Karak Castle is one of the most impressive and well-preserved Crusader castles in Jordan. Perched on a hilltop overlooking the town of Karak and the surrounding valleys, the castle offers stunning views and a glimpse into the medieval past. Karak Castle was built in the 12th century by the Crusaders, who used it as a strategic base to control the trade routes between Egypt and Syria. The castle witnessed several battles and sieges, most notably by the Muslim leader Saladin, who eventually captured it in 1189. The castle later fell under the rule of the Mamluks and the Ottomans, who added their own architectural and cultural influences. Today, Karak Castle is a popular tourist attraction and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, attracting visitors from all over the world who want to explore its history, architecture, and attractions.
If you are planning to visit Karak Castle, this guide will provide you with everything you need to know, such as how to get there, what to see and do, and where to stay. Whether you are traveling by car, bus, or tour, you will find useful tips and information to make your trip easier and more enjoyable. You will also learn about the best time to visit, the entrance fee and opening hours, and the dress code and safety precautions. Moreover, you will discover the main features and attractions of the castle, such as the tunnels, the courtyards, the dungeons, the museums, and the viewpoints. You will also get some personal stories, anecdotes, and insights from our experience of visiting the castle, as well as some recommendations for the best places to stay in Karak. By the end of this guide, you will be ready to embark on your own adventure to Karak Castle, one of the most fascinating and historic sites in Jordan.
How to Get to Karak Castle
There are several ways to reach Karak Castle, depending on your preference, budget, and time. You can either drive, take public transportation, or join a tour or a day trip. Here are the pros and cons of each option, as well as some tips and warnings to help you get there safely and smoothly.
Driving
Driving is the most convenient and flexible way to get to Karak Castle, as you can set your own pace and itinerary, and stop at other places along the way. You can rent a car from Amman, Petra, or Aqaba, and follow the signs to Karak, which is about 140 km from Amman, 150 km from Petra, and 250 km from Aqaba. The drive takes about 2 hours from Amman or Petra, and 3 hours from Aqaba, depending on the traffic and the road conditions.
The most scenic route to Karak Castle is along the King's Highway, an ancient road that winds through the mountains and valleys of Jordan, passing by many historical and natural sites, such as Madaba, Mount Nebo, Wadi Mujib, Dana Biosphere Reserve, and Shobak Castle. The King's Highway is a great way to experience the diversity and beauty of Jordan, but it is also longer and more challenging than the main highway, so make sure you have enough time and a reliable car.
If you decide to drive to Karak Castle, here are some tips and warnings to keep in mind:
- The best time to drive is during the day, as the roads can be dark and dangerous at night.
- The road conditions can vary, so be prepared for some bumps, potholes, and narrow curves. Drive carefully and slowly, and watch out for other drivers, pedestrians, and animals.
- The parking near the castle entrance is limited and often occupied by tour buses and taxis. You may have to park further away and walk to the castle, or pay a small fee to a local who will guide you to a parking spot.
- Beware of the parking scam near the castle entrance, where some fake parking attendants will try to charge you an inflated price for parking, or claim that the parking is full and direct you to a more expensive or distant parking lot. Do not fall for their tricks, and only pay the official parking fee, which is 1 JOD (1.4 USD) per car.
Public Transportation
Public transportation is the cheapest and most authentic way to get to Karak Castle, as you can mingle with the locals and enjoy the views from the window. You can take a bus or a taxi from Amman, Petra, or Aqaba, and get off at the main bus station in Karak, which is about 2 km from the castle. The bus or taxi fare is about 5 JOD (7 USD) per person from Amman or Petra, and 10 JOD (14 USD) per person from Aqaba. The journey takes about 3 hours from Amman or Petra, and 4 hours from Aqaba, depending on the traffic and the stops.
The buses and taxis run frequently throughout the day, but they do not have a fixed schedule or route, so you may have to wait for a while or change vehicles along the way. You can also try to bargain for a lower price or a faster ride, but be prepared to share the seat with other passengers or luggage. The buses and taxis usually take the main highway, which is faster and smoother than the King's Highway, but less scenic and interesting.
If you choose to take public transportation to Karak Castle, here are some tips and warnings to keep in mind:
- The best time to take public transportation is in the morning, as the buses and taxis are more frequent and less crowded. Avoid taking public transportation in the evening, as it may be harder to find a ride back or a place to stay in Karak.
- The bus station in Karak is not very well-marked or organized, so you may have to ask around or follow the crowd to find the right bus or taxi. You can also ask the driver or the conductor to drop you off near the castle, but they may charge you extra or refuse to do so.
