Dana, Jordan Travel Guide

Discover the tranquil beauty and rich heritage of Dana, Jordan's hidden oasis, where nature, history, and culture converge in a breathtaking landscape.

Nestled in the rugged landscapes of Jordan, Dana is a hidden gem that offers a unique blend of natural beauty, rich history, and cultural heritage. This charming village is situated within the Dana Biosphere Reserve, Jordan's largest nature reserve, making it a paradise for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike. Dana's ancient stone houses and narrow alleyways transport visitors back in time. The village's traditional architecture, combined with its breathtaking views of the surrounding valleys and mountains, creates a picturesque setting that is perfect for relaxation and exploration. The local community is known for its warm hospitality, and visitors often find themselves welcomed with open arms and treated to traditional Jordanian cuisine. The Dana Biosphere Reserve is a haven for biodiversity, home to a wide array of plant and animal species, some of which are rare and endangered. Hiking enthusiasts will find numerous trails that cater to all levels of experience, from leisurely walks to challenging treks. Each path offers stunning vistas and the opportunity to encounter wildlife in their natural habitats. Whether it's birdwatching, stargazing, or simply soaking in the serene atmosphere, Dana provides an unforgettable escape into nature. Beyond its natural allure, Dana also boasts a rich cultural tapestry. The local artisans produce exquisite handicrafts, including weaving and jewelry, which make for unique and meaningful souvenirs. The village serves as a gateway to exploring nearby archaeological sites, such as the ancient copper mines of Feynan and the Nabatean ruins scattered across the region. These historical treasures add depth to the experience, allowing visitors to connect with Jordan's storied past while immersing themselves in the present beauty of Dana.

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Dana.

Visit during spring or autumn for the most pleasant weather and vibrant natural scenery.
Pack comfortable hiking shoes and bring plenty of water for exploring the trails.
Respect local customs and dress modestly, especially when visiting traditional areas.
Stay in one of the eco-lodges to fully experience the sustainable tourism efforts in the area.
Try the local cuisine, especially dishes made with fresh, locally-sourced ingredients.
Hire a local guide for a more informative and enriching experience of the reserve and its surroundings.

Explore Dana: Things to Do, Places to Eat, Hotels & More

Handpicked recommendations for top attractions, local dining, accommodations, and more

Best attractions in Dana

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Petra

Discover the enchanting beauty of Petra, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, where ancient architecture meets breathtaking landscapes in Jordan's Rose City.

4.8

Petra Visitor Center

Discover Petra's breathtaking history and beauty at the Petra Visitor Center, your essential starting point for exploring this ancient wonder.

4.6

The Treasury

Discover the iconic Treasury of Petra, a breathtaking archaeological marvel and a testament to the ancient Nabatean civilization's artistry.

4.8

Ad-Dayr

Explore Ad-Dayr, the magnificent Monastery of Petra, a historical masterpiece showcasing Nabataean architecture and breathtaking landscapes.

4.9

Best landmarks in Dana

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Mövenpick Petra

Experience luxury and comfort at Mövenpick Petra, the gateway to the ancient wonders of Petra, Jordan, where modern elegance meets rich history.

4.5

Dana Biosphere Reserve

Discover the breathtaking landscapes and rich biodiversity of Dana Biosphere Reserve, Jordan's premier national park offering unforgettable nature experiences.

4.6

Dana Tower Hotel

Unwind in the heart of Dana Nature Reserve with breathtaking views, eco-friendly accommodations, and unforgettable outdoor adventures at Dana Tower Hotel.

4.1

Dana Guest House

Discover the tranquility of Dana Guest House, your gateway to the stunning landscapes of Dana Biosphere Reserve and authentic Jordanian culture.

4.4

Best restaurants in Dana

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San Rooftop (Restaurant & Cafe)

Experience breathtaking views and exquisite flavors at San Rooftop in Amman – where culinary delight meets stunning skyline vistas.

4.9

Watar Ziryab

Experience the best of Jordanian cuisine at Watar Ziryab in As-Salt – where tradition meets taste.

4.2

DANA Hills Restaurant

Experience authentic Jordanian cuisine with breathtaking views at DANA Hills Restaurant in Madaba.

4.3

Good Restaurant Turkish Grill

Experience authentic Turkish cuisine at Good Restaurant Turkish Grill in At-Tafilah – a culinary journey filled with rich flavors and warm hospitality.

4.0

Best bars in Dana

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Amman Beach, Dead Sea , Jordan

Experience the unique serenity of Amman Beach at the Dead Sea, where you can float, relax, and explore the wonders of nature.

