Shaumari Reserve and Azraq Wetland Private Full Day Tour from Amman
About this activity
Highlights
- Explore Shaumari Wildlife Reserve's endangered species
- Enjoy a guided safari in the reserve
- Hike the scenic Azraq Wetland Reserve trail
- Spot migratory birds and water buffalo
- Visit the historic Qasr Al-Azraq castle
Full description
Included / Excluded
- Jeep 4 x 4 at Shaumari Reserve
- English-Speaking Driver
- Hotel pickup and drop-off
- On board WI-FI
- Private Transfer by air-conditioned leisure new vehicle according to number of participants
- Entrance Fees to the Shaumari Reserve and Azraq Wetland
- Water Buffalo Trail at Azraq Wetland
- Conservation fee (mandatory)
- English Speaking Nature Guide
- All type of meals
- All type of beverages
- All type of gratuities (Tips to the Driver) – Recommended
- Personal expenses
- Any other service not mentioned
Itinerary
Be picked up from your hotel in Amman to visit both Shaumari Reserve created in 1975 by the Royal Society for the Conservation of Nature as a breeding center for endangered or locally extinct wildlife, like the Arabian Oryx, Somali Ostriches, Persian Onagers, and Gazelles.
Proceed to visit the Azraq Wetland, a location of rich biodiversity, providing a natural habitat for numerous aquatic and terrestrial species, including the Azraq Killifish. A variety of birds’ flock to the reserve each year, stopping for a short rest along their migration routes, staying for the winter, or breeding within the wetland. The Azraq wetland is the only oasis in the Arabian Desert with a self-replenishing system that has allowed it to sustain itself throughout the years. Azraq Wetland Reserve established in 1978 is a wonderful and peaceful place worth a day trip from Amman. It was declared as an adjacent mudflat and a major station for migratory birds on the African-Eurasian flyway.
The reserve was established to conserve the uniquely precious oasis located in the heart of Jordan’s eastern desert, between a limestone desert in the west and a basalt desert in the east. It is distinguished by lush marshland and natural water collections that form glittering pools and streams, giving Azraq its name, the Arabic word for blue. Azraq Wet Land provides great trail walks and it is also rich in history due to its location and water resources. It was used as a station for pilgrims and camel trains. Lawrence of Arabia was stationed in the Azraq Castle during the Arab Revolt.
You will have the chance to visit the Ancient British Hospital of the time turned into a guesthouse. After enjoying these two unique wild lives, you will be taken back to Amman. You may have the option on your way back to visit the local community from 3 different ethnic backgrounds to learn of their lifestyles: Bedouin from the Desert, Chechen form the Caucasus settlers, and Drouze from Syrian Lebanese Tribes. Each with its distinctive beliefs and traditions making this place a pure magical station to meet the locals.
Tour includes 4 x 4 safari tour at Shaumari and a walking trail for Water Buffalo and Bird Watching with round trip transfers.
Important information
Know before you book
- Meals and beverages are not included; plan to bring snacks or purchase options available at the reserves.
- The tour involves walking on uneven ground and short outdoor trails; consider your mobility when booking.
- Most local restaurants in Jordan do not serve alcohol; contact the operator if you prefer alcohol-served venues.
Know before you go
- Wear comfortable walking shoes and light, breathable clothing suitable for outdoor activities.
- Bring a hat, sunscreen, and sunglasses for sun protection.
- Carry a camera and binoculars for birdwatching and photography.
Cancellation policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Good to know
- Confirmation will be received at the time of booking.
- Airport Pick-up and Drop-off by request.
- Contact your local operator (office phone number, emergency mobile number – out of office hours, or email address) a day before to reconfirm pick-up arrangements provided in your voucher.
- Tour activity is provided in English. For other languages by request.
- Clients with mobility issues, please contact us.
- Most local tourist restaurants in Jordan do not serve alcohol, if you do not want a dry restaurant that does not serve alcohol, please contact us.
- Clients are advised to bring hats, sun screen, and comfortable walking shoes.
Traveler reviews
Fantastic tour for nature lovers!
A fantastic tour: Hani was a very safe, friendly and punctual driver who ensured everything went smoothly and that we had a wonderful time, teaching us a lot and keeping us laughing and taking great photos for us too. Azraq wetlands was beautiful: we saw Hoopoe, Collared Flycatcher, and many geckos as well as the usual herons, coots, swallows and ducks, and the surrounding vegetation was full of birdsong. Shaumari Reserve was stunning; we were treated to a 2-hour Land Cruiser tour and were lucky to see two herds of Arabian Oryxes, as well as birds such as Red Backed Shrike and Crested Lark. The reserve and its staff are to be applauded for rewilding and restoring in such a wonderful way. There are many animals to be seen; some are in enclosures as they are part of the breeding program to then be released into the reserve: for example Sand Gazelles and Onagers as well as the Arabian Oryxes. This means that if you don't see them on safari you can see them in the enclosures. Our safari guide was great as well, stopping to show us medicinal plants and pointing out birdcalls and stopping for herbal tea halfway, where we could stretch our legs and enjoy the vastness of the reserve. Such an enjoyable day!
Amazing Shaumari reserve
We had a really nice day with our driver (we forgot his name so sorry, it was April 20th), he added a free stop at a nice castle on the way back. If you are animal lovers we recommend it, even if the price is quite expensive. Our guide in Shaumari reserve was incredible, we saw so many oryx, even 2 gazelles and some wild donkeys. During the stop for the tea we had in front of us a group of 10 oryx with 4 babies, a little far for the eyes but amazing with the binoculars. The wetland was ok, we had a nice guide, but we didn’t see any buffaloes unfortunately. Driving in Amman on the way back was very hectic due to heavy traffic.
Good to see the good work going on in environmental and wildlife conservation in Jordan
Sad to see that water is still being drained from Azraq despite the work of the RSCN and the Government's undertaking to reduce illegal pumping and replenish. It's future is very much in the balance. It would be a great loss. Needs support. Shaumari - undertaking breeding programmes for Oryx, Gazelle and Bustards. 2 hour safari very enjoyable. Knowlegeable and committed guides in both locations. Our driver was very informative and friendly. Gave a lot of information about Jordan, it's history and culture also. Took us to have lunch in a local restaurant - best lamb ever and delicious salad. But not for the squeamish - carcasses hanging up outside the shop! Would definitely recommend this excursion if you are interested in environmental issues and nature.