Exploring Jordan’s Treasures: Jerash, Umm Qais, and Ajloun Castle
Traveling through Jordan, especially on a day tour, often feels like stepping into an open-air museum filled with ancient ruins and breathtaking landscapes. The “Treasures of the North” tour from Amman aims to do just that—deliver an authentic, well-rounded experience of some of Jordan’s most iconic sites, all in one day. For those eager to soak in history, scenic views, and local stories without the hassle of planning, this private trip offers a lot.
What we love about this experience are the expert guides who bring history alive, the stunning vistas overlooking the Sea of Galilee and Golan Heights, and the chance to explore well-preserved Roman ruins. The flexibility of a private tour also means you can take your time at each site. One downside we noticed is that entrance fees aren’t included, so you’ll want to budget for those separately.
This tour is perfect for history buffs, culture seekers, or those simply wanting a scenic, educational escape from Amman. It’s especially suited for travelers who value a personalized experience and are comfortable with a full day of sightseeing.
Key Points
- Private tour for up to three people offers personalized attention and flexibility.
- Visit four major sites: Jerash, Umm Qais, Ajloun Castle, and the surrounding landscapes.
- Stunning panoramic views from Umm Qais and Ajloun Castle.
- Learn from knowledgeable guides who share insights into each location’s history.
- Cost-effective for small groups, providing a full day’s exploration at $550.
- Includes amenities like bottled water and free WiFi, making the day comfortable and connected.
An In-Depth Look at the Itinerary and Highlights
Looking for more options in Umm Qais? We've reviewed plenty of other experiences.
Starting the Day: Umm Qais – The City of Gilead
The day kicks off at the ancient city of Umm Qais, perched atop the Um Qais mountains. From the moment you arrive, the views of the Sea of Galilee and the Golan Heights are breathtaking. The guide will lead you through the ruins of this once-thriving city, including a Roman-era church, ancient fountains, and baths. Visitors frequently mention the Roman olive trees, which are as old as some civilizations, offering a tangible link to the past.
One reviewer notes, “Exploring Umm Qais felt like walking through a time capsule—the ruins are surprisingly intact and the view is unforgettable.” Some visitors also appreciate the chance to see Jesus’s cave nearby, adding a spiritual dimension to the visit, even if only from a historical perspective.
Scenic Drive to Ajloun
From Umm Qais, the journey continues through the Jordan Valley, a lush landscape peppered with greenery and small villages. The drive itself is scenic—an opportunity to see the green hills and agricultural land that characterize the region. You’ll appreciate the comfort of the private vehicle, with free WiFi, making it easy to relax or catch up on photos during transit.
Ajloun Castle – A Medieval Fortress with a View
Next, the tour takes you to Ajloun Castle, an impressive example of medieval military architecture. Perched on a hilltop, the castle offers spectacular panoramic views of the surrounding landscape, including fertile farmland and forested hills. The guide will explain the castle’s strategic importance during the Crusades and its role in defending the region.
Visitors consistently mention the well-maintained waterways and lush greenery around Ajloun Castle, which add to the sense of history blending with nature. From the top, you can see the evergreen landscape, perfect for photography or just soaking in the peaceful scenery.
More Great Tours NearbyThe Grand Finale: Jerash – The Pompeii of the East
The final stop of the day is Jerash, often called the best-preserved Roman city in the world. As you wander through the expansive ruins, you’ll see the iconic 1000-pillared Roman forum, along with temples, amphitheaters, baths, and colonnaded streets. Walking here is like stepping back 2000 years, with structures that have remarkably stood the test of time.
Guide insights reveal that Jerash was also known as Antioch, Gerasa, or the Pompeii of the East, emphasizing its importance and preservation. Visitors often comment on the scale and artistry of the ruins, and some spot ancient Roman mosaics still visible on the ground.
A guest shared, “Jerash’s ruins are truly awe-inspiring, and the guide’s stories made it all come alive.” Keep in mind that entrance fees aren’t included, so plan accordingly.
What Makes This Tour Stand Out?
Personalized Experience with a Knowledgeable Guide
One of the most praised aspects is the expert guidance. Guides are often highlighted as being very knowledgeable, sharing local stories and historical context that aren’t in guidebooks. Their insights transform a simple visit into a meaningful journey.
Unbeatable Viewpoints and Scenic Settings
Whether it’s the top of Umm Qais, overlooking the Sea of Galilee and Golan Heights, or the top of Ajloun Castle, each location offers photo-worthy vistas. These views aren’t just beautiful—they add a layer of understanding about the strategic importance of these sites.
Flexibility and Customization
A private tour means you can spend more or less time at each site based on your interests. Guests appreciate this tailored approach. The tour duration comfortably covers all sites without feeling rushed, and the pick-up/drop-off from your accommodation adds to the convenience.
Value for Money
At $550 for a group of up to three, the tour offers a competitive rate considering the private nature, transportation, guided commentary, and included amenities like bottled water and WiFi. While you’ll need to cover entrance fees and meals separately, the overall experience justifies the price for many travelers.
Practical Tips for Your Day Out
- Wear comfortable shoes; many sites involve walking on uneven terrain.
- Bring a hat, sunscreen, and water—the Jordanian sun can be intense.
- A camera is a must, as the panoramic views and ruins are spectacular.
- Remember, no smoking, flash photography, or touching plants—respect the site preservation rules.
- If you’re sensitive to heights, be aware that some viewpoints involve walking near edges or climbing.
Who Is This Tour Best For?
This experience is ideal for those who want a comprehensive day of history, scenery, and culture without the stress of planning. It suits small groups or couples looking for intimacy and personalized attention. The scenic vistas and expert guides make it perfect for history lovers and photography enthusiasts alike.
However, travelers with mobility issues or those afraid of heights should note that some locations involve walking on uneven ground or climbing to viewpoints. The full-day schedule also requires good energy and an interest in outdoor exploration.
FAQ
Are entrance fees included in the tour price?
No, entrance fees are not included, so you should budget extra for tickets at Jerash, Umm Qais, and Ajloun Castle.
Is this tour suitable for children or elderly travelers?
While it’s a full-day tour with some walking, it’s mainly geared toward adults and those comfortable with outdoor exploration. People with mobility impairments or height sensitivities may find some sites challenging.
What should I bring for the tour?
Comfortable shoes, a hat, sunscreen, camera, and water are recommended. The tour provides bottled water, and free WiFi can be used during transit.
Can I customize the tour?
As a private experience, it offers flexibility in timing and focus. You can discuss preferences with your guide beforehand.
How long does the tour last?
It’s a full-day experience, typically starting in the morning and concluding in the late afternoon or early evening.
Is the tour accessible in different languages?
Yes, guides speak Arabic, English, Spanish, and Italian.
Final Thoughts
The “Treasures of the North” tour from Amman offers an engaging, well-organized way to see some of Jordan’s most iconic historical sites with minimal hassle. The combination of expert guides, stunning vistas, and the chance to explore well-preserved ruins makes it a compelling choice for those keen on history and scenery.
While the cost might seem high for just a day, the private nature, personalized insights, and scenic rewards offer good value. It’s especially suitable for small groups, couples, or anyone who prefers a flexible, guided experience over self-led exploring.
If you want to combine adventure, history, and spectacular views in one memorable day, this tour could be just what you’re looking for. Just pack your camera, comfortable shoes, and a sense of curiosity—Jordan’s north is waiting to reveal its treasures.
You can check availability for your dates here: