Dibeen Forest Reserve

Location: South of Jerash Map

Area: 8.5 km² (3.3 mi²)

Tel. +962 2 6370017

Open: daily, all year

The Dibeen Forest Reserve, located in the Jerash Governorate of northwestern Jordan, approximately 70 kilometers north of Amman and 15 kilometers southwest of Jerash, is one of Jordan’s smallest yet most ecologically significant protected areas. Covering just 8.5 square kilometers, it is the northernmost native pine-oak forest in the Middle East and a critical biodiversity hotspot within the Mediterranean biogeographical zone. Established in 2004 by the Royal Society for the Conservation of Nature (RSCN), the reserve protects a rare remnant of Aleppo pine (Pinus halepensis) and oak woodlands, alongside diverse flora and fauna, while promoting sustainable ecotourism and community engagement.

Historical and Geological Context

Geological Formation
Dibeen Forest Reserve lies on a limestone plateau at elevations ranging from 500 to 1,000 meters above sea level, shaped by tectonic activity and erosion in the Jordan Rift Valley. Its geology includes:

Rock Types: Predominantly Cretaceous limestone, with patches of chalk and marl, creating a rugged terrain of rolling hills, shallow wadis, and rocky outcrops.
Soil and Springs: Fertile red Mediterranean soils (terra rossa) support dense vegetation, while small springs and seasonal streams sustain the forest’s microclimate, a rarity in Jordan’s semi-arid landscape.
Topography: The reserve’s undulating hills and valleys, interspersed with caves and rock shelters, provide diverse habitats and scenic vistas, particularly from higher vantage points overlooking Jerash and Ajloun.

Historical Role
Dibeen’s fertile soils and water sources have supported human activity for millennia:
Prehistoric Period: Archaeological surveys have uncovered Paleolithic and Neolithic tools, suggesting hunter-gatherer use of the forest’s caves and springs.
Bronze and Iron Ages: The area was part of the Ammonite and later Israelite territories, with nearby Jerash emerging as a major city.
Hellenistic and Roman Periods: Dibeen’s proximity to Gerasa (modern Jerash) and its trade routes made it a source of timber and resin from Aleppo pines, used in construction and shipbuilding. Roman-era agricultural terraces and watchtowers indicate land use for olive and grape cultivation.
Byzantine and Islamic Periods: The forest supported monasteries and small settlements, with Umayyad and Abbasid farmers maintaining orchards. Ottoman-era records mention Dibeen as a grazing and timber area for local tribes.
Modern History: By the 20th century, overgrazing, logging, and urban expansion threatened the forest, prompting its protection in 2004 after decades of advocacy by Jordanian environmentalists.

Cultural Context
Dibeen is surrounded by rural communities, primarily Arab and Circassian, with some Bedouin presence. Villages like Burma and Al-Rawda rely on agriculture (olives, figs, grapes) and livestock, maintaining traditional practices that coexist with the reserve’s conservation goals. The forest’s cultural significance is reflected in local folklore, which describes it as a “green jewel” of fertility in a dry region, and its proximity to biblical sites like Jerash enhances its appeal for religious tourists.

Ecological Significance

Dibeen Forest Reserve is a rare example of a Mediterranean pine-oak ecosystem in the Middle East, hosting a disproportionate share of Jordan’s biodiversity within its compact area. Its cool, humid microclimate, with annual rainfall of 400–600 mm, supports dense woodlands and a variety of species adapted to both Mediterranean and semi-arid conditions.

Flora
Diversity: Over 400 plant species thrive in Dibeen, including 17 globally threatened species and several Jordanian endemics. Key species include:
Aleppo Pine (Pinus halepensis): The dominant tree, forming open woodlands with needle-like leaves and fire-resistant cones. Dibeen’s pines are among the last native stands in Jordan, with some trees over 100 years old.
Oaks: Evergreen holm oak (Quercus ilex) and deciduous Palestine oak (Quercus calliprinos) create mixed forests, providing shade and acorns for wildlife.
Shrubs and Herbs: Wild pistachio (Pistacia palaestina), strawberry tree (Arbutus andrachne), carob (Ceratonia siliqua), and orchids like Ophrys lutea add color and diversity. Medicinal plants, such as sage (Salvia) and thyme (Thymus), are used by locals.
Seasonal Blooms: Spring (March–April) brings wildflowers like anemones, cyclamens, and irises, transforming the forest floor.
Ecological Role: The forest’s canopy regulates soil moisture, prevents erosion, and supports pollinators. Its pine resin and acorns are vital food sources for insects and mammals.

