Umm Al-Rasas - Discovering Jordan

Travelling to Umm Al-Rasas

In this page you can find every information for a holiday in Umm Al-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 Al-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 Al-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 Al-Rasas for a perfect holiday.

General info for a trip to Umm Al-Rasas

Umm Al-Rasas is an archaeological site located in Jordan, about 30 kilometers southeast of the city of Madaba. It is known for its well-preserved Byzantine-era mosaics, which feature intricate geometric and figurative designs. The site also includes the ruins of several Christian churches and monasteries, as well as several Roman and Byzantine structures. It was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2004. Umm Al-Rasas is a popular destination for tourists interested in ancient history and architecture.

What to visit in Umm Al-Rasas

Sure, here are some top tourist attractions in Umm Al-Rasas, Jordan: 1. Umm Al-Rasas Archaeological Site: This is the most famous tourist attraction in the region, which was once a prosperous Byzantine city in the 5th to 8th centuries. There are countless mosaics here that have been untouched since they were first discovered. UNESCO has designated the area as a World Heritage site.
2. The Church of Saint Stephen: Known for its well-preserved architecture and ancient mosaics, the church is one of the most important sites in Umm Al-Rasas for historians and architecture enthusiasts.
3. Tomb of Aaron: Located at the summit of Mount Aaron, the tomb is said to be the final resting place of Moses' brother. It is an important pilgrimage site, and the surrounding scenery is incredibly beautiful.
4. Mafraq Museum: This museum showcases the rich cultural heritage of Umm Al-Rasas and the wider region through its exhibitions of artifacts, traditional clothing, and domestic utensils.
5. Qa'Al Mahatta: Known as one of the oldest train stations in Jordan, this station is a remarkable example of early 20th century railway architecture.
6. Tawahin As-Sukkar: Located south of the Umm Al-Rasas Archaeological Site, Tawahin As-Sukkar is a popular picnic spot with stunning views of the Wadi Mujib nature reserve.
Visitors to this ancient city are sure to be fascinated by its wealth of history, complemented by stunning landscapes and amazing structures.
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 Al-Rasas

The best time to visit Umm Al-Rasas in Jordan is from March to May and from September to November. During these months you can expect comfortable temperatures and sunny weather, making it perfect for exploring the ancient ruins and enjoying outdoor activities. The summer months can be extremely hot, with temperatures exceeding 40°C, and the winter months can be chilly and rainy. It's also worth checking the local events calendar as there may be festivals or special events happening that you might want to attend.

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

How to get to Umm Al-Rasas

To get to Umm Al-Rasas (also known as Kastron Mefa'a), you can take a taxi or a rental car from Amman, which is the capital city of Jordan. The site is located about 30 kilometers south of Amman, near the town of Madaba. It should take approximately 30-40 minutes to reach the site by car. Alternatively, you can also take a bus from the Abdali bus station in Amman to Madaba and then hire a taxi to take you to Umm Al-Rasas.
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 Al-Rasas, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Typical foods in Umm Al-Rasas

Umm Al-Rasas is a small city in Jordan that offers a variety of delicious traditional dishes. Here are some typical foods of Umm Al-Rasas and their descriptions: 1. Mansaf: Mansaf is considered the national dish of Jordan. It is usually made with lamb, rice, and a fermented yogurt sauce called jameed. It is a hearty, flavorful dish that is often served at celebrations and special occasions.
2. Makloubeh: Makloubeh is a dish that is typically made with chicken, rice, and eggplant, all layered together in a pot and then flipped over to serve. It is seasoned with a mix of spices, including cinnamon, allspice, and turmeric. Makloubeh has a unique flavor and is a popular choice for family dinners.
3. Zarb: Zarb is a Bedouin-style barbecue that is cooked underground. Meat, usually lamb or chicken, is marinated in a mix of spices and herbs and then placed in a pit that is lined with hot coals. The pit is then covered with a layer of sand, and the meat slow-cooks for several hours. The result is tender, flavorful meat that is enjoyed with side dishes like rice, vegetables, and yogurt sauce.
4. Shawarma: Shawarma is a popular street food in Jordan. It consists of thin slices of meat, usually chicken or lamb, that are cooked on a rotating spit and then sliced off and served in a wrap or pita bread. Shawarma is often topped with tahini sauce or a spicy chili paste.
5. Maqluba: Maqluba is another layered dish that is similar to makloubeh. It is made with rice, chicken, and vegetables like eggplant, cauliflower, and potatoes. The ingredients are layered together in a pot and then flipped over to serve. Maqluba is a comforting, filling dish that is perfect for a chilly evening.
You can find general info about typical foods in Jordan here.

Is Umm Al-Rasas an expensive destination for tourists?

Umm Al-Rasas is not a particularly expensive destination for tourists in Jordan. The entrance fee to the Umm Al-Rasas Archaeological Site is very reasonable, and there are a few affordable accommodations and restaurants in the nearby town of Madaba. However, it is important to note that transportation costs may add up if you are not driving, as Umm Al-Rasas is located about 30 kilometers southeast of Madaba and is not easily accessible by public transportation. Overall, Umm Al-Rasas can be a relatively budget-friendly destination for tourists in Jordan.

Where to find accomodation in Umm Al-Rasas

The best areas to find accommodation when visiting Umm Al-Rasas would be Madaba (which is about 19 kilometers away) or Amman (which is about 70 kilometers away). Both cities have a variety of accommodation options such as hotels, guesthouses, and Airbnb rentals. Madaba is closer, so it may be a better option for those who want to spend more time exploring Umm Al-Rasas, while Amman is larger and has more diverse options for accommodation and things to do.
You can check hotel prices at Umm Al-Rasas here:
Booking.com

Is Umm Al-Rasas a safe destination for tourists?

Yes, Umm Al-Rasas, also known as Kastron Mefaa, is generally considered a safe place for tourists. The site is located in central Jordan, approximately 30 kilometers south of the capital city Amman, and is UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its well-preserved Byzantine architecture.
However, as with any travel destination, it is always advisable to exercise caution and to be aware of your surroundings. It is also recommended to follow any local laws and customs, as well as to stay up-to-date on any travel advisories or warnings issued by your government.
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 Al-Rasas.

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

Umm Al-Rasas is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a historic landmark located in Jordan. It is an ancient city with impressive historic ruins, including several Byzantine churches, castles, and towers. Therefore, I would say that Umm Al-Rasas is ideal for travelers who are interested in ancient history and architecture.
That being said, Umm Al-Rasas can be enjoyed by all types of travelers, including couples and families. Young people looking for fun might find the ruins a bit too quiet, but they can still enjoy the history and culture of the place. Families with children can also have a great time exploring the ancient ruins and learning about the history and culture of the area.
Overall, Umm Al-Rasas is a great destination for those who appreciate ancient history and culture, and it can be enjoyed by travelers of all ages and interests.

How to get around Umm Al-Rasas

The best way to move around Umm Al-Rasas is by hiring a taxi or driving a private car. There is limited public transportation in this area, and the roads can be challenging to navigate if you're not familiar with the area. Hiring a taxi or driving a private vehicle will provide you with the flexibility to explore the area at your own pace and convenience.

What to see around Umm Al-Rasas

Sure, here are some popular places you can visit on a day trip from Umm Al-Rasas in Jordan: 1. Petra 2. Wadi Rum 3. Dead Sea 4. Aqaba 5. Amman 6. Madaba 7. Mount Nebo 8. Jerash All these places are easily accessible from Umm Al-Rasas and can be visited in a day. Let me know if you need any more information on these places.
For every travel information about Jordan you can click here.

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