AMMAN – As preparations ramp up for the 2,000th anniversary of Jesus Christ’s baptism in 2030, the Jordanian Cabinet has officially designated the Baptism Site (Bethany Beyond the Jordan), a UNESCO World Heritage Site, as a 10-square-kilometer nature reserve.

The initiative aims to safeguard the area’s rich biodiversity and fragile riverine ecosystem along the Jordan River. By balancing rigorous environmental preservation with sustainable ecotourism and religious pilgrimage, the move reinforces Jordan’s standing as a premier global destination ahead of the historic 2030 milestone.

Jordan manages its nature reserves to protect vital habitats while supporting local communities. The Royal Society for the Conservation of Nature (RSCN) oversees these protected areas—including Dana, Mujib, Ajloun, and Shaumari—which operate under strict zoning and conservation rules. This careful oversight helps safeguard wildlife and ecosystems while still allowing responsibly planned development in surrounding regions.

Visiting policies vary by reserve. Some areas—particularly sensitive sites such as wetland habitats or lower-elevation reserves like the Fifa Nature Reserve—may require prior permission or guidance from the site manager rather than open, unsupervised access. Visitors are encouraged to follow designated routes and sustainable tourism guidelines, helping reduce stress on fragile landscapes and species.

Environmental conditions can also differ dramatically across Jordan. Forest reserves such as Ajloun are shaped by Mediterranean climates, offering milder temperatures and lush vegetation, while desert and Rift Valley reserves like Dana, Mujib, and Dahek can bring intense summer heat—often reaching around 45°C—low rainfall, and flash-flood risks after storms. Conservation restrictions address challenges such as illegal hunting, overgrazing, and woodcutting, helping ensure these natural treasures remain protected for future generations.