North Qatar Tour | Zubara Fort | Purple Island | Mangros Colony
Active
4h - 5h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
There is so much to see of Qatar beyond the city. You'll head out of Doha to see Qatar's history in its Northern areas, starting with a visit to the Al- Khor Harbor, a former rich center for the local pearl and fishing industries. It continues to be a busy port full of fishermen hard at work. Next stop is at Al Thakira is your next stop, and this beautiful expanse of natural greenery, full of mangroves and glorious waterways. It's a lovely paradise in the middle of the desert.You then head to the Zubarah Fort, which is a historic military fort that hold numerous artifacts as well as a site of significance in Qatari culture.
Available options
Private Tour
Pickup included
Group Tour
Pickup included
What's included
Bottled water
Air-conditioned vehicle
Coffee and/or Tea
Detailed itinerary
1
Stop 1
Pick-up from your selected hotel/ location/Airport
2
Al Khor is a coastal city in northern Qatar, located 50 kilometers north of the capital, Doha. Considered one of Qatar's largest cities. Al Khor is home to many employees of the oil industry due to its proximity to Qatar's northern oil and natural gas fields and to Ras Laffan Industrial City. It is one of the proposed venues for the Qatar 2022 World Cup.
3
The Purple Island, also known as Al Khor Island, is a beautiful place in Al Khor, about an hour's drive from Doha. It is a small island, connected to the mainland by a narrow path that is broken at different points to allow water to flow towards the mangrove forest.
4
Al zubara also known as Fort Zubara(h) is a historic Qatari military fortress built under the oversight of Sheikh Abdullah bin Jassim Al Thani in 1938.
5
Al Jumail, an abandoned pearling and fishing village north-east Qatar, which was founded in the 19th century and was inhabited well into the 20th century, prior to the economic boom that the petroleum and gas industry brought along. The town's name comes from the Arabic word "jameel", which means "beautiful"; a reference to the trees that grow in the area year-round. According to Wikipedia, In the 1820s, George Barnes Brucks was tasked with preparing the first British survey of the Persian Gulf and He documented Al Jumail in this survey, referring to it as "Yamale".
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
Reviews breakdown
Viator
4.5
88 reviews
5★
69
4★
8
3★
2
2★
5
1★
4
Tripadvisor
4.9
311 reviews
5★
283
4★
24
3★
2
2★
1
1★
1
Important information
Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
Specialized infant seats are available
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
This tour/activity will have a maximum of 6 travelers
The pickup service is expected to arrive within 45 minutes of your designated booking time. Our guide will reach out to you to provide information regarding the pickup. The tour will begin at the time of your pickup.
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).
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation
