Private Day Trip to Jerash, Umm Qais and Ajloun Castle From Amman

Enjoy Jordan’s captivating past with this private day trip from Amman. Venture to the ancient Roman ruins of Umm Qais, where breathtaking panoramic views await. Thereafter, explore the impressive 12th-century Ajloun Castle, a defensive fortress that’s sure to impress. The journey culminates in the well-preserved Greco-Roman city of Jerash, where towering columns and intricate carvings transport you back in time. With private transport and flexibility, this excursion offers an unparalleled opportunity to discover the rich heritage that has shaped this remarkable Middle Eastern nation.

Key Points

• Explore the ancient Roman ruins of Umm Qais, the 12th-century Ajloun Castle, and the well-preserved Greco-Roman city of Jerash on a 10-hour private day trip from Amman.

• Experience panoramic views of the Sea of Galilee, Mount Tabor, and Golan Heights from the scenic hilltop of Umm Qais.

• Discover the impressive Ajloun Castle, built to defend against the Crusaders, with its imposing stone walls, towers, and gateways.

• Marvel at the grandeur of the Greco-Roman ruins in Jerash, including Hadrian’s Arch, the Temple of Artemis, and the expansive 160-column Forum.

• The private tour includes a professional English-speaking driver, but entrance fees to the historical sites are not included.

Tour Overview and Highlights

This private 10-hour day trip from Amman allows travelers to explore the ancient Roman ruins of Umm Qais, the historic 12th-century Ajloun Castle, and the well-preserved Greco-Roman city of Jerash.

At Umm Qais, visitors can wander among the stone columns and amphitheater, taking in scenic views of the Sea of Galilee, Mount Tabor, and the Golan Heights.

The tour then moves on to the impressive Ajloun Castle, which was built to defend against the Crusaders.

Finally, in Jerash, travelers can marvel at Hadrian’s Arch, the Temple of Artemis, and the magnificent 160-column Forum.

Throughout the day, an English-speaking driver provides transportation in a private air-conditioned vehicle.

Umm Qais: Glimpse Into the Past

Situated on a scenic hilltop overlooking the Sea of Galilee, Mount Tabor, and the Golan Heights, Umm Qais is a captivating archaeological site that offers visitors a glimpse into the grandeur of the ancient Roman world. As you wander through the excavated ruins, you’ll be struck by the impressive stone columns, the well-preserved amphitheater, and the stunning panoramic vistas that inspired the city’s prosperity as a center of trade and culture.

Key Highlights	Description
Amphitheater	The remarkably intact amphitheater, once able to seat up to 5,000 people, stands as a testament to the city’s former glory.
Stone Columns	Towering stone columns, some reaching 9 meters in height, line the streets, evoking the grandeur of Umm Qais’ prosperous past.
Scenic Views	The scenic overlook provides breathtaking views of the Sea of Galilee, Mount Tabor, and the Golan Heights, offering a truly immersive experience.

Ajloun Castle: Defensive Fortress

Perched atop a scenic hilltop in northern Jordan, Ajloun Castle stands as a powerful symbol of the region’s rich history and strategic importance.

Constructed in the 12th century by one of Saladin’s generals, this Muslim fortress played a crucial role in defending against the Crusaders’ advances, guarding the trade routes and serving as a lookout point for the surrounding area.

The castle’s imposing stone walls, towers, and gateways are a testament to its formidable military architecture.

Visitors can explore the castle’s well-preserved ruins, including the remarkable Mamluk-era additions, and take in the breathtaking views of the Jordan Valley and the Gilead mountains beyond.

Ajloun Castle stands as a remarkable example of the region’s enduring historical legacy.

Jerash: Preserving Ancient Grandeur

Nestled in the northern Jordanian countryside, Jerash stands as a remarkably well-preserved example of ancient Roman architecture and urban planning. Once a thriving settlement dating back to the Bronze Age, this sprawling site captivates visitors with its remarkably intact Greco-Roman ruins, including Hadrian’s Arch, the Temple of Artemis, and the stunning Forum surrounded by 160 towering Ionic columns.

Wandering through Jerash’s streets, one can almost imagine the bustling markets, lively festivals, and grand processions that once occurred here. The site’s remarkably preserved state offers a unique window into the past, allowing visitors to step back in time and enjoy the grandeur of the ancient world.