- The walk from the bus station to the castle is uphill and can be tiring, especially in the heat or with heavy luggage. You can also take a local taxi or a service (a shared taxi) from the bus station to the castle, which costs about 1 JOD (1.4 USD) per person.
- Beware of the taxi drivers near the bus station or the castle, who may try to overcharge you or offer you a tour or a guide. Do not accept their offers, and only pay the metered or agreed fare.
Tours and Day Trips
Tours and day trips are the easiest and most comfortable way to get to Karak Castle, as you can sit back and relax, and let someone else take care of the logistics and the details. You can book a tour or a day trip from Amman, Petra, or Aqaba, and enjoy a guided visit to Karak Castle, as well as other attractions in the area, such as Madaba, Mount Nebo, Wadi Mujib, Dana Biosphere Reserve, or Shobak Castle. The tours and day trips usually include transportation, entrance fees, lunch, and a guide, and cost about 50 JOD (70 USD) per person from Amman or Petra, and 80 JOD (113 USD) per person from Aqaba. The duration of the tours and day trips varies, but it is usually between 8 and 12 hours.
The tours and day trips are a great way to learn more about Karak Castle and Jordan, as you can listen to the guide's explanations and stories, and ask questions along the way. You can also meet other travelers and share your experiences and tips. The tours and day trips usually take the King's Highway, which is more scenic and interesting than the main highway, but also longer and more tiring.
If you prefer to join a tour or a day trip to Karak Castle, here are some tips and warnings to keep in mind:
- The best time to join a tour or a day trip is during the high season, from March to May and from September to November, as the weather is pleasant and the views are clear. Avoid joining a tour or a day trip during the low season, from June to August and from December to February, as the weather can be hot, cold, or rainy, and the views can be foggy or dusty.
- The tours and day trips can be booked online or through your hotel, hostel, or travel agency. You can also find some tour operators near the bus stations or the tourist attractions in Amman, Petra, or Aqaba. Compare the prices, the itineraries, and the reviews before booking, and make sure you know what is included and what is not.
- The tours and day trips can be crowded and rushed, as you may have to share the vehicle and the guide with other travelers, and follow a strict schedule and route. You may not have enough time or freedom to explore Karak Castle or the other attractions at your own pace or interest. You may also have to deal with some hidden fees or commissions, such as tips, souvenirs, or extra services.
Entrance Fee and Opening Hours
The entrance fee to Karak Castle is 3 JOD (4.2 USD) per person, and it includes access to the castle and the museum. You can pay the entrance fee at the ticket office near the castle entrance, or at the visitor center across the main road. You can also use the Jordan Pass to visit Karak Castle for free, if you have bought it before entering Jordan. The Jordan Pass is a ticket that allows you to visit over 40 attractions in Jordan, including Petra, Jerash, and Wadi Rum, and also covers your visa fee. The Jordan Pass costs between 70 and 80 JOD (99 and 113 USD), depending on the number of days you want to spend in Petra, and it is valid for 12 months from the date of purchase. The Jordan Pass is a great way to save money and time, as you can skip the lines and the hassle of buying tickets at each attraction. However, the Jordan Pass also has some limitations, such as the minimum stay requirement of 3 nights in Jordan, and the exclusion of some attractions, such as the Dead Sea or the Baptism Site.
Karak Castle is open every day, from 8 am to 4 pm in the winter, and from 8 am to 6 pm in the summer. The opening hours may vary depending on the season, the day of the week, and the holidays, so it is advisable to check the official website or the visitor center before visiting. The best time to visit Karak Castle is in the morning, when the weather is cooler and the crowds are smaller. You can also visit Karak Castle in the afternoon, when the sun is lower and the views are more dramatic, but you may have to deal with more heat and more people.
What to See and Do at Karak Castle
Karak Castle is a huge and complex site, with many rooms, halls, towers, tunnels, courtyards, dungeons, museums, and viewpoints to explore. You can spend hours wandering around the castle, admiring its architecture, learning about its history, and enjoying its views. You can also join a guided or audio tour, or follow the signs and the maps provided at the entrance. Here are some of the main features and attractions of Karak Castle, and what you can see and do at each one.
The Outer Wall and the Moat
The outer wall and the moat are the first things you will see when you approach Karak Castle, as they surround and protect the castle from the outside. The outer wall is about 2 km long and 15 m high, and it has seven gates and twelve towers along its length. The moat is a deep ditch that was dug around the wall, and it was filled with water or spikes to prevent enemies from reaching the wall. You can walk along the outer wall and the moat, and see the different gates and towers, such as the Crusader Gate, the Ottoman Gate, and the Mamluk Tower. You can also see the remains of the Siege Ramp, a massive earthen mound that was built by Saladin's army to breach the wall in 1189.
