Azraq Wetland Reserve: An Oasis in the Heart of Jordan's Desert

Discover the Azraq Wetland Reserve in Jordan, a unique oasis teeming with wildlife and rich in history, offering an unparalleled experience in the heart of the desert.

Looking to book tours, experiences or hotels? Let me help you...

Home
Jordan
Azraq Wetland Reserve

The Azraq Wetland Reserve is a unique oasis located in the eastern desert of Jordan, offering a rare and vibrant ecosystem in an otherwise arid landscape. This wetland is a haven for migratory birds, attracting over 150 species, making it a paradise for bird watchers and nature enthusiasts. The reserve's lush vegetation and tranquil waters provide a stark contrast to the surrounding desert, creating a serene and picturesque environment for visitors. Beyond its natural beauty, the Azraq Wetland Reserve holds historical and cultural significance. The area has been a vital water source for centuries, supporting ancient civilizations and trade routes. Visitors can explore the nearby Azraq Castle, a historic fortress that has stood the test of time, offering a glimpse into Jordan's rich history. The reserve offers well-maintained trails and observation points, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in the natural splendor. Whether you are walking along the boardwalks, photographing the diverse wildlife, or simply enjoying the peaceful ambiance, the Azraq Wetland Reserve promises an unforgettable experience in the heart of Jordan's desert.

Local tips in Azraq Wetland Reserve

Visit during spring or autumn for the best bird-watching opportunities, as these are peak migration seasons.
Bring binoculars and a camera to capture the diverse wildlife and stunning landscapes.
Wear comfortable walking shoes and bring plenty of water, as the reserve covers a large area and temperatures can be high.
Combine your visit with a trip to the nearby Azraq Castle to enrich your cultural experience.
Check the reserve’s opening hours and any visitor guidelines before planning your trip to ensure a smooth visit.

File:Qasr Al-Azraq - 36510722182.jpg - Wikimedia Commons

File:Azraq Qasr al-Azraq Hof 03.JPG - Wikimedia Commons

When is the best time to go to Azraq Wetland Reserve?

Unmissable attractions to see

The Global small Village

Explore The Global Small Village, a captivating zoo in Russeifa where wildlife encounters and family fun await in a picturesque setting.

Hammam as-Sarah

Explore Hammam as-Sarah, a historical landmark in Qasr Al-Hallabat, where ancient Roman architecture meets stunning natural landscapes.

Al-Azraq City Park

Explore the tranquil beauty of Al-Azraq City Park, an oasis of greenery and relaxation in Al-Azraq Al-Shamaly, perfect for nature lovers and families.

بركة زيزيا

Explore Baraka Ziziya, a captivating tourist attraction in Amman, where rich culture and stunning landscapes converge for an unforgettable experience.

Byzantine Church

Explore the Byzantine Church in Amman, a historical landmark showcasing exquisite architecture and rich cultural heritage amidst stunning views.

Mushatta Palace Farm

Explore the historical beauty and cultural richness of Mushatta Palace Farm, where ancient architecture meets serene landscapes in Amman, Jordan.

موقع الفدين الأثري

Explore the historical significance and ancient architecture of موقع الفدين الأثري in Al-Mafraq, a must-visit destination for history enthusiasts.

واحة الازرق المائية

Explore the serene Al-Azraq Oasis, a stunning park filled with vibrant wildlife and lush landscapes, perfect for relaxation and nature enthusiasts alike.

جريبا القديمة

Uncover the ancient mysteries of Jariba in Zarqa, a cultural treasure that showcases Jordan's rich heritage and architectural beauty.

درج شارع عمر بن الخطاب

Explore the vibrant life of Omar Bin Al-Khattab Street in Amman, where culture and history meet in a lively urban setting.

المدرج الروماني

Discover the grandeur of the Roman Theatre in Amman, a remarkable amphitheater showcasing the rich history and culture of Jordan.

الأردن الزعتري المفرق

Discover the serene beauty and rich agricultural heritage of Zaatari's Olive Grove, where nature meets culture in the heart of Jordan.

دوار جلالة الملك عبد الله الثاني بن الحسين المعظم منطقة الذهيبة الشرقية

Explore the stunning architecture and tranquil gardens of the King Abdullah II Shrine, a cultural landmark in the heart of Al Mwaqqar, Jordan.

حفيرة الازرق

Discover the serene beauty of Al-Azraq Oasis, a historic natural sanctuary in Jordan known for its rich wildlife and ancient heritage.

سد الضبعي

Discover the tranquil beauty of Al-Dab'iya Dam in Jordan, a perfect destination for relaxation, outdoor activities, and breathtaking natural scenery.

