Private Walking Tour in Madaba with Local Guide

Madaba , Jordan

Private Walking Tour in Madaba with Local Guide

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About this experience

Madaba is a treasure trove of religious history, home to both Christian and Islamic heritage. From the famed mosaic map of the Holy Land to the Shrine of St. John the Baptist, this tour offers a unique chance to explore the city’s deep historical roots.
One of the highlights of the tour is the climb to the top of the bell tower at the Shrine of St. John the Baptist, where you’ll be rewarded with panoramic views of Madaba and its surroundings. This unique vantage point is a rare treat for visitors to the city.
you can Take breaks whenever you need, or ask your guide to include special stops based on your preferences. The itinerary is designed around you for a seamless and stress-free exploration.
This tour goes beyond just sightseeing. You’ll get a chance to interact with locals, browse the bustling bazaars, and learn about the city’s rich heritage firsthand. Whether it's savoring authentic Jordanian food or discovering ancient traditions, you'll experience the real essence of Madaba.

Available options

Private Walking Tour in Madaba with Local Guide

What's included

Food samples

Bottled Water

Private Local Guide

Customizable Itinerary

Detailed itinerary

Your first stop is the world-famous St. George’s Church, home to the Madaba Mosaic Map, the oldest surviving map of the Holy Land, dating back to the 6th century. Your guide will explain the map's significance in Christian history and its detailed depictions of Jerusalem and other biblical sites.

Continue to the Madaba Archaeological Park, where you’ll encounter ancient mosaics from different periods, including the remains of churches, houses, and streets from the Byzantine era. Key highlights include mosaics from the Church of the Virgin Mary and the Hippolytus Hall.

Visit the Madaba Museum to dive deeper into the city’s history. Here, you’ll see a collection of artifacts from the Roman, Byzantine, and Islamic periods, providing a broader understanding of the cultural evolution of Madaba.

End your tour with a visit to the Shrine of St. John the Baptist, an impressive 19th-century Catholic church. Ascend the bell tower for panoramic views of the city and explore the underground crypt believed to house relics related to St. John the Baptist.

What's not included

Entrance fees to churches in the city

Gratuities

Personal Expenses

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

Tripadvisor 5.0

2 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Service animals allowed

Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries

Not recommended for pregnant travelers

Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health

Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness

About Madaba

Madaba is a historic city known for its stunning Byzantine and Umayyad mosaics, particularly the famous Madaba Map. Located on the King's Highway, it offers rich cultural experiences and is a gateway to other significant biblical sites.

Top Attractions

Madaba Map

The Madaba Map is a famous 6th-century Byzantine mosaic map of the Holy Land, located in the Greek Orthodox Church of Saint George. It's a must-see for history and archaeology enthusiasts.

Historical/Religious 30-45 minutes Free (donations appreciated)

Madaba Archaeological Park

This park features the remains of several Byzantine and Umayyad churches, including the Church of the Virgin and the Bishop's Church, both of which have stunning mosaics.

Historical/Archaeological 1-2 hours Free (small fee for guided tours)

Mount Nebo

Mount Nebo is a significant biblical site where Moses is said to have viewed the Promised Land. The site features a memorial church and a museum with historical artifacts.

Historical/Religious 1-2 hours Moderate (entry fee applies)

Must-Try Local Dishes

Mansaf

A traditional Jordanian dish made with lamb cooked in a yogurt sauce and served with rice and almonds.

Main Course Contains meat and dairy

Maqluba

A layered dish made with rice, vegetables, and meat, cooked and then flipped upside down to serve.

Main Course Contains meat and vegetables

Falafel

Deep-fried balls or patties made from ground chickpeas, herbs, and spices.

Snack Vegetarian, but may contain allergens like sesame

Popular Activities

Hiking in nearby mountains Exploring historical sites Visiting the Dead Sea Enjoying traditional Jordanian cuisine Visiting museums and archaeological sites Experiencing local markets and traditions Swimming in the Dead Sea Not applicable

Best Time to Visit

Spring (March to May) and Fall (September to November)

This is the best time to visit Madaba due to the mild weather and pleasant temperatures. It's ideal for exploring the city's historical sites and enjoying outdoor activities.

15°C to 30°C 59°F to 86°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Arabic
Widely spoken: English
English: Moderately spoken, especially in tourist areas

Currency

Jordanian Dinar (JOD)

Time Zone

GMT+3

Electricity

230VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Madaba is generally safe for travelers, with low crime rates and a welcoming local population. However, it's always important to stay aware of your surroundings and take precautions to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip.

Important Precautions:

• Use reputable taxi services or agree on the fare before starting your journey.
• Keep valuables secure and be cautious in crowded areas.
• Research and book tours with reputable companies.

Getting there

By air

Queen Alia International Airport • 35 km (22 miles) from Madaba

By bus

Amman Central Bus Station, Madaba Bus Station

Getting around

Public transport

Local buses are available and are an affordable way to get around Madaba. However, the network is not as extensive as in larger cities.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Careem, Uber (limited availability)

Rentals

Car

Neighborhoods

Historic Center Modern City

Day trips

Mount Nebo

7 km (4.3 miles) • Half day

A significant biblical site with a memorial church and museum, offering panoramic views of the Jordan Valley.

Dead Sea

50 km (31 miles) • Full day

A unique natural wonder where you can float in the salty waters and enjoy the mineral-rich mud.

Festivals

Madaba Mosaic Festival • Annual, typically in the fall

Pro tips

Visit the Madaba Map early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds and enjoy the best lighting for photos.
Explore the historic center on foot to discover hidden gems and experience the city's charm.
Try traditional Jordanian dishes, such as mansaf and maqluba, at local restaurants for an authentic culinary experience.
Bargain politely when shopping at the souq, as it's a common practice and can lead to better deals.
Learn a few basic Arabic phrases to enhance your interaction with locals and show respect for their culture.