Full Day
Up to 10 days
5 people
English, Other
Umayyad Desert Castles (Umayyad Qasrs)
Scattered across the arid plains of eastern Jordan, the Desert Castles are a remarkable collection of early Islamic architectural treasures built by the Umayyad caliphs during the 7th and 8th centuries. Often referred to as “qasrs,” these structures served a variety of purposes—from caravanserais and hunting lodges to agricultural estates and meeting places for rulers to connect with local Bedouin tribes . Famous for their stunning frescoes, stone carvings, and early Islamic art, these isolated complexes offer a fascinating glimpse into a pivotal era of the region’s history.
In Summary of Your Day:
Your private guided journey takes you from Amman eastward into the desert plains of Jordan to explore the fascinating Umayyad Desert Castles. Your guide will lead you through the enigmatic Qasr Al-Kharana, with its blend of Roman and Islamic architecture, then to the UNESCO-listed Quseir Amra, where exquisite 8th-century frescoes reveal the hedonistic and intellectual pursuits of the Umayyad caliphs. The journey culminates at the black basalt fortress of Qasr Al-Azraq, once headquarters to Lawrence of Arabia, offering a unique glimpse into Jordan’s layered history—from early Islamic dynasties to the Arab Revolt.
Morning – Departure to the Umayyad Desert Castles (or Qasrs)
After breakfast at your hotel, meet your private guide and driver. They will escort you for the entire duration of the tour, from hotel pick-up to final hotel drop-off.
Depart Amman eastward into the desert plains of eastern Jordan, exploring the architectural and historical treasures of the early Islamic period.
The drive to the first castle takes approximately 1 hour (about 65 km).
Your guide will provide historical context about the Umayyad dynasty—the first Muslim rulers of the Arab kingdom—who built these structures during the 7th and 8th centuries as rural retreats, hunting lodges, and caravanserais.
Qasr Al-Kharana (Kharraneh Castle):
Your first stop is Qasr Al-Kharana, an imperious two-level fortress standing alone in a vast plain approximately 60 km east of Amman. Despite being called a castle, its purpose remains a subject of scholarly debate—theories suggest it may have served as a caravanserai, a meeting place for Bedouins, or a defensive fort. The structure dates back to the early Umayyad period, around the 8th century, and features a square layout with a central courtyard surrounded by rooms on two levels. Its architecture showcases a blend of Roman, Byzantine, and Islamic influences, with semi-circular arches and barrel vaults that mark the transition from Byzantine to early Islamic styles.
Your guide will lead you through its evocative chambers and explain the architectural elements that make this castle unique.
Quseir Amra (Qasr Amra):
Continue to Quseir Amra, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of Jordan's most famous desert castles. Built around 723 AD by Umayyad Caliph Al-Walid I, this structure served as a hunting palace, a thermal spa, and possibly even an astronomical observatory. Unlike a traditional castle, Quseir Amra is a small, rectangular building that stands out for its remarkable interior frescoes—considered among the finest examples of early Islamic art. Your guide will accompany you inside to view the well-preserved paintings, which depict hedonistic scenes of hunting, bathing, musicians, and animals, as well as a unique zodiac ceiling in the domed caldarium . A circular room within the complex is believed to have been used for astronomical observations, with its entrance aligned to celestial events such as solstices and equinoxes.
Lunch Break:
Time will be allocated for an optional lunch at a local restaurant (optional and not included in the tour price). Your guide can assist with recommendations.
Afternoon – Azraq Castle & Return to Amman
Qasr Al-Azraq (Azraq Castle):
Your final stop is Qasr Al-Azraq, located in the town of Azraq. This fortress is distinct from the other desert castles, built from local black basalt rather than limestone. Originally constructed by the Romans, it was later modified by the Umayyads and served as a military stronghold. Its most famous association is with T.E. Lawrence—better known as Lawrence of Arabia—who used the castle as his headquarters during the winter of 1917–1918 during the Arab Revolt against the Ottoman Empire. Your guide will lead you through the sun-burnished courtyards, towers, and mosque, sharing stories of Lawrence's operations here and the castle's strategic importance throughout history.
Return Journey to Amman
After exploring Azraq Castle, begin the return journey to Amman (approximately 1.5–2 hours). You will be dropped off at your hotel in the late afternoon or early evening.
:: Thank you for choosing to explore Jordan with us ::
Highlights of Your Day:
Notes
Important Information:
Price Includes:
Price Excludes:
No, as safety is our priority. The number of vehicle seats must match all passengers, including children. In certain cases, a discount may apply—please check with us.
The mentioned rates are for private Premium Business Class Vans. You can find all necessary details through these links:
https://www.vipjordantours.map-tours.com/general-information/
https://www.vipjordantours.map-tours.com/car/economy-class-car/
Yes you can, the quoted rates are for Premium Business Class vehicles, which can be upgraded to a Luxury First Class VIP vehicle.
Upgrades are subject to availability, prior arrangement and an additional cost.
The additional costs are listed in "More options" under the selected rate details.
You can book a private transfer in a luxury First Class VIP vehicle for a more exclusive experience. Add this service from the "More options" section while selecting your tour rate and date.
Minimum: one traveler.
Maximum: 5-6 people.
Note: For groups larger than 6, please contact us for a custom rate.
Yes, please send us the total number of participants (adults & children with ages) and we will provide you with a custom rate.
Yes. Please check this link: *****
Yes we do, we handle hotel reservations throughout Jordan, including these cities.
Yes you can, if the cancellation is requested within the permitted cancellation period.
Please read our Cancellation Policy carefully for full details and cancellation instructions.
How to Cancel?
Important Notes:
Late/Missed Pickups:
No-shows and late arrivals are considered last-minute cancellations and full rental amount will be charged.
| # | Discount group | From adult | To adult | Value |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | 2 People Discount | 2 | 2 | 50% |
| 2 | 3 People Discount | 3 | 3 | 66.67% |
| 3 | 4 People Discount | 4 | 4 | 75% |
| 4 | 5 People Discount | 5 | 5 | 80% |
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