Full-Day Tour: Umm Qais, Jerash, and Ajloun From Amman

We’re excited to explore Jordan’s rich cultural heritage on this full-day tour from Amman. Delving into the well-preserved Greco-Roman ruins of Jerash, the commanding medieval fortress of Ajloun Castle, and the ancient city of Gadara at Umm Qais, we’ll uncover the stories that have shaped this remarkable region. With the convenience of private transportation and the expertise of local guides, we’ll customize the experience to our interests, capturing breathtaking vistas and landscapes along the way. By the end of the day, we’ll have a deeper understanding of Jordan’s captivating past and its enduring significance.

Key Points

• Explore the well-preserved Greco-Roman ruins of Jerash, including Hadrian’s Arch, Colonnaded Street, and Oval Colonnade.
• Visit the impressive 12th-century Ajloun Castle, a remarkable example of medieval Arab-Islamic military architecture.
• Marvel at the stunning vistas from the ancient city of Gadara at Umm Qais, overlooking the Golan Heights and Lake Tiberius.
• Enjoy the convenience of private round-trip transportation and local guides who provide expertise and historical insights.
• Customize the tour experience to accommodate personal preferences and interests for a personalized day-long excursion.

Discovering Greco-Roman Ruins in Jerash

The classical Greco-Roman ruins of Jerash captivate visitors with their remarkably well-preserved architecture and rich history.

Wandering through the site, we’re struck by the grandeur of Hadrian’s Arch, a magnificent gateway that once welcomed travelers to the prosperous ancient city.

We explore the Colonnaded Street, lined with towering columns that evoke the city’s former glory.

The Oval Colonnade, with its impressive elliptical design, leaves us in awe.

As we wander deeper, we uncover the remnants of theaters, temples, and public baths, all meticulously maintained and offering a glimpse into the daily lives of Jerash’s inhabitants during its heyday as a Greco-Roman hub.

Exploring Ajloun Castle’s Medieval Architecture

Nestled atop a lush mountain, Ajloun Castle stands as a remarkable example of medieval Arab-Islamic military architecture, its sturdy stone walls and towers testament to its strategic importance in the region’s history.

Constructed in the 12th century by the forces of Saladin, the castle was built to defend against Crusader incursions, with its ingenious design featuring a series of towers and fortifications that allowed for effective surveillance and protection.

As we wander through the castle’s winding passages and climb to the top of its towers, we’re struck by the grandeur of the structure and the skill of its builders, who created a formidable stronghold that has endured for centuries.

Visiting the Ancient City of Gadara

From Ajloun Castle, we make our way to the ancient city of Gadara, whose Roman-era ruins now lie at the site of modern-day Umm Qais.

As we approach the site, we’re struck by the stunning vistas that unfold before us, with the Golan Heights, Lake Tiberius, and the Jordan Valley serving as a dramatic backdrop to the weathered yet imposing remnants of this once-prosperous Decapolis city.

We explore the excavated ruins, marveling at the well-preserved theater, basilica, and colonnaded streets that hint at Gadara’s former grandeur.

We learn how this city, founded by Alexander the Great, was a thriving Greco-Roman cultural center until its decline in the Byzantine era.

Leaving Umm Qais, we’re left with a deeper appreciation for Jordan’s rich ancient heritage.

Highlights of the Tour Itinerary

Across the course of this comprehensive full-day tour, we’ll uncover a diverse array of Jordan’s most captivating historical and cultural sites, from the well-preserved Greco-Roman ruins of Jerash to the commanding medieval fortress of Ajloun Castle.

We’ll start by exploring Jerash, a city founded by Alexander the Great that flourished under Roman rule, admiring architectural wonders like Hadrian’s Arch and the Oval Plaza.

Next, we’ll venture to Ajloun Castle, a 12th-century fortress built to defend against Crusader incursions, and marvel at its impressive Arab-Islamic military architecture.

Private Transportation and Local Guides

For this full-day tour, we’ll have the convenience of private round-trip transportation between Amman and the various sites, allowing us to explore at our own pace.

