“Dana Biosphere Reserve drops more than 1,500 metres from cool highland to hot desert, crossing four climate zones in a single protected area thick with rare wildlife.”
About Dana Biosphere Reserve
Established in 1989 and managed by the Royal Society for the Conservation of Nature, Dana protects a landscape long grazed and farmed by Bedouin and villagers. Its conservation model deliberately ties protection to local income through guiding, crafts and the Feynan ecolodge, and the reserve shelters species at the meeting point of African, European and Asian ranges.
Overview Dana is Jordan's largest nature reserve, a vast sweep of land that drops from cool highland plateau over 1,500 metres down to desert sands, crossing four distinct biogeographic zones in one protected area. That range of altitude and climate supports an unusual concentration of plants, birds and mammals, some found nowhere else. The old stone village of Dana clings to the canyon rim.
That range of altitude and climate supports an unusual concentration of plants, birds and mammals, some found nowhere else.
Walking Dana Trails range from short rim walks to the long descent through Wadi Dana to the Feynan ecolodge, an off-grid lodge lit by candles and run with the local Bedouin community. The reserve is a model of conservation linked to community livelihoods.
The Experience
From the cliff-edge village you can take a short walk for the view or commit to the full descent through Wadi Dana, watching the vegetation change from juniper highland to bare desert as you drop. Birdlife is abundant, and the silence away from the rim is deep. Staying at Feynan, reached on foot or by 4x4, means candlelight and starlight rather than electricity.
Why It Matters
Dana is Jordan's flagship nature reserve, exceptional for the number of climate zones and species packed into one area, and a widely cited example of community-based conservation in the region.
Dana is Jordan's flagship nature reserve, exceptional for the number of climate zones and species packed into one area, and a widely cited example of community-based conservation in the region.
Why Visit
It is the best place in Jordan for hiking and wildlife, with a striking gradient from highland to desert and a genuinely sustainable lodge. Walk at least part of Wadi Dana, and consider a night at Feynan for the stars and quiet.
✦ Insider Tips
- 1
Walk at least part of the Wadi Dana trail to feel the shift from highland to desert.
- 2
Spend a night at the off-grid Feynan ecolodge for candlelight and exceptional stars.
- 3
Spring brings wildflowers and the most active birdlife in the reserve.
- 4
Carry plenty of water and start descents early; the lower trails get very hot.
