Dana Biosphere Reserve covers approximately 292 square kilometers of Jordan’s most ecologically diverse terrain, stretching from sandstone cliffs at 1,500 meters above sea level down to the desert lowlands of Wadi Araba near sea level. It is the largest nature reserve in Jordan and the only one that encompasses all four of the country’s bio-geographical zones: Mediterranean, Irano-Turanian, Saharo-Arabian, and Sudanian. That range, compressed into a single reserve, supports over 800 plant species and 449 documented animal species.
For travelers moving between Amman and Petra along the King’s Highway, or connecting inland from the Dead Sea, Dana is more than a rest stop. It is an entire landscape compressed into a canyon descent, from cool highland forests to dry desert floor, connected by trails that range from 90 minute walks to full day treks.
How to Get to Dana Biosphere Reserve
Dana Village sits approximately 190 km south of Amman and 50 km north of Petra, accessed via a side road off the King’s Highway (Route 35). From the Dead Sea resort area, the drive takes approximately 2 to 2.5 hours via the Dead Sea Highway south and then east through Tafila. From Petra, the drive north along the King’s Highway takes approximately 1 hour.
The turnoff to Dana Village is marked, but the final road descends steeply along a narrow, winding route to the cliff edge settlement. Public transportation to Dana is limited; most visitors arrive by rental car, private driver, or arranged transfer through their accommodation.
Hiking Trails in Dana Biosphere Reserve
Wadi Dana Trail (Dana Village to Feynan)
The Wadi Dana Trail is the signature hike in the reserve, running approximately 14 to 16 km from Dana Village at roughly 1,200 meters elevation down through the canyon to Feynan Ecolodge in the Wadi Araba lowlands. The hike takes 5 to 7 hours depending on pace, follows the dry riverbed through the gorge, and does not require a guide. The trail is open year round except during Ramadan.
The Wadi Dana Trail in Jordan's Dana Biosphere Reserve descends approximately 14 to 16 km from Dana Village at 1,200 meters elevation to Feynan Ecolodge in the Wadi Araba lowlands, passing through all four of Jordan's bio-geographical zones in a single day hike of 5 to 7 hours without requiring a guide.
Start early. The trail has minimal shade, and midday heat in the canyon can be intense, particularly from May through September. Carry 2 to 3 liters of water per person. There are no facilities or water sources along the route.
The hike is one way. At Feynan, options include staying overnight at the ecolodge, arranging a vehicle transfer back to Dana Village (approximately 2 hours by road), or continuing onward toward the Dead Sea or Petra.
Wadi Ghuweir Trail
The Wadi Ghuweir Trail runs approximately 16 km and features a narrow gorge with a flowing stream, hanging gardens of vegetation clinging to rock walls, and an archaeological site near the trail’s end. The hike starts near Shobak Castle or from the Feynan end, takes 5 to 8 hours, and involves wading through water in several sections. A licensed guide is required for this trail.
Rummana Mountain Trail
Starting from the Rummana Campsite, this shorter trail passes sandstone formations at Shaq al Kalb (Wadi of the Dog) and leads to a group of small caves believed to have been used as a religious retreat. The trail covers approximately 2.5 km and takes 1.5 to 2 hours. Available March 15 through October 31, it can be self guided or guided.
Dana Village Trail
A short walk (approximately 2 km, 1 to 2 hours) that winds above Dana Village through terraced gardens and past Ottoman era stone architecture. This trail is ideal for visitors arriving late in the day or those who want to explore the village itself before or after a longer hike.
Feynan Based Trails
Several shorter trails start from Feynan Ecolodge, including a plants and herbal medicine walk (3 km, 2.5 hours), a copper mines archaeological hike (6 to 7 km, 4 hours), a sunset hike (20 minutes to a viewpoint), and a sunrise hike (2 km, 2 hours). These are suitable for guests staying at the lodge who want guided exploration of the lower canyon area.
Where to Stay in Dana
Feynan Ecolodge
Feynan Ecolodge sits at the western (lower) end of the Wadi Dana Trail, in a remote section of the reserve accessible only by hiking the trail or by pre-arranged 4×4 transfer via external roads. The lodge operates on solar power during the day and candlelight at night. There is no artificial lighting in guest rooms or common areas after dark. National Geographic Traveler recognized Feynan among the top 25 eco-lodges in the world.
