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Dana Biosphere Reserve
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Dana Biosphere Reserve is Jordan's largest nature reserve, covering approximately 320 square kilometers of rugged mountains and wadis along the face of the Great Rift Valley. It is uniquely characterized by its four distinct bio-geographical zones: Mediterranean, Irano-Turanian, Saharo-Arabian, and Sudanian, which host an extraordinary diversity of flora and fauna. The reserve is home to over 800 species of plants and hundreds of animal species, including the endangered Syrian serin and the Nubian ibex. At its heart lies the 15th-century Dana Village, where traditional stone architecture has been preserved and repurposed for sustainable community-based tourism. Archaeological surveys in the area have uncovered evidence of human activity dating back to the Paleolithic period, as well as remnants of ancient copper mines in Wadi Feynan. The reserve is managed by the Royal Society for the Conservation of Nature (RSCN), serving as a global model for integrating environmental protection with social and economic development for local inhabitants.
- Location: Jordan
- Nearby: Dana Biosphere Reserve (5 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is May, Jun, Sep.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | 6 | 8 | 11 | 15 | 20 | 23 | 25 | 25 | 23 | 19 | 13 | 8 |
| Rain mm | 45 | 36 | 19 | 10 | 4 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 1 | 7 | 15 | 26 |
📋 Practical info
Getting there
Travelers typically drive along the scenic Desert Highway and turn towards the historic Dana Village, which serves as the primary gateway and main starting point for most guided nature trails.
Best season
Spring and autumn provide the most comfortable and stable weather for hiking, successfully avoiding the intense, exhausting heat of the summer months and the chilly, unpredictable winter storms.
Terrain & paths
The protected reserve features a dramatic, steep descent from rugged limestone highlands down to sandy desert lowlands, with rocky and uneven trails requiring careful footing at all times.
What to bring
Visitors must pack plenty of drinking water, reliable hiking shoes, wide-brimmed sun hats, breathable lightweight clothing, and a good camera to capture the extraordinary biological diversity.
Parking
Vehicles can be safely and conveniently parked near the main visitor center in Dana Village or at designated eco-lodges, from where most of the organized guided walking tours typically commence.
Safety
Always stay on clearly marked paths to protect the fragile local ecosystem, consider hiring a knowledgeable local guide for complex routes, and guard heavily against dehydration and sun exposure.
Time needed
Exploring the diverse biogeographical zones usually takes about four to six hours, though staying overnight in a rustic eco-lodge features a much more comprehensive and immersive wilderness experience.
Geography
Facts
- The reserve was established in 1989 and covers 320 square kilometers.
- It is Jordan's only protected area containing four bio-geographical zones.
- More than 800 plant species have been identified within the reserve.
- Wadi Feynan hosts some of the oldest copper mines in the world.
- It is a key breeding site for the globally threatened Syrian Serin.
- Elevations in the reserve range from 1,500 meters to below sea level.
Explore nearby
Notable places around
Route planner — Car & Motorhome
Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.
Vehicle
Only stops with (optional):
© OpenStreetMap contributors · OpenRouteService
Sights in the town Dana Biosphere Reserve (1)
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
What makes the Dana Biosphere Reserve so special?
It is the only reserve in Jordan that combines four different biogeographical zones.
What activities can you do in Dana?
Hiking, bird watching, and learning about the local culture are the main activities.
Is hiking in Dana suitable for beginners?
There are easier paths, but some routes require good fitness due to the steep terrain.
Where can one stay in Dana?
There are eco-friendly accommodations like the Dana Guest House and camps with great views.
Is a reservation required for visits?
Yes, overnight stays and guided tours should definitely be booked in advance.
Dana Biosphere Reserve: where is it located?
Dana Biosphere Reserve is located in Jordan.
Dana Biosphere Reserve: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is May, Jun, Sep.
Dana Biosphere Reserve: why is it worth visiting?
Dana Biosphere Reserve is Jordan's largest nature reserve, covering approximately 320 square kilometers of rugged mountains and wadis along the face of the Great Rift Valley.
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