The Jordan Trail is a long-distance hiking trail in Jordan connecting the length of Jordan from Um Qais in the north to Aqaba in the south. Offering daily, weekly, regional, and thru-hikes, it covers more than 675 kilometers of trail over 40 days, traveling through 75 villages and towns on its way. The trail traverses the diverse landscapes and vistas of the country.
Learn moreEstablished in 1989, Dana Biosphere Reserve is Jordan's largest and most diverse nature reserve, spanning 292 km² along the stunning Great Rift Valley. It is the only reserve in Jordan encompassing three bio-geographical zones, making it rich in habitats and species, with over 891 plant species, including endemic and rare varieties. Visitors can explore its rugged landscapes, enjoy various activities like hiking and birdwatching, and stay in eco-friendly accommodations, experiencing a unique blend of nature and responsible tourism.
Established in 1987, Ajloun Forest Reserve covers 12 km² in Jordan's highlands, featuring Mediterranean-like woodlands dominated by Evergreen Oak, Carob, wild Pistachio, and Strawberry trees. It supports diverse wildlife, including reintroduced Roe Deer, Golden Jackals, and Striped Hyenas, and is home to vibrant wildflowers like the Black Iris. It was declared an Important Bird Area in 2000. Visitors can stay in Ajloun Cabins to experience beautiful views.
Shaumari Wildlife Reserve, established in 1975, covers 21 km² and serves as Jordan's first wildlife protection reserve, located in a dry desert climate with desert wadis and hammada areas. It supports over 193 plant species and is home to six carnivore species, including Red Foxes and Wolves, as well as birds like the Imperial Eagle. Initially focused on breeding and reintroducing the Arabian Oryx, the reserve now also houses rare species like Ostriches, Goitered Gazelles, and Persian Onagers. Visitors can observe these animals in their natural or protected habitats, making it a popular destination for educational trips.
Established in 1978, Azraq Wetland Reserve covers 74 km² in Jordan's eastern desert, known for its lush marshlands and natural water pools. It is a vital stop for migratory birds along the African-Eurasian flyway, with over 350 bird species recorded.The reserve is home to unique species like the Azraq Killifish and supports rich biodiversity, including 133 plant species, 18 mammal species, and over 160 invertebrates.
Burqu Nature Reserve, established in 2018, spans 906 km² in the North-Eastern Badia within Mafraq Governorate. Located about 200 km east of Amman, it is one of Jordan's most significant bird migration sites and wetlands. The area was initially identified in the 1970s as part of a national plan for protected areas. The reserve aims to protect unique ecosystems, including endemic species in the Al Hammad area, and regulate grazing and hunting activities. It also supports falcon training programs focused on sustainable hunting, contributing to the protection of nature in the eastern desert. Visitors can live the experience of Burqu through some of the activities that are organized in the reserve.
Dibeen Forest Reserve, established in 2004, covers 8 km² in northern Jordan and is home to one of the Kingdom's oldest and largest Aleppo pine-oak habitats. The reserve's unique ecosystem supports over 500 plant species and is characterized by a varied landscape of steep slopes and diverse vegetation. It is the driest known region where Aleppo pines naturally grow, with an average rainfall of 400mm annually. Dibeen is crucial for biodiversity conservation, hosting at least 17 threatened species, including the Persian Squirrel. Its distinct plant and animal life, particularly in the pine-oak forests, makes it a priority for conservation in Jordan.
Established in 2011, Fifa Nature Reserve is located in the southwest of Jordan, 140 km south of Amman, and covers 25 km². It lies at the lowest point of Jordan, 420 meters below sea level. The reserve is home to diverse ecosystems, including salt and tropical plant patterns, and supports significant biodiversity, protecting seven endangered species such as the Arak plant, lynx, and hyena. It houses 4% of Jordan’s plant species and 8% of its animal species. In 2017, it was designated as the world’s lowest elevation Ramsar Site. Fifa is crucial for endangered species, including Richardson’s Killifish and the Nubian Nightjar, making it an important habitat for both local and migratory birds.
Established in 1987, Mujib Biosphere Reserve spans 212 km² and borders the Dead Sea, situated 402 meters below sea level. The reserve centers around Wadi Mujib, a dramatic canyon that drains into the Dead Sea. Its seasonal and permanent streams support diverse aquatic plants and wildlife, making it a crucial source to counter the high evaporation rate of the Dead Sea. Mujib is home to over 550 plant species, 8 carnivore species, and numerous migratory and resident birds. Notable animals include the Nubian Ibex, Rock Hyrax, and Caracal. The reserve is also a vital migratory bird route, with significant populations of White Storks, Lesser Kestrels, and other raptors.
Yarmouk Forest Reserve, established in 2010, spans 21 km² in northwestern Jordan near the Golan Heights. It features deciduous oak forests, valleys, and a Mediterranean climate with 400-600 mm of rainfall annually. The reserve is home to 546 plant species, 18 mammals, 100 bird species, and 19 herpetofauna. Key species include Arabian Gazelles, Kestrels, and Green Toads. Challenges like overgrazing, hunting, and agricultural expansion are being addressed through an integrated management plan involving local communities.
Dahek Nature Reserve, established in 2018, spans 265 square kilometers in the North-Eastern Badia of Zarqa Governorate, Jordan. The area features a dry, subtropical climate with high temperatures and low rainfall. Known for its unique geological formations, including ancient marine fossils and white chalk cliffs, Dahek offers stunning landscapes and is ideal for stargazing. The reserve’s name, meaning "laughing," comes from its white stone formations resembling ivory teeth.
JBW implements a variety of programs related to science, eco-tourism development, awareness and capacity building, and works with people through partnerships and participatory methods.
Jordan has a remarkable diversity of natural landscapes and bird habitats with over 440 bird species recorded so far. This unique diversity merits additional appreciation and responsiveness, especially in a region facing multiple environmental and socio-economic challenges.
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