, as well as plenty of splashing from thrashing oars. Voyagers must leave the areas as they found them, as litter from plastic bags is especially harmful to the mangroves. According to course director Cassie Christman ‘It is important for kids as well as adults to learn about the mangroves because it is vital to preserve them for generations to come’.
Dhs150 (adults) Dhs100 (kids aged 6 to10). Al Mahara Diving Centre, Muroor, near main taxi/bus station, Abu Dhabi, www.divemahara.com (02 643 7377).
