Ecotourism is the responsible travel to natural areas that conserve biodiversity and sustain the well-being of local people. Ecotourism aims to generate income to support protection, create nature-inspired jobs that do not exert pressure on the natural resources of the area, change attitudes towards conservation, and to help people understand and value their natural heritage.
RSCN’s ecotourism initiatives are contributing to the sustainable development of RSCN managed protected areas because our model is built on clear principles and objectives; both supporting nature conservation programs in target areas and creating jobs thus bringing social and economic benefits to the locals.
Due to the increase of both environmental pressures and the demand for jobs outside the city, ecotourism initiatives are now flourishing. Our journey started with the successful establishment of the Dana Biosphere Reserve ecotourism facilities in 1994; the first protected area where the ecotourism and sustainable development model was applied by RSCN.
Today, RSCN manages well over 23 ecotourism initiatives, dispersed all over the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan, with over 350 direct beneficiaries. These initiatives include different facilities (campsites, eco-lodges, and restaurants) and activities (canyoning, cycling, hiking trails, ziplines, giant swing, and climbing and descending) that are set in the heart of Jordan’s nature reserves.
Wild Jordan is a registered trademark of the Royal Society for the Conservation of Nature. Wild Jordan’s revenue contributes to the sustainability of RSCN’s protected areas and supports the socio-economic development of local communities. Wild Jordan Adventures offers an awe-inspiring variety of destinations to explore and action packed activities to enjoy. Visiting one or more of Jordan’s nature reserves is the best way to discover the vastly different scenery and nature around Jordan.
