Khor Kalba Mangrove Reserve

The creek at Kalba holds a stand of grey mangrove reckoned the oldest in the country, some of the trees centuries old, growing where fresh water off the mountains meets the tidal creek. The reserve is the last regular breeding site of the Arabian collared kingfisher, a subspecies confined to a tiny range on this coast and reduced to a very small population. Kayaks take visitors through the channels, and a visitor centre and hides are on the bank.

What you actually see

• The old mangrove - grey mangrove reckoned the oldest stand in the country.
• The Arabian collared kingfisher - a subspecies breeding almost nowhere else.
• The kayak channels - narrow tidal creeks paddled through the trees.
• The hides - watching points for waders, herons and turtles in the creek.

When to go

October to April; the kingfishers are most visible in the breeding season in spring. Kayaking depends on the tide and slots are set accordingly. Summer heat and humidity here are heavy.

Honest expectations

Kayak slots are tied to the tide and must be booked; turning up rarely works. The kingfisher is scarce and sightings are not guaranteed. Access to the core of the reserve is restricted.

Nearby

Kalba is beside it, and Khorfakkan is north.