Ajloun Forest Reserve is 13 square kilometres of tightly forested mountains in northern Jordan. The green swathed hilltops and valleys contain more than 300 types of plant, 30 of them with medicinal purposes. By far the most dominant is the evergreen oak; small trees, often with intricately twisted branches. In the spring, the ground is thickly carpeted with wild flowers such as anemones and rock roses, wild tulips, black iris and seven varieties of orchid.
Wildlife
The forest is home to several types of mammal; herds of wild boar, wolf, striped hyena, golden jackal, red fox, Persian squirrel, crested porcupine and stone marten. Although some of these animals are elusive, sightings are not impossible.
Roe deer have also been reintroduced after the original population was killed off in the 1980s due to over-hunting.
Walking trails
There are several walking trails through the reserve, taking between one and ten hours. As well as winding their way through the woodland, they often involve visits to archaeological sites or community craft projects such as the Soap House. The longer walks either have picnic stops in scenic spots with lunches of local food, or visits to a family who provide a meal.
"The reserve is a gift from God to the local people. I am not speaking as the Ecotourism Manager but as a local man born in this area. It brings money to many families who may otherwise would have none"
Loai Al Nimri - Ecotourism Manager, Ajloun Forest Reserve
Local community
Involving the surrounding communities is a key policy. Nearly all the park employees come from nearby villages, school children visit on regular field trips and there is frequent consultation on conservation issues.
Read more about national parks and walking trails in Jordan
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