Essential places to dine

Tawaheen AlHawa

Experience authentic Jordanian cuisine at Tawaheen AlHawa in Amman - where tradition meets taste in a vibrant setting.

Wild Jordan Center

Discover authentic Jordanian cuisine at Wild Jordan Center while enjoying breathtaking views and cultural insights in Amman.

Al Shami Restaurant

Experience authentic Middle Eastern flavors at Al Shami Restaurant in Aqaba—where delicious food meets warm hospitality.

Romero Restaurant

Experience the essence of Italian cuisine at Romero Restaurant in Amman, where every meal is crafted with passion and authenticity.

Buffalo Wings & Rings - Dead Sea

Savor delicious American cuisine at Buffalo Wings & Rings near the stunning Dead Sea – where flavor meets fun in a vibrant atmosphere.

Buffalo Wings & Rings - Aqaba

Experience the best American cuisine at Buffalo Wings & Rings in Aqaba – where delicious chicken wings meet a vibrant atmosphere.

Zuwar Restaurant

Experience authentic Jordanian flavors at Zuwar Restaurant in Amman - where tradition meets modern culinary art.

Umm Qais Rest House

Discover authentic Jordanian flavors at Umm Qais Rest House with breathtaking views over historic landscapes.

Gaadet Jeeran

Discover Gaadet Jeeran in Aqaba: A family-friendly restaurant serving authentic Italian cuisine and traditional dishes in a cozy atmosphere.

Carob House بيت الخروب

Discover authentic Jordanian flavors at Carob House in Madaba - where tradition meets modern culinary artistry in a beautiful garden setting.

Le Gemelle Pizzeria

Experience authentic Italian pizza at Le Gemelle Pizzeria in Amman—where every slice is crafted with love and tradition.

Khashoka Aqaba - خاشوكة العقبة

Experience exquisite dining at Khashoka Aqaba - where fresh seafood meets stunning Red Sea views in Jordan.

استراحة قصر الازرق السياحية Azraq Palace Restaurant

Experience authentic Jordanian flavors at Azraq Palace Restaurant, your perfect culinary stop on the International Baghdad Road.

BONELESS HOUSE

Experience authentic Jordanian cuisine at Boneless House in Zarqa - where flavor meets tradition in every dish.

Suzana Restaurant And Bar

Experience exquisite dining at Suzana Restaurant and Bar in Tala Bay Resort Aqaba – where delicious cuisine meets breathtaking sea views.

Markets, malls and hidden boutiques

Azraq Wetlands Reserve

Discover the Azraq Wetlands Reserve, a stunning national park in Jordan teeming with wildlife and natural beauty, perfect for nature lovers and adventurers.

alshoshan super market

Explore Alshoshan Supermarket in Azraq for a delightful shopping experience featuring local and international products amidst a vibrant atmosphere.

محلات المسافر

Explore the vibrant offerings of محلات المسافر in Azraq, where local and international flavors come together for an unforgettable grocery shopping experience.

محمص وسوبر ماركت العارف

Discover authentic Jordanian flavors at محمص وسوبر ماركت العارف, your gateway to local groceries and delicacies in Azraq.

اسواق النصر التجارية

Experience the bustling shopping and dining scene at اسواق النصر التجارية in Azraq, Jordan, a hub for locals and tourists alike.

ALziyadi for building materials & tools الزيادي لمواد البناء

Explore Alziyadi for top-quality building materials and tools in Azraq, a local favorite for construction needs.

Al_baydaa supermarket and household tools

Explore Azraq's vibrant local culture at Al_Baydaa Supermarket, your go-to destination for fresh groceries and household essentials.

اسواق مروان التجارية

Discover the vibrant Mrawan Commercial Markets in Azraq, where local culture meets a diverse shopping experience with fresh produce and unique goods.

Pyro's

Discover the cozy charm of Pyro's in Azraq – a coffee shop offering exceptional brews and a welcoming atmosphere for every traveler.

متجر البسة أوربية

Explore the latest European fashion trends at متجر البسة أوربية in Al-Azraq Al-Shamaly, where style meets local charm.

Highway Market

Explore the vibrant Highway Market in Azraq for an authentic taste of local produce and Jordanian specialties.

Azraq castle cafeteria

Experience the charm of Azraq Castle Cafeteria, a market café serving delectable chocolates and aromatic coffees amidst the historical backdrop of Azraq.

ابوبندر الحويطي لبيع الاغنام

Discover the vibrant livestock market of Abu Bandar Al-Huwaiti in Azraq, where local culture and agriculture thrive in a bustling shopping experience.

سوبر ماركت كيوان

Experience local culture at Supermarket Kiwān in Azraq, a vibrant hub for fresh produce, snacks, and a taste of Jordanian life.

