Jerash
7 Days in Jerash: Roman Ruins, Forest Hills & Family Fun
Ancient Jerash ruins and green hills in one easy family week
A relaxed, family‑friendly week based in and around Jerash, mixing world‑class Roman ruins, green hill walks, and village life with easy day trips. Everything is clustered so you’re rarely more than 20 minutes from food, fun, or your hotel, with halal‑friendly meals and jungle‑wild vibes woven throughout.
Highlights
Wander Jerash’s colonnaded streets, temples, and theaters with plenty of space for kids to explore.
Hike among olive groves and pine forests in the cool Ajloun highlands for a jungle‑wild feel.
Visit nearby villages and farms to taste local olives, honey, and simple countryside life.
Catch golden‑hour light over Hadrian’s Arch and the Temple of Artemis for atmospheric family photos.
Meet native animals and learn about conservation at the Jerash Wildlife Park on a relaxed afternoon.
Enjoy simple, lantern‑lit dinners and stargazing at a rustic eco‑camp in the hills above Jerash.
Where to Stay
Olive Branch Hotel
Simple 3‑star hillside hotel overlooking valleys and olive groves, with garden areas and a pool that feels surrounded by greenery.
$70-100/night
Hadrian’s Gate Hotel
Small, clean hotel within walking distance of the archaeological park, with some rooms overlooking fields and the ruins area.
$60-90/night
Jerash Hills Eco-Camp
Rustic eco‑camp with Bedouin‑style tents or simple cabins set among olive trees and low woodland, with shared campfire and basic facilities.
$50-80/night (per tent/cabin)Good to Know
Getting Between Jerash and Ajloun
For Ajloun days, it’s easiest to hire a local taxi from Jerash for a half‑day or full‑day; agree on a total price upfront that includes waiting time at the castle and forest reserve. The ride is about 35–45 minutes each way through hilly, scenic roads, and your driver will usually wait and bring you back, which avoids figuring out buses with children.
Staying Comfortable at the Ruins
Jerash’s archaeological park has limited shade and a lot of uneven stones. Put kids in closed shoes or sturdy sandals, bring hats, and carry at least one large water bottle per person; refill whenever you pass a shop or café. Plan short shade breaks at the theaters or near the Oval Plaza instead of trying to see everything in one push.
Halal Food Is the Default
Jerash and nearby towns are predominantly Muslim, so restaurants almost always serve halal meat and no pork. Still, it’s wise to say “lahm halal?” or “da’jan halal?” when ordering meat, just to confirm. If you’re ever unsure, stick to clearly vegetarian dishes like hummus, falafel, salads, and vegetable stews, which are widely available.
Cash, ATMs, and Tipping
Carry enough cash for daily expenses since small restaurants, taxis, and farm visits are usually cash‑only. ATMs are available in Jerash city center and near some larger hotels. Tipping 5–10% at restaurants and rounding up small taxi fares is appreciated but not mandatory; for guided walks or farm visits, a small extra tip per family is welcome.
Prayer Times and Daily Rhythm
You’ll hear the call to prayer throughout the day from mosques around Jerash. Most sites stay open, but some shops may be briefly quiet around Friday midday prayers. Use these quieter periods for rest, snacks, or exploring outdoor areas instead of trying to arrange formal activities.
Clothing for Ruins and Forests
Pack breathable layers: light trousers or long shorts, T‑shirts, and a light fleece or jacket for evenings in the hills. Forest trails can be dusty or muddy after rain, so consider darker clothes and an extra pair of socks for kids. A simple scarf is handy for extra sun protection or warmth on breezy hilltops.
Managing Kids’ Energy
Alternate more intense activities (like climbing at the theater or castle) with simpler ones (like picnics, cafés, or short drives). Promise a juice or dessert stop after longer walks, and let children pick small parts of the day (which grove to picnic in, which sweets to try) so they feel involved.
Language and Simple Arabic Phrases
Most people working with tourists speak some English, but learning a few words—like “shukran” (thank you), “min fadlak” (please), and “kam?” (how much?)—goes a long way. Kids often enjoy trying these out and locals respond warmly, especially in smaller shops and villages.
Your Week Itinerary
Lebanese House Restaurant
Large garden restaurant with trees and greenery just outside the archaeological park. Fully halal kitchen serving mixed grills, shish tawook, kebab, fattoush, hummus, tabbouleh, and fresh juices; ask for grilled chicken or lamb with rice and plenty of salads.
1h 15m · $15-25 per person
Green Valley Restaurant
Casual local restaurant with leafy outdoor area overlooking the valley. Halal charcoal‑grilled chicken, kebabs, mixed grill platters, mezze like baba ghanoush and hummus; kids often enjoy the simple grilled chicken with fries and rice.
1h · $12-20 per person
Jerash Archaeological Site – South Gate & Hadrian’s Arch
Enter through Hadrian’s Arch and explore the hippodrome and main processional route, giving kids space to run while you all get your first feel of the Roman city layout.
2h · $15 (Jordan Pass or site ticket)
Jerash Archaeological Site – Oval Plaza & Cardo
Walk from the triumphal arch up to the iconic Oval Plaza and along the colonnaded Cardo, spotting ruts from ancient chariot wheels and peeking into side streets and shops.
1h 30m · Included with site ticket
Jerash Rest House
On‑site restaurant surrounded by trees and stone terraces. Halal Jordanian buffet or à la carte options like chicken with rice, kofta, salads, and vegetarian stews; choose grilled meats, rice, and salad for an easy family plate.
1h · $15-25 per person
Al-Khayyam Restaurant
Simple, busy local spot serving halal shawarma, grilled chicken, falafel, and mezze. Go for chicken shawarma sandwiches, mixed grill platters, or falafel with hummus; portions are generous and kid‑friendly.
45m · $8-15 per person
Jerash Archaeological Site – Theaters & Temple of Artemis
Climb up to the South Theater to test the acoustics, then continue to the Temple of Artemis for panoramic views over the entire ruins and surrounding greenery.
2h 30m · Included with site ticketJerash Souvenir Stalls & Artisan Corners
Browse small stalls for mosaics, olive‑wood carvings, and simple trinkets while chatting with local vendors; practice a little haggling if you enjoy it.
1h · Free to browse (souvenirs extra)
Jerash City Center Stroll
Walk the main streets and side alleys, explore fruit and vegetable markets, and watch everyday life from small squares and benches.
1h · Free30 activities across 7 days
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