Fauna
Mammals: At least 20 mammal species inhabit Dibeen, including the threatened striped hyena (Hyaena hyaena), red fox (Vulpes vulpes), wild boar (Sus scrofa), and rock hyrax (Procavia capensis). The Caucasian squirrel (Sciurus anomalus), rare in Jordan, thrives in the pine canopy.
Birds: Over 100 bird species, including residents and migrants, have been recorded. Notable species include the short-toed eagle (Circaetus gallicus), Eurasian jay (Garrulus glandarius), woodpecker (Dendrocopos), and warblers like the Sardinian warbler (Sylvia melanocephala). The forest is a breeding site for the endangered lesser kestrel (Falco naumanni).
Reptiles and Amphibians: Lizards (e.g., agama, gecko), snakes (e.g., Palestinian viper), and the green toad (Bufotes viridis) inhabit rocky and moist areas.
Invertebrates: Butterflies (e.g., Papilio machaon), beetles, and scorpions contribute to the ecosystem’s balance, with pine forests supporting unique insect communities.
Threatened Species: Dibeen is a stronghold for regionally endangered species like the striped hyena and lesser kestrel, with conservation programs monitoring their populations.

Ecological Importance
Dibeen’s forest is a relic of the Mediterranean woodlands that once covered much of the Levant, now reduced by deforestation and climate change. It serves as:

Biodiversity Reservoir: Protecting species absent from Jordan’s arid reserves like Shaumari or Mujib.
Carbon Sink: The forest sequesters carbon, mitigating climate change in a region prone to desertification.
Ecological Corridor: Connecting fragmented habitats between Ajloun’s forests and the Jordan Valley, aiding species dispersal.

Archaeological and Cultural Significance

While Dibeen is primarily a natural reserve, its archaeological and cultural features enhance its appeal:

Roman Terraces: Ancient stone walls and terraces, used for olive and grape cultivation, are scattered across the reserve, particularly in Wadi Dibeen.
Byzantine Remains: Small chapels and cisterns, likely part of monastic settlements, indicate early Christian presence, with some mosaic fragments reported.
Caves and Shelters: Natural caves, used by prehistoric humans and later hermits, contain flint tools and pottery shards, though systematic excavations are limited.
Local Communities: The surrounding villages maintain Circassian and Arab traditions, with festivals featuring music, dance (e.g., Circassian dabke), and cuisine (e.g., olive-based dishes). The RSCN’s ecotourism programs employ locals as guides and artisans, producing crafts like woven baskets and herbal teas.
Cultural Folklore: Dibeen’s dense forest is woven into local stories as a place of refuge and mystery, with tales of hidden springs and ancient spirits.

Conservation Efforts and Challenges

Establishment and Management
The RSCN designated Dibeen as a protected area in 2004 to halt deforestation and habitat loss, with management focused on:

Zoning: Core zones restrict human activity to protect sensitive habitats, while buffer zones allow guided tourism and limited grazing.
Monitoring: Camera traps and surveys track species like the striped hyena and lesser kestrel, with data shared via the IUCN and BirdLife International.
Reforestation: Planting native pines and oaks, alongside fire management to protect pine stands, addresses historical logging damage.
Community Engagement: Over 50 local families benefit from jobs in guiding, maintenance, and craft production (e.g., pine needle baskets, herbal soaps). Educational programs in nearby schools promote conservation awareness.

Conservation Achievements
Species Protection: Populations of threatened species, such as the striped hyena and lesser kestrel, have stabilized due to anti-poaching patrols and habitat restoration.
Forest Recovery: Reforestation has expanded pine-oak cover by 10% since 2004, with natural regeneration in less disturbed areas.
Ecotourism Success: Dibeen’s trails and chalets generate revenue for conservation, with visitor numbers growing from 5,000 in 2005 to over 15,000 annually by 2023.

