Discovering the Captivating Falcon Souq in Doha – A Unique Experience for the Whole Family

Doha is a city that blends modern marvels with ancient traditions. But for a truly unique experience, look no further than the captivating Falcon Souq. Here, you will have the chance to delve into the fascinating world of falconry, a cherished tradition deeply woven into Qatar’s heritage.

A Rich Heritage

Falcons are more than just birds in Qatar and are part of a rich heritage. Not surprisingly, these winged wonders are the nation’s national bird too. Rooted in Bedouin history, falconry involved training these majestic raptors to hunt for food. Today, it’s a celebrated sport, and the Falcon Souq is well worth visiting from luxury hotels in Doha to gain insights into this tradition.

Image via pickpik

Planning Your Visit

Found within the famous Souq Waqif (also worth exploring!), the Falcon Souq is easily accessible on foot from the Corniche; one can easily plan a visit here while staying at properties like Banana Island Resort Doha by Anantara. Look for the gilded plaque marking its entrance between Al Ahmed and Al Asmakh Streets. Evenings, especially Thursdays, are an ideal time to visit. Witness customers inspect falcons, their discussions with shopkeepers echoing through the air, and soak up the atmosphere of this historic marketplace.

What More to Expect

Prepare to be awestruck by the majestic birds on display. Capture incredible photographs or, under a shopkeeper’s watchful eye, have a falcon perched on your arm for a truly unforgettable experience! Take a look at the fascinating array of falconry accessories, from intricate hoods for the birds’ eyes to protective gloves for falconers. If you are lucky, you may even see a thrilling public auction where the bidding will reveal the immense value placed on these skilled predators.

The Falcon Hospital

A testament to the importance of falcons in Qatari culture, the Souq also boasts a dedicated falcon hospital conveniently located right next door. Step inside the Souq Waqif Falcon Hospital and marvel at the sight of hooded falcons – a practice used to keep them calm during the taming process. You will come across a falcon-waiting room and pharmacy, showing the care and respect these birds receive.

Desert Safari Driving Tips -Guidelines on How to Make Rough Ride Go Smooth

Desert Safari Driving Tips
Desert Safari Driving Tips_ Image Credit: travcoa

What is a trip to the Middle East without a trip to the desert? Also, what better place for tourists to enjoy the desert than Doha, the capital of Qatar? There are a countless number of tourists coming to Qatar and most expect pretty much straight forward things from this Middle Eastern holiday spot- luxury , deserts , sand dunes and camel rides gaining top priority. Most choose tourists who come to this part of the world come with the expectation of splurging some cash. Some choose to spend their entire holiday in a luxury hotel in Doha and pay a visit to the deserts or some prefer to be closer to these mystical sand heavens. Either way most hotels like the Banana Island Resort Doha by Anantara; make it a point to organise desert safaris and tours in their activities for the guest. The desert tours are categorised into various packages to suit individual requirements. Packages are often uniform across various operators.
There are options to be driven around the desert or you could self-drive in the presence of a guide. Most desert safaris are categorised as morning –half day tours where one can see the sun coming up to light up the golden sands , full day tours that allow you to explore the desert throughout the whole day and enjoy sundown refreshments and entertainment , thirdly an overnight desert safari which allows visitors to spend the night in the desert. Regardless of the safari, it is important to keep in mind that driving around the desert takes special skills compared to the day to day driving that one may engage in. Hence it is worth it to check with the tour operator to see what prior off road experience is needed. It is best to be within the recommended trails at all times and obey the guidance of the experts.

Roland Lefevre is a travel writer who specializes in creating features on leisure as well as business travel destinations across the globe.Google+