Deir Alla - Discovering Jordan

Travelling to Deir Alla

In this page you can find every information for a holiday in Deir Alla, 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 Deir Alla 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 Deir Alla, 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 Deir Alla for a perfect holiday.

General info for a trip to Deir Alla

Deir Alla is an archaeological site located in Jordan, about 10 kilometers north of the city of Madaba. It was an ancient town that was inhabited from the Bronze Age to the Islamic period. It is well-known for its connection to the story of the Moabite prophet Balaam, who is mentioned in the Old Testament. Excavations at Deir Alla have revealed a number of interesting artifacts, including inscriptions, tombs, and pottery. The site is also popular among tourists for its scenic location and its proximity to other historical attractions in the region.

What to visit in Deir Alla

Deir Alla is a small town located in the Jordan Valley, Jordan, hosting several tourist attractions. Some of them are: 1. Deir Alla Nature Reserve: This beautiful nature reserve is located on the east side of Deir Alla town and features lush green vegetation, deep valleys, and the famous Deir Alla Spring. It is a perfect place for hiking, camping, and bird watching.
2. Deir Alla Archaeological Site: This site holds the remains of an ancient city dating back to the Bronze Age and the Iron Age. It is believed to be the biblical city of Ataroth, mentioned in the Bible as one of the cities of Og, the king of Bashan. The site includes the remains of a fortified wall, houses, and a temple.
3. Al-Balua Mosque: Located in the heart of Deir Alla, the Al-Balua Mosque was built in the 19th century and is considered one of the most beautiful mosques in Jordan. The mosque features stunning architecture and elaborate decorations.
4. Wadi Al-Yabis: This beautiful valley is just a short distance from Deir Alla and features lush green vegetation and a series of waterfalls. It is a perfect place for hiking and picnicking.
5. Tell Abu al-Kharaz: This archaeological site is located just south of Deir Alla and features the remains of several ancient settlements dating back to the Bronze Age, including the biblical city of Tirzah. The site includes the remains of a fortified wall, houses, temples, and tombs.
Visiting Deir Alla and its historic sites and nature reserves is an excellent opportunity to travel through time and get a glimpse of the ancient history of Jordan, making it an amazing destination for adventurous travelers.
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.


You can find more information in this page dedicated to the top 10 attractions to visit in Deir Alla.

When to go on holiday to Deir Alla

The best time to visit Deir Alla, Jordan is between the months of March to May, and September to November. During these months, the weather is mostly pleasant, and the temperatures are not too extreme, making it perfect for outdoor activities and sightseeing. In contrast, in the summer months, the temperatures can soar, with daytime highs often reaching over 40°C, making it uncomfortable for various tourism activities. The winter months can get quite chilly, especially during the evenings, and some tourist attractions might be closed due to the weather conditions. Therefore, it’s best to plan your visit during the spring and autumn months.

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

How to get to Deir Alla

To get to Deir Alla in Jordan, you can take a taxi or private car from nearby cities such as Amman or Madaba. Alternatively, you can take a public bus from the Al Abdali Bus Station in Amman to the town of al-Azraq and then transfer to another bus heading to Deir Alla. It's also possible to rent a car or hire a driver for a more comfortable and convenient journey. The drive from Amman to Deir Alla takes about 1 hour and 20 minutes.
To find the most convenient flights, compare (and book if you like!) the best offers here on Skyscanner.
To hire a car to visit Deir Alla, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Typical foods in Deir Alla

Deir Alla is a small town in Jordan, and its cuisine is heavily influenced by the local Bedouin culture. Here are some typical dishes you can find in Deir Alla: 1. Mansaf: This is considered the national dish of Jordan and is a staple in Deir Alla. It consists of lamb or goat meat cooked in a fermented yogurt sauce, served over rice and accompanied by flatbread.
2. Zarb: This is a Bedouin-style barbecue where meat (usually lamb or chicken) and vegetables are cooked in an underground pit. The unique cooking technique gives the meat a smoky flavor and tender texture.
3. Freekeh: This is a type of cracked green wheat that is toasted and then boiled to make a hearty porridge. It is often served as a side dish to stews or meat dishes.
4. Makloubeh: This is a one-pot meal that consists of layers of rice, meat (usually chicken or lamb), and vegetables such as eggplant and tomatoes. The dish is flipped upside down when served, so the meat and vegetables are on top of the rice.
5. Kanafeh: This is a sweet dessert made of shredded phyllo dough, soaked in syrup and filled with melted cheese or cream. It is typically topped with pistachios and served warm.
6. Falafel: This is a popular Middle Eastern snack made from ground chickpeas, onion, and spices formed into balls or patties and deep-fried until crispy. They are typically served in pita bread with hummus and vegetables.
You can find general info about typical foods in Jordan here.

