“Far from Jordan's deserts, this reserve protects a green oak forest where a trail leads to villagers making soap from local olive oil.”
About Ajloun Forest Reserve
The reserve was established by Jordan's main conservation body to protect the remnant oak and pistachio woodlands of the northern highlands and to demonstrate that conservation can benefit local people. It supports reintroduction programmes for native wildlife and runs community projects, such as the women-led soap house and craft enterprises, that give villagers a stake in protecting the forest.
The Ajloun Forest Reserve protects a rare surviving woodland of evergreen oak, pistachio, carob and strawberry trees in the highlands of northern Jordan, a green and hilly landscape quite different from the country's deserts. Managed for conservation and ecotourism, it offers hiking trails, wildlife and a chance to support local communities through nature-based tourism.
Managed for conservation and ecotourism, it offers hiking trails, wildlife and a chance to support local communities through nature-based tourism.
A Green Jordan of Oak Forests
Far from the popular image of Jordan as all desert, the Ajloun highlands hold one of the last fragments of the oak forests that once cloaked the region. The reserve safeguards this woodland and its wildlife, including roe deer reintroduced to the area. Its trails, such as the Soap House Trail, lead through the forest to local enterprises where villagers make olive-oil soap and other products, linking conservation directly to community livelihoods.
The Experience
You hike forest trails among ancient oaks, wildflowers and birdlife, with cool, fresh highland air and views over the green hills. Routes like the Soap House Trail connect to local workshops where you can see olive-oil soap being made and taste regional produce. Accommodation in the reserve and these community links make it a model of low-impact, immersive ecotourism.
Why It Matters
The Ajloun Forest Reserve showcases the surprising green, forested face of northern Jordan and a leading example of community-based conservation in the Middle East. It protects a threatened ecosystem while channelling tourism benefits to local villages, offering travellers a peaceful, nature-focused contrast to the country's famous deserts and ruins.
The Ajloun Forest Reserve showcases the surprising green, forested face of northern Jordan and a leading example of community-based conservation in the Middle East.
Why Visit
A rare oak-forest reserve in Jordan's green north, with hiking, wildlife and community trails to local soap-makers, a refreshing contrast to the deserts.
✦ Insider Tips
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Hike the Soap House Trail to the local soap-making workshop.
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It supports community conservation, so local products help villagers.
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Consider staying overnight in the reserve for the full experience.
