From Amman: Jerash, Ajloun Castle or Umm Qais Private Tour

If you’re craving an authentic experience of Jordan’s ancient sites but want the comfort of a private trip, this tour from Amman hits the mark. Whether you’re a history buff, a scenery lover, or just eager to explore beyond the city, you’ll find plenty to love here. The combination of well-preserved ruins, commanding castles, and breathtaking vistas makes for a memorable day—without the crowds or rushing.

What stands out most? The exceptional guides, the spectacular views from the hilltops, and the value for money offered at just $59 per person. That said, it’s worth noting that upgrades such as guided tours inside sites or entrance fees are optional extras, so budget accordingly if you’d like a more in-depth experience. This tour is perfect if you prefer a flexible, customizable day out—whether that means focusing on Jerash, exploring Ajloun Castle, or soaking in Umm Qais’ sweeping landscapes.

Key Points

• Flexible options: Choose from visiting any combination of Jerash, Ajloun, or Umm Qais.
• Private transportation: Comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle with Wi-Fi and bottled water.
• Expert guides: Knowledgeable drivers and optional local guides enhance your understanding.
• Unbeatable views: Panoramic sights of the Jordan Valley, Dead Sea, and neighboring countries.
• Great value: All this for just $59 per person, with flexible booking and cancellation.
• Authentic experience: Enjoy less touristy sites and local insights that bring history to life.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An in-depth look at the itinerary and what you can expect

This tour is designed with flexibility at its core. You can opt to visit just Jerash or combine it with Ajloun Castle or Umm Qais, or do all three. The journey begins with hotel pickup in Amman, where your driver, usually speaking fluent English, greets you with a friendly smile and offers onboard Wi-Fi and bottled water—small touches that make a difference on a day-long excursion.

The Roman City of Jerash

Most travelers choose to start here, and it’s easy to see why. Jerash is often called the “Pompeii of the Middle East” because of how remarkably well-preserved the ruins are. As you wander down the famous Colonnaded Street, you’ll imagine life in a bustling Roman city. The Roman amphitheater is a highlight—impressive enough to make you feel like you’re back in ancient times. Other notable sites include the Temple of Artemis, the Oval Plaza, the Forum, and Hadrian’s Arch, all showcasing the grandeur of Roman architecture.

According to reviewers, Jerash is truly the highlight of the tour. Jesse, who visited recently, shared that “the tour of the 3 sites was very interesting, especially the mighty Jerash.” Many appreciate the chance to walk through ruins that seem untouched by time, offering a tangible connection to the past. Some guides or optional local guides can enhance your appreciation, as some reviews mention, but it’s often perfectly fine to explore on your own if you prefer.

Ajloun Castle: An Islamic Military Fortress

Next, many travelers choose to add Ajloun Castle, a 12th-century fortress built by Saladin’s forces. It’s a masterpiece of Arab-Islamic military architecture, and standing on its ramparts offers some of the best panoramic views of Jordan’s hills and the Jordan Valley. Climbing the towers and wandering through the chambers, galleries, and staircases—many described as well-preserved—gives a real sense of medieval life and warfare.

Reviewers like Emma praise the castle’s breathtaking scenery, and the fact that it “offers a great view of the Dead Sea and the Jordan Valley.” It’s a quieter spot compared to Jerash, making it ideal for those wanting to avoid large crowds and enjoy some peaceful exploration. Because the site is built to guard the region’s significant passages, it offers a strategic glimpse into Jordan’s defense history.

Umm Qais: A Greco-Roman City with Spectacular Views

Finally, Umm Qais (ancient Gadara) is a site that offers more than ruins—it gives you the chance to take in stunning vistas across the Golan Heights, Sea of Galilee, and neighboring countries. The ruins of Gadara are part of Jordan’s Decapolis—a group of ten cities that flourished during the Roman period. Walking among the columns and amphitheaters, you can almost hear echoes of ancient performances and debates.

Travelers like Vilichay and Stella rave about the breathtaking scenery. Vilichay notes that “the views are just incredible,” and Stella mentions how the history and the panoramic scenery make it a “highly recommended” stop. The site is less crowded and more laid-back, perfect for those who want a relaxed but enriching experience.

