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How Nature Lovers from Spain Can Visit Azraq Wetland Reserve by Car
If you love nature and peace, the Azraq Wetland Reserve in Jordan is a special place you should visit. It is quiet, full of wildlife, and very different from the dry deserts. Many Spanish travelers do not expect to find a wetland in Jordan, but Azraq is real and beautiful. The best way to reach it is by renting a car. You can drive there easily and enjoy birds, plants, and clean air.
How to Reach Azraq Wetland Reserve from Amman
The best way to reach the Azraq Wetland Reserve is by car. The drive from Amman takes about 1 hour and 24 minutes, covering 106 kilometers through Route 40 and Route 40M. You begin by taking Al-Kuroum Street, then continue through Abdul Monem Riad Street, Omar Matar Street, and Ali Ben Abi Taleb Street.
The road then connects to Al-Quds Street, Al-Muthanna Ben Al-Hareth Street, and Khawlah Bent Al-Azwar Street. From there, you enter Musaab Ben Omeir Street, which leads to Prince Hasan Street. A ramp takes you to the Al-Azraq Highway, part of Route 40. Stay on this road for most of the journey—about 74 kilometers of open desert highway. Continue straight through short sections of Route 30 and Route 35M toward the end, then turn right to enter Azraq town.
What to See and Do at Azraq Wetland Reserve
Azraq Wetland Reserve is a calm and beautiful place where nature and history unite. You’ll find clear walking trails, quiet birdwatching areas, and old stone channels. If you slow down and explore, you’ll notice birds calling from the reeds, animals hiding in the bushes, and cool shade under tall plants. The reserve may look simple initially, but it’s full of hidden details. Here are the best things to see and do in Azraq Wetland Reserve:
1. Birdwatching
If you enjoy watching birds, you’ll find birdwatching in Azraq Wetland Reserve unforgettable. Every year, over 200 bird species stop here as they travel between Europe, Africa, and Asia. The best time to visit is spring or autumn, when birds rest, feed, and gather in large numbers before continuing their long journey. You might spot herons standing still in the water, eagles soaring above, or small colorful birds moving quickly through the reeds.
During migration season, the reserve fills with different types of birds from wetlands, deserts, and the open sky. Look for passerines like the Black-eared Wheatear, Woodchat Shrike, and White-eared Bulbul. At the water’s edge, you may see Little Crakes, Squacco Herons, or even a Black Stork. In dry areas, you might see Griffon Vultures, Desert Owls, or Tristram’s Starlings. Azraq is made for birdwatching. There’s a raised walkway, quiet hides, and a cycle path—all designed to help you explore at your own pace.
2. Walk the Boardwalk Trail and Learn as You Go
The boardwalk trail is one of the best ways to explore the wetland. It leads you through green reeds, shallow pools, and open marshes. The path changes from wood to dirt and back again, keeping things interesting under your feet. Along the way, you’ll see minor signs with facts about the birds, animals, and plants around you. These signs are helpful and straightforward—they explain what you’re looking at without using hard words. You won’t need a guide to enjoy this walk. The trail is short and flat, so you can take your time, stop often, and look around.
3. Explore the History Behind the Water
Azraq means “blue” in Arabic—a name that makes sense when considering the water that once filled this area. Years ago, Azraq was a large and healthy oasis. But over time, water was taken for city use, and the wetland began to dry. What you see now is part of a big effort to bring it back. Thanks to the work of local conservation teams, water flows again, birds return, and life grows where it once disappeared. Walking here lets you see nature’s comeback story up close. The quiet beauty of this place hides a long struggle to protect it.
4. Observe Wildlife
Even if you come to Azraq just for the birds, don’t forget to look around. The reserve is home to more than 18 species of mammals, including red foxes and even striped hyenas, though they are rarely seen. If you're lucky and quiet, you might spot a fox near the edge of the reeds.
There are also over 160 species of invertebrates, crawling and buzzing through the grasses, along with two species of amphibians and about 11 different types of reptiles. Lizards sometimes dart across the boardwalk, and frogs often hide in shallow pools. The longer you walk, the more you notice these quiet creatures moving through the wetland. Azraq is a living desert oasis filled with hidden wildlife, waiting to be discovered.
5. Visit the Historic Azraq Castle Nearby
Just an 8-minute drive (5.7 km) from the wetland reserve via the Al-Badiyah Highway (Route 5), you’ll find Azraq Castle, one of Jordan’s most important desert castles. This ancient stone fortress sits in the heart of a desert oasis and has been guarding the region for centuries. Built from dark black basalt, the structure forms a near-perfect square with 80-meter-long walls surrounding a central courtyard. The castle dates back to Roman times, but it was also used during the Arab Revolt—including by T.E. Lawrence, better known as Lawrence of Arabia.
Inside the courtyard, you’ll find a small mosque, likely from the Ayyubid period, and a deep well that once provided water to passing travelers. Each corner of the fortress has a strong oblong tower, and the entrance is marked by a massive slab of basalt used as a door. When you step inside, look down at the stone floor. You’ll see the carved remains of an ancient board game. Just above this entrance is the chamber where Lawrence stayed, adding even more story to the stones.