Is Deir Alla an expensive destination for tourists?

Deir Alla in Jordan is not a very popular tourist destination, and as such, it can be relatively inexpensive. However, the cost of your trip will depend on several factors such as where you are travelling from, the type of accommodations you choose, the activities you participate in, and your mode of transportation. It is recommended that you do some research to get an idea of the costs of accommodation and activities in Deir Alla before you travel. Overall, Jordan is known to be an affordable tourist destination compared to other countries in the region.

Where to find accomodation in Deir Alla

The best areas to find accommodation for visiting Deir Alla in Jordan are: - Madaba: Madaba is located about 20 km from Deir Alla and has a variety of accommodation options ranging from budget to luxury hotels.
- Dead Sea: The Dead Sea area is about 50 km away from Deir Alla and has several resort hotels with luxurious spa and wellness facilities.
- Amman: The capital city of Amman is located about 65 km from Deir Alla and has a wide range of mid-range to high-end hotels and apartments.
- Jerash: Jerash is located about 85 km from Deir Alla and has a few simple guesthouses and hotels for budget travelers.
It's important to note that Deir Alla is a small town with limited accommodation options, so many travelers choose to stay in one of the nearby cities/towns and take day trips to Deir Alla.
You can check hotel prices at Deir Alla here:
Booking.com

Is Deir Alla a safe destination for tourists?

Deir Alla is considered to be a safe place for tourists, generally. Jordan is known for being one of the safest countries in the Middle East, with a low crime rate and a stable political situation. However, as with any travel destination, it is always recommended that tourists take common sense precautions to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip. This includes staying aware of your surroundings, avoiding areas that are known for high levels of crime or unrest, and following the advice of local authorities.
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 Deir Alla.

What type of travelers will enjoy Deir Alla the most?

Deir Alla is a small town located in the northern part of Jordan that offers various activities for travelers. However, it might be more enjoyable for couples and families who are looking for a peaceful and relaxing vacation. Deir Alla is known for its natural hot springs, which are a popular attraction for families who seek a therapeutic experience. Couples can also enjoy the scenic views of the Jordan Valley, and the Dead Sea, which is only a few kilometers away from the town. Moreover, history enthusiasts can visit the nearby archaeological site of Tell Deir Alla and learn about ancient civilizations.
However, if you are looking for a place with a lively nightlife and outdoor activities, Deir Alla might not be the best option. Overall, Deir Alla is a great place for couples and families who want to relax and enjoy the natural beauty of Jordan's northern region.

How to get around Deir Alla

In Deir Alla, the most common modes of transportation are taxis, buses, and rented cars. Taxis are readily available in the town center, and they are generally the fastest mode of transportation. Buses also run through the town frequently and are cheaper than taxis but may take longer due to multiple stops. If you prefer more independence when exploring, renting a car is a good option. However, be aware that driving in Jordan can be more challenging and requires an international driving license.

What to see around Deir Alla

Certainly, here are some nice places to visit in a day trip from Deir Alla: 1. Jerash: Known for its ancient Roman ruins, Jerash is a must-visit attraction in Jordan. The city is only about a 45-minute drive from Deir Alla.
2. Ajloun: Located about an hour's drive from Deir Alla, Ajloun is home to a beautiful castle that offers stunning views of the surrounding hills.
3. Umm Qais: This ancient city is famous for its well-preserved Roman ruins and its breathtaking views of the Jordan Valley. It's about an hour and a half's drive from Deir Alla.
4. Madaba: Known for its incredible mosaics, Madaba is a small town that's less than an hour's drive from Deir Alla. Visit the St. George's Church and the Madaba Archaeological Museum.
5. Mount Nebo: A site of great religious significance, Mount Nebo is said to be where Moses saw the Promised Land. It's about an hour's drive from Deir Alla and offers amazing views of the surrounding area.
For every travel information about Jordan you can click here.

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