🏰 Ajloun Castle (Qal’at ar-Rabad) — 2025 Guide

A 12th-century Ayyubid hilltop fortress overlooking the green hills of Ajloun and the wider valleys of northern Jordan. It’s a perfect half-day trip and is often combined with the full Jerash day trip. Inside, you’ll wander through vaulted stone passages and watchtowers; outside, you get wide panoramic viewpoints that shine at sunset.

Why Ajloun Castle is special

• A strategic Ayyubid fortress that once controlled trade and military routes.
• Broad views over Ajloun Forest, surrounding hills and the Jordan Valley in the distance.
• Short walking paths around the hilltop that are perfect for photography and nature lovers.

Best time to visit & tickets

• Best time: early morning or late afternoon to avoid heat and tour-bus crowds.
• Tickets & opening hours: can change by season; confirm on arrival or with your tour provider.
• Ideal time inside: around 45–90 minutes inside the castle, plus extra time for photos outside.

How to get there from Amman / Jerash

• Private car / driver: the easiest way; expect a short mountain road at the end up to the castle.
• From Jerash: a quick drive after finishing the archaeological site, ideal for a combined day trip.
• Public transport: limited options; check minibus / shared taxi timings in advance if you rely on them.

🚌 Guided tours to Ajloun Castle (GetYourGuide)

Book a reliable tour with driver/guide from Amman or Jerash. Note: prices and schedules change with season and demand.

🏨 Where to stay nearby (Booking)

• Staying in Ajloun or Jerash works well if you want an early, quiet visit.
• If you love nature, look for eco-lodges or cabins near the surrounding forests and hills.

How to combine Ajloun in your itinerary

• Half-day Ajloun + sunset at the castle — then drive back to Amman for dinner.
• Jerash in the morning + Ajloun Castle in the afternoon — follow the Jerash day-trip plan and add Ajloun on top.

💡 Practical tips

• Wear comfortable shoes for uneven stone paths and stairs.
• Bring water, a hat and sunscreen—breezes are nice but the sun can still be strong.
• Double-check official opening hours, especially in winter and during public holidays.

❓ FAQ

How long do I need at Ajloun Castle?
About one hour inside the fortress, plus a bit of extra time for the viewpoints and photos outside.

Is it suitable for children?
Generally yes, as long as you supervise them on stairs and near high walls and edges.

Are there restaurants nearby?
A few simple options exist around Ajloun, but many visitors prefer to eat in Jerash or drive back to Amman to explore the best restaurants in Amman.

🔗 Back to the main Jordan itinerary

Fit Ajloun Castle into your wider Jordan route alongside: Jerash — full day plan · Petra · Wadi Rum · Queen Alia International Airport (AMM).