Summary
Discovering the Feynan Eco Lodge in Jordan
As we embarked on our journey down a remote and bumpy road in the desert of Jordan, our destination was the renowned Feynan Eco Lodge, which has been celebrated as one of the foremost eco-lodges in the world by National Geographic Traveler. Nestled in a tranquil valley of Wadi Feynan, this resort stands out as a distinctive destination in the country.
Feynan Eco Lodge Overview
The Feynan Eco Lodge, located within the Dana River Biosphere Reserve, is a solar-powered retreat that offers both tranquility and a commitment to conservation, encouraging visitors to hike and discover the stunning surrounding area.
Nick, a representative of the lodge, shared that they have no intentions of developing the road further, aiming to discourage guests from driving their cars into the reserve. Instead, patrons are encouraged to leave their vehicles at the visitor center and utilize a shuttle to reach Feynan, a decision that benefits both the local environment and provides employment for community members.
This eco-lodge is affiliated with The Royal Society for the Conservation of Nature, which prioritizes the safeguarding of Jordan’s natural resources and wildlife.
Moreover, they implement initiatives to assist rural communities in Jordan by creating jobs in eco-tourism and traditional craft production.
Tour of Wadi Feynan
During our visit, we had the privilege of being guided through the reserve by Mohammad, a local community member who has extensive knowledge of the area, having grown up there. The rich history of Jordan unfolds in the footsteps of Wadi Feynan, where ancient inhabitation spans centuries.
We were intrigued as Mohammad pointed out fragments of glass with origins tracing back to Roman times, around the 7th century. His personal journey from living in a cave and a Bedouin tent to becoming a university-educated man in a nearby town illustrates his remarkable transformation and connection to the land.
In his childhood, Mohammad herded goats deep into the mountains, often camping out alone to protect his herd from wild animals. To fend off loneliness, he would play the flute in the silence of the night. As the sun dipped below the horizon, he played for us, captivating us with stories of his life and family.
Despite the changes life has brought him, he expresses concern for today’s youth, emphasizing the collective support and respect shared within their community. His insightful discussions on politics, economics, and history captivated our attention as we hiked through the valley, learning about the diverse flora and fauna.
Unearthing the History of Dana Biosphere Reserve
Our explorations took us to the remnants of an ancient ruin at the mountain’s peak. At first glance, it appeared to be just another hill, yet closer examination revealed ruins of a Byzantine monastery dating back to 300 AD, later transformed into a castle by the Romans.
Imagining the grandeur it once exhibited to onlookers, we marveled at its historical significance as we journeyed back to the lodge. The sunset painted the sky in incredible shades of orange as we shared tea by the fire, reflecting on our lives and the stories of Mohammad’s past.
Experiencing Bedouin Culture
Walking back to the lodge, Mohammad invited us to meet his family. Entering their Bedouin tent, we were greeted with the laughter of children and warmth from the fire. We connected with three generations of his family, enjoying freshly baked bread while sharing laughter and language with the kids, who were fascinated by the meaning of my name in Arabic.
As the night enveloped us, our guide Ali grew concerned and eventually found us laughing along the roadside. Relieved, we reassured him, continuing on to the lodge where a candlelit dinner awaited us.
That evening, the experience culminated with stargazing on the rooftop, where the unpolluted sky revealed a tapestry of millions of stars. We relished in the joy of friendship and laughter until the cool desert air nudged us toward our rooms.
Accommodation and Pricing
The accommodations at Wadi Feynan are precisely what one would expect from an eco-lodge: inviting, comfortable, and ideal for relaxation. We awoke rejuvenated, dreaming of further explorations in the mesmerizing region of Jordan.
- Discover more about the Feynan Eco Lodge
- Prices start at 77 JD ($108 USD) for Bed and Breakfast plus Dana Reserve Entry Fees
- Guided hikes and mountain biking are available at the lodge, ranging from Free to 15 JD
- Transport services available from Dana Village, Mansoura, Petra, Amman, Aqaba, Wadi Rum, Dead Sea, and Karak