محلات الصقر (أبو خالد) التجارية

Explore local flavors and everyday essentials at محلات الصقر (أبو خالد) التجارية, your friendly supermarket in Al-Azraq Al-Shamaly.

Essential bars & hidden hideouts

California 101 restaurant

Experience the best of local and international flavors at California 101 Restaurant in Azraq, where every meal is a celebration of culinary artistry.

Food Station

Experience the best American cuisine at Food Station in Azraq, where comfort food meets local hospitality.

76 Brew Cafe

Experience the best of American cuisine at 76 Brew Cafe in Azraq, a cozy spot for delicious meals and quality coffee in Jordan.

The Zone

Experience authentic flavors and vibrant atmosphere at The Zone, Azraq's premier restaurant for culinary excellence and unforgettable dining.

Your Ultimate Free Travel Guide to Azraq Wetland Reserve

Discover Azraq Wetland Reserve with Evendo, a 100% free app-based local travel guide. Explore attractions, landmarks, restaurants, and more with ease and convenience.

Local Phrases about Azraq Wetland Reserve

- HelloMarhaba
  [mar-ha-ba]
- GoodbyeMa'a as-salama
  [ma-a as-sa-la-ma]
- YesNa'am
  [na-am]
- NoLa
  [la]
- Please/You're welcomeMin fadlik
  [min fad-lik]
- Thank youShukran
  [shuk-ran]
- Excuse me/SorryAasif
  [aa-sif]
- How are you?Kif halik?
  [keef ha-lik]
- Fine. And you?Tamam. Wa ant?
  [ta-mam. wa ant]
- Do you speak English?Tatakallam al-ingliiziya?
  [ta-ta-kal-lam al ing-lee-zi-ya]
- I don't understandAna la afham
  [ana la af-ham]
- I'd like to see the menu, pleaseUriid an ara al-qaa'ima, min fadlik
  [ur-eed an a-ra al-ka-a-i-ma min fad-lik]
- I don't eat meatAna la aakul laHm
  [ana la a-kul lahm]
- Cheers!Sahtein!
  [sa-ha-tein]
- I would like to pay, pleaseUriid an adfa', min fadlik
  [ur-eed an ad-fa, min fad-lik]
- Help!Musaa'da!
  [mu-saa-da]
- Go away!Ijray!
  [ij-ray]
- Call the Police!Iltiqaa bi-shurtah!
  [il-ti-qaa bi-shur-tah]
- Call a doctor!Iltiqaa bi-tabeeb!
  [il-ti-qaa bi-ta-beeb]
- I'm lostAna daa'i
  [ana daa-i]
- I'm illAna mareed
  [ana ma-reed]
- I'd like to buy...Uriid an ashtar...
  [ur-eed an as-tar]
- I'm just lookingAna faqat atafakkar
  [ana fa-qat a-ta-fak-kar]
- How much is it?Kam thamanuh?
  [kam tha-ma-nuh]
- That's too expensiveHadha ghali jiddan
  [ha-dha gha-li jid-dan]
- Can you lower the price?Hal tastatiu tanzil althaman?
  [hal tas-ta-ti-u tan-zil al-tha-man]
- What time is it?Kam as-saa'a?
  [kam as-sa-a]
- It's one o'clockAl-wahida
  [al-wa-hi-da]
- Half past (10)Nisfu
  [nis-fu]
- MorningSabah
  [sa-bah]
- AfternoonDuhur
  [du-hur]
- EveningMasaa'
  [ma-sa-a]
- YesterdayAms
  [ams]
- TodayAl-yawm
  [al-yawm]
- TomorrowGhadan
  [gha-dan]
- 1Waahid
  [waa-hid]
- 2Itnan
  [it-nan]
- 3Thalatha
  [tha-la-tha]
- 4Arba'a
  [ar-ba-a]
- 5Khamsa
  [kham-sa]
- 6Sitta
  [sit-ta]
- 7Saba'a
  [sa-ba-a]
- 8Thamania
  [tha-ma-nia]
- 9Tis'a
  [ti-sa-a]
- 10Ashara
  [a-sha-ra]
- Where's a/the...?Ayna...
  [ay-na]
- What's the address?Shu al-`unwan?
  [shu al-u-nwan]
- Can you show me (on the map)?Hal tastatiu an tuuriyan (ala al khariTa)?
  [hal tas-ta-ti-u an tu-ree-yan a-la al kha-ree-ta]
- When's the next (bus)?Mata yati al-bus al-qadim?
  [ma-ta ya-ti al-bus al-ka-dim]
- A ticket (to ....)Tathqif (ila ....)
  [ta-th-keef ila]

