Solo Cultural Exploration at Feynan Ecolodge, Jordan

Whispers of the Wadi

As my final day at Feynan Ecolodge draws to a close, I find myself reflecting on the tapestry of experiences that have woven together to create a truly unforgettable journey. It's remarkable how a place so remote, so seemingly untouched by the modern world, can leave such an indelible mark on the soul. From the warmth of the Bedouin hospitality to the stark beauty of the desert landscape, every moment here has been a lesson in simplicity, sustainability, and the profound connection between people and their environment.

My day began, as most days here do, with the gentle call to prayer echoing across the wadi. After a simple yet satisfying breakfast at the lodge [i], I decided to embrace the morning with a hike to the Altar of Sacrifice View Point. The trail wound its way through the rugged terrain, the sun casting long shadows that danced with the rhythm of my steps. As I ascended, the landscape unfolded before me, revealing the vastness and raw beauty of the Jordanian desert. The silence was broken only by the occasional chirping of a desert bird or the whisper of the wind. Reaching the viewpoint, I was rewarded with a panoramic vista that stretched as far as the eye could see. The ancient stones beneath my feet seemed to hum with stories of civilizations past, of Nabataean rituals and Roman conquests. I imagined the sacrifices that might have taken place here centuries ago, a poignant reminder of the enduring human quest for meaning and connection with the divine.


Discover breathtaking views and rich history at the Altar of Sacrifice View Point, a must-visit landmark in Wadi Musa, Jordan, showcasing the wonders of Petra.

After spending some time soaking in the view and the solitude, I made my way back down to the lodge for lunch [i]. The midday sun beat down relentlessly, making the cool, shaded courtyard of Feynan Ecolodge a welcome sanctuary. Over a lunch of traditional Jordanian mezze, I chatted with some of the other guests, sharing stories of our travels and our impressions of this unique place. It's always fascinating to me how travel can bring together people from such diverse backgrounds, united by a shared sense of curiosity and a desire to experience something new. I found myself particularly drawn to a young couple from Germany, who were spending their honeymoon at Feynan. Their enthusiasm for sustainable living and their genuine interest in the Bedouin culture was inspiring.

In the afternoon, I ventured out again, this time to a different viewpoint, simply marked as مطل on my map. It was a less strenuous hike than the morning's, but no less rewarding. From this vantage point, I could see the Feynan Ecolodge nestled in the heart of the wadi, a beacon of sustainability in the midst of the arid landscape. I thought about the lodge's commitment to renewable energy, its use of traditional building materials, and its efforts to support the local Bedouin community. It struck me that Feynan Ecolodge is more than just a place to stay; it's a model for responsible tourism, a testament to the power of human ingenuity to create a harmonious relationship between people and the planet.


Discover the breathtaking views and serene atmosphere at مطل, a must-visit tourist attraction in At-Tafilah, Jordan.

The desert whispers stories of resilience, of adaptation, and of a profound connection to the earth.

As the sun began to dip below the horizon, casting a golden glow across the desert, I made my way to the Ghoroub Sunset Bar & Lounge [i]. While technically located in Amman , I decided to create my own version of it on the roof terrace of the Ecolodge, with the stars as my companions. I sipped on a glass of sweet tea, a Bedouin tradition, and watched as the sky transformed into a canvas of vibrant colors. The stars began to emerge, one by one, twinkling like diamonds scattered across a velvet cloth.


Experience breathtaking sunsets and refreshing cocktails at Ghoroub Sunset Bar & Lounge, a tranquil escape in the heart of Amman.

Feynan is renowned for its stargazing opportunities. Far from the light pollution of the city, the night sky here is a breathtaking spectacle. I recalled something Jan, my husband, once told me about the importance of understanding the stars – how they guided ancient travelers and served as a celestial map. Here, under this vast, starlit dome, I felt a sense of connection to those ancient travelers, a shared sense of wonder and awe at the immensity of the universe.

Later, after another delicious candlelit dinner , I joined a group of guests on the rooftop for a stargazing session with one of the Bedouin guides. He pointed out constellations I had only read about, sharing stories and legends passed down through generations. I learned about the Queen of Cassiopeia, the winged horse Pegasus, and the chained lady Andromeda, their mythical tales adding another layer of richness to the already magical experience. It was a reminder that the stars are not just distant points of light, but also symbols of our shared human history and our enduring fascination with the cosmos.

As I prepare to leave Feynan tomorrow, I know that I will carry with me the lessons I have learned here [i]. The importance of sustainability, the value of community, and the beauty of simplicity. I will also carry with me the memory of the desert stars, a reminder that even in the darkest of nights, there is always light to be found. I am grateful for this solo journey, for the opportunity to connect with myself and with a culture so different from my own. It has been an experience that has enriched my life in ways I could never have imagined. As I drift off to sleep, I can still hear the whispers of the wadi, a lullaby that will stay with me long after I have left this magical place. Perhaps, when Jan retires from his professorship at Delft University of Technology, we can return to Jordan together. I know he would appreciate the blend of history, culture, and sustainability that Feynan Ecolodge so beautifully embodies.

My journey may be ending, but the memories and lessons from Feynan will remain with me always. This experience has reinforced my belief in the power of travel to transform, to connect, and to inspire. Until next time, Feynan, shukran.