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Hauran Plateau
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The Hauran Plateau is an expansive volcanic plain in southwestern Syria, extending across the border into northern Jordan. Geologically, the region is defined by massive basalt deposits resulting from volcanic activity during the Tertiary and Quaternary periods. The weathering of this basalt has produced exceptionally fertile soils, earning the Hauran the reputation of being Syria's 'granary' since ancient times. The plateau sits at an average elevation of 600 to 900 meters and is bordered to the east by the Jabal al-Druze mountain range. Historically, the region was a densely populated province of the Roman Empire, evidenced by remarkable archaeological sites like Bosra, which were constructed almost entirely from local black basalt. Today, the Hauran remains a critical agricultural zone for wheat and barley production. Its semi-arid climate is mitigated by winter rainfall, allowing for intensive farming despite the lack of major permanent rivers.
- Location: Syria
- Nearby: Daraa (14 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is May, Sep, Oct.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | 8 | 9 | 13 | 17 | 22 | 26 | 28 | 28 | 26 | 22 | 15 | 10 |
| Rain mm | 61 | 54 | 28 | 16 | 6 | 1 | 0 | 1 | 1 | 10 | 29 | 52 |
📋 Practical info
Getting there
Access to the Hauran Plateau is typically via the roads leading south from Damascus towards the volcanic fields. It is generally approached by private vehicle or organized tours depending on local conditions.
Best season
The best time to visit is usually during the cooler spring months when the fertile red soil supports some vegetation. Summers can be extremely hot and dry, making extensive exploration quite challenging.
Terrain & paths
The landscape consists largely of undulating volcanic plains and rocky terrain shaped by ancient basalt flows. Visitors should expect mostly flat but uneven ground with scattered rocky outcrops and agricultural fields.
What to bring
Sturdy walking shoes with good soles are essential for navigating the rough, basaltic surfaces. Sun protection, including a wide-brimmed hat and plenty of drinking water, is crucial due to limited shade.
Parking
Parking is generally informal and can often be found near local agricultural settlements or alongside main thoroughfares. There are typically no dedicated, paved parking lots specifically for exploring the plateau.
Safety
Travelers must stay strictly updated on current local security conditions and seek advice from reliable local guides. It is advisable to remain on established tracks to avoid rough, unstable rocky areas and respect boundaries.
Time needed
A typical visit ranges from a few hours of driving through the region to a half-day exploration of specific historical and geological features. Full-day trips are possible if combining the natural sights with nearby ruins.
Geography
Facts
- The Hauran Plateau covers an area of more than 10,000 square kilometers.
- Geologically, the surface is formed by lava flows that can reach 1,000 meters in thickness.
- The ancient city of Bosra, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is located in the Hauran.
- During the Roman era, the plateau supplied grain to the entire province of Arabia.
- The characteristic black basalt is the primary building material for historical architecture.
- The region receives an average of 250 to 400 mm of rainfall per year.
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.
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© OpenStreetMap contributors · OpenRouteService
Sights in the town Hauran Plateau (1)
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
What characterizes the Hauran plateau?
It is a fertile, vast region.
Can you travel through the area?
Yes, very well by car.
When is it greenest?
In early spring.
Is it developed for tourism?
Only moderately, more for individual explorers.
Are there sights?
There are some historical sites.
Hauran Plateau: where is it located?
Hauran Plateau is located in Syria.
Hauran Plateau: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is May, Sep, Oct.
Hauran Plateau: why is it worth visiting?
The Hauran Plateau is an expansive volcanic plain in southwestern Syria, extending across the border into northern Jordan.
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Deir Abi Saeed
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History & landmarks
Nature
Lake Muzairib
Lake Muzairib is an important freshwater lake in southern Syria, fed by numerous natural springs.
Yarmouk River
The largest tributary of the Jordan River carves deep into the landscape and separates Jordan from Syria.
Zarqa River
An important river system in northern Jordan that flows through steep valleys and feeds the King Talal Dam.
Lake Ram
Lake Ram is a picturesque volcanic crater lake in the northern Golan Heights, surrounded by orchards.
More places
Hawran Wheat Fields
The fertile volcanic soil of the Hawran plain in southern Syria has been known since antiquity for its abundant wheat cultivation.
Bosra Amphitheatre
An exceptionally well-preserved 2nd-century amphitheater built of black basalt.
Al-Lajat
Al-Lajat, also known as Lejah, is a highly rugged basalt plateau that served as a refuge for bandits and rebels in antiquity.
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Battle of Yarmouk Site
The site of the decisive Battle of Yarmouk in 636 AD, which signaled the end of Byzantine rule in Syria and opened the region to Islamic …
Al-Hassan Industrial Estate
One of the most important industrial zones in northern Jordan, attracting companies from various sectors.
King Abdullah Park (Irbid)
A large and vibrant park in northern Jordan.
Mafraq Development Area
A special economic zone designed as a logistics and industrial center to promote investments.
Yarmouk Forest Reserve
A hilly protected area on the northern border that is rich in deciduous oaks and seasonal wildflowers.