To the average tourist, Abu Dhabi might look like a city of luxurious indulgence. With extravagant Abu Dhabi Resorts, shopping malls, and business buildings, you might think this is creative genius. However, the culmination of their determination is aptly illustrated not by the above, but by Sir Bani Yas Island, the man-made wildlife park in Abu Dhabi.

Sir Bani Yas Island, which was the brainchild of late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan. It was his idea to transform a land of dusty aridity to a lush green island. The best way to explore this man-made wonder is by cycles. There are two routes you can take, a purple route and a blue route. The purple route is ideal for advanced cyclists who are looking for a bit advanced tracks. Whichever the route you take, though, you would see many creatures that now inhabit the island. Do not be surprised if a peacock runs off into the shrubbery at your sight or if an oryx stares at you gallop on two wheels. The typical cycling tour starts early in the morning when the ground is soft with dew and animals are still scattered about. It takes about an hour or two to do the circuit, and you can be back in time for breakfast. Although there are several resorts on the island including Anantara Sir Bani Yas Island Al Yamm Villa Resort, many people visit the island on day trips. It is quite common for families and friends to arrive here on a ferry, and then take a cycling tour only to go back in time for lunch. The benefit of cycling through the island is that you can take it at your own pace. You can stop as many times as you want, whether it is to catch your breath, capture a beautiful shot, or simply because you feel like lounging under a tree.

Caleb Falcon is a travel writer who specializes in writing content based on the many exciting world adventures that await intrepid travellers.

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