The Lower Court
The lower court is the main entrance to the castle, and it is where you will find the ticket office, the visitor center, and the museum. The lower court was originally a marketplace and a storage area, and it was later used as a barracks and a prison. You can see the remains of the Market Hall, a large vaulted hall that was used for trading and storing goods, and the Prison, a dark and damp dungeon that was used for holding and torturing prisoners. You can also visit the Museum, which displays various artifacts and exhibits related to the history and culture of Karak Castle and Jordan, such as weapons, pottery, coins, costumes, and models.
The Upper Court
The upper court is the heart of the castle, and it is where you will find the most impressive and important buildings and rooms. The upper court was the residence and the headquarters of the Crusader lords and their knights, and it was also the scene of the most fierce and famous battles and sieges. You can see the Great Hall, a magnificent hall that was used for ceremonies, banquets, and meetings, and that has a beautiful vaulted ceiling and a decorated fireplace. You can also see the Church of St. John, a small but elegant church that was built in the Romanesque style, and that has a carved altar and a fresco of the Last Supper. You can also see the Audience Chamber, a spacious room that was used for receiving guests and dignitaries, and that has a stunning view of the valley below.
The Tunnels and the Dungeons
The tunnels and the dungeons are the most mysterious and adventurous parts of the castle, as they are hidden and underground. The tunnels and the dungeons were used for connecting different parts of the castle, escaping from enemies, and hiding treasures and secrets. You can explore the Tunnel of Saladin, a long and narrow tunnel that was dug by Saladin's soldiers to infiltrate the castle, and that leads to a secret exit. You can also explore the Dungeon of Reynald, a deep and dark dungeon that was used for imprisoning and executing Reynald de Chatillon, the most notorious and cruel Crusader lord, who was beheaded by Saladin himself. You can also explore the Treasure Room, a hidden and locked room that was rumored to contain a vast amount of gold and jewels, and that was never found or opened.
The Viewpoints
The viewpoints are the most rewarding and breathtaking parts of the castle, as they offer panoramic and spectacular views of the town of Karak and the surrounding valleys, mountains, and plains. You can see the Dead Sea, the lowest and saltiest body of water on earth, and the Wadi al-Karak, a deep and narrow gorge that cuts through the landscape. You can also see the King's Highway, the ancient road that links Karak Castle with other historical and natural sites in Jordan, and the Desert Highway, the modern road that connects Karak Castle with the capital city of Amman and the port city of Aqaba. You can also see the Sunset, the most beautiful and romantic time to visit Karak Castle, as the sky turns into a palette of colors, and the castle glows in the golden light.
Where to Stay in Karak
If you want to spend more time in Karak and explore its other attractions, such as the old town, the souk, and the mosque, you can choose from different options for accommodation, such as hotels, guesthouses, or camping. You can find a place to stay in Karak that suits your budget, comfort, location, and service preferences. Here are some recommendations for the best places to stay in Karak, based on our experience and research.
Hotels
Hotels are the most common and convenient option for accommodation in Karak, as they offer a range of facilities and amenities, such as private rooms, bathrooms, air conditioning, wifi, and breakfast. You can find hotels in the old town, near the castle, or on the outskirts of the town, depending on your preference. The prices of hotels in Karak vary, but they are generally affordable and reasonable, ranging from 20 to 50 JOD (28 to 70 USD) per night for a double room.
Some of the best hotels in Karak are:
Karak Rest House: This is a modern and comfortable hotel that is located right next to the castle, offering stunning views and easy access. The hotel has spacious and clean rooms, friendly and helpful staff, and a restaurant that serves delicious and authentic Jordanian food. The hotel also has a terrace and a garden, where you can relax and enjoy the scenery. The price of a double room is about 40 JOD (56 USD) per night, including breakfast.
Crusader Hotel: This is a cozy and charming hotel that is located in the old town, near the souk and the mosque. The hotel has simple and cozy rooms, warm and welcoming staff, and a cafe that serves tasty and fresh coffee and snacks. The hotel also has a rooftop, where you can admire the view and the sunset. The price of a double room is about 25 JOD (35 USD) per night, including breakfast.
Grand Hotel Karak: This is a luxurious and elegant hotel that is located on the outskirts of the town, offering peace and privacy. The hotel has stylish and spacious rooms, professional and courteous staff, and a restaurant that serves gourmet and international cuisine. The hotel also has a pool, a spa, and a gym, where you can pamper yourself and relax. The price of a double room is about 50 JOD (70 USD) per night, including breakfast.
