Jordan Red Sea Climate & Environment

Jordan is surrounded by Syria, Iraq, Saudi Arabia and Israel. The fertile Jordan Valley on the western side of the country, the east bank plateau and a desert which extends into Syria, Saudi Arabia and Iraq comprises the main geographical zones of the country. The northern pine forests meet the cultivated slopes of the Jordan Valley, which are covered in cedar, olive and eucalyptus trees.

The Dead Sea region is dominated with mud and salt flats. It is impossible for vegetation to survive here, however to the northeast of the Dead Sea, you can find boars, badgers and goats. The Dead Sea is the saltiest body of water on earth as well as the lowest point in the world. The deserts sustain the usual camels, desert fox, sand rats and hares. The Gulf of Aqaba boasts a huge variety of Red Sea tropical fish and coral. Jordan's largest sanctuary is the Shaumari Wildlife Reserve, where gazelle and oryx have once more been reintroduced to the country.

Every country has its own delicate eco-system. So be responsible while you are appreciating the beauty. If you are in the desert, the rule is Pack it in, Pack it out. If you are in a protected park, stick to the trail. Wandering away can cause unforeseen damage to the delicate plant and animal life. Be conscious of things like water consumption, proper waste disposal, and turning off air-conditioning units when away from your room. Water is a precious commodity in the desert regions.

In the Red Sea, do not feed the fish, do not collect or remove any material either living or dead, and do not touch the coral reef with any part of your body including your fins! Thanks to a growing number of dedicated environmental agencies, there is a greater knowledge of Reef Protection awareness. For example, boats can no longer anchor to the coral.