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Shaumari Wildlife Reserve

Plizio editorial teamUpdated: Jun 2026Data Sources

national-park

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The Shaumari Wildlife Reserve was established in 1975 by the Royal Society for the Conservation of Nature as a breeding center for endangered or locally extinct wildlife. Located in the eastern desert near Azraq, the reserve covers 22 square kilometers of arid plains and wadis. Its primary mission was the reintroduction of the Arabian Oryx, which had been hunted to extinction in the wild in the region; today, a thriving herd exists within the protected boundaries. In addition to the oryx, the reserve supports populations of Somali ostriches, Persian onagers (wild asses), and various species of gazelles. The site provides a controlled environment for scientific research and educational programs focused on desert ecology and species recovery. Visitors can observe the animals from specialized viewing towers or during guided safari tours that emphasize the importance of biodiversity in Jordan's steppe environments. The reserve serves as a vital gene pool for reintroduction projects across the Middle East, demonstrating successful conservation strategies in challenging climatic conditions.

Location: Jordan
Top sights: Qasr Uweinid · Shaumari Wildlife Reserve
Nearby: Azraq (9 km)

Best time to visit & climate

The most pleasant time to visit is Apr, May, Oct.

	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Avg °C	8	10	14	18	24	27	29	29	27	22	15	10
Rain mm	15	16	11	7	2	1	2	1	0	3	8	12

📋 Practical info

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Getting there

Located near Azraq, the reserve is easily accessible by paved roads from Amman within a couple of hours. Visitors usually arrive by rental car or as part of organized wildlife tours.

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Best season

Spring and autumn offer pleasant temperatures and optimal conditions for wildlife viewing. Early morning or late afternoon visits during summer avoid the most intense desert heat.

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Terrain & paths

The reserve encompasses flat, semi-arid desert terrain and scrubland with established dirt tracks for safari vehicles. Walking is generally confined to designated zones near the visitor center.

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What to bring

Binoculars and cameras with zoom lenses are highly recommended for spotting animals at a distance. Wear comfortable clothing suitable for hot climates, sturdy shoes, and adequate sun protection.

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Parking

There is an official parking area provided at the reserve's main entrance and visitor center. From there, guests transition to the reserve's own safari vehicles for guided tours.

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Safety

The environment is very controlled, making it a safe destination for families and solo travelers alike. Ensure you stay hydrated and follow the rules regarding interaction with the protected animals.

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Time needed

Most safari drives and visits to the breeding enclosures take approximately two to three hours. It is often combined with a trip to the nearby Azraq Wetland Reserve for a full day out.

Geography

Coordinates

31.78330, 36.80000

Facts

It was Jordan's first nature reserve, established in 1975.
The reserve covers 22 square kilometers of desert landscape.
The Arabian Oryx was successfully saved from extinction here.
Persian onagers were introduced from Iran for breeding purposes.
Somali ostriches were brought in to repopulate the desert environment.
A 2-meter high fence protects the entire area from poachers and predators.

Explore nearby

Notable places around

Azraq Wetland Reserve6 km · NEExplore →

Azraq Desert Agriculture9 km · EExplore →

Quseir Amra24 km · SExplore →

Qasr Kharana38 km · SExplore →

Qasr Tuba48 km · SWExplore →

Mafraq Development Area74 km · SEExplore →

Al Qurayyat74 km · NWExplore →

Bosra Amphitheatre75 km · SEExplore →

Route planner — Car & Motorhome

Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.

Start Destination Via (optional)

Overnight stops

Vehicle

Only stops with (optional): 💧 Water ♻️ Disposal 🔌 Power 🚻 Toilets 🚿 Shower

Sights in the town Shaumari Wildlife Reserve (2)

Qasr Uweinid 🏺 historical

This archaeological site contains the remains of a small Roman fort, known in German as a Kleinkastell, built in the desert.

Shaumari Wildlife Reserve🌿 nature

This protected nature reserve was established as a breeding center for endangered species like the Arabian oryx.

Sights nearby

Frequently asked questions

What is the Shaumari Wildlife Reserve?

A protected area founded to breed endangered species such as the Arabian Oryx.

What can you see in the reserve?

Main attractions are Arabian Oryx, ostriches, and desert gazelles in their natural habitat.

Do I need to visit the reserve with a guide?

Yes, guided safari tours are mandatory to ensure animals are not disturbed.

When is the best time to visit?

Early morning or late afternoon are when animals are most active and best viewed.

Is the reserve kid-friendly?

Yes, families are welcome and seeing the animals is fascinating for children.

Shaumari Wildlife Reserve: where is it located?

Shaumari Wildlife Reserve is located in Jordan.

Shaumari Wildlife Reserve: what is there to see?

Highlights include Qasr Uweinid, Shaumari Wildlife Reserve.

Shaumari Wildlife Reserve: when is the best time to visit?

The most pleasant time to visit is Apr, May, Oct.

Shaumari Wildlife Reserve: why is it worth visiting?

The Shaumari Wildlife Reserve was established in 1975 by the Royal Society for the Conservation of Nature as a breeding center for endangered or locally extinct wildlife.

View on map → The Top 50 Attractions → OpenStreetMap →

Shaumari Wildlife Reserve

Best time to visit & climate