Guesthouses
Guesthouses are a more authentic and affordable option for accommodation in Karak, as they offer a more personal and homely experience. You can stay in a guesthouse that is run by a local family, who will welcome you and treat you as a friend. You can also enjoy a more traditional and cultural atmosphere, as you can see how the locals live and interact. You can find guesthouses in the old town, near the castle, or in the nearby villages, depending on your preference. The prices of guesthouses in Karak vary, but they are generally cheap and fair, ranging from 10 to 20 JOD (14 to 28 USD) per night for a double room.
Some of the best guesthouses in Karak are:
Karak House: This is a lovely and friendly guesthouse that is located in the old town, near the castle and the souk. The guesthouse has cozy and clean rooms, hospitable and helpful hosts, and a kitchen that serves homemade and hearty meals. The guesthouse also has a balcony and a courtyard, where you can chat and socialize with other guests and locals. The price of a double room is about 15 JOD (21 USD) per night, including breakfast and dinner.
Al Qalaa Lodge: This is a beautiful and rustic guesthouse that is located in the village of Al Qalaa, about 10 km from Karak. The guesthouse has comfortable and spacious rooms, attentive and generous hosts, and a dining room that serves organic and local food. The guesthouse also has a garden and a terrace, where you can enjoy the nature and the tranquility. The price of a double room is about 20 JOD (28 USD) per night, including breakfast and dinner.
Karak Bed and Breakfast: This is a cozy and charming guesthouse that is located in the village of Al Khawr, about 15 km from Karak. The guesthouse has simple and tidy rooms, friendly and cheerful hosts, and a lounge that serves tea and coffee. The guesthouse also has a rooftop and a patio, where you can admire the view and the stars. The price of a double room is about 10 JOD (14 USD) per night, including breakfast.
Camping
Camping is the most adventurous and cheapest option for accommodation in Karak, as you can sleep under the stars and experience the outdoors. You can camp in the castle grounds, in the nearby valleys, or in the desert, depending on your preference. You can bring your own tent and equipment, or rent them from a local shop or a tour operator. You can also join a camping tour or a day trip, that will provide you with transportation, food, and a guide. The prices of camping in Karak vary, but they are generally very low and negotiable, ranging from 5 to 10 JOD (7 to 14 USD) per night for a tent.
Some of the best places to camp in Karak are:
Karak Castle Campsite: This is a unique and exciting place to camp, as you can sleep inside the castle grounds, and feel like a medieval knight or a crusader. You can pitch your tent in the lower court, near the museum, or in the upper court, near the church. You can also use the facilities and amenities of the castle, such as the toilets, the showers, and the electricity. You can also enjoy the views and the atmosphere of the castle at night, when it is quiet and magical. The price of camping in the castle is about 5 JOD (7 USD) per night for a tent, or 10 JOD (14 USD) per night for a rented tent.
Wadi al-Karak Campsite: This is a scenic and peaceful place to camp, as you can sleep in the valley below the castle, and enjoy the nature and the wildlife. You can pitch your tent in the flat and grassy areas near the river, or in the rocky and shady areas near the cliffs. You can also use the facilities and amenities of the nearby village, such as the toilets, the shops, and the restaurants. You can also enjoy the activities and the attractions of the valley, such as hiking, swimming, and birdwatching. The price of camping in the valley is about 5 JOD (7 USD) per night for a tent, or 10 JOD (14 USD) per night for a rented tent.
Desert Campsite: This is a remote and adventurous place to camp, as you can sleep in the desert, and experience the wilderness and the solitude. You can pitch your tent in the sandy and flat areas near the road, or in the rocky and hilly areas near the mountains. You can also use the facilities and amenities of the nearby town, such as the toilets, the water, and the gas. You can also enjoy the views and the atmosphere of the desert, such as the sunrise, the sunset, and the stars. The price of camping in the desert is about 5 JOD (7 USD) per night for a tent, or 10 JOD (14 USD) per night for a rented tent.
Conclusion
Karak Castle is one of the most impressive and well-preserved Crusader castles in Jordan, and a must-see attraction for anyone who loves history, culture, and adventure. You can visit Karak Castle by driving, taking public transportation, or joining a tour or a day trip, and you can choose from different options for accommodation, such as hotels, guesthouses, or camping. You can also explore the castle and its features and attractions, such as the outer wall, the lower court, the upper court, the tunnels, the dungeons, and the viewpoints. You can also learn more about the castle and its history and stories, by hiring a guide, renting an audio tour, or reading this guide.
