Day Tour Jerash, Ajloun and Umm Qais From Amman

Visiting Jordan’s north is like flipping through a living history book — full of Roman ruins, medieval castles, and panoramic views. This private day tour from Amman offers a stress-free way to explore these highlights without the hassle of navigating tricky roads or overcrowded groups. We’ve reviewed this experience based on numerous traveler feedback and details, aiming to give you an honest, thorough picture of what to expect.

What we love most about this tour is the door-to-door convenience, the flexibility to upgrade with additional sites, and the onboard Wi-Fi that keeps you connected during your journey. The tour’s value is excellent considering it includes private transportation, a knowledgeable driver, and the chance to customize your stops. The only thing to keep in mind is that admission tickets are not included, so you’ll want to budget for those separately. This tour is perfect for history buffs, culture seekers, or anyone who appreciates a well-organized, comfortable day out.

Key Points

• Hassle-free transportation with private pickup and drop-off from your Amman accommodation or airport.
• Flexible options to visit Jerash, Ajloun Castle, and Umm Qais, with upgrades available for extra sites.
• Comfortable travel in air-conditioned vehicles with onboard Wi-Fi, making your day more enjoyable.
• Authentic experiences with visits to well-preserved Roman ruins and medieval fortress, plus breathtaking views.
• Great value for the price of $52.25 per person, especially considering the private transport and personalized itinerary.
• Ideal for travelers who want an efficient, informative, and scenic day exploring Jordan’s north.

The Itinerary in Detail: What to Expect

Jerash Ruins — A Walk Through Roman Grandeur

The tour kicks off with a visit to Jerash, one of the most impressive remnants of ancient Roman civilization in the Middle East. As one of Jordan’s most visited sites, Jerash boasts remarkably well-preserved ruins that conjure the feel of a bustling Roman city. Expect to walk along the colonnaded streets, lined with towering Ionic and Corinthian columns that have stood for nearly 2,000 years.

You’ll explore the Oval Plaza, a central hub surrounded by impressive temples and public squares, including the Temple of Artemis, the South Theater, and Hadrian’s Arch. Reviewers like Ryan mention their guide’s engaging explanations, which make the ancient stones come alive. The ruins reveal a city that thrived through Greek, Roman, Christian, and Muslim periods — a true cross-section of history.

Note: Entrance tickets are not included, so you’ll need to purchase those on-site or beforehand. Expect around a 3-hour exploration, perfect for soaking up the atmosphere and snapping some photos.

Ajloun Castle — Medieval Fortress with Scenic Views

Next, the tour proceeds to Ajloun Castle — a fortress built by Saladin’s forces in the 12th century to control key mountain passes. Climbing into this medieval stronghold, you’ll appreciate the strategic location and ingenious architecture, designed to withstand Crusader sieges.

The castle’s towers, chambers, and galleries invite curiosity, and the views from the battlements are stunning. Reviewers like the one who traveled with a friendly driver mention the beautiful scenery of the Jordan Valley and the Dead Sea visible from the hilltop. It’s a chance to imagine what life was like for soldiers defending the region centuries ago.

Note: Again, admission isn’t included, but the experience of walking through this fortress offers a tangible connection to Jordan’s medieval past.

Umm Qais — Greco-Roman City with Panoramic Views

The final main stop is Umm Qais, a site that combines archaeological ruins with jaw-dropping vistas. Known as Gadara in Roman times, this city was part of the Decapolis, a group of ten notable Roman cities. Today, the site offers well-preserved ruins — theater, temples, and ancient streets — set amid spectacular views stretching across Jordan, Syria, and Israel.

From the viewpoint, you might recognize the biblical connection — the place where Jesus cast out demons into pigs. Visitors often comment on the breathtaking landscape and the chance to see three countries from a single vantage point. The archaeological museum provides context about the city’s history and its significance during the Greco-Roman era.

