A few weeks ago we ventured to one of our favourite yet underrated Emirates - Ajman. Close to Dubai, with pristine beaches, thriving nature and an all new heritage district, this little Emirate definitely deserves more attention.

Quest for adventure specialise in mangrove tours and give Dirham Stretchers 15% off with code DS2022. While it is not cheap, this is definitely a trip to remember and a great activity for a special day. Before you read any further - this trip lasts 2 hours and is physically challenging.

All participants are required to arrive at the office before the tour. We changed our clothes, were assigned a tour guide and given life vests. After a short introduction, we were asked to drive to the entrance of the mangrove forest. Follow the guide!

It really felt like a little adventure! We walked along this man made path for a while...

...then reached the spectacular entrance to the forest!

At the end was a small pier. The first groups had already left.

We left our car keys and other valuables in a big box.

All aboard!

We then started to paddle! My LO wasn't really helping (rather the opposite...) but it was the cutest mum and son trip ever!

Our guide was always close and available for explanations.

Can you spot the flamingoes?

The first hour went by in no time. The second was a little bit more tiring... We had to avoid getting too close to the shore, avoid trees, paddle against the wind and current.

After 1 and a half hours, the kids got a little tired and we asked to go to the shore - another adventure!

We found coral fossils, shells and watched tiny fish.

Walking in the mud was particularly fun!

We explored another small canal... and even saw eagles (not pictured).

After a while it was time to leave - happy and exhausted!

We stopped at the office again to get changed, then drove back to Dubai. It is an intense experience you will all remember for a long time. A must-do on my UAE bucket list!

Bookings can be made via the official website Quest for Adventure. Code DS2022 gives 15% off everything.

Don't forget:

- sunscreen

- hats

- swimsuits / bottoms which can get wet

- shoes which can get wet, ideally neoprene shoes

- water

- mosquito spray

- a protective cover or plastic bag for your phone

Children must be a minimum of 4 years or 100 cm to be allowed to participate. Enjoy!