Umm Ar-Rasas - Discovering Jordan

Travelling to Umm Ar-Rasas

In this page you can find every information for a holiday in Umm Ar-Rasas, a pretty good destination in Jordan (all info about the whole country here).
We will answer the most important questions: what to visit, when to go, how to get to Umm Ar-Rasas and what means of transport to use to get around. We will describe typical foods, the costs for tourists and where to find accomodation. We will list also the places to see around Umm Ar-Rasas, and we will also talk about safety and how each type of traveler can enjoy a trip here.
So, if you are travelling through Jordan, here's everything to know about Umm Ar-Rasas for a perfect holiday.

General info for a trip to Umm Ar-Rasas

Umm Ar-Rasas is an ancient town located in Jordan, about 30 kilometers southeast of the city of Madaba. It was originally a Nabataean settlement and later became an important Roman and Byzantine town. The city played an important role as a stopover on the trade route between Arabia and Damascus. The town is known for its many well-preserved ancient buildings, including a large Byzantine church, numerous temples, and other structures. The site is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is considered one of the most important ancient cities in Jordan.

What to visit in Umm Ar-Rasas

Umm Ar-Rasas is an archaeological site in Jordan that has been designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Here are some of the tourist attractions in Umm Ar-Rasas along with some information about them: 1. St. Stephen's Church: This ancient church dates back to the 8th century and features intricate mosaics and frescoes. It is one of the best-preserved examples of early Christian Byzantine architecture in the region.
2. The Watchtower: This tower is also known as Qasr Al-Mushatta and was part of a complex that included a palace and a mosque. It was built in the 8th century and provides a glimpse into the Islamic architecture of the time.
3. The Archaeological Museum: Located within the site, the museum houses a collection of artifacts unearthed during excavations in the area. The exhibits offer insights into the history of Umm Ar-Rasas, its people, and their way of life.
4. The Water Cisterns: These extensive underground cisterns were used to store rainwater and were constructed during the 6th century. They are an impressive feat of engineering and offer a fascinating look into ancient water management techniques.
5. The Roman Fort: This fortress dates back to the 3rd century and was built to defend against nomadic tribes. Visitors can explore the remains of the fort and admire its impressive walls and towers.
Overall, Umm Ar-Rasas is a treasure trove of archaeological and historical wonders, offering visitors a unique glimpse into the rich and diverse heritage of Jordan.
In this website, you can find many other destinations to visit in Jordan, so you can have a look in the "USEFUL LINKS" sections in this page for other places that could inspire your trip.

When to go on holiday to Umm Ar-Rasas

The best time to visit Umm Ar-Rasas in Jordan is between the months of March and May or September and November. During these months, the weather is mild and pleasant, making it ideal for exploring the archaeological site and the surrounding landscapes. The summer months can be very hot with temperatures hovering around 40-degrees Celsius during the day, while the winter months can be quite chilly and wet. Thus, it is better to avoid visiting during these times.

You can book here visit and activities to do during your holiday!

How to get to Umm Ar-Rasas

To get to Umm Ar-Rasas in Jordan, you can take a taxi or hire a private car from the city of Madaba, which is about 25 kilometers away. Alternatively, you can also take a bus from Amman to Madaba and then take a taxi or a private car to Umm Ar-Rasas. Another option is to book a guided tour that includes transportation to and from the site. It is also recommended to check with your hotel or tour operator for transportation options.
To find the most convenient flights, compare (and book if you like!) the best offers here on Skyscanner.
To hire a car to visit Umm Ar-Rasas, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Typical foods in Umm Ar-Rasas

Umm Ar-Rasas is an ancient site in Jordan, and there are no typical foods from this specific location. However, Jordan has a rich culinary culture and some of the popular traditional dishes that you can find in Jordan include: 1. Mansaf: A national dish of Jordan made with lamb, yogurt, and rice. It is often served on special occasions and family gatherings.
2. Falafel: Deep-fried balls made of chickpeas or fava beans, served as a snack or in sandwiches.
3. Hummus: A dip made with chickpeas, tahini, and olive oil. It is served with bread as a starter or a side dish.
4. Mutabbal: Another popular dip made with grilled eggplants, tahini, and garlic. It is similar to baba ghanoush.
5. Shawarma: Thinly sliced meat (chicken, beef, or lamb) wrapped in pita bread with vegetables and a sauce.
6. Maqluba: A one-pot dish made with rice, vegetables, and meat, cooked in a pot and then flipped upside down before serving.
7. Kofta: Grilled or fried ground meatballs, often served on a skewer with vegetables.
8. Baklava: A sweet pastry made with layers of phyllo dough, nuts, and honey syrup.
These foods are widely available in Jordan and are popular among tourists.
You can find general info about typical foods in Jordan here.