The impressive Hadrian’s Arch, a triumphal gateway built in 129 AD to honor the visiting Roman emperor, stands as a testament to Jerash’s former glory.

The massive Temple of Artemis, with its towering columns and intricate carvings, stands as a magnificent example of ancient religious architecture.

The expansive Forum, ringed by 160 towering Ionic columns, serves as a stunning centerpiece to the site, evoking the bustling commercial and civic life of Jerash’s heyday.

Inclusions and Considerations

The private day trip from Amman includes hotel pickup and drop-off, as well as transportation by a private air-conditioned vehicle with an English-speaking driver.

However, the entry fees to the historical sites aren’t included in the tour price.

This tour requires moderate physical fitness, as it isn’t wheelchair accessible.

It’s a private tour, so you’ll have the guide and vehicle all to yourself and your group.

If you need to cancel, you can get a full refund if you do so at least 24 hours in advance. Otherwise, no refunds will be given for cancellations less than a day before the tour starts.

Cancellation Policy and Refunds

Regarding the cancellation policy, travelers can receive a full refund if they cancel the tour at least 24 hours before the scheduled start time. However, no refunds will be issued for cancellations made less than a day in advance.

This strict policy ensures the tour company can plan accordingly and avoid last-minute disruptions.

The cancellation terms are as follows:

• Flexibility for unexpected changes in plans
• No hidden fees or penalties for timely cancellations
• Hassle-free refund process for qualifying cancellations

Pickup and Drop-off in Amman

This private day trip from Amman includes convenient hotel pickup and drop-off, ensuring a hassle-free start and end to your sightseeing adventure.

Your English-speaking driver will arrive at your Amman hotel to collect you and transport you in a private, air-conditioned vehicle to the first stop on your itinerary, the ancient ruins of Umm Qais.

After exploring this site, you’ll continue on to Ajloun Castle and Jerash, with the driver handling all the transportation logistics.

At the end of the day, you’ll be dropped back off at your Amman hotel, allowing you to simply relax and reflect on the fascinating historical sites you’ve experienced.

Private Transport and Flexibility

One key benefit of this private day trip is the flexibility offered by the private air-conditioned vehicle. With your own personal driver, you can adjust the pace and flow of the itinerary to suit your interests and preferences, taking time to fully learn about each historical site without feeling rushed.

This added flexibility allows you to:

• Linger longer at the awe-inspiring Roman ruins of Umm Qais, drinking in the breathtaking vistas of the Sea of Galilee and Golan Heights.
• Explore the intricate architecture and storied past of Ajloun Castle at your own leisurely pace.
• Discover the wealth of wonders in Jerash, from the imposing Hadrian’s Arch to the majestic 160 Ionic columns of the Forum, without the constraints of a group tour.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can We Stop for Lunch During the Tour?

Yes, you can stop for lunch during the tour. The tour package includes transportation by private air-conditioned vehicle, allowing flexibility to make stops for meals at the traveler’s discretion throughout the day.

Is There an Option to Include a Guided Tour?

Yes, the tour can include a guided component. Guests can opt for a guided tour at each site, led by knowledgeable local guides who’ll provide in-depth insights into the history and significance of the archaeological wonders.

What Should We Bring for the Day?

Travelers should bring comfortable walking shoes, sun protection, a light jacket, water, snacks, and any necessary medications. Plus, a camera is recommended to capture the stunning historical sites and scenic vistas along the tour.

Can the Itinerary Be Customized?

The itinerary can be customized to fit the client’s preferences. The private tour allows flexibility, so travelers can adjust the activities and duration based on their interests and schedule. The tour operator is open to modifying the itinerary upon request.

Are There Any Age Restrictions for the Tour?

There are no age restrictions for this tour. The tour is suitable for all ages, though it requires moderate physical fitness. Children are welcome, and the private tour allows flexibility to accommodate the needs of your group.

Recap

This private day trip from Amman offers a captivating exploration of Jordan’s rich history.

Visitors can marvel at the ancient Roman ruins of Umm Qais, the impressive 12th-century Ajloun Castle, and the well-preserved Greco-Roman city of Jerash.

With breathtaking panoramic views and the opportunity to witness the architectural wonders of these sites, this tour provides a comprehensive glimpse into Jordan’s incredible cultural heritage.