Eastern Desert Castles, Shaumari Reserve and Azraq Wetlands

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Overview

Duration:1 day 0 nights
Travelers:2 - 5 guests
Tour Type:Group tour
Language:English, French, German, Italian

🏜️ Eastern Desert Castles & Nature Trail – Overview

Discover a unique side of Jordan on this full-day journey from Amman, where ancient desert architecture meets remarkable wildlife and natural reserves.

Begin your adventure with visits to the historic Umayyad desert castles. Explore Qusayr Amra, a UNESCO World Heritage Site famous for its well-preserved 8th-century frescoes. Continue to Qasr Kharana, an impressive fortress showcasing early Islamic architecture and mysterious design.

The journey then shifts into nature near Azraq, where you will visit Shaumari Wildlife Reserve, a conservation area dedicated to protecting endangered species. Enjoy a safari experience where you may encounter Arabian oryx, gazelles, and other wildlife in their natural habitat. Continue to Azraq Wetland Reserve, a rare desert oasis known for its rich biodiversity and birdlife.

Conclude your tour at Qasr al-Azraq, a striking black basalt fortress historically used as the headquarters of T.E. Lawrence during the Arab Revolt.

After a day combining history, wildlife, and natural beauty, return comfortably to your hotel in Amman.

✨ A distinctive experience that blends desert heritage with rare ecosystems and wildlife encounters.

from$120.00 /person

Itinerary

Trip Information

Pick Up Point /Starting from : Amman Hotel or Residence
Pick Up Time : Morning or Afternoon
Trip Duration : 04 - 06 Hours Approx.
Trip Type : Private Tour by Air-conditioned vehicle
Trip Runs : Every Day / Any Day

One Day

Tour Itinerary of Eastern Desert Castles, Shaumari Reserve and Azraq Wetlands :

History & Nature: The Eastern Desert Trail from Amman

Embark on a unique adventure that blends the architectural wonders of the Umayyad Caliphate with the surprising biodiversity of Jordan’s Eastern Desert.

Your driver will pick you up from your Amman hotel and head north to explore three historic desert castles. First, visit the UNESCO-listed Qusayr Amra, an 8th-century hunting hideaway famous for its stunning, well-preserved frescoes. Next, explore the robust Qasr Kharana, a two-story fortress showcasing a fascinating mix of architectural influences.

The journey then shifts to nature. Near the town of Azraq, you will visit the Shaumari Reserve, a vital breeding center dedicated to reintroducing endangered species to the wild. Enjoy a thrilling safari trip where you may spot the rare Arabian Oryx, Persian onagers, and various gazelles and bustards. Continue to the nearby Azraq Wetlands, an oasis teeming with wildlife and diverse bird species.

The final stop is the black basalt fortress of Qasr al-Azraq. Built as an Umayyad hunting lodge, this fortress is most famously known in modern history as the headquarters of T.E. Lawrence.

After a day filled with history and nature, your driver will comfortably transfer you back to your hotel in Amman.