Hello! Many of you who follow us on Instagram will know about our recent trip to Hatta Dam, and how we could not stop raving about it. I received a lot of inquiries from you guys, so I decided to pen down a blog post for you with all the details on the Hatta Kayak.
We made a spontaneous plan to visit Hatta dam on a Friday evening, and as is the case with all spontaneous plans – it was a lot of fun, with minimal preparation required. Considering the fact that life jackets, lockers, etc. is all provided at the Hatta Kayak venue, there was nothing really that we needed to carry. However, if you plan to kayak and are worried about wet clothes, you might want to carry an extra pair with you just in case. (However, we did not notice a bathroom or a changing room at the venue).
It took us about 1.5 hours to reach Hatta Dam from Dubai and the route is quite straightforward so you do not end up losing time as a result of getting lost. If you plan to travel back, be aware that certain patches are not lit by street lights and you might want to check your headlights before you leave.
Everything you need to know about Hatta Kayak
There is no proper parking lot allocated for visitors of the Hatta Kayak and you may be forced to park on the side of a single lane on the dam itself. It can pose problems while exiting the dam. Or, you may choose to park in the village close-by and walk your way up – the choice is your’s.
At the Hatta dam, you will find a good mix of people – the working class from the nearby village, families from all across the UAE, young couples as well as tourists. We would recommend you to dress modestly, yet comfortably to make the most of this experience.
On arriving the venue of the Hatta Kayak, you will see a ticketing window where you can choose and pay for your choice of boat. We went for single kayaks (AED 60 each) for ourselves and believe it was the best experience from the lot. If we were accompanied by family, our choice would have probably been different to accommodate all – but even then, kayaking solo is an experience one should not miss.
Once paid, you proceed downwards to receive and wear your life jackets. Here, you can also ask for a free locker to keep your valuables.
Inspite of visiting the Hatta dam in the peak of summer, the weather in the evening (around 5.45pm) was balmy, but not uncomfortable at all. Once you’re in the water – you will experience a constant breeze – and it will surely bring a smile of relief to your face.
Kayaking is fairly easy, and we were easily able to maneuver through the water even though it was our first time. Just keep repeating the following rules in your head, and you will be fine:
To go left, paddle on the right
To go right, paddle on the left
To go straight, paddle on both sides alternately
The dam is quite vast and there are plenty of directions to explore. It can be really quiet and peaceful in corners where there are less people around, and it is here where you can just put down your oars and relish being one with nature. The sound of gentle waves crashing against the mountains is extremely soothing and relaxing.
We would highly recommend all you adventurous souls to try this experience at least once and we promise you will not be left without fond memories.
Where: Hatta Dam, UAE (click here for map). It is an exclave of Dubai, in the United Arab Emirates, high in the Hajar Mountains.
What: Water activities at Hatta Dam (popular on Instagram as #HattaKayak)
Timings: Everyday, 8am – 7pm
Single Kayak: AED 60 for unlimited time
Double Kayak: AED 150 for unlimited time
Water bike: AED 60 per person, per ride
Pedal boat: AED 120 per ride (admits 2 adults and 2 children)
Yellow boat: AED 150 per ride (admits 3 adults and 1 child)
Donut boat: AED 300 per hour (admits 4 adults and 2 children)
Tour Boat: AED 600 per 25 minute ride with driver (admits 11 adults)
Is there a UAE experience you have loved? It could be your favorite beach or an adventurous experience. Let me know in the comments below!
Everything You Need to Know About Hatta Kayak Hello! Many of you who follow us on Instagram will know about our recent trip to Hatta Dam, and how we could not stop raving about it.
