Azraq Wetland Reserve Holidays

Azraq is a unique wetland oasis located in the heart of the semi-arid Jordanian eastern desert, one of several beautiful nature reserves managed by the RSCN. Its attractions include several natural and ancient built pools, a seasonally flooded marshland, and a large mudflat known as Qa' al-Azraq. A wide variety of birds stop at the reserve each year for a rest during their arduous migration routes between Europe and Africa. Some stay for the winter or breed within the protected areas of the wetland.

The Azraq Oasis derives its name from the Arabic word "Azraq", meaning blue. In the past, the pools, marshes and streams of Azraq formed a sparkling blue jewel in the desert, a haven for up to a million migrating, breeding and wintering birds. Despite the loss of most of the permanent wetland habitat during the past decade, due to a lack of rainfall, Azraq continues to provide a seasonal habitat for a large number of wildlife species.