01 Day Tour of Al Aqsa Mosque & Dom of the Rock

Introduction

Traveling between Jordan and Israel for a day isn’t as complicated as it might seem, especially with a well-organized tour like this one. This 01 Day Tour of Al Aqsa Mosque & Dome of the Rock promises a pared-down yet meaningful visit to some of the most revered sites in Jerusalem, all from Amman.

What makes this trip particularly appealing? First, the expert guides are praised for their knowledge, making complex histories and religious significance approachable. Second, the smooth logistics—from border crossing to site visits—are designed to reduce stress and maximize your sightseeing time. Third, the authentic, spiritual atmosphere at key locations like Al Aqsa Mosque and the Dome of the Rock creates a truly memorable experience.

A potential drawback? The entire day hinges on border crossing, which can sometimes involve delays or extra costs if you opt for VIP services. This tour is best suited for travelers who are prepared for a long, full day of sightseeing and interested in a deep dive into Jerusalem’s religious sites. If you’re looking for a convenient, guided experience that respects your spiritual curiosity, this trip could be a great fit.

Key Points

• Highly Rated: Perfect 5-star reviews for organization, guides, and overall experience.
• Expert Guides: Knowledgeable guides enhance the visit, sharing insights not easily found in guidebooks.
• All-Inclusive: Entrance fees and private vehicle transfers included for hassle-free touring.
• Border Crossing: Organized transfer from Amman to Jerusalem, with optional VIP service.
• Authentic Sites: Visits to Al Aqsa Mosque, Dome of the Rock, and other significant landmarks.
• Long Day: Expect approximately 12-14 hours, so good physical fitness and patience are key.

The Full Breakdown of the Jerusalem Day Trip

Starting Point and Border Crossing

Your adventure begins with a pickup from your location in Amman, where you’ll be transferred to the King Hussein / Allenby Bridge Israeli Terminal. This border crossing is a focal point of the day; seamless handling is crucial for a smooth experience. Many reviewers, like one who praised the trip as “well organized,” noted how easy and quick the process was thanks to the efficient service.

The transfer is in a private, air-conditioned vehicle, providing comfort and space for the roughly 9 hours of sightseeing ahead. The driver, often an English speaker, doubles as your first local guide, offering a bit of context about your day. Optional VIP border crossing service is available for around $110 per person each way, which can significantly cut down wait times but at extra cost.

Visiting the Mount of Olives and Surroundings

Once across the border, the first stop is Mount of Olives, a vantage point with sweeping views over Jerusalem’s Old City. Here, you’ll visit Maqam Salman Al-Farisi, Maqam Rabiatul Adawiyah, and Nabi Dahoud—sites that hold deep religious significance for Muslims and other faiths.

Many travelers note the peaceful atmosphere and the extraordinary panoramic vistas, which are perfect for photos and reflection. The guide may share stories about the historical and spiritual layers of the area, enriching your experience beyond just the views.

Entering the Old City of Jerusalem

Next, you’ll enter the Old City through its bustling markets, a vibrant melting pot of smells, sounds, and sights. Walking through the market corridors, you’ll feel transported back in time, with vendors selling everything from spices to religious artifacts.

Your guided tour allows access to the Al Aqsa Mosque and the Al Marwani Mosque, both within the Old City walls. Reviewers consistently mention the guides’ high level of knowledge, helping visitors understand the complex religious history of these sites.

The Khalif Omar Mosque faces the Church of the Holy Sepulcher, offering a powerful visual reminder of Jerusalem’s layered faiths. Standing in these historic spaces, many visitors comment on the profound sense of spirituality and history they experience.

The Al Aqsa Mosque and Dome of the Rock

The highlight for most travelers is visiting Al Aqsa Mosque, the third holiest site in Islam and the first Qibla (prayer direction). Many mention feeling a deep connection at this site, with some noting the peaceful yet awe-inspiring atmosphere.

