About this experience
Discover the very best of northern Jordan on this fully private day tour from Amman through three of the country's most iconic and historically rich destinations. Begin at Umm Qais, the ancient Greco-Roman city of Gadara, where breathtaking panoramic views stretch across the Sea of Galilee, the Golan Heights and three countries simultaneously. Continue to Ajloun Castle, a magnificent 12th century Islamic fortress built by the forces of Saladin, perched dramatically on a hilltop among pine forests with sweeping views over the lush Jordan Valley below. End the day in Jerash — one of the best-preserved Roman cities in the world — where grand colonnaded streets, ancient theaters and towering temple columns bring the glory of the Roman Empire back to life. With your private driver, comfortable air-conditioned vehicle and the freedom to explore at your own pace, this is the most personal and rewarding way to experience the wonders of northern Jordan before returning to Amman in the evening.
At a glance
- Duration: 8 hr–10 hr
- Private experience
Plan your experience
Set aside 8 hr–10 hr for the experience itself, with additional time to reach your meeting or pickup point.
Before you go
- Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
What is included
- Expert driver providing historical and cultural insights
- Sufficient time for exploration and photography at each site
- Round-trip transportation in a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle
Not included
- Entry tickets to Jerash, Ajloun Castle, and Umm Qais
- Personal expenses
- tour guides inside tourist attractions
Itinerary and highlights
Umm Qais, known in ancient times as Gadara, is one of Jordan's most captivating archaeological sites. Perched on a hilltop with sweeping views of the surrounding region, Umm Qais offers a unique combination of ancient ruins and natural beauty, making it a must-see destination for history buffs and nature lovers alike.
Your visit to Umm Qais begins with a journey back in time to the Decapolis city of Gadara, an important cultural and intellectual center during the Roman Empire. As you explore this site, you’ll encounter well-preserved structures from the Roman, Byzantine, and Ottoman periods.
One of the highlights of Umm Qais is the black basalt Roman theater, beautifully carved into the hillside. You’ll be able to sit in the same seats where ancient spectators once watched performances, Umm Qais is not just about ruins – it’s famous for its spectacular views. From the hilltop.
The town of Ajloun is known for its majestic 12th-century Islamic castle, built by one of Saladin’s generals during the Crusades. This site offers a unique blend of history and nature, making it a captivating destination for travelers interested in Jordan’s medieval past.
This castle was strategically built in 1184 to protect the region from Crusader invasions and control trade routes leading to the Jordan Valley.
Inside the castle, you’ll find a small museum displaying artifacts from the Islamic and Byzantine periods. Your guide will share the fascinating history of the castle’s construction, its military significance, and how it was later expanded by the Ayyubids and Mamluks.
With its commanding hilltop location, Ajloun Castle provides excellent opportunities for panoramic landscape photography. Capture stunning shots of the rolling green hills, and landscapes.
Step into the Heart of Ancient Rome in the Middle East.
Jerash is one of the most impressive and well-preserved Roman cities outside of Italy. During your visit, you’ll walk through history, exploring a city that thrived over 2,000 years ago.
Jerash is more than just a series of ruins; it’s a vivid window into the past, offering travelers the chance to walk in the footsteps of Roman emperors, soldiers, and citizens. This experience is a must for history lovers and anyone fascinated by ancient civilizations.
As soon as you arrive, you’ll be greeted by the monumental gateway built in honor of Emperor Hadrian’s visit in AD 129. This majestic arch sets the stage for the grandeur of Jerash.
Imagine the roar of the crowds as chariots raced around this ancient stadium. You’ll explore the Hippodrome, where Jerash’s citizens gathered for sports and entertainment.
A unique feature of Jerash, this massive, colonnaded oval plaza is one of the most stunning structures in the ancient city.
Meeting and pickup information
- Your driver will pick you up directly from your hotel lobby or any specified address in Amman at your agreed departure time. Please provide your hotel name and full address at the time of booking so we can confirm the pickup location accurately. The pickup is typically between 7:00 AM and 8:00 AM to ensure you have sufficient time to explore the planned sites comfortably. Your driver will contact you via WhatsApp the evening before to confirm the exact pickup time. Please ensure your WhatsApp number is provided at booking so your driver can stay in contact with you throughout the tour. If you have large or excess luggage please let us know in advance so we can arrange the most suitable vehicle for your group size.
Languages and tickets
- English — Guide
- Mobile Only
Tour operator
- Jordanizer
Accessibility and practical details
- Service animals allowed
- Specialized infant seats are available
- Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
Cancellation policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Questions about this experience
How long is this experience?
What are the pickup arrangements?
The pickup is typically between 7:00 AM and 8:00 AM to ensure you have sufficient time to explore the planned sites comfortably. Your driver will contact you via WhatsApp the evening before to confirm the exact pickup time.
Please ensure your WhatsApp number is provided at booking so your driver can stay in contact with you throughout the tour. If you have large or excess luggage please let us know in advance so we can arrange the most suitable vehicle for your group size.
Which guide languages are listed?
What ticket format is listed?
What ticket age bands are listed?
What accessibility information is provided?
What is the cancellation policy?
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