Winter Wonderland Destinations in Az Zarqā’, Az Zarqā’, Jordan
1. Dana Biosphere Reserve
A UNESCO World Heritage Site with snow-capped mountains, deep canyons, and unique flora and fauna. Ideal for winter hiking.
- Wildlife Spotting: Home to rare species like the Syrian wolf and Jordanian ibex.
- Stargazing: Designated as a Dark Sky Reserve, offers incredible night sky viewing.
- Eco-friendly Experience: Committed to preserving and promoting biodiversity.
2. Wadi Rum Protected Area
Stunning desert landscape transformed into a winter wonderland with snow-covered sand dunes and rock formations.
- Bedouin Culture: Experience traditional Bedouin hospitality while exploring the protected area.
- Adventure Activities: Offers jeep tours, camel rides, and stargazing.
- Natural Rock Formations: Includes famous landmarks like the Seven Pillars of Wisdom.
3. Mujib Nature Reserve
A steep canyon system with winter hiking trails and waterfalls frozen solid.
- Waterfall Hikes: Hike to the frozen Dahabieh Waterfall.
- Canyoning: Experience canyoning in the winter wonderland.
- Wildlife Observation: Spot Jordanian Mountain Gazelles and other wildlife in their natural habitat.
4. Karak Castle
A medieval fortress beautifully decorated for the winter season, offering a unique blend of history and festivity.
- Historical Sightseeing: Explore one of the oldest and best-preserved crusader castles.
- Cultural Events: Attend traditional winter festivals at the castle.
- Panoramic Views: Enjoy breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside.
5. Mount Seir (Jabal as-Sweir)
A winter hiking destination with snow-covered peaks and panoramic views of the desert below.
- Challenging Hikes: Offers challenging hikes for experienced adventurers.
- Desert Views: Provides stunning views of the desert landscape from above.
- Nature Photography: Ideal for winter landscape photography.
6. Petra during Winter
The ancient city of Petra, transformed into a magical winter wonderland with snow covering its rocky facades.
- Historical Sightseeing: Visit one of the New Seven Wonders of the World.
- Crowd-free Experience: Experience Petra with fewer tourists during the winter season.
- Night Tours: Take a night tour to see the Treasury and Monastery illuminated.
7. Wadi Mujib Hot Springs
Natural hot springs in a beautiful winter setting, perfect for relaxation after a day of adventure.
- Relaxation and Rejuvenation: Soak in the warm waters to relax your muscles.
- Natural Experience: Enjoy a unique natural experience in a winter setting.
- Therapeutic Benefits: The minerals in the water may have therapeutic benefits.
8. Madaba Mosaic Map Church
A Byzantine church featuring a mosaic map of ancient Palestine, beautifully decorated for the winter season.
- Historical Sightseeing: View one of the most significant mosaics in Jordan.
- Cultural Experience: Learn about the early Christian history of Jordan.
- Art Appreciation: Appreciate the intricate details of the mosaic map.
9. Wadi Al-Hasa
A picturesque winter landscape with frozen waterfalls and hiking trails through lush valleys.
- Winter Hikes: Offers winter hiking trails suitable for all levels.
- Nature Photography: Ideal for capturing stunning winter landscapes.
- Wildlife Observation: Spot Jordanian Mountain Gazelles and other wildlife in their natural habitat.
10. Ajloun Forest Reserve
A forested area with winter hiking trails, offering a peaceful escape from the desert.
- Winter Hikes: Offers winter hiking trails suitable for all levels.
- Nature Photography: Ideal for capturing stunning winter landscapes and wildlife photographs.
- Bird Watching: Provides opportunities for birdwatching, with over 200 species present in the reserve.
11. Salt Caves of Al-Maghtas
Natural salt caves transformed into a winter wonderland, offering a unique and otherworldly experience.
- Unique Landscapes: Explore a unique underground landscape.
- Historical Significance: Site of the Baptism of Jesus according to Christian tradition.
- Nature Photography: Ideal for capturing stunning winter landscapes and unique caves.
12. Azraq Wetland Reserve
A wetland oasis with winter hiking trails, offering a chance to observe migratory birds and other wildlife.
- Winter Hikes: Offers winter hiking trails suitable for all levels.
- Bird Watching: Provides opportunities for birdwatching, with over 200 species present in the reserve.
- Wildlife Observation: Spot Jordanian Mountain Gazelles and other wildlife in their natural habitat.
13. Umm ar-Rasas (Kastron Mefa'a)
An ancient city with winter hiking trails, offering a chance to explore Byzantine and Roman ruins.
- Historical Sightseeing: Visit Byzantine and Roman ruins.
- Winter Hikes: Offers winter hiking trails suitable for all levels.
- Archaeological Digs: Participate in archaeological digs if available.
14. Kerak Desert Reserve
A desert reserve with winter hiking trails, offering a chance to observe desert wildlife and geology.
- Winter Hikes: Offers winter hiking trails suitable for all levels.
- Desert Wildlife Observation: Spot desert wildlife like the Syrian wild cat and Sand Cat.
- Geological Formations: Explore unique geological formations, such as dolines and ergs.
15. Shobak Castle during Winter
A Crusader castle transformed into a winter wonderland, offering a unique blend of history and festivity.
- Historical Sightseeing: Explore one of the most important Crusader castles in Jordan.
- Cultural Events: Attend traditional winter festivals at the castle.
- Panoramic Views: Enjoy breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside.