Shaumari Wildlife Reserve | Azraq

Information

Landmark: Shaumari Wildlife Reserve
City: Azraq
Country: Jordan
Continent: Asia

Shaumari Wildlife Reserve, Azraq, Jordan, Asia

Shaumari Wildlife Reserve is a pioneering nature reserve located in the eastern desert of Jordan, approximately 10 kilometers southwest of the Azraq-wetland-reserve_azraq" class="underline">Azraq Wetland Reserve. Established in 1975 by the Royal Society for the Conservation of Nature (RSCN), it was the first protected area in Jordan specifically designed to reintroduce locally extinct wildlife.

Visual Characteristics

The reserve spans 22 square kilometers of arid desert landscape, characterized by flat gravel plains (hammada) and seasonal wadi beds. The vegetation consists of drought-resistant desert shrubs and grasses. The most prominent visual feature is the fenced enclosure systems designed for animal breeding, alongside a modern visitor center and a specialized observation tower overlooking the desert expanse.

Location & Access Logistics

The site is situated approximately 120 kilometers east of Amman. Access is via the desert highway leading to Azraq, followed by a southwesterly turn toward the reserve entrance. A private vehicle or organized tour is necessary, as there is no direct public transport. A designated parking area is available at the RSCN visitor center.

Historical & Ecological Origin

The reserve was created to provide a breeding sanctuary for the Arabian Oryx, which had been hunted to extinction in the wild. Through a successful international breeding program, the oryx was reintroduced here, followed by other species like the Onager (Syrian wild ass), Dorcas gazelles, and ostriches. Geologically, the area is part of the limestone and flint desert plateau.

Key Highlights & Activities

Wildlife safaris in 4x4 vehicles are the primary activity, allowing visitors to see the Arabian Oryx and wild asses in a semi-wild environment. The reserve features a large bird-watching hide and an observation tower. The visitor center provides educational displays regarding the reintroduction programs and the desert ecosystem.

Infrastructure & Amenities

The facility includes a visitor center, a small environmental museum, public restrooms, and a picnic area. The observation tower and visitor center provide the only significant shade on-site. 4G cellular signal is available but can be inconsistent near the reserve's outer boundaries. A small cafeteria is located within the visitor center for basic refreshments.

Best Time to Visit

The best time for wildlife viewing is in the early morning (07:00 to 09:00) when animals are most active. The spring and autumn months (March to May and September to November) offer the most temperate weather. The reserve is generally open daily from 09:00 to 16:00.

Facts & Legends

Shaumari gained international recognition for successfully bringing the Arabian Oryx back from the brink of extinction; the global population now numbers in the thousands, starting from a small group released here. A local historical fact is that the area was once a prime hunting ground for the Umayyad caliphs, who built nearby desert castles.