Our private vehicle will take us directly to Jerash, Ajloun Castle, and Umm Qais, with no need to worry about public transportation or logistics.

Along the way, we’ll be accompanied by local guides who’ll share their expertise and provide fascinating insights into the history and significance of each location.

This personalized service ensures we make the most of our time, gaining a deeper understanding of Jordan’s rich cultural heritage.

The maximum of three passengers per vehicle also adds to the intimate and tailored nature of the experience.

Capturing Breathtaking Vistas and Landscapes

Throughout the tour, we’ll be treated to a series of breathtaking vistas and landscapes that showcase Jordan’s diverse natural beauty.

From the towering ruins of Jerash to the commanding presence of Ajloun Castle, each destination offers a unique perspective on the country’s rich history and geography.

At Umm Qais, we’ll gaze out over the Golan Heights, Lake Tiberius, and the Jordan Valley, marveling at the sweeping panoramas that have captivated visitors for centuries.

The ancient Decapolis city of Gadara provides a stunning backdrop, with its well-preserved ruins and dramatic clifftop setting.

Every step of the journey immerses us in Jordan’s stunning natural landscapes, creating unforgettable memories of this remarkable destination.

Admission Fees and Tour Duration

The tour includes entrance fees to the various historical sites visited, which are paid directly by participants.

The full-day excursion typically lasts approximately 7-8 hours, providing ample time to explore each destination at a comfortable pace.

At Jerash, we’ll wander through the remarkably preserved Greco-Roman ruins, marveling at architectural gems like Hadrian’s Arch and the Oval Colonnade.

We’ll then journey to Ajloun Castle, an impressive 12th-century fortress that offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape.

Finally, we’ll discover the ancient Roman city of Gadara at Umm Qais, with its sweeping vistas of the Golan Heights and the Jordan Valley.

Throughout the day, we’ll enjoy the flexibility of a private tour experience.

Customizing the Tour Experience

We can customize the tour experience to suit your preferences and interests. Whether you’d like to spend more time exploring a particular site or adjust the itinerary to accommodate your schedule, our team is happy to work with you to create a personalized experience.

For example, you might want to linger longer at the impressive Greco-Roman ruins of Jerash, or delve deeper into the history and architecture of Ajloun Castle. Alternatively, you may wish to prioritize certain sites over others based on your interests.

Our flexible approach allows us to tailor the tour to your needs, ensuring you get the most out of your day in Jordan’s northern region.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Take Photographs During the Tour?

Absolutely, we can take photographs during the tour. Photography is generally permitted at the historical sites we’ll visit, allowing us to capture the stunning architecture, landscapes, and cultural highlights along the way.

Is Food and Drink Provided Throughout the Day?

No, food and drink are not provided on this tour. We’ll need to purchase our own meals and refreshments throughout the day. There are restaurants and cafes available at the sites we’ll be visiting where we can buy food and drinks as needed.

How Much Walking Is Required During the Tour?

We’ll expect to do quite a bit of walking during this tour, as we’ll be exploring ancient ruins and historic sites. While the exact distances aren’t specified, we should be prepared for an active day of sightseeing on foot.

Are There Any Age or Mobility Restrictions?

There are no age or mobility restrictions for this tour. We accommodate guests of all ages and physical abilities, and can provide assistance as needed to ensure an enjoyable experience for everyone.

Is It Possible to Make Stops Along the Way?

Absolutely, we can make stops along the way during the tour. The private nature of the tour allows for flexibility to accommodate any requests or needs you may have. Just let the guide know what you’d like to do.

Recap

We’ve explored Jordan’s ancient heritage through this captivating full-day tour, delving into the Greco-Roman ruins of Jerash, the medieval grandeur of Ajloun Castle, and the ancient city of Gadara.

Guided by local experts and enjoying the convenience of private transportation, we’ve gained a comprehensive understanding of Jordan’s rich cultural tapestry.

This immersive experience has left us with lasting impressions of the country’s remarkable historical sites and breathtaking landscapes.