BH
Tree of Life
A lone ancient tree and Bahrain's desert south
A lone ancient tree and Bahrain's desert south
This lone, centuries-old mesquite tree stands green and thriving in the barren desert with no visible water source, a mysterious and much-loved natural landmark on a low sandy rise.
💡 Go at sunset for the best light and fewer visitors.
The surrounding desert of sand, low dunes and big skies is the setting for the tree and offers a taste of Bahrain’s arid interior, atmospheric at dawn and dusk.
💡 A 4×4 lets you explore the dunes around the tree.
The Sakhir Formula 1 circuit, host of the Bahrain Grand Prix, offers track tours, karting and driving experiences amid the desert, a modern counterpoint to the ancient tree.
💡 Book track experiences or a tour outside race weekends.
A desert nature reserve and park where Arabian oryx, gazelles, ostriches and other native and exotic species roam, offering a glimpse of the region’s wildlife.
💡 Morning visits are best for active animals.
Nearby stands the first oil well drilled in the Gulf, with an oil museum telling the story of the 1930s discovery that transformed Bahrain and the region.
💡 Combine the oil museum with the desert sights on one loop.
The desert south has few eateries beyond the attractions’ own cafes, so most visitors combine the sights with meals back in Manama or Riffa, which have the full range of Bahraini and international dining. Bring water and snacks for the Tree of Life and desert, which are hot and shadeless. Riffa, on the way, has good local restaurants for machboos, grills and Gulf seafood.
Visit Al Areen Wildlife Park for oryx and gazelles, then the first oil well and museum to trace Bahrain’s modern story.
Tour the Bahrain International Circuit, then head into the Sakhir desert for the mysterious Tree of Life at sunset.
The Tree of Life is most atmospheric and photogenic in the soft light of late afternoon.
The desert sights are spread out with no public transport; a car, driver or tour is essential.
The desert is hot and shadeless; bring plenty of water, a hat and sun cream.
Access around the circuit changes on race weekends; check ahead if visiting then.
Capital Manama, heritage Muharraq, the ancient Bahrain Fort, the desert Tree of Life and the Amwaj Islands — the many sides of Bahrain.