10 Best Places to Visit in North Jordan

Cat is Out of the Office contains affiliate links and is a member of the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program. If you make a purchase using one of these Amazon links, I may receive compensation at no extra cost to you. See my Disclosure Policy for more information.

1. Ancient Roman City of Jerash

If you’re plotting a journey through Jordan and keen on stepping back in time, the Roman ruins of Jerash (aka Gerasa) should top your list. 

Known affectionately as the ‘Pompeii of the East,’ Jerash is Jordan’s second-largest historical site after Petra – and it’s really cool! 

Once a vibrant metropolis during the Roman Empire, this city offers a glimpse into the past with its remarkably preserved streets, temples, and theaters. 

Highlights include the striking Arch of Hadrian, the massive Hippodrome, the unique Oval Plaza, the majestic Temple of Artemis, not to mention the theaters that once echoed with the voices of ancient actors.

Jerash’s golden age began under Roman rule, thriving as a crucial hub on the trade routes thanks to Emperor Trajan. Its prosperity is evident in the scale and beauty of its monuments, many of which date back to the 2nd century CE. 

For history geeks like me, hiring a local guide at the site will help you appreciate what you’re seeing.

Getting to Jerash from Amman is straightforward—a 40-minute drive makes it an accessible day trip. 

While I recommend a rental car for flexibility, organized tours are a great option if you’re looking to lean back and soak in the scenery – plus, they include stops in Umm Qais and Ajloun Castle as well.

The site is also included in the Jordan Pass, so you just pay for transportation. 

Be prepared for a good walk – the site is large. The amount of amazing photos I got here is incredible! 

The only thing at Jerash I didn’t enjoy is that you need to walk past pushy vendors at the entrance. But a steady pace and a polite “no, thank you” should see you through just fine. 

Don’t miss Jerash! And keep reading – the rest of the places on this list are the best things to do near Jerash.

2. Ajloun Forest Reserve

The Ajloun Forest Reserve is a breath of fresh air for those looking to immerse themselves in nature. It’s a 1.5-hour drive from Amman and a 40-minute drive from Jerash – I visited both on the same day with my rental car.

This 12-square-kilometer sanctuary is not just a conservation success story – it’s a testament to Jordan’s commitment to preserving its less than 1% forested land. 

Home to a revival of the locally extinct roe deer, alongside other wildlife, including the Persian squirrel and a myriad of bird species, Ajloun is a haven for nature lovers.

What makes Ajloun Forest Reserve truly special is its range of activities catering to all. Whether you’re up for a challenging hike or a leisurely stroll, the reserve’s trails promise scenic views and encounters with nature’s finest. 

Yet, it’s worth noting that Ajloun is not part of the Jordan Pass – and it’s surprisingly expensive for a hike. For non-Jordanians, entrance costs JOD 8, which includes access to the shortest trail, with additional fees for guided trails and adventure activities like ziplining or cooking classes.

Visiting is straightforward, whether from Amman or Jerash, with the journey offering picturesque views of the Jordanian countryside. 

Renting a car provides the most flexibility, allowing you to explore at your own pace, though taxis and public transportation are viable options. 

I opted for the Roe Deer Trail during my visit, an easy yet rewarding trek that didn’t require a guide. It was raining, and the other trails were closed due to mud. The other trails require a guide and cost a bit extra, but they look incredible.

🚙 Looking to get around via car? Find the cheapest car rentals here!

3. Ajloun Castle

Ajloun Castle is a cool fort to check out in northern Jordan – most travelers combine their visit to the castle with their visit to Jerash. 

Sitting high up on Mount Ajloun, this old fortress built in the 12th century by the nephew of the legendary Saladin, was meant to keep the Crusader enemies away. 

Its strategic significance lay in its military might and its role in protecting trade routes and Muslim pilgrims from the Franks.

Today, it’s a great place for anyone interested in history and looking for amazing countryside views that look a bit like the Mediterranean.

The best part? You won’t have to pay extra to get in if you have the Jordan Pass. 

Even though it can get busy, you only need about an hour to see everything, making it easy to fit into your travel plans. 

Ajloun Castle is close to other must-sees like the Ajloun Forest Reserve (15 minutes away) and Jerash (30 minutes away).

You can get there by driving yourself, which lets you explore at your own pace, or with one of these highly-rated tours from Amman, including stops at Jerash and Umm Qais. 

This castle has a long history, from being a military fort to an office building for rulers. Even after earthquakes and battles, it’s still standing, ready for visitors to come and explore. 

Bonus: About 10 minutes from Ajloun Castle by car is Tel Mar Elias – ruins of a church believed to have been home of the prophet Elijah. It’s often missed by travelers in Jordan!

👉 The easiest way to explore North Jordan without a car is with this popular 5-star private tour of Jerash, Ajloun, and Umm Qais from Amman. It includes private round-trip transport from your hotel.

4. Al Ma’wa Wildlife Sanctuary

Just a 20-minute drive from Jerash, Al Ma’wa Wildlife Sanctuary is an incredible place that gives you a chance to see rescued and confiscated wild animals up close. 

