Dana Biosphere Reserve
Dana Biosphere Reserve is Jordan's largest protected area, covering 308 square kilometres from the Dana village on the edge of the Rift Valley escarpment down through sandstone cliffs, juniper forests, and desert plains to Wadi Araba. The Wadi Dana to Wadi Rum trek — four days, 50 kilometres — is one of the finest multi-day hikes in the Middle East and sees perhaps a few hundred walkers a year. Most travellers drive past on the Kings Highway between Petra and Amman, which is their loss.
Why visit
Jordan's largest nature reserve spanning four bio-geographical zones. The Wadi Dana to Wadi Rum trek (50km, 4 days) is one of the best multi-day hikes in the Middle East.
Crowd level
Very few international visitors. Trails are quiet. The RSCN restricts visitor numbers to protect the ecosystem.
Best time
March to May for wildflowers and mild temperatures; October to November
Getting there
Drive from Petra (1hr) or Amman (3.5hrs). RSCN guesthouse and eco-lodge in Dana village.
Tradeoffs
Limited accommodation and infrastructure. Requires booking through the RSCN in advance.
Direct comparisons
Layers
Region
At a glance
- Country
- Jordan
- Region
- Tafilah
- Fresh Air Score
- 88/100
- Cost level
- $
- Distance from Petra
- 60 km