Private Tour: Full Day Trip of Jerash, Umm Qais, and Pella from Amman

Experience the Hidden Gems of Roman Jordan with a Full-Day Private Tour from Amman

Travelers curious about Jordan’s ancient past will find this private tour a practical and enriching way to see three of the country’s best-preserved sites in one day. Covering Jerash, Umm Qais, and Pella, this 10-hour journey offers a well-balanced mix of history, scenic views, and authentic encounters.

What we love about this experience:

• The convenience of hotel pickup and drop-off, saving you time and hassle.
• The chance to explore three distinct archaeological sites with knowledgeable guides.
• The inclusion of entrance fees and private transportation, offering good value for the price.

A possible consideration:

• The tour’s intensity could be a lot for travelers who prefer a more relaxed pace or want more time at each site.

Who is this best suited for?

• History buffs eager to see Roman ruins firsthand.
• Travelers who enjoy guided tours but prefer a private, personalized experience.
• Those looking for a full-day adventure with excellent logistical support.

Discover Jordan’s Roman Heritage with a Full-Day Private Tour

Jordan is packed with well-preserved ruins, especially from the Roman era, making it a fantastic destination for history and archaeology enthusiasts. This private tour from Amman offers a comprehensive snapshot of the country’s classical past, all in one day.

You’ll love the ease of having hotel pickup and drop-off, allowing you to start your day without stress. The vehicle is modern, air-conditioned, and private, tailored just for your group — no crowded buses or noisy groups here. Plus, the local guides at Jerash and Umm Qais provide insightful commentary, turning ruins into stories that bring history alive.

One thing to keep in mind is that site closures, like Pella, could impact your experience. As one reviewer noted, Pella was closed during their visit, which was disappointing but out of the tour provider’s control. Still, Jerash and Umm Qais delivered plenty of memorable moments.

This tour is ideal for those who value hands-on exploration with guided narration, want a seamless day without logistical hassle, and are willing to spend around $160 for a comprehensive cultural experience.

Key Points

• Private, all-inclusive day: Hotel pickup, private transport, entrance fees, and guides.
• Three major sites: Jerash, Umm Qais, and Pella, each showcasing different facets of Roman and Greco-Roman history.
• Expert guides: Knowledgeable local guides enhance your understanding of each location’s significance.
• Flexible and convenient: Pick-up at your hotel in Amman, with a fully planned itinerary.
• Value for money: For $160, you get a well-organized, guided day with transport, entry, and expert commentary.
• Potential site closures: Keep in mind, some sites like Pella might be closed, which could limit certain parts of your planned visit.

The Journey Begins: From Amman to Jerash

The day starts early, with the driver and guide arriving at your hotel around 9 am. The departure times are punctual, and the vehicle is comfortable, helping you relax for the approximately one-hour drive northward from Amman.

Jerash, often dubbed the “Pompeii of the East,” is a highlight for many visitors. As you approach the ancient city, the grand Hadrian’s Arch marks the entrance and sets the tone for what’s inside. Once you pass through, it’s like stepping into a well-preserved Roman city frozen in time.

Your local guide will lead you through highlights such as the Oval Plaza, a stunning egg-shaped forum ringed by columns—perfect for imagining lively markets and social gatherings. The Colonnaded Street stretches long and offers a glimpse of how the city buzzed during its heyday. The Temples of Zeus and Artemis reveal the religious life of the Romans, while the Hippodrome conjures images of chariot races and gladiatorial shows.

One reviewer mentioned that their guide was very passionate and insightful, making the ruins come alive. The tour usually lasts around two hours, allowing ample time to absorb the grandeur while listening to stories about Alexander the Great’s conquest and the city’s prosperity under Roman rule.

Exploring Umm Qais: Scenic Views and Ancient Treasures

After Jerash, the journey continues to Umm Qais, a hilltop village overlooking the Sea of Galilee and Golan Heights. This site’s appeal lies partly in its stunning vistas, which you’ll love to photograph while contemplating the ancient city below.

Umm Qais is the site of Gadara, a Greco-Roman city that thrived on trade and culture. The ruins include an amphitheater, mausoleum, and basilica terrace—all perfect for exploring at your own pace in the free time provided. The on-site museum showcases mosaics, marble statues, and artifacts that give life to the past.

One guest shared that the views over the Jordan Valley were breathtaking, and the visit to the museum added valuable context to the ruins. The guide will explain Gadara’s significance and how it was part of the Decapolis, a league of ten self-governing cities on the empire’s frontier.

Pella: A Millennia-Old Settlement (if open)

Next on the agenda is Pella, a city with roots stretching back over 8,000 years. Mentioned as Pihilum by the Egyptians, Pella blossomed during the Roman era, with temples, theaters, and baths. It’s a site that offers a tangible link to the ancient world, with many relics still visible.