This is an ethical sanctuary, not a zoo. 

It’s where lions, tigers, wolves, monkeys, baboons, hyenas, bears, and even an albino raccoon have found a safe home after being rescued from tough situations. Al Ma’wa is dedicated to giving these animals the care they need.

When you visit, you’ll join a guided tour that lasts about an hour. It’s a unique experience where you meet these incredible animals and hear their rescue stories. 

Plus, it’s a chance to enjoy being in nature and learn about the issues with the wildlife trade, which is especially important in a place like Jordan.

Al Ma’wa is certified by the Four Paws organization and does amazing animal welfare and conservation work over a huge 140-hectare area. The sanctuary is all about rescuing animals that can’t go back to the wild and teaching visitors about how they can help protect wildlife.

Keep in mind that Al Ma’wa isn’t included in the Jordan Pass. It costs 10 JDs for foreign adults and 2 JDs for kids to get in. 

They’re closed on Mondays but open from 10-4 on Fridays and Saturdays and 10-3 on other days. 

My blog rarely recommends animal tourism, but this place is doing great work.

Adding Al Ma’wa to your trip is not just fun, but it supports a good cause, helping animals and the people caring for them. It’s a rewarding experience for anyone who loves animals and wants to support conservation efforts while traveling.

🇯🇴 Check out this 5-star-rated, 7-night Jordan tour. It includes all the highlights: Amman, Jerash, the Dead Sea, Petra, Wadi Rum, and Aqaba. Enjoy a perfectly curated experience that lets you soak in Jordan’s beauty without the stress. 🐫

5. Umm Qais

Umm Qais, located in the far north of Jordan, is a must-visit for history buffs and nature lovers. 

Once known as the Decapolis city of Gadara, Umm Qais offers a unique blend of Roman and Ottoman ruins. 

What makes Umm Qais truly special, though, are its breathtaking views over the Sea of Galilee, the Golan Heights, and the Yarmouk River, which marks the border with Syria.

Visitors can explore the Archaeological Museum of Umm Qais, located within the ancient city’s acropolis, wander through the remnants of a theater built of black basalt, stroll along a colonnaded street, and see the ruins of Roman shops, temples, and houses. 

The site also includes a large Ottoman village partly transformed into a museum.

Another cool off-the-beaten-path thing in North Jordan is to tour the Yousef Honey bee farm and learn all about beekeeping in an area famous for making honey. The tour with Yousef costs $20 per person. Just message him on Facebook to arrange the tour.

Umm Qais is roughly 25 km from Irbid (Jordan’s second-largest city) and about 110 km from Amman, making it a two-hour drive from the capital. 

While minibusses run from Irbid, getting there by car is significantly easier, allowing you to explore at your own pace. Most travelers visit as a day trip from Amman, combined with a visit to Jerash and Ajloun Castle.

For those looking to maximize their trip, combining a visit to Umm Qais with Jerash or Ajloun makes for a fulfilling day trip, though fitting all three into one day might be ambitious – an overnight stay in North Jordan is better.

It’s best to avoid visiting Umm Qais on Fridays when it gets crowded.

For those looking to soak in the stunning vistas a bit longer, the Sunset Cafe offers a casual atmosphere where you can enjoy the view over the Jordan Valley, bring your own food, and catch a magnificent sunset for a small entry fee (JOD 5).

6. The Jordan Trail 

Stretching from Umm Qais in the north of Jordan to Aqaba in the south, the Jordan Trail covers over 675 kilometers and takes about 40 days to complete in full. 

However, most travelers hike just a portion of it, often the segment leading to Petra. 

Or, you could choose to hike the part of the trail that goes from Um Qais to Ajloun! This part of the trail spans 80km and takes about four days.

The full Jordan Trail winds through 75 villages and towns, offering hikers the chance to meet locals, experience Jordanian hospitality through homestays, and taste the varied cuisines of the region. 

It’s an authentic way to connect with Jordan, providing insights into the daily lives of its people and the civilizations that have left their mark on this land. Along the way, you’ll encounter major historical sites like Jerash and Petra and hidden ruins that few travelers get to see.

Hiking the Jordan Trail is also a journey back in time, following ancient paths for trade and communication for thousands of years. It’s a chance to walk in the footsteps of history, surrounded by natural beauty and historical wonders.

For the northern sections, March and April offer comfortable temperatures, green landscapes, and blooming orchards. 

If you love hiking, my favorite hike in Jordan is The Siq Trail in Wadi Mujib, not too far from the Dead Sea.

👉 This highly-rated Dana to Petra Group Trek looks incredible – it’s a multi-day trek from the Dana Nature Reserve to Petra through canyons and desert along Bedouin trails.

7. King Talal Dam

This large dam, constructed over the Zarqa River, not only plays a crucial role in Jordan’s water supply and irrigation for the Jordan Valley but also serves as a picturesque spot for visitors looking to enjoy the outdoors. 

