Eco-Tourism & Sustainable Travel Destinations in Ar Ruşayfah, Az Zarqā’, Jordan
1. Aqaba Marine Park
Experience the diverse marine life in Jordan's first marine park, where snorkeling and diving offer opportunities to see coral reefs and various species of fish.
- Marine Conservation: Helps protect the fragile marine ecosystem for future generations.
- Unique Flora and Fauna: Offers a chance to see rare species like the Dugong, Green Sea Turtle, and Napoleon Wrasse.
- Sustainable Practices: Promotes responsible diving and snorkeling practices to minimize impact on marine life.
2. Wadi Rum Ecolodge
Stay in a sustainable ecolodge while exploring the breathtaking desert landscapes of Wadi Rum on guided treks and camel rides.
- Sustainable Architecture: Uses locally sourced materials to blend seamlessly with the environment.
- Support Local Community: Provides employment opportunities for local Bedouin people.
- Minimal Impact Camping: Adopts camping practices that minimize disturbance to the desert environment.
3. Dana Biosphere Reserve
Hike through diverse landscapes in Jordan's largest nature reserve, from forests and wadis to desert plateaus.
- Biodiversity Preservation: Protects numerous plant and animal species, some of which are endangered.
- Sustainable Hiking Trails: Maintains hiking trails to minimize impact on the natural environment.
- Community-Based Tourism: Supports local villages and encourages cultural exchange with visitors.
4. Feynan Ecolodge
Experience the desert at night under a canopy of stars at Feynan Ecolodge in Dana Biosphere Reserve.
- Renewable Energy: Powered entirely by solar energy.
- Minimal Light Pollution: Provides an exceptional opportunity for stargazing.
- Wildlife Observation: Offers guided walks to observe desert wildlife and birds.
5. Petra Guest Houses
Stay in traditional Jordanian guesthouses in the heart of Petra, while supporting local families.
- Authentic Experience: Provides a unique opportunity to experience traditional Jordanian hospitality.
- Cultural Exchange: Fosters connections with local families and learning about their customs.
- Sustainable Development: Promotes responsible tourism that benefits the local community.
6. Wadi Al-Hasa
Hike through lush palm oases and discover ancient Nabataean water channels in Wadi Al-Hasa.
- Water Conservation: Helps preserve the ancient irrigation system for future generations.
- Historical Significance: Offers insights into the Nabataean civilization and their water management skills.
- Eco-friendly Hiking Trails: Maintains hiking trails to minimize impact on the delicate ecosystem.
7. Azraq Wetland Reserve
Visit one of Jordan's most important wetlands, home to numerous bird species and a historic castle.
- Bird Watching: Offers opportunities for birdwatching, with over 200 bird species present.
- Historical Site: Includes the historic Azraq Castle, built by the Romans and later used by Lawrence of Arabia.
- Wetland Conservation: Supports efforts to conserve Jordan's diminishing wetlands.
8. Shobak Castle
Explore the Crusader castle of Shobak, set against stunning mountain landscapes.
- Historical Preservation: Helps preserve an important historical site dating back to the Crusades.
- Sustainable Tourism Practices: Promotes responsible tourism in the surrounding area.
- Cultural Exchange: Fosters connections with local communities and learning about their heritage.
9. Madaba Trail
Follow the Madaba Trail to discover rural villages and traditional Jordanian life.
- Cultural Exchange: Provides opportunities for cultural exchange with local communities.
- Sustainable Agriculture: Supports traditional farming practices and small-scale agriculture.
- Responsible Tourism Practices: Promotes responsible tourism that benefits the local community.
10. Mujib Biosphere Reserve
Experience Jordan's lowest point and explore diverse landscapes, from canyons to wetlands.
- Biodiversity Protection: Protects various plant and animal species found nowhere else on Earth.
- Sustainable Adventure Activities: Offers sustainable adventure activities like canyoning and hiking.
- Environmental Education: Promotes environmental awareness and education through guided tours.
11. Karak Castle
Discover the medieval Karak Castle, an impressive fortress with a rich history.
- Historical Preservation: Helps preserve this important historical site dating back to the Crusades.
- Cultural Exchange: Fosters connections with local communities and learning about their heritage.
- Sustainable Tourism Practices: Promotes responsible tourism in the surrounding area.
12. Tala Bay Nature Reserve
Explore a protected nature reserve on the Red Sea coast, home to diverse marine and terrestrial wildlife.
- Marine Conservation: Helps protect the fragile marine ecosystem for future generations.
- Unique Flora and Fauna: Offers a chance to see rare species like the Dugong, Green Sea Turtle, and Napoleon Wrasse.
- Sustainable Practices: Promotes responsible use of the nature reserve by visitors.
13. Machaerus Fortress
Visit Machaerus Fortress, an ancient fortress with a rich history and stunning views.
- Historical Preservation: Helps preserve this important historical site dating back to the Hasmonean period.
- Cultural Exchange: Fosters connections with local communities and learning about their heritage.
- Sustainable Tourism Practices: Promotes responsible tourism in the surrounding area.
14. Dibeen Forest Reserve
Explore Jordan's largest forest reserve, home to diverse plant and animal species.
- Forest Conservation: Protects one of the last remaining forests in Jordan.
- Sustainable Hiking Trails: Maintains hiking trails to minimize impact on the natural environment.
- Bird Watching: Offers opportunities for birdwatching, with over 160 bird species present.
15. Wadi Al-Mujib
Descend into the spectacular Wadi Al-Mujib canyon, where you can swim in crystal-clear pools.
- Biodiversity Protection: Protects various plant and animal species found nowhere else on Earth.
- Sustainable Adventure Activities: Offers sustainable adventure activities like canyoning and hiking.
- Environmental Education: Promotes environmental awareness and education through guided tours.