Free cancellationFull refund up to 24 hours before
Instant confirmationYour booking is confirmed right away
TicketMobile or paper ticket accepted
LanguagesEnglish
Private tourOnly your group will participate
Pickup offeredSee the meeting and pickup details below
Overview
What makes this tour unique is its combination of exclusivity, hidden heritage, and authentic local connection — all within easy reach of Amman. Unlike standard itineraries, this private experience takes you beyond the typical tourist trail to explore the remarkable landscapes of Iraq Al-Amir at a relaxed pace. You’ll discover rare Hellenistic architecture, ancient cliffside caves, and meaningful community initiatives, all with personalised attention, flexible timing, and luxury transport. Every detail is thoughtfully curated to create a refined, intimate journey that feels both culturally enriching and truly personal.
What's included
Private transportation
Soda/Pop
WiFi on board
Bottled water
All Fees and Taxes
Air-conditioned vehicle
Lunch
What to expect
20m
Our first stop is the remarkable Muallaqat al-Dayr, an ancient rock-cut columbarium rising more than seven meters high. Inside, you’ll see around 800 triangular niches carved across three levels — once used for breeding doves, an important economic activity in antiquity. A modern staircase makes access easy, and the short 5–10 minute climb rewards you with impressive views. You’ll receive a concise historical introduction along with guidance to the best photo spots.
15m
Next, we visit the site known locally as Mugharat al-Kaniseh — the Cave of the Church. This Byzantine-era complex includes a large cave church (currently closed for ongoing excavations) and a second basilica built directly in front of it. The cave entrance is distinguished by a decorated façade featuring a pediment with carved crosses. Outside, the limestone-built church (21 x 10 meters) still reveals its apse and seating rows. The mosaic floor once displayed colourful tesserae and bore a Greek inscription translated as: “Jesus the Saviour, the First and the Last.”
Iraq Al Amir
40m
Iraq Al-Amir — meaning “Caves of the Prince” — takes its name from the dramatic cave system carved into the cliffs of Wadi al-Seer. Fifteen caves line the rock face, easily accessible via stone staircases from the road. Six caves sit on the lower level, while nine upper caves are connected by a 300-meter gallery. From here, you’ll enjoy spectacular panoramic views across the valley — a highlight for photographers and nature lovers alike.
1h
Continue to the Iraq Al-Amir Women’s Cooperative Association, a meaningful community initiative launched in the early 1990s by the Noor Al Hussein Foundation in collaboration with local development programs. Set within beautifully restored historic homes, the cooperative supports local women through traditional handicrafts. You can observe pottery-making, weaving, embroidery, soap production, and handmade paper crafting. Guests are welcome to browse and purchase authentic, locally made souvenirs, enjoy a coffee or light lunch, and use the available facilities.
Qasr al-Abd
40m
The highlight of the tour is the extraordinary Qasr Al-Abd — one of the finest examples of Hellenistic palace architecture in the Middle East. Built between 182 and 175 BC, this two-story limestone structure once stood on an elevated platform surrounded by an artificial lake. Measuring approximately 40 by 20 meters and rising 13 meters high, it was constructed from some of the largest stone blocks used in ancient architecture — including blocks measuring seven by three meters. After a short historical introduction highlighting its fascinating background and architectural details, you will have time to explore independently. Photographers will appreciate guidance on the best vantage points to capture this impressive monument.
Meeting and pickup
Pickup details
I will meet you in your hotel lobby or at your residence five minutes before the scheduled departure time for a brief introduction and tour overview.
Additional information
Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Cancellation policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
