Wadi Dhana / Feynan

Wadi Dhana and the adjacent Feynan area form the core of the Dana Biosphere Reserve, Jordan's largest protected natural area. This region is a geological marvel, descending from 1,500 meters above sea level to the desert plains of Wadi Araba. Visitors flock here to witness pristine landscapes that range from forested highlands to jagged desert canyons. The historic village of Dana, perched on a precipice, provides an authentic glimpse into traditional Jordanian mountain life. The area is a hiker's paradise, with trails leading through dramatic gorges and past the ancient copper mines of Feynan, which date back to biblical times. The biodiversity is extraordinary, hosting rare species like the Nubian ibex and the Syrian serin. Feynan is also home to an award-winning eco-lodge, famous for its solar-powered operations and candlelit evenings under the starlit desert sky. Culinary experiences revolve around traditional Bedouin hospitality, often featuring meals cooked over an open fire. Dana is accessible via the King's Highway, while Feynan is best reached from the Wadi Araba road. The well-suited time to visit is spring (March to May) for wildflowers, or autumn. Winters in the Dana highlands can be surprisingly cold, with occasional snowfall.

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.

Dana Biosphere Reserve

Jordan's largest nature reserve offers incredible biodiversity and spectacular hiking trails.

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.

Ad-Deir (The Monastery)

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

Royal Tombs of Petra

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

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.

Makhtesh Ramon

Makhtesh Ramon in the Negev Desert is the largest erosion crater in the world, captivating visitors with its dramatic cliffs and colorful…

Nature

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Wadi Hasa

A picturesque gorge with hot springs and pink sandstone walls that is highly popular among hikers.

Wadi Numeira

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

More places

Wadi Ghuweir

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

Edom Mountains

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

Dana Biosphere Reserve

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

Shobak Castle

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

Tafilah Wind Farm

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

Arava Valley

Part of the Great Rift Valley, stretching from the Dead Sea to the Gulf of Aqaba in the south.

Sharah Mountains

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

Fifa Nature Reserve

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