Private Tour: Full-Day Islamic Desert Castles and Ajloun Castle Trip From Amman

Exploring the captivating Islamic desert castles and the grand Ajloun Castle on a private day trip from Amman can be an enriching experience for history enthusiasts and architecture aficionados alike. This comprehensive tour not only grants access to these remarkable sites but also provides insights into Jordan’s unique cultural heritage. From the striking Al-Azraq Castle to the well-preserved Quseir Amra and the impressive Kharaneh Castle, each location offers a glimpse into the region’s past. And at the tour’s culmination, the majestic Ajloun Castle stands as a testament to the ingenuity of Ayyubid-era architecture. With comfortable transportation and included entrance fees, this journey promises to captivate and enlighten.

Key Points

• This full-day private tour from Amman explores the Islamic desert castles of Al-Azraq, Quseir Amra, Kharaneh, and the historic Ajloun Castle.
• The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, entrance fees, and an air-conditioned vehicle for comfort and convenience.
• Highlights include the strategic Al-Azraq fortress, the UNESCO-listed Quseir Amra with its stunning frescoes, and the unique Kharaneh Castle.
• The tour culminates at the impressive Ajloun Castle, a 12th-century fortress offering panoramic views of the Jordan Valley.
• Customer reviews praise the knowledgeable drivers and guides, as well as the flexibility in tour pace and lunch arrangements.

Tour Overview

This private full-day tour from Amman showcases a captivating array of Islamic desert castles and the iconic Ajloun Castle, providing a comprehensive exploration of Jordan’s rich historical and architectural heritage.

Over the course of 10 hours, you’ll embark on a private journey, traveling in an air-conditioned vehicle and enjoying hotel pickup and drop-off.

Along the way, you’ll discover the medieval fortress of Al-Azraq, the UNESCO-listed Quseir Amra, the striking Kharaneh Castle, and the hilltop Ajloun Castle.

With entrance fees included, you’ll explore each site’s unique history and features, from haunting ruins to stunning frescoes.

This immersive experience offers an in-depth look at Jordan’s impressive desert fortifications.

Itinerary Highlights

The tour takes visitors on an immersive exploration of Jordan’s captivating desert castles, beginning with the medieval Al-Azraq fortress, which was once used as a headquarters by T.E. Lawrence.

Next, guests will marvel at the UNESCO-listed Quseir Amra castle, famous for its stunning frescoes and dome zodiac painting.

The itinerary also includes a visit to the impressive Kharaneh Castle, a square fortress with rounded turrets and a central courtyard that likely served as a fortress or caravanserai.

The tour culminates at the 12th-century Ajloun Castle, a hilltop fortress built by Saladin that offers breathtaking views of the Jordan Valley and features ‘murder holes’ for defense.

Al-Azraq Castle

Constructed from black basalt rock, the medieval Al-Azraq Castle has long served as a strategic fortress, even hosting T.E. Lawrence, the famed ‘Lawrence of Arabia’, as his headquarters during the Arab Revolt.

Situated in the eastern desert of Jordan, this haunting ruin offers visitors a glimpse into the region’s tumultuous past.

Visitors can explore the castle’s arched entryways, crumbling battlements, and expansive courtyards, all while imagining the battles and intrigues that once took place within its walls.

Despite its remote location, Al-Azraq Castle remains a captivating destination, inviting travelers to step back in time and enjoy Jordan’s rich history and architectural legacy.

Quseir Amra

Moving from the imposing Al-Azraq Castle, visitors encounter the UNESCO-listed Quseir Amra, an 8th-century desert castle renowned for its stunning frescoes and a remarkable zodiac painting adorning the dome.

This well-preserved Umayyad palace offers a glimpse into the opulent tastes of its former rulers.

The vibrant paintings on the walls and ceilings depict scenes from daily life, hunting, and even mythological figures, showcasing the artistic prowess of the era.

Exploring Quseir Amra is like stepping back in time, allowing visitors to marvel at the architectural and artistic achievements of the Umayyad period in Jordan’s history.

