Planning to visit the Ajloun Highlands? Get ready for mountain roads, fresh pine forests, and ancient places like Ajloun Castle and Mar Elias. But most travelers don’t realize that getting around isn’t easy without a car. Public buses? There’s no clear info, even at the stations. They don’t run often and will only take you to the town center. From there, it’s still a long way to the actual sites.
Tour groups from hotels are another choice, but they often cost more and follow a fixed plan. You’ll be stuck with their schedule and their crowd all day. Renting a taxi is possible, but it adds up fast unless you split the cost with others.
Our Ajloun road trip guide is here to help. Renting a car in Jordan is the best way to see Ajloun. You’ll have complete control of your day, visit remote places, and enjoy the trip at your speed. Keep reading to learn how to enjoy the most scenic drives in northern Jordan.
To rent a car in Jordan, you must be at least 21 years old and have a valid driver's license. Most car rentals will also ask for a credit card for the deposit and may request an International Driving Permit (IDP) if your license is not in English or Arabic. It's best to book your car in advance, especially during holiday seasons or weekends when road trips are popular. Always bring your passport and rental documents while driving.
The best place to rent a car for your road trip to Ajloun is in Amman, the capital city. Car rental offices are easy to find near Queen Alia International Airport, Downtown Amman, and areas like Shmeisani or Abdoun. Most offer compact cars, SUVs, and even 4x4 vehicles, depending on your budget and comfort needs. Check if your rental includes insurance, GPS, and unlimited mileage.
The drive from Amman to Ajloun takes about 1 hour and 15 minutes and covers around 70 kilometers. The most scenic route is via Al-Urdon Street. From Amman, you’ll head west toward Al-Kuroum Street, pass several key roads like Istiqlal Street and Q. Nour Street, and then join Route 35. Watch for signs pointing to Ajloun and Jarash, then follow Route 20 and Route 55 as you walk through Dibbeen and Sakib. The smooth and well-marked road offers mountain views and fresh air as you approach the Ajloun Highlands.
Ajloun Castle is the top historical attraction in the area. The castle, also called Qal'at Ar-Rabad, sits on one of the highest hills in the region. It was built in 1184 by one of Saladin's generals. Its main goal was to protect the trade routes from the Crusaders. It was later expanded in 1214. From the top, you can see the Jordan Valley, the Golan Heights, and the West Bank. The rooms, towers, and museum inside are all well preserved.
Inside the castle, the small museum displays Neolithic artifacts found in the region. These give you a better understanding of the local history. It’s a great way to appreciate how the castle evolved from a military post to a historical site open to all. Early morning is the best time to visit Ajloun Castle. You can avoid the crowds and enjoy the cool breeze. The path up the hill is steep, but the road is good and offers some of the best views in northern Jordan.
Just a short drive from the castle, the Ajloun Forest Reserve is a green, peaceful area. It covers 13 square kilometers of protected woodlands and is managed by the Royal Society for the Conservation of Nature. The reserve is filled with Evergreen Oak, Pine, Carob, Wild Pistachio, and Wild Strawberry trees. Many of these trees are hundreds of years old. In spring, wildflowers cover the ground, and you might spot rare animals like the Striped Hyena or the Crested Porcupine.
Ajloun has been settled for thousands of years. You can see ruins, ancient wine presses, and old churches inside or near the reserve. This blend of history and nature is rare in Jordan. The reserve has 23 modern cabins with private bathrooms and small terraces. You can enjoy forest views while sipping tea outside. These cabins are available year-round and can be booked online. There’s also a restaurant serving homemade local meals, and some guests even join locals in cooking classes.
Hiking is one of the best things to do during your trip to Ajloun. The reserve has several trails, ranging from easy to difficult. Each trail offers a unique look at the region’s nature, heritage, and village life.
Part of what makes Ajloun special is the mix of eco-tourism and community projects. These experiences support local families while offering something authentic to travelers. All of them are reachable by car from the reserve.
Ajloun is not just for hikers and nature lovers. It also has important Christian sites. Some pilgrims come just to see these landmarks. These spots can include in your road trip to Ajloun.
These stays offer a good mix of comfort, location, and price, making them great for your Ajloun Highlands adventure. Most travelers prefer spots near the castle, forest reserve, or main town. Here are three good options to consider:
This peaceful stay is just a few kilometers from Ajloun Castle. It offers air-conditioned cabins surrounded by trees, with outdoor seating and mountain views. Families will enjoy the large garden and private terraces, perfect after a day of hiking or castle visits. The property is clean, quiet, and gives you quick access to main roads, which makes driving easier.
If you want to feel like part of a local home, this guest house is warm and friendly. It’s located in a small neighborhood not far from Ajloun Castle. The host, Mohammad, is known for welcoming guests like family. The house offers free parking, homemade meals, and helpful advice about nearby attractions. It's simple but great for travelers who want an authentic experience.
This hotel sits only 1.7 kilometers from Ajloun Castle, making it one of the most convenient options in the area. It has a rooftop terrace, a restaurant, and clean rooms with views of the highlands. Parking is free and easy, so it’s a smart stop for travelers exploring by car. The staff is friendly, and the hotel is close to restaurants and shops in town.
After exploring castles and forest trails, it’s time to enjoy a meal. Ajloun offers local restaurants that serve traditional food with views of mountains, valleys, and olive groves. Here are three good places to eat fresh dishes and experience authentic Jordanian flavors.
This restaurant sits near the forest and offers a calm setting with outdoor seating and mountain air. It’s a great place to stop for grilled meats, fresh salads, and hot Jordanian mansaf. The simple wooden design and wide view of green hills make your meal feel like a picnic in nature.
As the name suggests, this place gives you a clear view of Ajloun Castle while you eat. The menu has local dishes like maqluba, chicken with rice, and sweet knafeh for dessert. It’s popular with visitors because of the nice service, fresh ingredients, and the view of the mountains during sunset.
This is a favorite for travelers looking for a complete meal in a quiet spot. Located on a hill, the restaurant offers Jordanian grills, lentil soup, and fresh flatbread made daily. The family-run staff serves with care, and the setting is great for resting after a day on the road.
If you have more time, the areas around Ajloun offer more outdoor adventures. These are perfect for active travelers or those who want something different.
A road trip to Ajloun gives you more than just beautiful views. It takes you through green forests, historic ruins, and peaceful villages you won’t find on crowded tours. From visiting Ajloun Castle to hiking the forest trails or enjoying a homemade meal in a mountain cabin, every stop brings something special.
Final Rentals is a trusted car rental service in Jordan. You can book online, choose from compact cars to SUVs, and pick up your car in Amman. It’s the easiest way to start your trip and explore Ajloun at your own pace.