Challenges
Deforestation and Grazing: Historical logging and ongoing grazing by goats and sheep threaten young trees and undergrowth. The RSCN negotiates with locals to limit grazing in core zones.
Urban Encroachment: Nearby Jerash and Amman’s expansion increases pressure from roads, quarries, and settlements, fragmenting habitats.
Fire Risk: Aleppo pines are fire-adapted, but uncontrolled wildfires, exacerbated by climate change, pose a threat, with a major fire in 2010 damaging 5% of the forest.
Limited Funding: The RSCN relies on international donors (e.g., USAID, EU) and tourism revenue, but budget constraints limit ranger training and infrastructure upgrades.
Invasive Species: Non-native plants and feral dogs occasionally disrupt the ecosystem, requiring active management.

Visitor Experience

Dibeen Forest Reserve is a tranquil escape for nature lovers, hikers, and those seeking an alternative to Jordan’s archaeological sites like Petra or Jerash. Managed by Wild Jordan, it offers accessible trails, eco-friendly accommodations, and cultural interactions.

Key Attractions
Hiking Trails:
Pine Trail (1.2 km, 1 hour): An easy loop through Aleppo pine groves, ideal for families, with chances to spot jays and wildflowers. Picnic areas and benches enhance the experience.
Oak Trail (2.5 km, 2 hours): A moderate trail through oak woodlands and rocky outcrops, offering views of Wadi Dibeen and opportunities to see hyrax or lizards.
Wadi Dibeen Trail (5 km, 3–4 hours): A challenging hike descending into the wadi, passing springs and Roman terraces, with sightings of short-toed eagles and rare orchids.
Birdwatching: Spring (March–May) and autumn (September–November) are peak seasons for spotting migratory birds like the lesser kestrel or resident species like the Eurasian jay. Bird hides near springs provide optimal viewing.
Eco-Chalets: Six stone-and-wood chalets, built in 2005, offer rustic lodging with solar-heated water, private terraces, and forest views. Each sleeps 2–4 people, with rates around JOD 40–60 per night.
Picnic Areas: Shaded spots with tables and grills, particularly along the Pine Trail, attract local families, especially on weekends.
Cultural Experiences: Guided tours include visits to nearby villages for Circassian tea, olive harvesting (October–November), or craft workshops producing pine needle crafts and herbal products.

Practical Information
Location and Access: Dibeen is a 1-hour drive from Amman via Route 35, or 20 minutes from Jerash. Public transport is limited; taxis or rental cars from Amman or Jerash are recommended. The entrance is well-signposted off the Jerash-Ajloun road.
Hours and Admission: Open daily from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM (last entry 4:00 PM). Entry fees are JOD 2–5, with guided tours or chalet stays extra. Pre-booking is required for chalets via Wild Jordan.
Facilities: A small visitor center offers maps, toilets, and a shop selling local crafts (e.g., soaps, teas). Chalets have basic kitchens; no on-site restaurants exist, but Jerash has dining options. Mobile reception is reliable, but Wi-Fi is unavailable.
Best Time to Visit: Spring for wildflowers and mild weather (15–25°C); autumn for cooler hikes and bird migration. Summer (June–August) is hot (up to 35°C), while winter (December–February) brings rain and occasional frost, making trails slippery.
Tips: Wear sturdy shoes for rocky trails, bring water, sunscreen, and binoculars. Respect forest rules (no littering, no fires outside designated areas) and local customs when visiting villages. Check fire warnings in summer.

Visitor Feedback
Positive: Visitors praise Dibeen’s lush greenery, a stark contrast to Jordan’s deserts, and its peaceful trails, ideal for day trips from Amman. The chalets are lauded for their eco-design and starry night views. Birdwatchers report sightings of rare species like the short-toed eagle.
Challenges: Some note limited trail signage, requiring guides for longer hikes, and the reserve’s small size, which can feel crowded on weekends. The lack of on-site dining and basic chalet amenities may surprise luxury-seekers. Littering by picnickers is an occasional issue, though RSCN cleanups mitigate this.