What's included in the EUR 210 price?

Private round-trip transportation from Amman, entrance fees to both Karak and Shobak castles, and a driver who serves as your English-speaking guide throughout the 10-hour tour.

How much walking and climbing should I expect?

Both castles involve moderate to steep walking on uneven terrain, including stairs and narrow passages through medieval ruins. Climbing towers offers panoramic views but requires good fitness and sturdy footwear. Pace is flexible; you have free time to explore at your own speed.

Is this tour suitable for families with young children?

The 10-hour duration and uneven terrain with multiple climbing sections make it better suited for older children and adults. Very young children may find the long journey and physical demands challenging.

What's the difference between Karak and Shobak castles?

Both are 12th-century Crusader fortresses on the Kings Highway. Karak Castle is larger and more extensively excavated, with impressive multi-level halls and tunnels. Shobak Castle sits on a more dramatic hilltop and features distinctive circular towers; it's slightly less developed as a tourist site but offers equally stunning views.

Will the driver guide us through the castles, or do we explore independently?

Your English-speaking driver provides historical context and background, but the tour includes free time for independent exploration. This gives you flexibility to linger at photo spots or quieter areas without a rigid schedule.

What should I bring for a 10-hour day tour?

Pack plenty of water (at least 2–3 litres), sun protection (hat, sunscreen, sunglasses), comfortable walking shoes with good grip, and a light jacket or long sleeves for sun protection. A camera or phone for photos, snacks, and any personal medications are recommended. Shade and facilities are minimal at the castle sites.

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Private Full Day Crusader Castles of Karak & Shobak, Kings Highway from Amman

(3)

Amman, Jordan

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About this activity

Spend a full day exploring two magnificent 12th-century Crusader fortresses—Karak and Shobak castles—built along Jordan's strategic Kings Highway to withstand Saladin's forces. This private tour from Amman includes round-trip transport, entrance fees, and a knowledgeable English-speaking driver-guide, giving you exclusive access to medieval ruins, underground tunnels, and panoramic hilltop vistas.

Private tour, exclusively for your party to ensure a personalized experience
Hassle-free pick up and drop off from your location
Flexibility to explore independently with free time
Get insights into local culture, history, and nature
Value for money service

Step back to Crusader times on a private round-trip to Karak and Shobak Castles from Amman. Travel along roads tracing the ancient Kings Highway route, and visit the 12th-century castles, built by the Crusaders to defend against Saladin’s forces. Explore the ruined halls, parapets, and tunnels, take in sweeping views from the hilltop towers. Your tour includes private transportation in leisure vehicle with English-Speaking Driver who doubles up as your guide, hotel pick up, drop off after this long trip, and entrance fees included.

Highlights

✓Explore Karak Castle's ruined halls, underground passages, and defensive parapets
✓Discover Shobak Castle's dramatic hilltop position and sweeping desert views
✓Walk sections of the ancient Kings Highway trade route
✓Learn Crusader-era military architecture and Saladin's siege history
✓Private, flexible itinerary with downtime to photograph and explore independently

Insider tips

★Wear sturdy shoes with good grip—castle stairs and passages are uneven and can be steep
★Visit early morning or late afternoon to avoid midday heat and catch better light for photography
★Bring plenty of water; shade is limited at both castle sites, and distances between locations are substantial

Good to know

•10-hour tour includes hotel pick-up and drop-off from Amman; confirm your address at booking
•Entrance fees to both castles are included in the tour price
•Wear sun protection (hat, sunscreen) and comfortable walking clothes; some areas are exposed
•Tour is conducted in English; private transportation ensures a personalized experience for your group only

Who it's for

History enthusiasts interested in Crusader-era architecture and military strategyCultural explorers seeking insight into medieval Middle Eastern conflictsPhotography-focused travellers wanting iconic desert castle backdropsFamilies wanting a structured yet flexible private day trip from Amman

Best time to visit

Late September through November and March through May offer pleasant temperatures. Avoid summer (June–August) when daytime heat can exceed 35°C. Early morning departures allow you to explore before midday heat peaks.

Frequently asked questions

Reviews

(3)

Lena E.

Mar 2026

our guide Beatriz was brilliant and the view from the old fort ramparts was the highlight, and perfect for first-timers, and 2 solid hours of history.

Kev A.

Jan 2026

our guide Ingrid had so many stories and the frescoes inside the chapel was the highlight ... On a rainy sunday so it wasnt too busy. Miles ahead of a similar tour we tried in cancun, and 2 solid hours of history. Would book again no question.

Tara R.

Jan 2026

our guide Mehmet really knew their stuff and the frescoes inside the chapel was the highlight. First thing in the morning so it wasnt too busy. Worked great for a solo traveller like me, and skipped two ticket queues, and covered 3 sites in one go. Would book again no question.

from€211.38€211.11/ person

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