Is Umm Ar-Rasas an expensive destination for tourists?

Umm Ar-Rasas is generally not seen as an expensive destination compared to other popular tourist destinations, but it also depends on your budget and travel preferences. Admission fees to the Umm Ar-Rasas archaeological site are around 10 Jordanian Dinar (around 14 USD) for foreign visitors, which is relatively reasonable. However, costs of transportation, accommodation, food, and other activities will also contribute to your overall travel budget. It's always a good idea to research and compare prices beforehand to better assess the costs and plan accordingly.

Where to find accomodation in Umm Ar-Rasas

There are two main areas where you can find accommodation to visit Umm Ar-Rasas in Jordan. The first is in the nearby city of Madaba, which is about 25 km away from the site. Madaba is a popular tourist destination with a range of accommodation options including budget-friendly guesthouses and high-end hotels. The benefit of staying in Madaba is that you will have access to a range of restaurants, shops, and services that are not available in Umm Ar-Rasas.
The second option is to stay in the area around Umm Ar-Rasas itself. There are some small guesthouses and hotels in the surrounding villages that offer basic but comfortable accommodation. This option is ideal if you want to be close to the site and enjoy a quieter, more rural setting. However, there may be limited services and amenities in these areas.
You can check hotel prices at Umm Ar-Rasas here:
Booking.com

Is Umm Ar-Rasas a safe destination for tourists?

Yes, Umm Ar-Rasas is generally considered a safe place for tourists to visit in Jordan. The area is known for its historical and archaeological sites, including a number of Byzantine-era churches and mosaics. However, like with any tourist destination, it's always important to exercise caution and be aware of your surroundings, especially if you are traveling alone or at night. It's always a good idea to research the current situation before traveling and to follow any local safety guidelines.
You can find general info about safety for tourists in Jordan here. Always check updated government info about travelers's safety on the ufficial Foreign Affairs website of your government, before visiting Umm Ar-Rasas.

What type of travelers will enjoy Umm Ar-Rasas the most?

Umm Ar-Rasas is a UNESCO World Heritage Site located in Jordan. It is an ancient archaeological site that has remained largely untouched, making it a great destination for history buffs and travelers who enjoy exploring ancient ruins and artifacts. Given the nature of the site, it is more likely that couples and families would appreciate the experience than young people looking for fun, as the emphasis is more on the cultural and historical significance of the location. However, if young people are interested in history or archaeology, they may still enjoy the trip. Overall, Umm Ar-Rasas is best suited for travelers who have an interest in history and ancient civilization.

How to get around Umm Ar-Rasas

The best way to move around Umm Ar-Rasas is by using a private car or hiring a taxi. There is no public transportation available in the area. However, many tour operators include the site in their itineraries and offer transportation services. It is also possible to rent a car with a driver or drive yourself if you are familiar with the area. Walking is also an option as the site is not very big, but it can be difficult during the summer months due to the heat.

What to see around Umm Ar-Rasas

Umm Ar-Rasas is a great base to explore some of Jordan's most historic and breathtaking sites. Here are some nice places that can be visited in a day trip from Umm Ar-Rasas: 1. Madaba: Located just 17 km from Umm Ar-Rasas, Madaba is known for its Byzantine-era mosaics, notably the famous 6th-century mosaic map of Jerusalem and the Holy Land. 2. Mount Nebo: About 20 km northwest of Umm Ar-Rasas, Mount Nebo is believed to be the spot from where Moses saw the Promised Land before he died. The site offers panoramic views of the Dead Sea, Jericho, and the Jordan Valley.
3. Dead Sea: The lowest point on earth, the Dead Sea is known for its therapeutic properties and unique floating experience. Qumran, where the Dead Sea Scrolls were discovered, is also located nearby.
4. Petra: Petra is a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the world's most famous archaeological sites. The city of Petra is only a few hours from Umm Ar-Rasas, making it a perfect day trip destination.
5. Wadi Mujib: Only an hour and a half drive from Umm Ar-Rasas, Wadi Mujib is a stunning river canyon, known for its beautiful waterfalls, natural pools, and challenging hikes. 6. Karak Castle: About an hour's drive from Umm Ar-Rasas, Karak Castle is one of Jordan's most impressive Crusader castles. The castle sits atop a hill overlooking the surrounding valleys. 7. Jerash: About an hour and a half drive from Umm Ar-Rasas, Jerash is a well-preserved Roman city that offers a glimpse into the ancient days of Jordan. The site features a hippodrome, theater, temples, and an impressive colonnaded street.
For every travel information about Jordan you can click here.

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