Vacations that focus on your mental and physical wellness don’t have to be extravagant trips to far-flung destinations. In fact, the best places to unwind are sometimes hiding in plain sight, right in your own backyard.
From soaking in ancient hot springs in Jordan to stargazing under the darkest night skies in Kenya, here are five wellness vacations in the Middle East and Africa, perfect for a Zen-fueled getaway.
As always, check for travel guidelines and closures before planning your trip.
Explore the Wonders of the Nile by Felucca in Cairo
Considered sacred in ancient times, the waters of The Nile gave rise to one of the greatest civilizations the world has ever known. Each year, the river would flood its banks with mineral-rich black silt, transforming the desert into fertile farmland. For the pharaohs, the river was the source of all life and the subject of a great many myths and legends. Many ancient Egyptians believed that the water had healing powers.
Travelers can connect with the river’s history and mystique at The St. Regis Cairo. Situated in a glittering 36-story tower designed by internationally acclaimed architect Michael Graves, the luxury hotel sits directly on the riverfront and features sweeping views of Old Cairo. Guests can hop aboard a felucca, a traditional Egyptian watercraft, for a cruise down the river.
Hike the Second Highest Peak in Mauritius
Between the 365-days of sunshine, thriving coral reefs in the turquoise blue ocean waters, and rare flora and fauna that inhabit the island’s endemic forests, it’s hard not to experience oneness with nature in Mauritius. Part of the Mascarenhas Archipelago of volcanic islands that lies east of Madagascar, this atmospheric Indian Ocean island is small enough that no trip is longer than a 50-minute drive.
The dry season, which runs from June to the end of September, is the ideal time to hike Le Pouce, the island’s second-highest peak. A relatively easy 2.6-mile hike takes you past sugarcane fields and up a grassy, 2,664-foot mountain that towers over both the harbor and Port Louis, the country’s capital. Turn around and sweeping uninhibited views of the entire island await.
Located along the coast just north of Port Louis, The Westin Turtle Bay Resort & Spa, Mauritius offers amenities and programming centered around helping guests sleep, eat, move, feel, and play well during their stay.
Discover 5,000-Year-Old Tombs and Ancient Irrigation Systems in UAE’s Garden City
Nicknamed the Garden City, the eastern city of Al Ain in the emirate of Abu Dhabi is one of the UAE’s most underrated towns for outdoor enthusiasts. Set on almost 3,000 acres in the center of town is the Al Ain Oasis, one of the UAE’s largest oases. A stark contrast to the desert landscape environs, the oasis has the world’s oldest working falaj, an ancient irrigation system used to water more than 147,000 date palms, as well as fig, mango and other fruit trees, located on the sprawling property.
Bordering Oman in the south is the Jebel Hafit mountain, imposing rugged facades that are home to several archaeological wonders that date as far back as the Neolithic period.
Whether you spend the day hiking, mountain biking, or horseback riding, expect glimpses of beehive-shaped tombs that date back 5,000 years, along with unique mountain flora and fauna. You may even spot an endangered Arabian tahr or two if you’re lucky enough.
After a day of activity, recharge in an elegant guest room or suite that overlooks Al Bateen Marina at The Abu Dhabi EDITION. Visit the on-site spa where you can choose from a menu of treatments designed to calm your mind, soothe aching muscles, and leave you feeling refreshed.
Explore the Largest Sinkhole and Kayak Thick Forested Mangroves in Qatar
Despite its glistening skyscraper cityscape and larger-than-life shopping malls, the port city of Doha has much to offer those in search of the great outdoors. From ancient sinkholes to mysterious, centuries-old petroglyphs, the arid desert landscapes surrounding Qatar’s capital city are ripe with adventure.
There are plenty of opportunities for outdoor activities, like exploring Musfur Sinkhole, the country’s largest sinkhole and a favorite among local rock-climbing and bouldering enthusiasts. When it comes to the water — there are more than 347 miles of coastline — there’s nothing better than kayaking Al Thakira mangroves, a white mangrove preserve home to flamingos, herons, and a plethora of marine life.
On your way back to Doha, be sure to stop by Al Jassasiya, one of the country’s most impressive petroglyph sites. There are more than 800 cataloged rock carvings in hardened sand dunes known as jebels that depict everything from fish and boats to footprints and geometric symbols.
For a Doha stay that feels like a serene retreat, choose Al Messila, a Luxury Collection Resort & Spa, Doha, which boasts a 14,000-square-meter spa, tranquil gardens, and an outdoor “grand pool” that lives up to its name.
Rejuvenate in Jordan’s Thermal-Rich Waters
An 80-minute drive southwest from Amman’s bustling city center takes you out into the rugged Jordanian desert, where the salubrious hot waters of the Hammamat Ma’in await. Set in a surprisingly verdant wadi with impressive travertine formations, the Hammamat Ma’in or Ma’in Hot Springs are comprised of a series of 16 terraced natural springs and waterfalls that offer some of the hottest thermal waters in all of Jordan. Thanks to its close proximity to an underground fault, these mineral-rich waters range from 136 to 143 degrees Fahrenheit.
Spend the day lounging, from one pool to the next — the hot waters have been known throughout millennia for their therapeutic properties in alleviating skin conditions, improving blood circulation, and reducing stress. Many locals believe that King Herod the Great used to frequent Hammamat Ma’in for this very reason.
Between exciting excursions, pamper yourself with a five-star experience at The Ritz-Carlton, Amman. Don’t skip The Ritz-Carlton Spa’s relaxation pool, steam rooms, sauna, and treatments like Amman massages.
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