Things To Do
in Al Karak
Al Karak is a historic hill town in southern Jordan dominated by the imposing Crusader-era Karak Castle. Set along the ancient King's Highway, it overlooks rugged valleys and red-tinted limestone slopes. The town blends Bedouin hospitality with centuries-old architecture, narrow stair-stepped streets, and traditional markets.
Nearby olive groves and seismic landscapes offer a quieter, authentic alternative to Jordan's more visited sites.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your journey at the magnificent Karak Castle, a 12th-century fortress that has stood the test of time. As you walk through its ancient halls and towers, immerse yourself in the rich history of the Crusades and the strategic importance of this location. Guided tours are available to enhance your experience with fascinating stories from the past.
After lunch at a nearby local eatery, head to the nearby town center to explore local shops and markets. Here, you can find handcrafted souvenirs and taste some traditional Jordanian snacks like 'manaqish'. Don't forget to try the local coffee, an essential part of Jordanian hospitality.
As the sun sets, find a cozy spot to enjoy a traditional meal at a restaurant with views of the castle illuminated at night. Relax and savor dishes like Mansaf, a national dish of Jordan, served with rice and lamb. Engage with locals and perhaps share stories over a cup of Arabic tea.
Begin your day by visiting the ancient churches in the surrounding area, including the beautifully preserved Church of St. George, known for its stunning mosaics. Spend some time appreciating the intricate artwork that has survived the ages, embodying the spiritual significance of the location. Talking to local historians can deepen your understanding of the region’s religious heritage.
Travel to the nearby village of Mukawir, associated with the legendary story of Herod and the beheading of John the Baptist. Hike up to the ancient ruins and enjoy breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. Discover the history and lore surrounding this unique site, making for an enriching experience.
Return to Al Karak and visit a local restaurant to try some unique Jordanian dishes while discussing your day's adventures. The ambiance is cozy, often accompanied by soft music that enhances your dining experience. Savor the flavors of the dish while reflecting on the historical significance of your explorations.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $6-12 |
| ☕Coffee or tea at cafe | $2-4 |
| 🧭Local souvenir | $5-25 |
| 🚗Taxi ride (short) | $3-10 |
| 🛏️Mid-range hotel room per night | $40-90 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich Crusader history and striking fortress scenery
- Warm hospitality and authentic Jordanian cuisine
- Accessible day trips to nature and rural villages
- Compact town feel with authentic markets and cafes
- Limited nightlife and few large-scale tourist attractions inside Karak
- Hot summers can be intense without proper planning
- Some signage and information in English may be limited in older parts
- "Marhaba" - Hello
- "Shukran" - Thank you
- "Min fadlik" - Please
- "Kam al-thaman?" - How much is this?
- "Ayna al-hammam?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "La shukran" - No thank you
Places to Visit in Al Karak
Visit one of these nice places.
Panoramic views of the fortress and the town valley; dramatic silhouettes of walls and towers at sunrise or sunset.
Narrow limestone lanes with traditional doors, stairs, and shaded courtyards—perfect for candid street photography.
Interior courtyards and tunnel passages within Qal'at Karak offer textures, light contrasts, and historical ambiance.
Rock outcrops and viewpoints above the valley provide sweeping landscape compositions.
The bustle of the souk area with colorful textiles, bread racks, and aromatic spice stalls as foregrounds.
Food in Al Karak
Al Karak Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Lamb cooked in a thick yogurt sauce and served over rice with flatbread; a classic Jordanian feast often shared in large portions.
Must-Try!
An upside-down rice dish layered with meat and vegetables, flipped onto a serving platter for a rustic presentation.
Lentils and rice topped with caramelized onions; a simple, comforting vegetarian option commonly found in local eateries.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A traditional market area where you can sample fresh bread, olives, dairy, and seasonal produce, plus small stalls with snacks and sweets.
Visit roadside stalls for warm falafel, hummus bowls, and alternating sweet pastries; great for a quick, flavorful bite.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Use a polite greeting like 'Salam alaykum' or 'Marhaba.' Shake hands with the right hand; addressing elders with respect is common.
Modest dress is appreciated, especially in religious sites and villages. Remove shoes where appropriate in homes or certain mosques; avoid loud public displays of affection in conservative areas.
Hospitality is important—accept invitations when offered and try local foods. Asking about family and local customs is common and welcomed.
Safety
Tipping in Al Karak
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is customary but modest. In restaurants, 5–10% is appreciated if service is not included; small tips for taxi drivers and cafe staff are common.
Cash is widely accepted in markets and smaller shops. Credit/debit cards are increasingly accepted in larger restaurants and hotels; ATMs are available in town centers.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Pleasant temperatures (15–25°C); wildflowers in bloom; occasional showers. Pack layers and a light rain jacket.
Hot days (30–37°C) with cooler evenings. Stay hydrated, wear sun protection, and schedule outdoor activities for early mornings or late afternoons.
Comfortable temperatures with clear skies; ideal for exploring both town and countryside. Light layers recommended.
Cool to cold (often near 0–10°C at night); rare but possible rain. Bring a warm coat and sturdy shoes for uneven streets.
Al Karak at Night
Hiking in Al Karak
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A scenic ridge walk offering views of the town and surrounding valleys; moderate effort with rewarding photo opportunities.
A bit farther afield but excellent for longer day hikes, biodiversity, and dramatic landscapes.
Seasonal river gorge hikes and canyon experiences; best in spring when water levels are moderate.
Airports
How to reach Al Karak by plane.
Located near Amman, this is the main international gateway to Jordan; a 1.5–2.5 hour drive to Karak depending on traffic and route.
Smaller airport in Amman area; useful for regional flights and closer access to northern Jordan; travel to Karak will involve ground transport.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Predominantly Arab Jordanians with strong tribal and family ties. The area combines traditional rural life with visiting and resident families who maintain hospitality traditions.
Semi-nomadic and settled groups with customary crafts, livestock farming, and deep-rooted desert heritage.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport across Jordan, with local leagues and informal games in towns like Karak.
Common in schools and community centers; casual street courts can be found in towns.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Al Karak.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many Jordanian dishes can be enjoyed vegetarian (hummus, mujabara, falafel variants). Ask for vegetable-centric options or abstain from meat and dairy in mixed platters; clarify no meat stock or broth if needed.