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The value of this tour

At $59 per person, this private tour offers incredible value, especially considering the door-to-door pickup, private transport, and the flexibility to customize your stops. Many reviews highlight the professionalism and friendliness of drivers like Shadi and Mohammad, who are praised for their punctuality, knowledge, and helpful attitude. Some reviewers mention that guides at the sites may not be included unless you opt for the add-on, but your driver can share plenty of insights along the way.

You’ll appreciate the comfortable vehicle, especially on warm days, and the fact that you can tailor your visit—whether you want to focus solely on Jerash or combine all three sites for a comprehensive day out. The free cancellation policy is another plus, allowing you to book confidently knowing plans can change.

What’s missing?

Some reviewers mention that entrance fees and local guides are optional extras. If you’re eager for detailed history at each site, you might want to budget for these extras. Plus, since the tour doesn’t automatically include guides at the sites, a little extra research or planning might enhance your experience.

Transport and timing: what you need to know

The tour lasts around 8.5 hours, including pick-up and drop-off. The journey is in a new Kia vehicle (according to some reviews), well-maintained, with air conditioning and free Wi-Fi onboard, which makes the long drives comfortable. The driver usually handles the timing smoothly, ensuring you’re not rushed at any site.

Most travelers find the pacing just right—ample time to explore each location without feeling hurried. If you’re a history lover, it’s worth noting that Jerash alone could easily fill several hours, so plan accordingly if you’re short on time.

Who is this tour best for?

Travelers looking for a personalized, flexible experience will value the private nature of this tour. It’s perfect for those who want to focus on history and scenery without a big group or rigid schedule. It’s also ideal if you’re keen on authentic sites and enjoy panoramic views, as well as for those who prefer guided insights from knowledgeable drivers.

Authentic insights from recent reviews

Many travelers have praised their guides and drivers, with comments like, “He was very punctual, kind, and very knowledgeable,” and “Our driver, Bardaghawi, shared fascinating stories along the way.” Others appreciated the scenic drives and the chance to see Jordan’s countryside beyond the city streets.

Jerash’s ruins are often described as “incredible,” and the view from Ajloun Castle as “breathtaking.” Umm Qais’s panoramic vistas consistently impress visitors, with some reviewers saying it feels like “standing at the edge of the world.”

A few mentions of optional extras, such as local guides or entrance fees, remind us that this tour is adaptable. Reviewers also note that their drivers went above and beyond, even offering local food tips and small gestures like paying for coffee or stopping at local markets.

The Sum Up: who should book this tour?

This private tour from Amman offers excellent flexibility and value for anyone eager to experience Jordan’s north in a comfortable, personalized way. It’s a fantastic choice for travelers who enjoy immersive sites like Jerash, admire hilltop castles like Ajloun, or want to take in spectacular views from Umm Qais. The focus on private transportation and knowledgeable drivers makes it ideal for those wanting a relaxed, informative day without the stress of navigating on their own.

If you’re short on time but want a rundown of Jordan’s northern highlights, this tour packs a lot into one day. It’s especially suited for solo travelers, couples, or small groups seeking tailored experiences with local insights. With the option to customize your stops, it offers both flexibility and depth—perfect for making your Jordan trip truly memorable.

FAQ

Can I select which sites to visit?
Yes, you can choose to visit Jerash only, or combine it with Ajloun Castle or Umm Qais, depending on your interests.

Is this a group or private tour?
It is a private tour, meaning your transport and guides are exclusive to your booking, allowing for more personalized attention.

Are entrance fees or guides included?
These are optional extras. You can add local guides at Jerash or pay entrance fees as part of your booking if you wish.

How long does the tour last?
The full day lasts around 8.5 hours, including pickup and drop-off, giving you ample time at each site.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, light clothing, and your passport or ID. It’s also handy to have sunglasses and sunscreen for the outdoor sites.

Is Wi-Fi available during the tour?
Yes, Wi-Fi is provided onboard the vehicle, which is useful for sharing photos or checking information.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility in case your plans change.

This tour from Amman is a practical, scenic, and flexible way to explore northern Jordan’s ancient sites—perfect for those who love history, stunning views, and personalized service. Whether you’re on a short trip or want to maximize your time, it’s a memorable way to connect with Jordan’s fascinating past and breathtaking landscapes.

You can check availability for your dates here: