Full Day Tour : Jerash, Ajloun, Umm Qais

Discover the captivating sites of northern Jordan with this immersive full-day tour. From the well-preserved ruins of Jerash, a shining example of Greco-Roman architecture, to the medieval splendor of Aljoun Castle and the panoramic vistas of Umm Qais, this journey offers a comprehensive exploration of the region’s rich cultural heritage. Accompanied by an expert English-speaking driver, you’ll explore the past and uncover the stories that have shaped this enchanting land. Prepare to be amazed as you witness the striking contrast between ancient landmarks and breathtaking natural landscapes. What hidden gems await as you venture through this remarkable itinerary?

Key Points

• Explore the well-preserved Greco-Roman ruins of Jerash, a captivating glimpse into the grandeur of the Roman Empire.
• Visit the medieval Aljoun Castle, a strategic fortress from the Ayyubid dynasty with panoramic views of the Jordan Valley.
• Discover the remarkable ruins of the Greco-Roman settlement of Umm Qais, offering breathtaking panoramic views of Syria and Israel.
• Enjoy personalized attention from an English-speaking driver and local tour guides at each site for a comprehensive experience.
• Benefit from inclusive transportation, bottled water, and parking fees, ensuring a hassle-free and seamless full-day tour.

Tour Overview

The full-day private tour takes visitors on an exploration of three remarkable historical sites in northern Jordan – the ancient Roman city of Umm Qais, the well-preserved archaeological site of Jerash, and the medieval Aljoun Castle.

At Umm Qais, you’ll marvel at the impressive Roman ruins while taking in views of neighboring Syria and Israel.

Next, you’ll visit the remarkably intact ruins of Jerash, wandering through ancient streets and discovering well-preserved temples, theaters, and plazas.

The tour culminates at the impressive Aljoun Castle, a medieval fortress perched atop a hill with stunning vistas.

Throughout the day, you’ll enjoy the personalized attention of an English-speaking driver, making for a truly memorable experience.

Transportation and Logistics

For this tour, an air-conditioned vehicle transports visitors from any hotel in Amman, with pickup and drop-off included to ensure a seamless experience.

The English-speaking driver provides a personalized experience, allowing guests to travel door-to-door without the rush of a group tour. Bottled water and parking fees are also included, so travelers can focus on enjoying the sights without worrying about additional costs.

The tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, and infants must sit on laps, but most travelers can participate. Confirmation is received at the time of booking, so guests can rest assured their plans are set.

Exploring Umm Qais

As visitors explore the ancient city of Umm Qais, they’ll be met with the remarkable ruins of a once-thriving Greco-Roman settlement, offering a glimpse into the region’s rich history and commanding views across the borders of Syria and Israel.

Wandering through the well-preserved archaeological site, travelers can marvel at the remains of a grand amphitheater, colonnaded streets, and the foundations of temples and public baths.

The site’s location on a hilltop provides a unique vantage point, allowing visitors to take in the breathtaking panorama of the surrounding countryside and imagine the bustling city that once stood here.

With its captivating history and stunning vistas, Umm Qais promises an unforgettable experience for all who visit.

Visiting Jerash

From the captivating ruins of Umm Qais, the tour continues to the archaeological site of Jerash, where visitors can explore one of the best-preserved Greco-Roman cities outside of Italy.

Wandering through the ancient colonnaded streets and grand public plazas, they’ll be transported back in time to experience the vibrant cosmopolitan atmosphere that once thrived in this remarkable Roman provincial town.

The highlights include Hadrian’s Arch, the Hippodrome, the Oval Plaza, and the magnificent Temple of Artemis.

Visitors can wander through the largely intact ruins, imagining the bustling commercial activity and lively social life that once filled these spaces.

With its well-preserved monuments and insightful historical context, Jerash offers a captivating glimpse into the grandeur of the Roman Empire.

