Dana Biosphere Reserve

Dana Biosphere Reserve is an under-the-radar destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. It is the only reserve in Jordan that encompasses four different bio-geographical zones, ranging from Mediterranean woodlands to the scorching desert of Wadi Araba. This extraordinary diversity supports a vast range of flora and fauna, much of which is unique to the region. Covering about 320 square kilometers, the reserve is home to over 800 plant species and rare animals such as the Nubian Ibex and the Syrian Serin. The heart of the reserve is the welcoming Dana Village, a 15th-century stone settlement perched on a precipice overlooking the deep Wadi Dana canyon. Many of the traditional stone houses have been restored as cozy guesthouses for travelers. Hiking is the main draw here, with trails offering wide-open views of rugged sandstone cliffs and fertile valleys. Routes cater to all skill levels, from gentle walks around the village to challenging full-day treks that descend to the desert floor. Managed by the Royal Society for the Conservation of Nature (RSCN), Dana is a model for sustainable ecotourism. Visitors can choose to stay in award-winning eco-friendly lodges like Feynan Ecolodge. The best time to visit is in the spring (March to May) when the wildflowers are in bloom, or in the autumn. Dana is a place of profound silence and natural majesty, providing a peaceful contrast to the bustling urban centers of Jordan.

Nearby cities

Tafilah

Tafilah is nestled within the rugged mountains of southern Jordan.

Busaira

Busaira sits atop a mountain ridge and looks back on a long history.

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Wadi Dhana / Feynan

A spectacular biosphere reserve featuring diverse wildlife and hiking trails through desert valleys.

Ghor es-Safi

Ghor es-Safi lies deep below sea level on the edge of the Dead Sea.

Al-Mazar al-Janubi

Al-Mazar al-Janubi is a significant pilgrimage site south of Karak.

Dead Sea (Ein Bokek)

The lowest point on Earth, famous for its hypersaline water that lets you float effortlessly and mineral-rich mud.

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Ma'an

Ma'an is the largest city in Jordan's arid south.

Wadi Bin Hammad

A spectacular rainforest canyon in Jordan featuring hanging gardens and hot springs.

History & landmarks

Little Petra (Siq al-Barid)

This remote site north of Petra once served as a suburb for passing merchants.

Royal Tombs of Petra

This imposing row of tombs is carved into the rock face of Jabal al-Khubtha.

Ad-Deir (The Monastery)

The Monastery is one of the largest monuments in Petra and requires climbing over 800 steps.

The Siq

The narrow canyon is the dramatic main entrance to the ancient city of Petra.

Mount Aaron (Jabal Haroun)

This mountain is the highest peak in the Petra area.

Dead Sea Basin

The Dead Sea Basin is the lowest point on the Earth's surface on dry land.

Nature

Wadi Numeira

An extremely narrow and deep sandstone gorge by the Dead Sea, also known as the water Petra.

Wadi Mujib (River)

This spectacular canyon is often referred to as the Grand Canyon of Jordan and carries water year-round.

Dead Sea

The Dead Sea is an endorheic salt lake located at the lowest land elevation on Earth, famous for its extremely high salinity.

More places

Dana Biosphere Reserve

Jordan's largest nature reserve encompasses four distinct biogeographical zones and enormous biodiversity.

Edom Mountains

A rugged mountain range in southern Jordan, captivating with its red sandstone formations.

Wadi Ghuweir

A spectacular river valley with lush vegetation, hanging gardens, and dramatic sandstone formations.

Tafilah Wind Farm

The first commercial wind energy project in the Middle East, producing clean energy for the Jordanian grid.

Shobak Castle

A Crusader castle situated on a conical mountain, offering a dramatic and rugged appearance.

Fifa Nature Reserve

This low-lying wetland south of the Dead Sea is an important habitat for endangered desert pupfish.

Arab Potash Company

A major mining company on the Dead Sea that extracts minerals and exports them worldwide.

Sharah Mountains

A striking mountain massif near Petra, characterized by deep valleys and steep cliffs.