Kharaneh Castle

Nestled within the arid expanse of the Jordanian desert, Kharaneh Castle stands as a testament to the region’s strategic importance. Its square fortress and rounded turrets hint at its dual role as both a fortified stronghold and a vital caravanserai along ancient trade routes.

Believed to have served as a fortress or caravanserai, this intriguing structure offers visitors a glimpse into the past. The castle’s location, along with its robust construction, suggests it played a crucial role in facilitating the movement of goods and people across this harsh yet captivating landscape.

Visitors can explore the castle’s central courtyard, marvel at its architectural features, and imagine the bustling activity that once filled its halls.

• Explore the castle’s central courtyard

• Marvel at its architectural features

• Imagine the bustling activity that once filled its halls

• Learn about the castle’s strategic role in facilitating trade

Ajloun Castle

Towering above the lush Jordan Valley, Ajloun Castle stands as a testament to the strategic brilliance of Saladin, the famed 12th-century Ayyubid sultan who ordered its construction.

This imposing fortress, with its distinctive corners and ‘murder holes’ for raining down projectiles, was built to guard the region and control the trade routes below.

Visitors can explore the castle’s impressive architecture, including its defensive walls and towers, and enjoy the breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding countryside.

The castle’s strategic location and formidable design made it a crucial part of Saladin’s defense system against the Crusaders, showcasing the military ingenuity of this influential historical figure.

Inclusions

This private tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, providing a seamless start and end to the day’s excursion.

Travelers will enjoy private transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle, allowing them to comfortably explore the various desert castles on the itinerary. Entrance fees for the key sites – Al-Azraq, Amra, Kharaneh, and Ajloun castles – are also covered, granting visitors access to these historical landmarks.

Plus, an optional guide is available for those seeking more in-depth information about the sites.

The tour also includes:

• Onboard Wi-Fi for staying connected

• Infant seats for families with young children

• Flexibility to customize the pace and lunch arrangements

• Recommendations on bringing appropriate attire and sun protection

Customer Reviews

Overall, reviewers have provided largely positive feedback on this private tour, highlighting the knowledgeable drivers and guides as well as the breathtaking views from Ajloun Castle.

While some noted that local guides could be obstructive at certain sites, the flexibility in tour pace and optional lunch arrangements were appreciated.

Travelers have commended the seamless hotel pickup and drop-off, as well as the convenience of private transportation and included entrance fees.

The 5.0 average rating from 7 reviews speaks to the overall quality of the experience, with customers praising the tour’s ability to showcase Jordan’s impressive Islamic desert castles in an engaging and well-organized manner.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can the Tour Be Customized for Specific Interests?

Yes, the tour can be customized to accommodate specific interests. The tour provider is flexible in adjusting the itinerary and pace to suit the customer’s preferences and needs.

What Is the Dress Code for Visiting the Sites?

The dress code for visiting the Islamic desert castles and Ajloun Castle is generally casual. Visitors should wear comfortable clothing and closed-toe shoes. Covering up is recommended, as these are religious sites. Modest attire is appreciated.

Are Photography and Video Permitted at the Castles?

Photography and video are generally permitted at the castles, though visitors should be respectful and avoid disrupting the sites or other guests. Some restrictions may apply at certain locations, so it’s best to check with staff on arrival.

Is There an Option to Include a Local Lunch Stop?

The tour doesn’t include a lunch stop, but the description notes that local restaurants may not serve alcohol, so visitors should inquire about availability if that’s a preference. Meals and beverages are not included in the tour unless specified.

Can the Tour Be Booked for a Group Larger Than 4 People?

Yes, the tour can be booked for groups larger than 4 people. The private transport and flexibility in the tour allow for accommodating larger groups. However, the maximum group size may have an impact on the tour experience or pricing.

The Sum Up

This private full-day tour from Amman provides an excellent opportunity to discover Jordan’s rich Islamic heritage.

Visitors can explore the unique desert castles of Al-Azraq, Quseir Amra, and Kharaneh, each with its own historical significance.

The tour also includes a visit to the impressive Ajloun Castle, allowing guests to enjoy the country’s stunning architecture and cultural traditions.

The comprehensive itinerary, comfortable transportation, and included entrance fees make this tour a convenient and enlightening way to experience Jordan’s captivating past.