Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
(16km, 6-7hr, guide required; year-round)
This demanding hike leads along river beds
and through a siq and a valley of palm trees to arrive at Feynan Ecolodge. It is to be
avoided if rain is expected or has recently fallen because of flash floods. Transport to the
start of this trail costs JD25.
In addition to the above, there's a two-day hike to Feynan Ecolodge, via Wadi Ghuweir,
overnighting at the lodge and returning via Wadi Dana. Hotels in Dana can help organise
longer treks to Shobak (two days) via Wadi Feynan, Wadi Ghuweir and the village of
Mansourah, and even on to Petra (four days).
Al-Nawatef Camp organises several excellent guided hikes in Wadi Ghuweir and Wadi
Hamra. Ask about Ali's Walk, a three-day hike to Petra (JD180 to JD200 per person for a
minimum group of six), including guide, camping facilities, all meals and transportation
of luggage.
Cycling
A
mountain-bike trail
(guide possible) offers cyclists opportunities to explore the park
on saddleback: a four-hour ride costs JD18 (JD 29 with a guide); a full day's ride costs
JD29 (JD47 with a guide). The trail starts at Feynan Ecolodge and uses gravel tracks past
the archaeological site of Khirbet Feynan, ending at the villages of Rashaydeh and
Greigra. There are opportunities to stop en route to hike or have tea with the Bedouin. The
lodge has 10 bikes available. Contact the tourism manager at
Feynan Ecolodge
( 079
9599507; rkhawaldeh@rscn.org.jo)
for details. The trail is closed in July and August.
MALIK AL-NANAH: ECO GUIDE AT DANA
Graduated in biology from Ma'an University, Malik Al-Nanah knows and loves the reserve's residents - like the
rockmartin whose nest is attached to the Feynan Ecolodge, a fitting metaphor for the relationship nurtured between
people and nature here.
What's your favourite time of year here?
All year! In summer, there's the bird migration, skies are cloudy and the
sunsets are fantastic. You may see up to 40 griffin vultures and even short-eared owls.
And your most exciting wildlife encounter?
I've seen wolf, wild cat and horned viper - all rare animals. But the
best was probably seeing, at 5am one morning, a family of ibex.
What role does the community play?
The whole philosophy of the RSCN is to protect nature by supporting local
people - through employment, use of supplies and children's workshops.
Any famous visitors?
Yes, the royal family have stayed here - in room 9 - and the king sends guests here too.