Discovering Aljoun Castle

The tour then takes visitors to the medieval castle of Aljoun, a well-preserved fortress perched atop a towering hill that commands stunning views of the surrounding countryside. Constructed in the early 12th century, this impressive structure served as a strategic outpost for the Ayyubid dynasty, guarding important trade routes and defending against Crusader incursions. Visitors can explore the castle’s sturdy walls, towers, and interior chambers, which provide insights into the sophisticated military architecture and daily life of the era. The castle’s key features are showcased in the table below:

Feature	Description
Defensive Walls	Thick, imposing walls with regularly spaced towers for archers
Main Entrance	Fortified gatehouse with a drawbridge and murder holes
Interior Courtyard	Spacious inner court surrounded by residential and administrative buildings
Water Cisterns	Underground reservoirs to ensure a reliable water supply during sieges
Panoramic Views	Sweeping vistas of the Jordan Valley and bordering regions

Included Amenities

Beyond exploring the impressive architecture and strategic positioning of Aljoun Castle, the full-day tour also includes a range of amenities to enhance the overall experience.

Travelers will enjoy the convenience of air-conditioned vehicle transfers from any hotel in Amman, with pickup and drop-off service included.

The knowledgeable, English-speaking driver ensures a personalized experience, allowing guests to explore the sites at their own pace without the rush of a group.

Bottled water and parking fees are covered, and tour guides are provided at the local sites.

While ticket fees aren’t included, the tour offers a hassle-free way to discover these historical gems with all the necessary logistical details taken care of.

Additional Considerations

Though not wheelchair accessible, the tour accommodates infants who can sit on laps, making it suitable for most travelers. Those with limited mobility should keep this in mind when booking. Plus, while ticket fees are not included in the tour price, the seamless logistics and personalized experience provided by the knowledgeable, English-speaking driver offer excellent value. Confirmation is received at the time of booking, allowing guests to plan their journey with confidence.

Accessibility	Suitability	Logistics
Not wheelchair accessible	Infants can sit on laps	Personalized experience
Suitable for most travelers	Accommodates limited mobility	Seamless door-to-door travel
Ticket fees not included	Excellent value	Confirmation at booking

Pricing and Reviews

Pricing for the full-day tour starts from $170.00 per person, with variations based on group size. Travelers can take advantage of free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience.

The tour has garnered an impressive 5.0 overall rating across 9 reviews from satisfied customers on Viator and Tripadvisor. Reviewers praise the tour’s well-organized logistics, comfortable transportation, and knowledgeable driver who provided a personalized experience.

Customers were pleased with the ability to explore ancient Roman ruins, a medieval castle, and scenic viewpoints without the hassle of group rushes. The inclusion of bottled water, parking fees, and access to local tour guides at each site were also highlighted as positive aspects of the tour.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Maximum Group Size for the Tour?

The tour is a private experience, so the group size is flexible. The details indicate the tour is designed for personalized travel, though the maximum group size is not explicitly stated.

Are There Any Dietary Restrictions or Special Requirements?

The tour does not have any specific dietary restrictions or special requirements. Guests can bring their own food and drinks, if desired. The tour is designed to accommodate most travelers, subject to their individual needs and preferences.

Can Children Participate in the Tour Activities?

Yes, children can participate in the tour activities. The tour is not wheelchair accessible, but infants can sit on laps during transportation. Most travelers, including families with children, can participate in the included activities.

Are There Any Discounts or Promotions Available for the Tour?

The tour provider doesn’t mention any specific discounts or promotions available. However, they do offer a free cancellation policy up to 24 hours before the tour, which could provide some flexibility for travelers. Prices start at $170 and vary based on group size.

Are There Any Opportunities for Photography During the Tour?

The tour provides ample opportunities for photography throughout the day. Visitors can capture stunning views of ancient Roman ruins, medieval castles, and beautiful natural landscapes during the excursion. The driver allows sufficient time for guests to take photos at each site.

The Sum Up

This full-day tour of northern Jordan provides an immersive journey into the country’s rich history and stunning landscapes.

Visitors will explore the well-preserved ruins of Jerash, the medieval fortress of Ajloun, and the captivating vistas of Umm Qais, all while benefiting from personalized attention and an enriching cultural experience.

With comfortable transportation and knowledgeable guidance, this tour offers an unforgettable opportunity to explore Jordan’s remarkable heritage.