Probably one of the calmest and most serene places on earth is lost between the valleys of Dana. One of the Middle East's biggest nature reserve is 320 square kilometers offering dozens of trails and hiding thousands of unique species. Tonight we go to camp.
The Rummana Campsite occupies a rare and exceptionally beautiful location within the designated core zone of Dana Biosphere Reserve. Originally, the location of the campsite was a favored Bedouin camping area, occupied every summer season for goat grazing. At present, the campsite contains 20 large tents that can house up to 60 people, bathrooms, and barbecue grills for visitor use. Each tent comes equipped with mattresses, blankets and pillows. Traditional Arabic meals are also provided upon request. The campsite is open from March 15 to October 31.
Arrive at the tower and wait for the shuttle. A pickup truck transports guests down the valley to the camp where Abou Rami welcomes you with arms wide open. The first impression was fun.
Rummana camp is about a bunch of tents and a new series of bigger ones with a view on the valley they call "Deluxe". A bed, a bed sheet, a wool cover and a pillow. As we arrived, everyone gathered around the fire for tea. PS: Deluxe are the same as the small ones only bigger in space. I personally believe they're not worth it.
Don't miss out on the sunset, a five minutes window overlooking beautiful colors your camera does not want to mix.
Dinner was served in the main restaurant; Chicken with curry and garlic, rice with vermicelli, yellow rice with vegetables, hummus, salads and pickles.
After dinner everything was calm. There's actually nothing much to do other than to enjoy the simplicity of life. Everyone gathered around the fire before going to sleep. I slept like a baby and woke up to the sound of chirping birds, enjoying the fresh rays of the sun.
Breakfast was served at 7am offering boiled eggs, Labneh, vegetables and tea.
Toilets are available. But there's no hot water unless the sun was extremely strong during the day. Electricity is available if again the sun was strong enough during the day.
Food was good and homey, the bed was as good as I expected it to be, the staff was welcoming. I enjoyed this experience and recommend you consider trying it.