4.0

The Cave Bar

Explore the enchanting Cave Bar in Wadi Musa, a unique spot that merges ancient history with modern relaxation, offering delicious drinks in a stunning cave setting.

4.3

Dana Tower Hotel

Experience breathtaking views and unparalleled comfort at Dana Tower Hotel, your gateway to the stunning Dana Nature Reserve in Jordan.

4.1

The Basin Restaurant

Discover The Basin Restaurant in Petra for a unique culinary experience featuring Jordanian flavors and stunning views amid ancient ruins.

3.8

Best nightclubs in Dana

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OMNI CLUB AMMAN

Step into OMNI CLUB AMMAN, a nightlife hotspot where unforgettable parties and vibrant culture blend seamlessly in the heart of the city.

4.1

Fubar

Experience the vibrant nightlife at Fubar, Amman's premier night club with great music and a lively atmosphere.

2.8

ديسكو كاش عمان الاردن

Experience the electrifying nightlife at Disco Cash in Amman, where vibrant music and lively crowds come together for an unforgettable night of dancing.

3.6

snapi disco

Discover the electrifying nightlife at Snapi Disco, a premier nightclub in Amman where music and culture collide for an unforgettable experience.

2.7

Best shops in Dana

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World Nectar Makeup

Explore the vibrant world of beauty at World Nectar Makeup, where an extensive range of cosmetics meets expert advice for all your beauty needs.

3.9

Gamers.JO

Explore Gamers.JO, a gaming paradise with a vast selection of video games, consoles, and community events in the heart of the city.

4.1

Town Bazaar

Discover unique fashion and local culture at Town Bazaar, a vibrant clothing store offering an eclectic mix of traditional and contemporary styles.

4.8

Shop Sunset Dana

Discover local flavors and genuine hospitality at Shop Sunset Dana, your go-to grocery store in the heart of Dana, Jordan.

5.0

Explore Dana on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots in Dana, mapped for you.

Dana Essentials

Dana is located in southern Jordan, approximately 200 kilometers from Amman, the capital city. The nearest international airport is Queen Alia International Airport in Amman. From Amman, you can take a bus or hire a private taxi to Dana. The journey takes around 3 to 4 hours by road. Alternatively, you can rent a car and drive yourself, which allows more flexibility to explore the surrounding areas.
Dana is a small village, and most of its attractions are within walking distance. For longer trips, local taxis are available but might be limited. Renting a car is a convenient option for exploring the Dana Biosphere Reserve and other nearby attractions at your own pace. Public transportation options are limited, so it's advisable to plan ahead.
The official currency in Jordan is the Jordanian Dinar (JOD). Credit cards are accepted in some hotels, restaurants, and shops, but it is advisable to carry cash, especially in smaller establishments and rural areas like Dana. ATMs are available in larger towns nearby, but it's wise to withdraw sufficient cash before arriving in Dana to ensure you have enough funds.
Dana is generally a safe destination for tourists. However, standard travel precautions should be taken. Avoid walking alone at night in unfamiliar areas and keep an eye on your belongings in crowded places. There are no specific areas in Dana known for high crime rates targeting tourists, but staying vigilant is always advisable.
In case of emergency, dial 911 for immediate assistance. The nearest medical facilities and police stations are located in towns close to Dana, such as Tafila or Ma'an. It is recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. For minor health issues, there are pharmacies in the nearby towns where you can purchase over-the-counter medications.
Fashion: Do dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites. Avoid wearing revealing clothing. Religion: Do respect local customs and traditions. Always cover your head when entering religious sites. 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 or a slight bow of the head as a sign of respect. Eating & Drinking: Do try local delicacies and accept food offerings graciously. Don't refuse hospitality, as it is considered impolite.
To experience Dana like a local, visit the local markets where you can buy fresh produce and traditional Jordanian goods. Engage with locals, as they are friendly and willing to share stories about the area's history and culture. Don't miss exploring the Dana Biosphere Reserve, which offers stunning landscapes and a variety of outdoor activities such as hiking and bird-watching. For a unique experience, consider staying in one of the eco-lodges in the reserve, which offer a closer connection to nature.

When is the best time to visit Dana?

With Eve

Useful Local Phrases for Dana

You don't need to speak the language perfectly. Even learning a few simple words can make conversations warmer—and locals usually appreciate the effort.

