AJLOUN FOREST RESERVE
Ajloun Forest Reserve is located in the Ajloun highlands north of Amman and covers 13 square kilometers. It is known for its evergreen oak woodlands and a rich variety of trees that have long supported local communities. The area has a deep historical background, with many archaeological sites reflecting centuries of human settlement. The reserve is home to diverse wildlife, including rare species, and is especially beautiful in spring when wildflowers bloom.
Nearby, the Royal Academy for Nature Conservation was established to provide specialized training in nature protection and sustainable development. Linked directly to the reserve, the Academy forms part of an integrated eco-tourism complex and includes training facilities, a medical clinic, a conference hall, and a restaurant. Trails in the reserve are open year-round, weather permitting.
Grade: Easy
Distance: 2 km
Time: Less than 1 hour
Group size: 4 – 18 people
Description: This short circular trail starts at the campsite and offers great views over the reserve. Not far from the campsite, you will find an old stone wine press. Early in the morning, you may be lucky enough to see Roe deer before you return to the visitor center.
Grade: Moderate
Distance: 6 – 7 km
Time: 2 – 3 hours
Group size: 4 – 18 people
This trail begins at the Reserve’s Visitor Center; you will hike through thick, healthy woodlands filled with Oak, Pistachio, and oriental Strawberry trees. Take a short detour to view a ruined wine press before you pass one of the oldest Strawberry trees in the Reserve on your way down into the valley.
The trail climbs 1000m above sea level at Eagle’s View Point descending to Rasoun village, and then you will be transferred to visit the Soap House at the Royal Academy for Nature Conservation where the local women of Ajloun follow the traditional process of making Orjan pure Olive Oil soap.
Grade: Moderate
Distance: 8 km
Time: 3 – 4 hours
Group size: 4 – 18 people
Requirements: Reasonable level of fitness
Description: Named for the flowers that can be seen around the trail every spring, this hiking loop passes through thick woodlands, orchards, farms and villages in and around the reserve. It offers beautiful views of the West Bank, Syria, and the Jordanian countryside. About halfway through the hike, observe the wine and olive press from the Byzantine and Roman eras, and just before reaching the end of the trail, rest in the shade of a large Maloul tree. Each season has different vegetation to enjoy.
The first half of the trail is uphill and the second half is downhill; there are steep scrambles enroute that demand a reasonable level of fitness.
Grade: Moderate
Distance: 8.5 km
Time: 4 hours
Group size: 4 – 18 people
Description: This hike takes you from Ajloun Forest Reserve Visitor Center to Mar Elias, the ruins of one of Jordan’s oldest churches. It is named for the Prophet Elias, or Elijah, to whom Mar Elias is dedicated. The trail leads through fig and pear orchards, amongst forests of oak and oriental strawberry trees. The stonewalls that crisscross the valley guard the farmers’ crops inside from both the winter rains and wild boar. Relax in the shade with a glass of tea before climbing to the hilltop ruins, which provide sweeping views of the surrounding area. The hike also includes a locally prepared picnic lunch near the ruins.
Grade: Difficult
Distance: 18 km
Time: Full Day
Group size: 4 – 18 people
Description: Once you have reached Mar Elias, you have the option of continuing on this challenging trail, which takes you by small farmhouse and their adjacent orchards on your way to Ajloun Castle, built between AD 1184 – 1188 by Salahadin’s nephew. In the first section of the trail, you can enjoy views of the West Bank and Syria, before you descend into a wooded valley. The final difficult uphill is rewarded by the incredible Castle and the marvelous views that accompany it. The hike also includes a locally prepared picnic lunch.
Grade: Moderate
Distance: 12 km
Time: 6 hours
Group size: 4-18 people
Description
Continuing from Rasoun village, this tour takes you through wooded valleys to the lush green orchards of Orjan village, giving you the chance to discover the rural lifestyle of the region. A poplar-lined spring provides a wonderful contrast to the arid mountains of the previous stages of the trail. As you hike, you will notice the dramatic rock walls, old water mills once used by local people to grind their seeds and the hollow walnut tree.
Enjoy a delicious traditional Brunch in an orchard of fig, pomegranate, apple and apricot trees. At the end of the trail, you will pass through an old Olive trees dating back to the old days of Roman Empire.