From there, you’ll visit the Dome of the Rock, where Prophet Muhammad is believed to have ascended to the heavens during Isra and Miraj. The intricate mosaics and stunning golden dome are unforgettable sights, often described as breathtaking.

A reviewer commented, “Everything was so smooth,” emphasizing the well-managed flow of the visit. Another noted that the guides are very well-educated, sharing insights that add layers of understanding to the religious significance of each site visited.

Additional Sites: Haet Al Boraq and Khalif Omar’s Mosque

Your itinerary also includes Haet Al Boraq (“Boraq Wall”), a historically important site linked to the Prophet’s miraculous night journey. The Omar Mosque facing the Holy Sepulcher offers a peaceful moment amid the busy Old City.

For many, these sites deepen their appreciation of Jerusalem’s spiritual history and demonstrate the tour’s effort to encompass a broad spectrum of religious landmarks.

Returning to Amman

After a full morning and afternoon of sightseeing, you’ll head back to the Allenby Bridge to cross into Jordan. Many travelers, like the reviewer who called the trip “well organized,” appreciated how smoothly this part of the day went, especially with the private transfer in place.

The entire experience typically lasts between 12-14 hours, meaning it’s a long but rewarding day. Be prepared for an early start, as the tour emphasizes covering as much ground as possible.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

Knowledgeable Guides: Reviewers consistently highlight the guides’ high level of education and ability to answer questions. Having someone who can explain the complex religious and historical context significantly enhances the visit.

Smooth Logistics: From border crossing to site visits, the tour takes care of the details. The private vehicle and organized transfers cut down on stress, allowing you to focus on the experience.

Authentic Spiritual Experience: Visiting sacred sites like Al Aqsa Mosque and the Dome of the Rock offers more than sightseeing; it’s a chance to connect with the deep spiritual roots of the city.

Inclusion of Entrance Fees: All site entry fees are covered, preventing surprise costs and simplifying your planning.

Flexibility & Private Group: This is a private tour, so you’re not stuck with strangers, and the small group size ensures personalized attention.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This trip is ideal for those who want a comprehensive, guided experience without the hassle of planning border crossings and logistics themselves. If you’re interested in religious sites and want a day that balances history, spirituality, and cultural insights, this tour delivers.

It’s suitable for travelers with moderate physical fitness, as it involves walking and some site exploration. Also, those with a keen interest in understanding Jerusalem’s religious significance will find the guide’s insights particularly valuable.

The Sum Up

This One Day Tour of Al Aqsa Mosque & Dome of the Rock offers a convenient and insightful way to experience some of Jerusalem’s most sacred sites from Amman. The high praise for knowledgeable guides and smooth logistics suggests a well-thought-out experience that prioritizes visitor comfort and understanding.

While the long day might be taxing, the opportunity to stand in places of immense spiritual importance makes it worthwhile—especially for those eager to connect with Jerusalem’s religious heritage without the hassle of independent travel.

The tour’s overall value lies in its comprehensive approach, expert guidance, and well-organized structure. It’s best suited for dedicated travelers who want to explore Jerusalem’s spiritual heart in one meaningful day, backed by trusted local expertise.

FAQs

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 12 to 14 hours, starting early in the morning and returning by evening.

What’s included in the price?
All entrance fees to sites listed in the itinerary and transfers in a private, air-conditioned vehicle with an English-speaking driver are included.

Are border crossing procedures complicated?
The tour is designed for smooth border transitions, but optional VIP crossing services are available at extra cost for faster processing.

Can I visit the sites if I have limited mobility?
Participants should have a moderate physical fitness level due to walking involved at several sites, though the tour is private and can be customized for mobility needs.

Is food included?
No, meals are not included, so you might want to bring snacks or plan to buy food during the day.

What if the weather is bad?
The experience requires good weather; if canceled due to poor conditions, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Is this tour suitable for families?
Yes, if your family has a moderate fitness level and interest in Jerusalem’s religious history, this tour can be an educational and spiritual outing.

This detailed review hopefully clarifies what to expect from this Jerusalem day trip and helps you decide if it matches your travel style and interests.