How to Plan Your From Amman: Desert Castles of Eastern Jordan Tour

Have you been dreaming of visiting breathtaking castles while in Jordan? Look no further. The From Amman: Desert Castles of Eastern Jordan Tour is perfect for you. This five-hour tour takes you on a journey to discover Jordan’s famous desert castles. Learn about the first Muslim rulers of the Arab kingdom, see UNESCO-listed Qasr Amra, and visit the headquarters of Lawrence of Arabia. Here is your guide on how to plan your tour:

Experience

Discover three of Jordan’s famous desert castles in this 5-hour trip from Amman. Visit the UNESCO-listed Qasr Amra and hear tales about the first Muslim rulers of the Arab kingdom. See where the famous Lawrence of Arabia had his headquarters as you explore the vast desert plains of eastern Jordan.

Highlights

• Visit three of Jordan’s famous desert castles
• Learn about the first Muslim rulers of the Arab kingdom
• Explore UNESCO-listed Qasr Amra
• Visit the headquarters of Lawrence of Arabia
• Enjoy private transportation from your centrally located Amman hotel

Full Description

Your journey starts with a pick up from your centrally located Amman hotel. Your private air-conditioned vehicle will take you out of the city and into the desert plains of eastern Jordan. The region boasts 7th and 8th-century castles, many within a 15-minute drive of each other that were originally built by the Caliphs of the Umayyad dynasty as rural retreats and hunting lodges.

As you travel, your guide will share fascinating stories about this powerful dynasty, the first Muslim rulers of the Arab kingdom, including snippets about their extravagance and debauchery. You can feel free to tell your driver if there’s a castle you want to see more of, or another castle you’d like to visit at your own expense.

After about an hour on the road, you’ll arrive at UNESCO-listed Qasr Amra, one of the east Jordan’s most famous desert castles. Explore its courtyards, halls, and corridors filled with ancient wall paintings that depict life in Ancient Rome and Persia. Learn about the history of this remarkable site and its use as a baths resort and a caravan station in the past.

Next up, you’ll head to Azraq Castle that was originally used as a hunting lodge by the Umayyad Caliphate in the early 8th century. Later on, it was also used as a military base during World War I by the British army. The castle consists of a vast courtyard in the middle, surrounded by some small halls and towers. Enjoy a pleasant walk around the castle and discover its rich history.

Finally, you will visit Lawrence of Arabia’s headquarters, which is also known as the Shawmari Wildlife Reserve. This reserve was established as a nature reserve in 1975 and served as a captive breeding center for endangered species such as the Arabian oryx and the mountain gazelle. You’ll get the chance to see these incredible animals up close and learn more about their conservation efforts.

Booking Your Tour

To book the From Amman: Desert Castles of Eastern Jordan Tour, head over to getyourguide.com. The site is user-friendly, secure and you’ll get instant confirmation of your booking. Once you have booked your tour, make sure to check your email for any further information or instructions from your tour operator.

In conclusion

The From Amman: Desert Castles of Eastern Jordan Tour is an amazing opportunity to discover three of Jordan’s famous desert castles, learn about the first Muslim rulers of the Arab kingdom and visit the headquarters of Lawrence of Arabia. Planning your tour is simple and easy. Book your trip today and get ready to experience the wonders of the Jordanian desert in a unique and unforgettable way.

An Insider’s Guide to Amman, Jordan: Exploring the City’s Hidden Gems

As the capital city of Jordan, Amman offers an array of unique experiences for tourists. From its ancient landmarks to its thriving food scene and rich cultural heritage, Amman embodies both the old and new, and everything in between. To help you navigate through the city, we’ve compiled a list of hidden gems that will take you off the beaten path.

Local Attractions: Discovering Amman’s Hidden Gems

While the tourist hotspots are certainly must-see destinations, there’s more to Amman than meets the eye. For instance, the Darat al Funun gallery is an enchanting space that showcases contemporary art from Jordan and other parts of the Arab world. The Jordan National Gallery of Fine Arts, on the other hand, features both traditional and modern art with an emphasis on Jordanian artists. For a more unconventional experience, a visit to the Jordanian Soap House is a must: here you can learn how soap is made using olive oil and other natural ingredients, and even try your hand at making soap yourself.

Dining Spots: Savoring the Flavors of Amman

Jordan’s cuisine is renowned for its bold flavors and unique spices that reflect the country’s diverse cultural heritage. For a traditional Jordanian breakfast, head to Hashem Restaurant in the downtown area – a humble institution famous for its freshly baked bread, falafel, and hummus. To try some more contemporary dishes, consider going to Beit Sitti, where you can learn to cook authentic Jordanian food alongside expert chefs. Finally, Levant, a trendy restaurant in Amman’s scenic Jabal Amman area, offers a panoramic view of the city as well as delicious Levantine specialties.

Cultural Experiences: Exploring Amman’s Rich Heritage

Amman is a city steeped in history, tradition, and culture. For a glimpse into Jordanian folklore, visit the Jordanian Museum of Popular Traditions, which displays objects and artifacts related to traditional crafts, music, and customs. To experience authentic Bedouin hospitality, book a stay in one of the many family-owned Bedouin camps located in the outskirts of Amman. For a more immersive cultural experience, consider taking a cooking class, or learning the art of Arabic calligraphy.

Local History: Uncovering Amman’s Fascinating Past

Amman’s rich history spans back over 7,000 years, and it’s no surprise that the city boasts a number of archaeological sites that testify to its illustrious past. The Citadel is a prime example, boasting ancient ruins of a Roman temple, a Byzantine church, and an Umayyad palace. Not too far away is the Roman Theatre, which is still used today for cultural events and is a spectacular site for a sunset photo-shoot. Lastly, the King Abdullah Mosque, with its striking blue dome and towering minarets is a must-visit landmark in Amman.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Suggestions: Unique and Memorable Experiences in Amman

For those looking to experience Amman in a more unique way, consider taking a hot air balloon ride over Wadi Rum.Peter’s Gallery Studio is another exciting option where you can witness the process of making jewelry the old-fashioned way. Additionally, visiting the forests of Ajloun and Aljubia provide opportunities for hiking and camping.

Overall, Amman is a city that tantalizes all the senses. These hidden gems will allow visitors to tap into all that the city has to offer. Whether you are an art enthusiast, a foodie, or a history buff, there is something for everyone in this timeless city.