The lodge offers guided activities including cooking classes, Bedouin cultural experiences, Arabic coffee making, stargazing sessions on the rooftop terrace, and multiple trail options. Accommodation is in simple but comfortable rooms. Meals are included. The lodge maintains a 100% local employment commitment, with over 450 people from surrounding communities benefiting from its operations.
Feynan Ecolodge in Jordan’s Dana Biosphere Reserve, recognized by National Geographic Traveler among the world’s top 25 eco-lodges, operates on solar power during the day and candlelight at night, accessible only by hiking the Wadi Dana Trail or by pre-arranged 4x4 transfer via external roads.
Dana Guesthouse (RSCN)
The RSCN operated Dana Guesthouse sits at the edge of Dana Village, with balconies overlooking the canyon. The guesthouse contains 23 rooms and includes a small visitor center with information on the reserve’s geology, ecology, and trails. Room quality is modest but functional, and the location provides direct access to the Wadi Dana Trail and the Dana Village Trail.
Rummana Campsite
Located on a hillside with views across the reserve, Rummana Campsite offers 20 tent accommodations (maximum capacity 60 persons per night, March 15 through October 31) and access to the Rummana Mountain Trail and a 5 km trail to Dana Village. Electricity is not available at the campsite; visitors should bring their own torch. The campsite provides a more rustic experience than the guesthouse or ecolodge.
Entrance Fees and Practical Details
| Visitor Category | Fee (2025 RSCN Rates) |
|---|---|
| Jordanian national | 2 JOD per person |
| Resident of Jordan | 5 JOD per person |
| Non-Jordanian visitor | 10 JOD per person |
Fees include reserve entrance and access to self-guided short trails (Dana Village, Rummana Mountain, Rummana Campsite, Caves). Guided trail fees are additional. Transportation to trail starting points is not included.
Best Time to Visit Dana Biosphere Reserve
March through May and October through November offer the best hiking conditions. Daytime temperatures are warm but manageable, and the trails are fully open. Summer months (June through September) bring intense heat in the canyon, making the Wadi Dana Trail extremely demanding. Winter (December through February) can be cold, especially at the higher elevations near Dana Village, though the lower Feynan area remains mild.
Connecting Dana to a Dead Sea Itinerary
Dana sits naturally within Jordan itineraries that include the Dead Sea and Petra. From the Dead Sea, drive south along the Dead Sea Highway to Tafila, then east to Dana (approximately 2 to 2.5 hours). After hiking, continue south along the King’s Highway to Petra (approximately 1 hour). This sequence works particularly well within 5 to 7 day Jordan road trips.
FAQs
Do I need a guide for hiking in Dana Biosphere Reserve?
The Wadi Dana Trail (Dana Village to Feynan) does not require a guide and is open year round except during Ramadan. The Wadi Ghuweir Trail, Wadi Dathneh Trail, and several Feynan based trails do require licensed guides. Shorter trails such as the Rummana Mountain Trail can be self guided.
How long is the Wadi Dana Trail?
The Wadi Dana Trail runs approximately 14 to 16 km one way from Dana Village to Feynan Ecolodge. The hike takes 5 to 7 hours depending on pace. The trail is primarily downhill, descending from approximately 1,200 meters elevation to the Wadi Araba lowlands.
How do I get back from Feynan to Dana Village?
A pre-arranged vehicle transfer from Feynan to Dana Village takes approximately 2 hours by road and costs roughly 45 JOD (subject to change; confirm current rates directly with the lodge). Alternatively, stay overnight at Feynan Ecolodge and arrange transport the following morning.
Is Dana Biosphere Reserve worth visiting on a Dead Sea trip?
Dana adds a full day of hiking and nature to any Jordan itinerary. It sits along the King’s Highway between Amman and Petra, and is accessible from the Dead Sea via a 2 to 2.5 hour drive through Tafila. The reserve’s ecological diversity and canyon scenery offer a sharp contrast to the Dead Sea’s flat, mineral shoreline.
What wildlife can I see in Dana Biosphere Reserve?
Dana is home to 449 documented animal species, including the Nubian Ibex, Sand Cat, Syrian Wolf, and Lesser Kestrel. Birdwatchers have identified approximately 200 species within the reserve. Wildlife sightings are most common in the early morning hours on quieter trails.
