Day Tour To Desert Castles & Cave of the Seven Sleepers

Exploring Jordan’s rich Umayyad heritage is a captivating journey through time. The Day Tour to Desert Castles and the Cave of the Seven Sleepers promises an enriching experience, immersing visitors in the stunning architecture and captivating legends of the region. From the frescoed walls of Qusayr Amra to the imposing presence of Qasr Al Kharrana, each site tells a story that fascinates the curious traveler. But the true gem may lie in the enigmatic Cave of the Seven Sleepers, where a legendary tale of faith and miracles awaits those who venture forth.

Good To Know

• A private tour exploring Jordan’s Umayyad history, including visits to UNESCO-listed Qusayr Amra and the legendary Cave of the Seven Sleepers.
• Highlights include Qsar Al-Azraq, former headquarters of Lawrence of Arabia, and Qasr al Kharrana, showcasing Umayyad engineering.
• The tour provides a hassle-free experience with round-trip transportation, an English-speaking driver, and bottled water.
• Travelers praise the tour’s historical significance, knowledgeable drivers, and top highlights like the Qusayr Amra frescoes and the Cave of the Seven Sleepers.
• The tour is accessible for most travelers, offering a comprehensive introduction to Jordan’s rich Umayyad heritage.

Overview of the Tour

The day tour to the Desert Castles and Cave of the Seven Sleepers offers a unique opportunity to explore Jordan’s rich Umayyad history.

Rated 4.7 out of 5 by 11 travelers, the tour is recommended by 90% of visitors.

Provided by R&H VIP Transportation Services in Amman, the private tour takes you to three Umayyad-built desert castles, including the UNESCO-listed Qusayr Amra, and the legendary Cave of the Seven Sleepers.

The tour includes round-trip transport from Amman, an English-speaking driver, and bottled water.

While entry fees are at your own expense, the experience provides a hassle-free way to discover Jordan’s historical sites.

Most travelers can participate, making it an accessible adventure.

Highlights of the Itinerary

Three highlights of the itinerary include visiting Qsar Al-Azraq, the headquarters of Lawrence of Arabia, the UNESCO-listed Qusayr Amra, and Qasr al Kharrana.

At Qsar Al-Azraq, travelers can explore the desert castle that served as the base of operations for the famous British officer during the Arab Revolt.

Qusayr Amra, a UNESCO World Heritage site, boasts well-preserved Umayyad-era frescoes and intricate architectural details.

The final stop, Qasr al Kharrana, is another impressive desert castle showcasing the engineering prowess of the Umayyad dynasty.

After touring the castles, the group will visit the Cave of the Seven Sleepers, a Roman-era site rich in legendary history.

Exploring Qsar Al-Azraq

At the first stop of the day tour, visitors can explore Qsar Al-Azraq, the desert castle that once served as the headquarters for the famous British officer, Lawrence of Arabia, during the Arab Revolt.

This impressive Umayyad-era castle features well-preserved murals and intricate architectural details that offer a glimpse into the region’s rich history.

Travelers can wander through the castle’s rooms, courtyards, and towers, imagining the strategic planning and battles that took place within its walls.

The castle’s strategic location and striking black basalt construction make it a must-see for history enthusiasts and those interested in the iconic figure of Lawrence of Arabia.

Discovering Qusayr Amra

Next on the itinerary is Qusayr Amra, a UNESCO-listed Umayyad desert castle that enchants visitors with its well-preserved 8th-century frescoes.

This site’s unique and distinctive wall paintings depict human figures, animals, and mythological scenes, offering a rare glimpse into the art and culture of the Umayyad period.

Travelers can explore the castle’s interior chambers, marveling at the intricate details and vibrant colors of the frescoes.

Qusayr Amra’s historical significance and remarkable state of preservation make it a must-see destination on the desert castles tour, showcasing the architectural and artistic achievements of the Umayyad rulers.

Visiting Qasr Al Kharrana

Qasr al Kharrana stands as the final stop on the captivating desert castles tour. This imposing structure, built in the early 8th century, is a prime example of Umayyad architecture.