— Eve

6 phrase groups English + pronunciation

Here are the phrases I use most often in Dana. Try a few—you'll be surprised how far they go! 😊
❤️

- 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 fa-dlik]
- Thank youShukran
  [shu-kran]
- Excuse me/SorryAasif
  [aa-sif]
- How are you?Kif halak?
  [keef ha-lak]
- Fine. And you?Mni7. Wint?
  [mni-h. win-t]
- Do you speak English?bet7ki inglizi?
  [bet-hki in-gli-zi]
- I don't understandAna mish fahim
  [a-na meesh fa-heem]
- I'd like to see the menu, pleaseBiddi ashuf il qaimat, min fadlik
  [bi-ddi a-shuf il qai-mat, min fa-dlik]
- I don't eat meatAna ma biakul la7m
  [a-na ma bi-a-kul la-hm]
- Cheers!Fe sa7teik
  [fe sa-h-teik]
- I would like to pay, pleaseBiddi asaffar, min fadlik
  [bi-ddi a-saf-far, min fa-dlik]
- Help!Musa3ada!
  [mu-sa-a-da]
- Go away!Ruh halak!
  [ruh ha-lak]
- Call the Police!Itsal al-shurta!
  [itsal al-shur-ta]
- Call a doctor!Itsal tabib!
  [itsal ta-bib]
- I'm lostTawwalt
  [taw-walt]
- I'm illAna mareed
  [a-na ma-reed]
- I'd like to buy...Biddi ashtari...
  [bi-ddi ash-ta-ri]
- I'm just lookingAna bas bi-shuf
  [a-na bas bi-shuf]
- How much is it?Kam huwa thamanu?
  [kam hu-wa tha-ma-nu]
- That's too expensiveHatha ghali jiddan
  [ha-tha gha-li jid-dan]
- Can you lower the price?Momkin takhaf althaman?
  [mom-kin ta-khaf al-tha-man]
- What time is it?Kam el sa3a?
  [kam el sa-a]
- It's one o'clockSa3a wahda
  [sa-a wah-da]
- Half past (10)Nisf el 3ashra
  [nisf el a-shra]
- MorningSaba7
  [sa-ba-h]
- AfternoonDuhur
  [du-hur]
- Evening3asha
  [a-sha]
- YesterdayMsaa elbari7
  [msa el-ba-rih]
- TodayEl yawm
  [el yawm]
- TomorrowGhadan
  [gha-dan]
- 1Wahid
  [wa-hid]
- 2Itnain
  [it-nain]
- 3Thalatha
  [tha-la-tha]
- 4Arba3a
  [ar-ba-a]
- 5Khamsa
  [kham-sa]
- 6Sitta
  [sit-ta]
- 7Saba3a
  [sa-ba-a]
- 8Thamania
  [tha-ma-ni-a]
- 9Tis3a
  [tis-a]
- 10Ashra
  [a-shra]
- Where's a/the...?Wen el...
  [wen el]
- What's the address?Shu el 3nwan?
  [shu el an-wan]
- Can you show me (on the map)?Momkin torini?
  [mom-kin to-ri-ni]
- When's the next (bus)?Ithani el bas?
  [i-tha-ni el bas]
- A ticket (to ....)Talat
  [ta-lat]

History of Dana

Dana, located in southern Jordan, has been inhabited since prehistoric times. Archaeological findings suggest that the area was first settled by the Edomites around 5000 BC. The region's rich natural resources, including copper, attracted early settlers who established a thriving community.
During the 4th century BC, the Nabataeans, an Arab tribe, took control of Dana and the surrounding areas. They developed an intricate system of water channels and reservoirs to support agriculture and trade. The Nabataeans are renowned for their rock-cut architecture and advanced engineering skills, which are still visible in the region today.
In 106 AD, the Roman Empire annexed the Nabataean Kingdom, including Dana. The Romans introduced new infrastructure, such as roads and fortifications. Dana became an important stop along the King's Highway, a major trade route that connected the Arabian Peninsula with the Levant and Egypt.
During the Byzantine period (330-1453 AD), Dana continued to flourish as a trading hub. Christianity spread throughout the region, and several churches were built. The remnants of Byzantine architecture and religious structures can still be seen in and around Dana.
The Ottoman Empire ruled Dana from the early 16th century until World War I. The Ottomans maintained the area's agricultural productivity and trade routes. Dana's traditional stone houses and terraced fields date back to this period, reflecting the Ottoman influence on local architecture and land use.
In the late 20th century, Dana gained recognition for its unique biodiversity and cultural heritage. In 1989, the Royal Society for the Conservation of Nature (RSCN) established the Dana Biosphere Reserve, Jordan's largest nature reserve. The reserve aims to protect the area's diverse ecosystems and promote sustainable tourism, ensuring that Dana's historical and natural legacy is preserved for future generations.

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