It’s only 45 minutes from Amman and under 30 minutes from Jerash.

With its completion in 1977, King Talal Dam has become a focal point for those seeking tranquility away from the hustle and bustle of city life.

Hikers trekking the northern part of The Jordan Trail will pass by this magnificent structure, allowing them to take in the beauty of the surrounding landscapes. 

The area around the dam is lush, making it an ideal spot in spring and fall for laying down a blanket and enjoying a day under the trees. 

In March, you might even catch the rare black iris – Jordan’s national flower – in bloom, adding a splash of color to the already breathtaking scenery.

8. Abila in the Decapolis

Still haven’t had enough of Roman ruins? Then head to Abila! 

This ancient city was once a bustling hub within the Decapolis—a 1st century B.C. region made up of 10 Greco-Roman cities.

Located in the countryside of northwest Jordan, Abila captivates visitors with its array of archaeological treasures, including five Byzantine churches, a Roman bath complex, and a plethora of beautifully painted tombs from both the Roman and Byzantine periods.

What sets Abila apart is its less touristy vibe compared to sites like Jerash or Umm Qais, allowing you to feel like a true archaeologist as you traverse its grounds. You might have the whole place to yourself!

The site boasts a variety of structures across steep slopes, including remnants of Roman, Jewish, Christian, and Muslim influence. One of the most fascinating features is a trench on the northern hill, revealing pottery from various periods, from early Islamic back to the Iron Age.

Reaching Abila can be an adventure in itself, as it’s challenging to access by public transport. Some visitors take a bus to a nearby area and then enjoy a scenic hour-long walk through olive groves to reach the site before hitchhiking back to Irbid.

Personally, I would go by car.

Abila’s location, just south of the Yarmuk River—the modern border between Jordan and Syria—places it on a historical trade route from Nabataea to Damascus, underscoring its strategic and commercial significance. 

Abila is an active archaeological site for those interested in the hands-on discovery of history, with ongoing excavations uncovering new facets of its storied past.

9. Pella

Speaking of ancient history…

The ancient city of Pella, once a key member of the Decapolis (like Abila, above) and known for its continuous habitation since Neolithic times, is a treasure trove for anyone interested in the evolution of human civilization. 

Its location in the north Jordan Valley makes for a scenic drive from Amman, passing through some of the most beautiful forest and mountain landscapes.

What sets Pella apart is its extensive history, from being mentioned in Egyptian inscriptions in the 19th century BC to its significance during the Roman period when it was one of the bustling cities of the Decapolis. 

The site boasts ruins from various periods, including spectacular Roman remains, Byzantine churches, and evidence of early Christian refuge, making it a microcosm of Jordanian history.

Pella offers travelers a more peaceful and authentic experience than other touristic sites. It’s where you can explore ancient ruins without the crowds, occasionally crossing paths with local shepherds on the nearby trails rather than tourists. 

Getting to Pella involves a drive from Irbid or a longer 2-hour drive from Amman, with the site just a short distance from the modern village of Tabaqat Fahl. While public transport options are limited, the journey is well worth it for the stunning views and historical depth the site offers. 

For those looking to stay overnight in Northern Jordan, Beit Al-Fenan offers accommodation on a hill overlooking the ruins, providing a unique opportunity to wake up to a panoramic view of ancient history right at your doorstep.

10. Hiking Through Wadi Al-Rayan

In the Irbid district, the lesser-known Wadi Al-Rayan is tucked away in the northern reaches of Jordan. 

This stunning valley stretches almost 24 kilometers, though the hiking trail covers about 11 kilometers. 

I’ll be honest – I didn’t get to explore Wadi Al-Rayan when I was in Jordan. I only came across it while researching for this post! There isn’t a whole lot of information online about the hike.

For those adventurous souls looking to discover this hidden gem, it might be wise to seek advice from locals or inquire with staff at nearby accommodations or even the Ajloun Forest Reserve for guidance. One traveler said she went with a group organized by Treks.

Please, if you make it here, let me know!

What I do know, is Wadi Al-Rayan is characterized by its breathtaking landscapes, combining yellow-beige desert expanses with centuries-old olive groves. The path requires a few water crossings, leading hikers deeper into the wadi, where the mountain walls draw closer, and the scenery becomes increasingly spectacular.

Despite the sunny weather, warm clothing is recommended during cooler months like January. It’s advisable to avoid the trail on hot days and to begin the hike early in the morning to make the most of the cooler temperatures and to fully appreciate the beauty of Wadi Al-Rayan in comfort.

For those looking to step off the beaten path and immerse themselves in Jordan’s natural beauty, Wadi Al-Rayan offers a unique and relatively undiscovered experience. Its tranquility, combined with the historical and biblical significance of the area, makes it a compelling addition to any northern Jordan itinerary for hikers seeking solitude and scenic beauty.

👉 The easiest way to explore North Jordan without a car is with this popular 5-star private tour of Jerash, Ajloun, and Umm Qais from Amman. It includes private round-trip transport from your hotel.

FAQs About North Jordan