Jordan is one of the world’s driest countries. The Azraq Wetland Reserve is one striking exception. While decades of pumping from the oasis to provide drinking water to Jordanian cities has taken its toll on the environment, there’s again much to see and appreciate after an intensive restoration project, from the odd water buffalo lolling in the marshes to migrating raptors, eagles, and finches. Most visitors arrive on day trips from Amman, located around 90 minutes away by car.
Anyone looking to visit Azraq Wetland Reserve on a guided excursion will find numerous private and shared options, ranging from a half-day to a full-day. The most common itinerary includes stops at one or more of the so-called Umayyad-built “Desert Castles” of eastern Jordan—most commonly Qasr Amra. Other trips include visiting the Shaumari Wildlife Reserve, established in 1975 as a breeding center for endangered and extinct local wildlife.