Paddle through lush swamps

Word to the wise: The Abu Dhabi sun is very strong and the water reflects it, so sunscreen and a hat really are compulsory.

Though Abu Dhabi is better known for its architecture than its natural beauty, the city is home to one of the world’s largest mangrove forests. Unfortunately, the stunning expanse of trees and swamp often gets overlooked by visitors and developers alike (the latter are aiding in their destruction).

Eco adventure company Noukhada offers reasonably priced and environmentally conscious kayaking tours into the diminishing forests—though the local government is making efforts to restore the area. Still, the lagoons are teeming with wildlife and as picturesque as they come.