Visitors are immediately struck by its striking, fortress-like appearance, complete with thick walls, towers, and an inner courtyard. As they explore the site, they’ll discover the castle’s ingenious water management system and intricate stone carvings that hint at its storied past.

While not as ornate as Qusayr Amra, Qasr al Kharrana offers a glimpse into the strategic importance of these desert outposts during the Umayyad era. With its rugged charm and historical significance, it’s a fitting conclusion to this immersive journey through Jordan’s evocative past.

The Legend of the Cave

Nestled among the rugged desert landscape lies the legendary Cave of the Seven Sleepers, a site steeped in Roman-era lore.

According to the tale, seven young men sought refuge in the cave to escape religious persecution, and miraculously slept for centuries before awakening.

The cave’s mystical atmosphere and intricate carvings captivate visitors, who can explore its chambers and learn about the fascinating legend.

While the historical accuracy of the story remains debated, the Cave of the Seven Sleepers stands as a testament to Jordan’s rich cultural heritage, inviting travelers to enjoy the country’s storied past.

Transportation and Pickup Details

The tour provides hassle-free round-trip transportation from Amman to the desert castles and Cave of the Seven Sleepers. Pickup is available from any area in Amman, with the driver holding a signboard with the traveler’s name. Travelers should contact the supplier a day before the tour to confirm the pickup location and time. The transportation includes hotel pickup, an air-conditioned vehicle, onboard WiFi, and a fuel surcharge.

Feature	Details
Pickup	From any area in Amman
Driver	Holds signboard with traveler’s name
Confirmation	Contact supplier 1 day prior
Inclusions	Hotel pickup, air-conditioned vehicle, WiFi, fuel surcharge

Traveler Experiences and Recommendations

According to travelers, the tour received overall positive feedback, with visitors praising the unique historical significance of each desert castle and the Cave of the Seven Sleepers.

Drivers were noted for their punctuality, flexibility, and deep knowledge of the sites. While some travelers expressed a desire for more extensive guided tours, the experience was well-received, and recommendations were made for others to explore Jordan’s rich history.

The top 3 highlights mentioned by travelers include:

1. The fascinating history of Qsar Al-Azraq, Lawrence of Arabia’s headquarters.
2. The UNESCO-listed Qusayr Amra and its stunning Umayyad-era frescoes.
3. The captivating legends surrounding the Cave of the Seven Sleepers.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Customize the Tour Itinerary?

The tour provider offers a set itinerary, but guests can likely customize the experience by adding or removing specific castle visits or requesting a local guide to provide more in-depth tours at an additional cost.

Are Discounts Available for Larger Groups?

The tour provider offers discounted pricing for larger groups. Customers can expect the per-person rate to decrease as the group size increases, providing a more affordable option for those traveling together.

How Long Will I Have at Each Castle Site?

The time spent at each castle site varies, but it’s typically around 1-2 hours per location. This allows visitors to explore the ruins, learn about their history, and take in the desert atmosphere. The tour itinerary is designed to provide a comprehensive experience within the allotted time.

Can I Take Photographs Inside the Cave?

Visitors are typically allowed to take photographs inside the Cave of the Seven Sleepers, though they should be mindful of any restrictions or rules in place. It’s best to check with the tour guide or site staff upon arrival.

Is There an Option to Book a Guided Tour Instead?

Yes, the tour provider offers an option to book a guided tour in addition to the standard transportation-only package. The guided tour provides a local expert to lead visitors through the sites and share more detailed historical information.

The Sum Up

The Day Tour to Desert Castles and the Cave of the Seven Sleepers provides a captivating glimpse into Jordan’s rich Umayyad heritage. Travelers will be awed by the stunning architecture and frescoes while learning about the fascinating legends surrounding the Cave of the Seven Sleepers. With hassle-free transportation and an expert guide, this tour is a must-do for history enthusiasts seeking an immersive cultural experience in Jordan.