History of Azraq Wetland Reserve

The Azraq Wetland Reserve has been a crucial oasis in the heart of the Jordanian desert for thousands of years. Its strategic location made it a key stop on ancient trade routes, including the famous Incense Route that connected the Arabian Peninsula with the Mediterranean. Archaeological findings suggest that the area was inhabited as far back as the Neolithic period, with various artifacts indicating a blend of cultures and influences over millennia.
During the Roman era, Azraq gained further prominence. The Romans built a fort, known as Qasr Azraq, to protect and control the valuable water resources of the oasis. This fort became a critical military outpost and a resting point for Roman soldiers. The Roman infrastructure and influence are still evident in the ruins and architecture scattered around the region.
Following the decline of the Roman Empire, the Byzantines took control of Azraq. They continued to utilize the oasis for its strategic and economic significance. With the advent of Islam, the area saw a transition in power. The Umayyad Caliphate, which succeeded the Byzantines, maintained the importance of Azraq by building additional structures and incorporating the oasis into their expanding trade networks.
Under Ottoman rule, Azraq continued to serve as a critical waypoint for pilgrims traveling to Mecca. The Ottomans repaired and expanded existing structures, including Qasr Azraq, to accommodate the influx of travelers. The area's significance as a military and logistical hub was further solidified during this period.
Azraq gained international recognition during World War I when T.E. Lawrence, famously known as Lawrence of Arabia, used Qasr Azraq as his base during the Arab Revolt against Ottoman rule. Lawrence's accounts and the strategic importance of Azraq during the revolt have since become legendary, contributing to the romantic and adventurous allure of the region.
In the 20th century, the Azraq Wetland Reserve faced significant ecological challenges due to over-extraction of water resources. Recognizing the importance of preserving this unique ecosystem, the Royal Society for the Conservation of Nature (RSCN) established the Azraq Wetland Reserve in 1978. Efforts have been made to rehabilitate the wetlands and protect the diverse flora and fauna that inhabit the area, ensuring that Azraq remains a vital natural sanctuary for future generations.

Azraq Wetland Reserve Essentials

Azraq Wetland Reserve is located in the eastern desert region of Jordan, approximately 100 kilometers east of Amman. The nearest major airport is Queen Alia International Airport in Amman. From Amman, you can rent a car, take a taxi, or use public transportation to reach the reserve. The drive typically takes around 1.5 to 2 hours. There are also guided tours available that include transportation to and from the reserve.
Within the Azraq area, the most convenient way to get around is by car. Rental cars are available in Amman and can be booked in advance. Taxis are also an option, but make sure to agree on a price beforehand or ensure the meter is running. Public buses connect Amman to Azraq town, but they may not be frequent and can be less convenient for tourists. For those interested in exploring the reserve, bicycles can be rented at the visitor center.
The official currency of Jordan is the Jordanian Dinar (JOD). Credit cards are accepted in larger hotels and some restaurants, but it is advisable to carry cash, especially for smaller establishments and local markets. ATMs are available in Amman and larger towns, but options may be limited in Azraq. It is recommended to withdraw sufficient cash before leaving Amman.
Azraq Wetland Reserve is generally a safe destination for tourists. However, standard precautions should be taken. Avoid walking alone at night in unfamiliar areas and keep an eye on your belongings in crowded places. While Azraq itself does not have high-crime areas targeting tourists, staying vigilant and aware of your surroundings is always advisable.
In case of an emergency, dial 911 for immediate assistance. The local police station and medical facilities are available in Azraq town. It is highly recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies and evacuations. For minor health issues, there are pharmacies in the town where over-the-counter medications can be purchased.
Fashion: Do dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites. Avoid wearing revealing clothing. Religion: Do respect local customs and traditions. Always remove your shoes when entering mosques. Public Transport: Do be respectful and give up your seat to elderly passengers. Don't eat or drink on public transport. Greetings: Do greet people with a handshake. A warm smile is also appreciated. Eating & Drinking: Do try local delicacies and accept food offerings graciously. Don’t refuse hospitality, as it is considered impolite.
To experience Azraq Wetland Reserve like a local, visit the local markets where you can buy fresh produce and traditional Jordanian goods. Engage with locals, as they are often friendly and willing to share stories about the area’s history and culture. Don't miss visiting the Shaumari Wildlife Reserve nearby, where you can see endangered species such as the Arabian Oryx. For a unique experience, participate in a bird-watching tour, as the reserve is a key stopover for migratory birds.

Azraq Wetland Reserve: An Oasis in the Heart of Jordan's Desert

Local tips in Azraq Wetland Reserve