However, as a reviewer noted, Pella was closed during their visit, which was a setback. Still, the drive to Pella is worthwhile, and if it is open, you’ll get to see ruins that highlight the long story of human settlement and civilization in the region.

The tour usually includes approximately three hours at Pella, giving enough time for exploration and photography. The antiquities, some dating back over 8,000 years, help illustrate the continuous occupation of this strategic location.

The Marvel of Jerash: Roman Glory Preserved

Arriving at Jerash, you’re stepping into one of the Middle East’s best-preserved Roman cities. The city’s layout is clear and impressive, with grand gateways, colonnaded streets, and well-preserved temples. The Oval Plaza and Colonnaded Street are the main attractions, rich with Roman architectural features and stories of grandeur.

The easiest way to understand Jerash’s significance is to join a guided tour, as this provides context about how the city was founded by Alexander the Great and flourished under Roman rule. The Temples of Zeus and Artemis, the Theater, and the Baths are highlights that reveal a sophisticated urban center.

One reviewer called Jerash “the best-preserved Roman ruins,” emphasizing how much of the city remains intact. The guide’s commentary helps you appreciate the engineering prowess and cultural importance of Jerash during its golden age.

Practical Details: What to Expect and Why It Matters

Transport, timing, and guides can make or break your experience. This tour offers private transportation, which means you can customize your pace to some degree—slowing down at spots you love or skipping less interesting parts. The air-conditioned vehicle ensures comfort even during Jordan’s warmer months.

The overall duration is about 10 hours, including travel, sightseeing, and breaks. Starting at 9 am, you’ll be back in Amman by late afternoon or early evening, depending on the day’s flow. The tour is designed to be seamless, with hotel pickup and drop-off included, saving you the hassle of navigating Jordan’s roads alone.

Guides at Jerash and Umm Qais are local, adding authenticity and detailed stories that bring the ruins to life. One traveler appreciated the helpful and engaging guide at Jerash, which greatly enhanced their understanding of the site.

The entrance fees are included if you opt for the tour with the Jordan Pass, which many travelers find economical, especially if planning multiple site visits.

The Value and Who Will Love This Tour

For $160, this full-day trip provides an excellent balance of convenience, expert guidance, and access to key archaeological sites. It’s a well-priced option for those eager to see multiple Roman sites without the stress of arranging transport or tickets themselves.

This tour is particularly appealing to travelers who want a guided, private experience that maximizes sightseeing with minimal hassle. The inclusion of local guides at Jerash and Umm Qais means you’ll get a richer, more nuanced understanding of each site.

While some sites like Pella might be closed, the overall experience remains worthwhile, especially with Jerash’s spectacular ruins and the stunning views from Umm Qais. It’s an easy choice for history buffs, first-time visitors to Jordan, or anyone who enjoys a full, immersive day of exploring ancient civilizations.

FAQs About the Jerash, Umm Qais, and Pella Tour

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off in Amman, making it convenient and straightforward.

How long is the drive from Amman to Jerash?
The drive takes approximately one hour, traveling through Jordan’s lush landscapes.

Are entrance fees included?
Yes, if you select the tour with the Jordan Pass, entrance fees are covered; otherwise, they are included in the booking price for Jerash and Pella.

Can I customize the itinerary?
Since it’s a private tour, you can discuss with your driver/guide about spending more or less time at certain sites, though some sites like Pella may be closed without notice.

What should I bring for this tour?
Comfortable walking shoes, sun protection (hat, sunscreen), and possibly a camera for the breathtaking views.

Is it suitable for travelers with mobility issues?
The tour notes that travelers with mobility issues should contact the operator beforehand, as some sites involve walking on uneven terrain.

How much time is allocated at each site?
Typically, around two hours at Jerash, three hours at Umm Qais, and three hours at Pella (if open), allowing enough for exploration and sightseeing.

What languages are guides available in?
The tour activity is provided in English; other languages can be requested based on availability.

Is this a group tour or private?
It is a private tour, so only your group will participate, ensuring a personalized experience.

To sum it up, this private tour from Amman offers a straightforward, well-organized way to explore some of Jordan’s most impressive Roman sites. It’s perfect for those who appreciate guided insights, desire a stress-free day, and want to see a broad spectrum of Jordan’s ancient past. While site closures can happen, the combination of Jerash’s grandeur and Umm Qais’s scenic beauty makes it a worthwhile day out.

If you love history, enjoy comfortable private transport, and want a guided experience that balances value with depth, this tour will serve you well. For the curious traveler eager to connect with Jordan’s classical heritage without the fuss, it’s a solid choice.