Azraq Wetland Reserve

The basics

Jordan is one of the world’s driest countries. The Azraq Wetland Reserve is one striking exception. While decades of pumping from the oasis to provide drinking water to Jordanian cities has taken its toll on the environment, there’s again much to see and appreciate after an intensive restoration project, from the odd water buffalo lolling in the marshes to migrating raptors, eagles, and finches. Most visitors arrive on day trips from Amman, located around 90 minutes away by car.

Anyone looking to visit Azraq Wetland Reserve on a guided excursion will find numerous private and shared options, ranging from a half-day to a full-day. The most common itinerary includes stops at one or more of the so-called Umayyad-built “Desert Castles” of eastern Jordan—most commonly Qasr Amra. Other trips include visiting the Shaumari Wildlife Reserve, established in 1975 as a breeding center for endangered and extinct local wildlife.

Things to know before you go

• An hour-long loop on a raised boardwalk—dubbed the Marsh Trail—leads visitors through the nature reserve's wet and dry areas and over to a viewing platform, ending at the Visitors’ Center. While the trail is flat and easy, wear comfortable footwear and sun protection.

• Consider bringing a pair of binoculars— a must-have accessory for any serious birder. Eagle-eyed visitors might be able to spot a long-tailed rodent species known as the Balochistan gerbil. The reserve is also home to an endemic fish facing extinction, the Azraq killfish.

• Be sure to reserve time to spend at the on-site Visitors’ Center. Anyone interested in the history of the Azraq oasis and rehabilitation efforts will find a detailed exhibit.

How to get there

The Azraq Wetland Reserve is located just 1,640 feet (500 meters) from the small town of Azraq. It is an easy hour-and-a-half drive from Amman, mainly along Route 30. Qasr Amra, one of Jordan’s three Desert Castles, is a 20-minute drive away. Anyone with a private or rental vehicle can visit either site independently, while guided tours typically offer round-trip transportation from the capital.

When to get there

The Azraq Wetland Reserve is open daily from 9am until 6pm. Birders should plan their visit around seasonal migration patterns. The ideal window for birdwatching is from early winter to spring, roughly December to April. Raptors tend to pass through the reserve in May. Refrain from visiting in summer, when spiking temperatures can make the unshaded Marsh Trail walk unpleasant.

Inside an Ummayad castle: visiting Qasr Amra

Built in the 8th century by the Umayyad caliphs as a royal retreat, this castle in Jordan’s arid eastern region is best known for its fresco paintings. The reception hall and hammam are covered in vivid murals depicting everyday life back in the days of the Ummayad caliphate, offering a rare—and surprisingly salacious—glimpse at an era remembered as the first Muslim dynasty. Keep an eye out for colorfully rendered dog races and even nudes.