The Spirit of Ajloun

What truly makes Ajloun special isn’t only its castle, trails, or forests — it’s the feeling you get while you’re there.
The sound of the wind moving through pine trees, the laughter of children in village streets, and the call to prayer echoing through the valley create a calm rhythm that feels timeless.

It’s a place to disconnect from the noise, to reconnect with nature, and to experience the slower, more authentic side of Jordanian life.

Practical Information for Travelers

• Location: 70 km north of Amman (around 1.5-hour drive).

• Best time to visit: March–June and September–November for mild weather and green scenery.

• How to get there: Rent a car from Amman or join a guided day tour.

• Tickets:

  • Ajloun Castle – around 3 JD (free with Jordan Pass).

  • Cable Car – 4 JD for locals and 10 JD for foreigners.

  • Forest Reserve entry – around 3 JD.

• Tips: Bring water, comfortable shoes, and a light jacket for cooler evenings.
  

Final Thoughts

Ajloun is where Jordan’s northern highlands whisper stories of courage, faith, and nature’s quiet strength.
Whether you come for the castle, the forest trails, or simply the fresh mountain air — you’ll leave with a sense of peace that stays with you long after you’ve driven back to the city.

It’s not just a destination. It’s a reminder that Jordan’s beauty isn’t only found in the desert — but also in its green heart.

Ajloun Travel Guide – Jordan’s Green Gem of Castles, Forests & Adventure

Discover Ajloun, Jordan’s lush highland escape filled with medieval castles, forests, hiking trails, a scenic cable car, and authentic local food. A perfect day trip or weekend getaway from Amman.

Ajloun: Jordan’s Green Gem in the Highlands:

Hidden among the rolling hills of northern Jordan, Ajloun is a place where the scent of pine trees fills the air and medieval walls rise above endless greenery.
Only 70 kilometers from Amman, this peaceful town offers a refreshing contrast to the desert landscapes that Jordan is often known for.
It’s where history, nature, and local life come together — inviting travelers to slow down, breathe in the mountain air, and explore.

A Glimpse into Ajloun’s History:

Ajloun’s story begins long before its castle was built.
The area has been inhabited since ancient times thanks to its fertile land and natural water springs.
But its most iconic landmark — Ajloun Castle (Qala’at Ar-Rabad) — dates back to the 12th century.

Built by one of Saladin’s generals to protect the region from Crusader attacks, the castle served both as a defensive fortress and a lookout tower.
Today, visitors can wander through its stone corridors, climb to the towers, and enjoy sweeping views of the Jordan Valley, the West Bank, and even parts of the Golan Heights on clear days.
At sunset, when the golden light touches the hills, it feels like time slows down — and history comes alive.

The Ajloun Cable Car: A New Way to See Jordan’s Nature

One of Ajloun’s newest attractions is the Ajloun Cable Car, connecting the castle area with the nearby village of Anjara.
Stretching across deep valleys and dense forests, the ride offers breathtaking panoramic views of olive groves and mountain peaks.

Each cabin glides silently above the green landscape, giving travelers a new perspective of Jordan’s northern beauty.
It’s an experience that blends adventure with serenity — a must-do for photographers and nature lovers alike.

Hiking in Ajloun: Where Adventure Meets Tranquility

Ajloun is a hiker’s paradise.
Several trails cut through the region, from gentle walks between local farms to challenging routes along the Jordan Trail, which passes through the Ajloun Forest Reserve.

The Soap House Trail and Olive Trail, managed by the Royal Society for the Conservation of Nature (RSCN), are two of the most popular routes.
They lead hikers through lush forests, small villages, and local craft workshops.
Along the way, it’s common to meet friendly residents offering fresh pomegranate juice or homemade olive oil.

Spring and autumn are the best seasons for hiking — when the weather is mild and the hills are covered with wildflowers.

The Ajloun Forest Reserve: A Natural Sanctuary

The Ajloun Forest Reserve, established in 1987 by the RSCN, protects one of Jordan’s last remaining areas of evergreen oak and pine forest.
Spread across 13 square kilometers, it’s home to hundreds of plant species and several rare animals — including the roe deer, which was successfully reintroduced after disappearing from Jordan for decades.

The reserve offers eco-lodges and wooden cabins with panoramic views of the hills — perfect for travelers seeking peace, stargazing, or birdwatching.
At night, the forest hums with the soft sounds of nature, and the sky fills with stars far from city lights.

Hidden Treasures and Local Life

Beyond its main attractions, Ajloun’s charm lies in its villages and the warmth of its people.
Drive through the countryside, and you’ll pass stone houses surrounded by fig trees, olive groves, and terraced farms.
Local markets sell honey, thyme, olive oil, and traditional homemade sweets.

In the small town of Anjara, a Christian pilgrimage site known for the Our Lady of the Mountain Church, visitors can explore another layer of the region’s spiritual heritage.
This mix of cultures and faiths has shaped Ajloun into one of Jordan’s most peaceful and welcoming regions.

Where to Eat in Ajloun

Food in Ajloun reflects the rich flavors of Jordanian countryside life.
You’ll find small, family-run restaurants serving dishes made from local ingredients — freshly baked bread, goat cheese, and olive oil pressed from nearby farms.

Some popular local spots include:

• Jar al Jabal Restaurant – with views of the forest and castle.

• Beit Khairat Ajloun – perfect for traditional breakfast, lunch and dinner.

For the most authentic experience, visit during harvest season and join a local family for olive picking — a cherished autumn tradition.

The Animal Reserve and Wildlife Experience

Just outside the main forest, the Ajloun Animal Reserve gives visitors the chance to see local wildlife up close.
It’s part of Jordan’s eco-tourism efforts to protect endangered species while educating visitors about conservation.
Roe deer, wild boar, foxes, and various bird species can be seen in their natural habitat — making it a great family-friendly stop, especially for kids.

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