Note: The museum and ruins are included in the visit, but entrance tickets are at your expense.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

Private, Comfortable Transportation

Traveling with a private vehicle means you avoid the crowds and rigid schedules typical of group tours. The air-conditioned vehicle and Wi-Fi onboard make the long drives pleasant — ideal for catching up on photos, browsing, or just relaxing. Many reviews praise the driver Omar for his friendliness and accommodating nature, which adds a personal touch to the day.

Flexibility and Upgrades

While the base tour covers Jerash, Ajloun, and Umm Qais, you can choose to add visits to Ajloun Castle and Umm Qais. This gives you control over how deep you want to go into each site, which is great for those with limited time or specific interests.

Authentic and Scenic Experiences

Each stop offers an authentic glimpse into Jordan’s layered history. The ruins, fortresses, and panoramic views are not just photo ops but opportunities to connect with the land’s past. Reviewers often mention the stunning views, particularly from Umm Qais, which make the entire trip worth it.

Cost and Value

At just over $52 per person, this tour provides exceptional value considering private transportation, a dedicated driver, and the flexibility to customize. While admission costs are extra, they tend to be reasonable, and the convenience of door-to-door pickup and drop-off simplifies logistics.

Suitable for a Wide Range of Travelers

Whether you’re a history enthusiast, a casual traveler wanting a scenic day out, or someone who prefers comfort and flexibility, this tour caters to many. It’s ideal for those who value a personalized experience and want to maximize their time.

Practical Tips and Considerations

• Book in advance: With an average booking window of 43 days, securing your spot early ensures availability, especially in peak seasons.
• Budget for entrance tickets: Since tickets are not included, set aside a small amount for sites like Jerash and Umm Qais.
• Wear comfortable shoes: Expect some walking on uneven surfaces, especially at the ruins.
• Bring a hat and sunscreen: The Jordanian sun can be strong, especially during summer months.
• Stay connected: The onboard Wi-Fi is handy but consider carrying a power bank for your devices.
• Adjust the itinerary: If you’re particularly interested in one site, communicate with your driver to spend more time there.

The Sum Up

This private day tour from Amman to Jerash, Ajloun, and Umm Qais offers a manageable, enjoyable way to see some of Jordan’s most celebrated archaeological sites. The personalized transport, flexibility in site visits, and authentic scenic experiences make it a popular choice — reflected in its perfect rating and glowing reviews.

It’s especially well-suited for travelers who want a comfortable, guided experience without rushing or overcrowding. The inclusion of Wi-Fi and the attentive driver make the day smooth and engaging. While you’ll need to budget for entrance fees, the overall value is undeniable for a full day packed with history, stunning views, and cultural insight.

If you’re looking to explore Jordan’s north with ease and comfort, this tour provides an ideal balance of convenience, authenticity, and affordability.

FAQ

Are private transportation and hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour offers private transportation with hotel pickup and drop-off from Amman or the airport, making it very convenient.

Can I customize the sites I visit?
Yes, the tour allows for upgrades, meaning you can choose to add visits like Ajloun Castle and Umm Qais, tailoring the day to your interests.

Is this tour suitable for all travelers?
Most travelers can participate, and the private nature makes it accessible. However, some walking and uneven surfaces mean good shoes are recommended.

Are admission tickets included?
No, tickets for sites like Jerash, Ajloun, and Umm Qais are not included, so you should budget for those separately.

How long is the tour?
Expect approximately 9 to 10 hours, making it a full, but manageable, day trip.

What’s the quality of the vehicle and driver?
The vehicles are air-conditioned, with onboard Wi-Fi, and reviews highlight friendly, accommodating drivers like Omar.

Is there Wi-Fi onboard?
Yes, all vehicles feature Wi-Fi, so you can stay connected or share your photos during the drive.

What’s the best time to book?
Most travelers book about 43 days in advance. Confirmations are quick, and booking early helps secure your preferred date.

Ready to explore Jordan’s northern gems comfortably and confidently? This tour offers a balanced, well-organized way to make the most of your day.