Road Trips in Bahrain

Bahrain holds plenty in store for the visiting tourists. However, one of the most exciting places to visit is surely its capital, Manama. Even though it isn’t as big a commercial hub as other Arabic metropolises, like Doha or Dubai, it is a true shopping paradise for travellers. Its cityscape is dotted with dozens of skyscrapers and shopping malls that will live up to your most demanding expectations. Among its most interesting landmarks, you’ll find the Bahrain National Museum, Al Faith Mosque, Beit Al Quran, and Friday Mosque.

At a stone’s throw away from Manama, you can visit a number of interesting smaller Bahrain settlements, including Isa, Ar-Rifa, or Sitrah. They will charm you with low housing characteristic for Bahrain towns and regional cuisine that will allow you to delve deeper into the Arabic culture.

If you enjoy spending your free time on sunbathing, there exist plenty of opportunities in Bahrain. Consider a trip to Askar or Ad-Dur offering scenic beaches and crystal clear waters. 

For travellers who are into peaceful natural gems, it’s best to head for Sakhir located in the southern part of the island. It will become a perfect starting point for numerous trips to the vast Al Areen Wildlife Park and Reserve that is home to multiple animal species.

For travelling around Bahrain, you can choose an option that best matches your requirements. However, most travellers choose a rental car that allows them to stay independent and freely plan their holiday trips. Bahrain offers a wide choice of car rental companies that are available at international airports and in major cities.

It's important to keep in mind a few things to make your experience more enjoyable:

• Plan your route: Before you hit the road, plan your route and make a list of the places you want to visit. This will help you make the most of your time and avoid missing any important sights.

• Drive carefully: Bahrain has well-maintained roads, but it's still important to drive carefully and obey traffic rules and regulations. Make sure to keep a safe distance from other vehicles and always wear your seatbelt.

• Respect the culture: Bahrain is a conservative country, and it's important to dress modestly and respect local customs and traditions.

• Stay hydrated: Bahrain can get hot, so it's important to stay hydrated while driving. Keep a bottle of water with you and take breaks as needed to avoid dehydration.

• Bring a GPS: Having a GPS device can be helpful when navigating in a foreign country. If you don't have one, you can download a navigation app on your phone.

• Check for road closures: Before setting off on your road trip, check for any road closures or detours that may affect your route.

• Pack for emergencies: It's always a good idea to carry a first aid kit, a spare tire, and other essentials in case of an emergency.

By keeping these tips in mind, you can ensure that your road trip in Bahrain is safe, enjoyable, and memorable.

The best time to take a road trip in Bahrain depends on personal preference and the type of experience you are looking for. However, the following are some general considerations:

• Winter (December to February): The weather is pleasant during this time, with cool temperatures and low humidity. This is a great time to explore the country's cultural and historic sites, as well as its scenic roads.

• Spring (March to May): This is the best time for outdoor activities, as temperatures start to warm up and the landscape begins to bloom.

• Summer (June to September): While the temperatures can be very hot during this time, the country is less crowded, making it a good time for a road trip if you prefer to avoid crowds but be aware of high temperatures. 

• Autumn (October to November): This is another good time for outdoor activities, as temperatures are mild and the weather is dry.

Regardless of the time of year, it's always a good idea to check the weather forecast before setting off on your road trip, as the weather can change quickly in this region. Additionally, it's worth considering any cultural or religious events that may be taking place, as some roads may be closed or traffic disrupted during these times.

In Bahrain, the cost of a day/week/month per person on a road trip can vary greatly depending on your travel style and preferences. Accommodation, food, and activities can range from budget-friendly to luxurious.

For budget travelers, expect to spend around 15-20 BHD ($40-50 USD) per day on food, transportation, and accommodation. Mid-range travelers can expect to spend around 50-70 BHD ($130-180 USD) per day, which includes more comfortable accommodation and dining options. Luxury travelers can expect to spend upwards of 100 BHD ($260 USD) per day.

When it comes to renting a car, prices can vary depending on the rental company, type of car, and duration of rental. On average, you can expect to pay around 10-15 BHD ($25-40 USD) per day for a basic car rental. If you prefer a higher-end car or SUV, prices can range from 20-40 BHD ($50-100 USD) per day.

It's important to note that fuel prices in Bahrain are relatively inexpensive compared to other countries, with prices around 0.21 BHD ($0.55 USD) per liter. Road tolls may also be a consideration, as some highways in Bahrain require payment of a toll.

Overall, the cost of a road trip in Bahrain can be affordable if you plan carefully and stick to a budget. It's always a good idea to research prices and make reservations in advance to ensure the best deals.

Bahrain is a small island nation, but it has plenty to offer for a road trip adventure. Whether you want to explore the bustling city of Manama or the scenic countryside, there are several guidebooks and road maps available to help you plan your journey.

One of the best guidebooks for Bahrain is the Lonely Planet Bahrain, Kuwait & Qatar guidebook. This guidebook provides detailed information on the top attractions, accommodations, and restaurants in Bahrain, as well as maps and travel tips for getting around. The guidebook also includes suggestions for unique experiences, such as visiting the Tree of Life or taking a dhow boat tour.

Another useful resource for planning a road trip in Bahrain is the Bahrain Tourist Map. This map provides a detailed view of the country's roads and highways, making it easy to plan your route and navigate your way around. It also highlights points of interest and attractions along the way, such as historical sites, museums, and natural landmarks.

For those looking for a more comprehensive guide to the Gulf region, the Gulf Road Map & Guidebook is a great resource. This guidebook covers all of the countries in the region, including Bahrain, Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, Qatar, and the UAE. It provides detailed information on major cities, attractions, accommodations, and transportation options.

Another popular road map for Bahrain is the Michelin Map & Guidebook for the Gulf Region. This guidebook includes detailed maps of Bahrain, as well as the other countries in the region. It also includes practical information on driving regulations, border crossings, and local customs and traditions.

Finally, for those interested in outdoor activities, the Bahrain Adventure Guide is a great resource. This guidebook provides detailed information on hiking trails, cycling routes, and water sports opportunities in Bahrain. It also includes practical information on renting equipment and booking tours.

Overall, there are plenty of resources available to help you plan a road trip adventure in Bahrain, whether you're interested in exploring the cities or the great outdoors.