Exploring Azraq Castle is like walking into a living museum. The thick walls, quiet corners, and open courtyards offer a deep sense of history and desert strength. It’s the perfect way to round out a nature-filled morning at the wetlands with a calm and powerful walk through the past.
Azraq Reserve Travel Tips
Arrive early: Morning is the best time to enjoy cooler weather and spot more birds. Most species are active just after sunrise.
Bring binoculars or a camera: Many birds stay far from the trail, so binoculars help you see more clearly. A camera can capture rare moments, especially during migration.
Wear comfortable shoes: The trail is easy, but you’ll walk across wooden paths and sandy sections. Good shoes make the walk more enjoyable.
Pack a hat, sunscreen, and water: The sun can be intense even in cooler months. Stay protected and hydrated while exploring the open wetland.
Bring snacks or buy food in Amman: There are very few stores or cafés near the reserve. It's best to prepare before your trip.
Start at the Visitor Center: The center gives you maps, bird updates, and trail info. It also has a small museum where you can learn about the reserve’s history, birds, and wildlife before heading out.
Keep your voice low and calm: Loud noise can scare birds and other wildlife. Speaking softly helps you see and hear more during your walk.
Stay on marked paths: The trails are made to protect both you and the wetland. Walking off-track can damage plants and disturb animals.
Best Time to Visit Azraq Wetland Reserve
The best time to visit Azraq is during the spring or autumn. From March to May and October to November, the weather is nice, and many birds pass through. The days are warm but not too hot, and the mornings are cool. These seasons are also best for walking and taking photos. If you want to see rare birds, spring and autumn are perfect.
Summer is possible, but the heat can be intense. If you visit between June and August, try to arrive early in the morning. The sun gets hot fast, and walking in the middle of the day is not easy. Bring water, a hat, and sunscreen. Shade is available in some places, but not everywhere.
Renting a Car in Jordan for Your Nature Trip
Renting a car in Jordan is easy and a great way to explore places like Azraq at your own pace. You can pick up a car in Amman at the airport or in the city. Most rental companies offer small vehicles perfect for this kind of trip. You don’t need a 4x4. A regular car with air conditioning will do fine on the smooth roads leading to the reserve.
Before driving off, always check the fuel level, headlights, and tires. To rent a car, you’ll need a valid driver’s license from your home country and a passport. Some companies may also ask for an International Driving Permit (IDP). You must be at least 21 years old, and some companies require drivers to be 25. A credit card is usually needed for the security deposit.
Where to Stay Near Azraq Wetland Reserve
Here are three budget-friendly stays near Azraq Wetland Reserve:
1. Azraq Lodge
If you plan to spend the night near the reserve, Azraq Lodge is your best choice. Located just 2.8 miles from Azraq Wetland Reserve, the lodge offers air-conditioned rooms with private bathrooms, comfy beds, balconies, and electric kettles for tea or coffee. The lodge has a restaurant and outdoor terrace where you can enjoy halal, vegetarian, or vegan meals. Breakfast is served buffet-stle, and there’s free Wi‑Fi throughout the property. It’s also close to other sites like the Shawmari Wildlife Reserve. There’s free parking and bike rentals.
2. Azraq Rest House
Azraq Rest House is a great option, just 5.3 miles from Azraq Wetland Reserve. This cozy spot offers air-conditioned family rooms with balconies or patios overlooking the garden or pool. You can enjoy a meal at the on-site restaurant, sip a drink at the bar, or cool off in the outdoor swimming pool. There’s also a hot tub and a quiet garden where you can unwind. The staff is available 24 hours, and you’ll have access to room service, a mini-bar, and even a paid airport shuttle if you need it. With attractions like Shawmari Wildlife Reserve and Qasr Amra nearby, Azraq Rest House makes it easy to explore and enjoy the desert at your own pace.
3. St. Jadoor Inn
St. Jadoor Inn is a lovely spot just 5 miles from the Azraq Wetland Reserve for travelers who enjoy quiet stays and a homey feel. The air-conditioned family rooms have private bathrooms, dining areas, and peaceful garden views. Some rooms even have kitchenettes with tea, coffee, and basic cookware for easy self-catering. The inn has a sun terrace, garden, and shared lounge where you can relax after exploring. A vegetarian breakfast is served each morning, and you’ll also find a bar, shared kitchen, and minimarket on site. With a 24-hour front desk, private check-in, and paid shuttle service, everything feels smooth and easy.
Takeaway
Azraq Wetland Reserve is a peaceful place with birds, plants, and local history. Visit during migration season for the best experience. When you support the reserve, you also help protect one of Jordan’s last natural wetlands.
Final Rentals is the go-to car rental platform for traveling around Jordan. We offer both short-term and long-term rentals, with pickup locations in Amman, such as Queen Alia International Airport, Jabal Downtown, Park Plaza, and Abdali Boulevard. Our cars are well-maintained and perfect for long drives, especially for the road trip to Azraq. Book in advance for the best price and ensure your desired vehicle is available during high season.
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