Desert Castle Private Tour
Active
7h - 8h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Discover three of Jordan’s famous desert castles on this 6-hour private tour from Dead Sea. With an informative private driver, learn about these fabled castles, built by Umayyad rulers during the 7th and 8th centuries as you visit each one in the desert plains of eastern Jordan. Explore UNESCO-listed Qusayr Amra, famous for its 8th-century frescoes of hedonistic scenes, before continuing to the atmospheric Qasr Kharana and Qasr al-Azraq castles, the latter used as a military base by TE Lawrence, known as ‘Lawrence of Arabia,’ during World War I.
Available options
Dead Sea - Desert Castle
5 Star service: VIP service<br/>Duration: 8 hours<br/>Full size Limo Car or Minivan: Private transportation in a modern air-conditioned full size Limo car or Minivan<br/>Pickup included
What's included
Private transportation
Air-conditioned vehicle
Detailed itinerary
1
Stop 1
Qasr al-Azraq is a large fortress in present-day eastern Jordan. It is one of the desert castles, on the outskirts of present-day Azraq, roughly 100 km east of Amman. Its strategic value came from the nearby oasis, the only water source in a vast desert region.
2
Stop 2
Continue to “Qasr Al -Kharanah”, an imperious 2-level fortress standing on a huge plain. Thought to have been built on Roman foundations, this evocative castle exudes intrigue and displays a rich array of Mesopotamian, Arabic, and Greek architectural influences.
3
Stop 3
Quseir’ Amra, one of east Jordan’s most famous castles. Once a hunting palace of the Umayyad, this splendidly restored edifice is graced with 8th-century fresco showing decadent scenes of nude women, wine, and parties.
What's not included
Tip for driver
No Guide Included in tour
Available languages
Guide guide
DE
RU
JA
EN
IT
FR
ES
Important information
Specialized infant seats are available
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible
Transportation options are wheelchair accessible
Wheelchair accessible
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
About Sweimah
Sweimah is a small town located in the Amman Governorate of Jordan, known for its stunning desert landscapes and proximity to the famous Wadi Rum. It offers a unique blend of traditional Jordanian culture and adventurous activities, making it a hidden gem for travelers seeking an off-the-beaten-path experience.
Top Attractions
Wadi Rum
Wadi Rum is a stunning desert landscape known for its red sand dunes, rock formations, and Bedouin culture. It is a popular destination for hiking, camping, and desert tours.
Nature/Adventure
Full day or overnight
Moderate to Expensive (depending on tour and activities)
Sweimah Village
Sweimah Village is a traditional Bedouin settlement that offers a glimpse into the local way of life. Visitors can explore the village, interact with locals, and learn about Bedouin culture.
Cultural
Half day
Free or Budget (for guided tours and activities)
Sweimah Desert
The Sweimah Desert offers a vast expanse of sand dunes, rock formations, and scenic landscapes. Visitors can explore the desert on foot, by camel, or by 4x4 vehicle.
Nature/Adventure
Half day to full day
Free or Budget (for guided tours and activities)
Must-Try Local Dishes
Mansaf
Mansaf is the national dish of Jordan, made with lamb cooked in a fermented dried yogurt sauce and served with rice, pine nuts, and almonds.
Main Dish
Contains meat and dairy
Maqluba
Maqluba is a traditional Jordanian dish made with rice, vegetables, and meat (usually chicken or lamb), cooked and then flipped upside down to serve.
Main Dish
Contains meat and vegetables
Knafeh
Knafeh is a popular Jordanian dessert made with shredded phyllo dough, cheese, and sweet syrup, often topped with pistachios.
Dessert
Contains cheese and nuts
Popular Activities
Hiking
Camping
Desert tours
Cultural experiences
Photography
Exploring Sweimah Village
Interacting with locals
Staying overnight in a Bedouin camp
Best Time to Visit
Spring (March to May) and Autumn (September to November)
The best time to visit Sweimah is during the spring and autumn months when the weather is pleasant, and outdoor activities are enjoyable. The temperatures are comfortable for exploring the desert and engaging in adventurous activities.
20°C to 30°C (68°F to 86°F)
68°F to 86°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: Arabic
- Widely spoken: English
- English: Moderately spoken in tourist areas
Currency
Jordanian Dinar (JOD)
Time Zone
GMT+3
Electricity
230VV, 50HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe
Sweimah is generally safe for travelers, but visitors should be aware of the risks associated with desert travel, such as dehydration, heat exhaustion, and getting lost. Petty crime is rare, but travelers should take precautions to protect their belongings.
Important Precautions:
- • Be cautious when hiring taxis and tour guides
- • Negotiate prices in advance and agree on a fare before starting the journey
- • Be aware of your surroundings and keep your belongings secure
Getting there
By air
- Queen Alia International Airport • 60 km (37 miles) from Sweimah
By bus
Amman Central Bus Station
Getting around
Public transport
Shared taxis are available for travel to nearby towns, but they are not a common mode of transportation within Sweimah. Travelers should be prepared to arrange their own transportation.
Taxis
Available • Apps: Careem
Rentals
Car
Neighborhoods
Sweimah Village
Sweimah Desert
Day trips
Wadi Rum
30 km (19 miles) • Full day or overnight
Wadi Rum is a stunning desert landscape known for its red sand dunes, rock formations, and Bedouin culture. It is a popular destination for hiking, camping, and desert tours.
Petra
120 km (75 miles) • Full day
Petra is an ancient city carved into the red sandstone cliffs of southern Jordan. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the New Seven Wonders of the World.
Festivals
Bedouin Cultural Festival • Annual, typically in spring
Pro tips
- Hire a local guide for a more immersive and informative experience
- Stay overnight in a Bedouin camp for a unique cultural experience
- Bring plenty of water and sun protection when exploring the desert
- Respect local customs and traditions, and dress modestly
- Be prepared for desert driving conditions if renting a car
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation
