Jordan’s Wild Life Attractions
By Dr Silivia Zayadeen, Veterinarian
Jordan is home to a variety of natural reserves habitats to diverse ecosystems, rare species and important cultural and historical sites, each with its own unique features, attractions and cultural significance. These reserves are managed and protected by the Royal Society for the Conservation of Nature (RSCN).
By supporting sustainable tourism practices and responsible travel, visitors to these reserves can help to ensure that these protected areas and landscapes remain a treasure for years to come.
This month, I’d like to entice you and your family to visit these reserves during the upcoming holidays.
Dana Biosphere Reserve
Located in southern Jordan, the Dana Biosphere Reserve is home to a variety of flora and fauna, including the endangered Nubian Ibex and Syrian Wolf. A popular destination for hiking and bird watching, the reserve covers an area of over 300 square kilometers featuring beautiful landscapes, such as deep canyons, rocky mountains and sand dunes
Burqu’ Nature Reserve
This reserve is a beautiful, protected area located in the North-Eastern Badia in Mafraq Governorate. The Burqu’ Natural Reserve is named after the nearby village of Burqu, which is known for its traditional agriculture and pastoral practices. The reserve was established in 2018 to protect the unique natural and cultural heritage of the region. It is a relatively new protected area, but it is already making a significant contribution to the conservation of Jordan’s biodiversity
Azraq Wetland Reserve
This reserve is an oasis in the eastern desert of Jordan and is home to over 300 species of birds, including the Rare Lesser Kestrel and Socotra Cormorant. Other species include Azraq killifish and the Black Iris. The reserve covers 12 square kilometers and contains important archaeological sites, such as the Azraq Castle fortress, which was used by T E Lawrence during the Arab Revolt
Shaumari Wildlife Reserve
Here, your family will have the opportunity to witness firsthand the endangered Arabian Oryx, gazelles and ostriches in their natural habitat in eastern Jordan
Mujib Biosphere Reserve
Known for its attractive canyons and waterfalls, this reserve is a popular destination for hiking, rock climbing and swimming. It is also home to a variety of wildlife, such as the Nubian Ibex and Syrian Wolf. Located in the Dead Sea area of Jordan, this reserve covers an area of over 200 square kilometers
Wadi Rum Protected Area
This desert area in southern Jordan is home to a variety of wildlife, including the endangered Arabian Leopard and is known for its eye-catching rock formations and sand dunes. The area is also of significant cultural importance, as Lawrence of Arabia lived there during the Great Arab Revolt and was enchanted by its beauty-it covers an area of over 700 square kilometers
‘Ajloun Forest Reserve
In northern Jordan, this reserve is home to a variety of plant and animal species, such as the Persian Squirrel and the Syrian Woodpecker. The reserve is a popular destination for hiking and bird watching. Covering an area of around 10 square kilometers , it contains important historical sites, such as the ‘Ajloun Castle
Wadi Dahek
Also known as the White Desert, this reserve is a unique natural attraction in Jordan. Located in the eastern part of the country, its landscape is a must-see for visitors who appreciate the beauty of natural rock formations. The White Desert is named for its striking white limestone rock formations that have been shaped by wind and water over thousands of years. The area is believed to have once been an ocean and as the water receded, it left behind a vast expanse of white rocks that are truly something to behold. The landscape is not only stunning, but is also home to a variety of plant and animal species that are uniquely adapted to the arid climate of the region. Visitors to the White Desert may see desert foxes, Nubian Ibex, and sand cats, as well as a variety of reptiles and birds
Yarmouk Nature Reserve
A variety of plant and animal species are found in this reserve including the Palestine Sunbird and the Syrian Wolf. The reserve is also of significant historical importance, as it was the site of the Battle of Yarmouk, which took place in 636 CE and was a decisive battle in the Arab-Byzantine Wars. The Yarmouk Nature Reserve is located in northern Jordan and covers an area of around 30 square kilometers
Dibeen Forest Reserve
Covering an area of around 9 square kilometers, this reserve is the habitat to a variety of plant and animal species such as the Persian Squirrel and the Blanford’s Fox. It is also a popular destination for hiking and picnicking. Located in northern Jordan, the reserve includes important historical sites, such as the Roman aqueduct
Ghor Fifa Nature Reserve
Beautiful and located in the western part of Jordan, this natural reserve exhibits a unique landscape and location making it an important site for studying geological and archaeological phenomena. It covers an area of over 200 square kilometers and is situated in the Jordan Valley. It is named after the ghor (valley) region, which is a depression that is below sea level and is fed by several rivers. The reserve is home to a diverse range of flora and fauna, including many rare and endangered species
About RSCN
Established in 1966 as a non-profit organisation with a mission to protect and manage the country’s natural resources and wildlife
It manages 10 natural reserves throughout Jordan, covering a total area of over 1,000 square kilometers
