Shaumari Wildlife Reserve Activities | Safari, Hiking & Cycling in Jordan

Shaumari Wildlife Reserve is a protected desert area in eastern Jordan, famous for Arabian Oryx conservation, wildlife safaris, hiking trails, and eco-tourism activities. Visitors can explore open desert habitats, observe rare wildlife, cycle and hike along scenic trails, and enjoy educational, family-friendly experiences that showcase Jordan’s unique desert ecosystem.

Dining & Visitor Facilities

Overview:
The reserve offers comfortable facilities designed to enhance the visitor experience while respecting the natural environment.

Activity Type: Educational / Dining / Family Experience

Facilities:

  • Cafeteria
  • Kids’ play area
  • Picnic and barbecue areas
  • Bird observation points

Description:
Learn about Arabian Oryx, Houbara bustards, Reem gazelles, Persian wild onagers, and native desert plant species while enjoying relaxing, family-friendly outdoor facilities.

Safari & Wildlife Observation

Oryx Safari

Overview:
Embark on a guided safari through protected desert areas to observe endangered wildlife in their natural habitat.

Activity Type: Wildlife Safari / Educational

Duration: Up to 2 hours

Guided or Self-Guided: Guided only

Description:
Encounter Arabian Oryx, Persian onagers, desert gazelles, and predators such as striped hyenas, jackals, wolves, and foxes, while learning about conservation efforts and animal behavior.

Cycling Trails

Oryx Biking Tour

Overview:
A guided cycling experience that takes you deep into desert landscapes and close to wildlife habitats.

Activity Type: Cycling / Nature Exploration

Difficulty: Easy to Moderate

Duration: Up to 2 hours

Guided or Self-Guided: Guided only

Description:
Cycle alongside an expert guide while learning about animal tracking, native flora, and sustainable conservation practices within the reserve.

Hiking Trails

Shaumari Valley Hike

Overview:
A scenic 3 km circular desert trail passing through diverse flora, picnic areas, and protected wildlife zones.

Activity Type: Hiking / Nature Walk / Wildlife Observation

Difficulty: Easy

Distance: 3 km

Duration: Approximately 1.5 hours

Best Season: Spring, Summer, Fall, Late Winter

Required Gear: Comfortable walking shoes, water, sun hat

Guided or Self-Guided: Guided only

Description:
Enjoy a peaceful walk through the desert ecosystem, observe Arabian Oryx, birds, and other wildlife, and discover over 190 recorded desert plant species along the way.

 

Frequently Asked Questions

Shaumari Wildlife Reserve is famous for protecting endangered desert species, especially the Arabian Oryx, and for offering wildlife safaris, hiking trails, and cycling experiences in Jordan’s eastern desert.

Visitors may see Arabian Oryx, Persian wild onagers, desert gazelles, Houbara bustards, foxes, jackals, and a variety of desert bird species.

Yes, the reserve is suitable for families and offers safe, educational, and nature-based activities for visitors of all ages.

Yes, all activities within the reserve are guided to ensure visitor safety and to protect wildlife and natural habitats.

The best time to visit is during spring, autumn, and late winter, when temperatures are mild and wildlife activity is higher.