On the trail of the white antelope!
Together with a knowledgeable ranger, you can walk, by jeep or bike through the 22 km2 large game reserve in southeast Jordan. Gazelles, wild asses, foxes and the beautiful white oryx antelope live in this protected area. The reserve's offspring project makes an active contribution to the preservation of the rare Asian oryx antelope. The Shaumari Wildlife Reserve offers tourists both wildlife viewing, botany and a safari feeling. Here, as an ecotourist, you can support the protection of the reserve and its inhabitants. In addition, rare animal species can be observed. Various safari tours offer something for every taste and are also suitable for families with children. Information boards and exhibits in the visitor center round off the visit.
Oryx sighting on safari in RNCN Shaumari Wildlife Reserve Jordan
Safari by jeep in the RNCN Shaumari Wildlife Reserve Jordan
Asiatic wild ass in the RNCN Shaumari Wildlife Reserve Jordan
Oryx Antelopes RNCN Shaumari Wildlife Reserve Jordan
Waterhole in the RNCN Shaumari Wildlife Reserve Jordan
It starts lively - into the Shaumari steppe. Our ranger explains special plants and we get to know salty leaves, which are also edible for us. In the distance we spot wild asses, an empty burrow catches our attention and suddenly two gazelles chase past. Then we finally find our first oryx: in the high undergrowth an imposing horn rises up and finally we can recognize the noble white head with its typical black face mask. A buck that has lost the fight to lead the herd explains our ranger - that's why he's on his own for a few days, then he's allowed to return. We too have to go back slowly, but before that we can end the excursion comfortably with tea by the open fire.
It starts lively - into the Shaumari steppe. Our ranger explains special plants and we get to know salty leaves, which are also edible for us. In the distance we spot wild asses, an empty burrow catches our attention and suddenly two gazelles chase past. Then we finally find our first oryx: in the high undergrowth an imposing horn rises up and finally we can recognize the noble white head with its typical black face mask. A buck that has lost the fight to lead the herd explains our ranger - that's why he's on his own for a few days, then he's allowed to return. We too have to go back slowly, but before that we can end the excursion comfortably with tea by the open fire.
Safari offers in the Shaumari reserve
A circular route
The circular hike over approx. 3 km is accompanied by a knowledgeable ranger. It brings nature enthusiasts closer to the character of the Jordanian savannah and its numerous plant species. With a bit of luck you can also spot the rare Arabian oryx antelopes.
Jeep safari tours
AGETM recommends the long safari tour over 3-4 hours. This leads deep into the reserve and offers no guarantee, but the best chances of observing the beautiful white antelope. Other animal sightings, for example Asian wild asses or gazelles, are possible. At the end there is a cozy tea break over an open fire.
The Biking Trail
You always wanted to know what it is like to explore the Jordanian savannah by bike? Then the guided oryx biking tour is just right for you! Tracking and botany included.
The tours and activities offered can change. Advance registration by telephone is recommended.
Outdoor • Jordan • Shaumari Wildlife Reserve • Safari at Shaumari • Arabian oryx antelope
Shaumari Wildlife Reserve Experiences:
A special experience!
Are you interested in the flora and fauna of the steppes of Jordan? Then the Shaumari Wildlife Reserve is just right for you. Observing the beautiful white oryx is the highlight of any safari.
How much does a safari in the Shaumari Wildlife Reserve cost? Prices 2020
• Jeep Safari Long Trail (22 JOD for 2-3 hours)
• Jeep Safari Short Trail (18 JOD approx. 1 hour)
• Biking Trail (14 JOD approx. 2 hours)
• Hiking Trail (12 JOD for 1-2 hours)
• 8 JOD per person entry fee for Visitor Center & Picnic Area
The entry fee is already included in the tour prices.
Please note possible changes. You can find current prices here.
What are the Shaumari Wildlife Reserve opening hours?
Shaumari Wildlife Reserve opening times may vary and are adjusted based on the time of year or the number of visitors. It is recommended to register by telephone and to inquire about the current times.
You can find contact details for Wild Jordan (RNCN) here.
How much time should I plan?
Since the journey to the nature reserve already takes some time, at least half a day should be planned. As a full-day excursion into the Jordanian hinterland, Shaumari can be ideally combined with a visit to the Al Azraq oasis.
Is there food and toilets?
A small water bottle was included for each participant on the safari tour in 2019. Tea is also served on long tours. However, you had to bring your own food in sufficient quantities. Toilets are available in the visitor center.
Where is Shaumari located?
Shaumari is a nature reserve in Jordan and is located near the border with Saudi Arabia. The closest major city is Zarqa. The reserve can be reached in about 2 hours by car from Amman or Madaba.
Which sights are nearby?
The Qusair Amra desert castle is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and only 35 km from Shaumari. That Al Azraq Wetland Reserve offers a perfect and unexpected contrast to the otherwise predominantly arid flora of the country. This oasis is only 30 km away and is rich in wildlife.
Please note that the limit is too Saudi Arabia runs in the immediate vicinity. In order not to accidentally drive to the border post with the rental car, precise route planning is important. Alternatively, all that remains is to follow the example of the local population and change the motorway lane over the gravel strip between the lanes. AGE ™ strongly advises against dangerous road maneuvers.
Exciting background information
Arabian oryx antelope
Shaumari Wildlife Reserve
Outdoor • Jordan • Shaumari Wildlife Reserve • Safari at Shaumari • Arabian oryx antelope
Jordan Tourism Board (2021): Entrance Fees. [online] Retrieved on 10.09.2021/XNUMX/XNUMX from URL:
https://international.visitjordan.com/page/17/entrancefees.aspx
RSCN (2015): Shaumari Wildlife Reserve. [online] Retrieved on June 20.06.2020, 10.09.2021, last retrieved on September XNUMX, XNUMX from URL:
http://www.rscn.org.jo/content/shaumari-wildlife-reserve-0
Wild Jordan (2015): Shaumari Wildlife Reserve [online] Retrieved on June 20.06.2020, XNUMX from URL:
http://wildjordan.com/eco-tourism-section/shaumari-wildlife-reserve