Doha , Qatar

Private Archeological North Qatar Tour

Active

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Instant confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

The north of Qatar is incredibly rich in ancient Arab culture and you have the opportunity to immerse yourself in it. The journey with a private guide will begin at Al Khor harbor, where huge quantities of pearls were mined in the old days. In 2022 the city of Al Khor will host the FIFA World Cup matches.

The city of Al Khor is located on Qatar’s eastern coast. It is one of the oldest cities in Qatar.

Visit the mangroves at Al Thakhira Beach and see birds and fish you've never seen before. Take in the views of salt-resistant abundant mangroves. Enjoy bird watching. Take pictures of sea turtles that are known to regularly nest on this beach during spring-early summer.

Learn about the history of one of the richest archaeological sites in Qatar, Al Zubara Fort.

● Discover the culture of northern Qatar with all its beauty
● Become a visitor to North Qatar that most tourists never get to
● Learn about Qatar's pearl industry
● Visit the city of Al Khor, FIFA 2022 World Cup host city

Available options

Private Archeological North Qatar Tour

Pickup included

What's included

Iconic places for photoshoot

Private driving tour

All taxes and fees

Qatari off the beaten path with exotic flora and fauna

Multiple start times available

See Al Khor - host city during 2022 FIFA World Cup

Friendly local guide

Hotel pick-up and drop-off

Detailed itinerary

The place is known to many as Al Khawr and in Arabic it translates as 'The Sea on Three Sides'. The town is 50 kilometres from Doha, the capital of Qatar, but Al Khor was founded much earlier. The city is believed to have been founded in 1971, and in the late 20th century it was a pearling center.

Nowadays natural pearls are not in great demand, but on the territory of Al Khor we will visit the coast and the museum, where there are many exhibits on the subject of pearl mining and processing. But pearls are not the only feature of Al Khor.

It is one of the cities where the 2022 FIFA World Cup matches will be held and you will take a tour of the city.

Like the other coastal cities in Qatar, Al Khor was known for its fishing industry.

The design of the city’s Al Bayt Stadium, which will host games at the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022, was inspired by bayt al sha’ar, the traditional tents in which the region’s nomadic people lived in older times.

The beach is 10 kilometres long and Al Khor is worth a visit for its culture and art, but Al Thakhira Beach is rich with a huge variety of birds, fish and other animals. What makes this place special are the incredibly beautiful mangrove forests that become a haven for Qatar's fauna.

Also known as Bin Ghannam Island, this truly exotic destination is perfect for families and individuals alike. The island is 1.67 square kilometres long and has dozens of species of birds, fish and other animals.

The port was erected in 1938 and is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is one of the most rich historical fossil sites in all of Qatar. Here you can explore the culture of the ancient Arabs to the fullest by visiting the museum.

What's not included

Food and drinks

Available languages

Guide guide

Important information

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Please note: during FIFA World Cup 2022 the itinerary of the tour may be modified and altered for the reasons beyond our control - some streets may be blocked, some places may be closed, there might be traffic in some directions, so we will have to adjust the itinerary based on objective factors and change the itinerary accordingly. We hope for your understanding and patience

Important notes

You're all set. You don't need to call to confirm the tour. The local supplier will contact you via email. Have a great tour!

About Doha

Doha, the capital of Qatar, is a vibrant city where modern skyscrapers and traditional souqs coexist. Known for its futuristic architecture, rich cultural heritage, and stunning desert landscapes, Doha offers a unique blend of old and new.

Top Attractions

The Museum of Islamic Art

This stunning museum houses a vast collection of Islamic art from various periods and regions, showcasing the rich cultural heritage of the Islamic world.

Museum 2-3 hours Free

Souq Waqif

A traditional Qatari market with a labyrinth of alleys filled with shops selling everything from spices and textiles to handicrafts and souvenirs.

Historical/Cultural 1-2 hours Free to enter, prices vary for purchases

The Pearl-Qatar

A man-made island known for its luxury residences, high-end shopping, and fine dining, offering a glimpse into modern Qatari lifestyle.

Architecture/Entertainment Half a day Free to explore, prices vary for shopping and dining

Aspire Park

A large, beautiful park with lush greenery, walking paths, and a lake, perfect for picnics, jogging, and relaxation.

Nature/Recreation 1-2 hours Free

Katara Cultural Village

A cultural hub featuring art galleries, theaters, and open-air amphitheaters, hosting various cultural events and festivals throughout the year.

Cultural 2-3 hours Free to enter, prices vary for events and activities

Must-Try Local Dishes

Machbous

A fragrant spiced rice dish cooked with meat (usually chicken, lamb, or fish) and served with vegetables and raisins.

Main Course Contains meat, can be made halal or haram depending on the type of meat used.

Harees

A porridge-like dish made from wheat and meat, slow-cooked to a smooth consistency.

Main Course Contains meat, can be made halal or haram depending on the type of meat used.

Luqaimat

Sweet dumplings made from a batter of flour, yeast, and cardamom, deep-fried and drizzled with date syrup or honey.

Dessert Vegetarian, contains gluten.

Kahwa

A traditional Qatari coffee made with cardamom and saffron, often served with dates.

Drink Caffeinated, contains cardamom and saffron.

Popular Activities

Dune bashing in the desert Camel riding Sandboarding Kayaking in the Inland Sea Relaxing on the beach Spa and wellness treatments Picnicking in the park Yoga and meditation

Best Time to Visit

November to March

This is the best time to visit Doha, with comfortable temperatures and various cultural events and festivals taking place.

20-30°C 68-86°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Arabic
Widely spoken: English
English: Widely spoken

Currency

Qatari Riyal (QAR)

Time Zone

GMT+3

Electricity

240VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Very safe

Doha is generally considered very safe, with low crime rates and a strong police presence. However, as with any destination, it is important to take basic safety precautions and be aware of your surroundings.

Important Precautions:

• Keep valuables secure and out of sight
• Be aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas and at night
• Avoid isolated areas and unlit streets

Getting there

By air

Hamad International Airport • 15 km from city center

By bus

Al Ghanim Bus Station, Al Riffa Bus Station

Getting around

Public transport

Modern, efficient, and air-conditioned, the metro is a convenient way to get around the city.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Karwa, Uber

Rentals

Car, Bike

Neighborhoods

West Bay Old Doha The Pearl-Qatar Aspire Zone Al Waab

Day trips

Inland Sea (Khor Al Adaid)

80 km from Doha • Full day

A unique natural phenomenon where the sea encroaches into the desert, creating a stunning landscape of sand dunes and turquoise waters.

Zubarah

100 km from Doha • Half day to full day

A UNESCO World Heritage Site featuring the ruins of an 18th-century coastal town, offering a glimpse into Qatar's rich history.

Al Khor

50 km from Doha • Half day to full day

A coastal town known for its beautiful beaches, historic sites, and the Al Khor Island, which is a popular spot for birdwatching.

Festivals

Qatar National Day • December 18 Doha Tribeca Film Festival • November (dates vary) Qatar International Food Festival • March (dates vary)

Pro tips

Visit popular attractions like the Museum of Islamic Art and Souq Waqif early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid the heat and crowds.
Use the metro and public transportation to get around the city, as traffic can be heavy and parking can be challenging.
Try traditional Qatari dishes like machbous and luqaimat for an authentic culinary experience.
Explore the city's diverse neighborhoods, from the modern and upscale West Bay to the historic and cultural Old Doha.
Take advantage of the city's rich coffee culture by visiting local cafes and trying traditional Qatari coffee (kahwa).