Kerak Travel Guide
Plan your trip to Kerak with this comprehensive guide filled with tips on where to stay, what to do, and how to get there.
- Introduction to Kerak
- List of Places to Visit in Kerak
- Hiking/Biking Routes of Kerak
- Best Things to Do in Kerak: Activities and Tours
- Week-Long Itinerary for Kerak
- Food and Drink Scene of Kerak
- Where to Stay in Kerak: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses
- What to Buy in Kerak: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home
- Local Culture and Customs of Kerak
- Best Time to Visit Kerak
- Do’s and Don’ts of Kerak
- Safety and Health
- Getting to Kerak: Transportation Options and Logistics
- How to Get Around in Kerak
- Where to Go Next from Kerak: Nearby Destinations and Excursions
- Conclusion
Introduction to Kerak
Kerak is a small town located in the southern part of Jordan’s King’s Highway. It is situated on a hilltop and boasts a rich history and stunning views of the surrounding landscape. Kerak is known for its well-preserved medieval castle, which served as a crucial stronghold during the Crusades. The town is an excellent place for history buffs, outdoor enthusiasts, and those looking for an authentic local experience.
List of Places to Visit in Kerak
When visiting Kerak, there are several places that you must visit to make the most out of your trip. These include:
Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places
- Kerak Castle: This impressive fortress was built in the 12th century AD during the Crusades. The castle has been well-preserved and offers visitors an exciting glimpse into medieval history. You can take a self-guided tour or hire a guide to show you around.
- Kerak Museum: This museum showcases the history and culture of the region, with exhibits ranging from prehistoric times to modern-day Jordan.
- Shawbak Castle: Located just a short drive from Kerak, Shawbak Castle, also known as Montreal Castle, is another Crusader castle worth visiting. It was built in the 12th century and offers stunning views of the surrounding area.
Natural Attractions of Kerak: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views
- Wadi Mujib: This nature reserve is located just a short drive from Kerak and boasts some of the most stunning scenery in Jordan. It is home to some of the country’s most impressive waterfalls and offers excellent hiking opportunities.
- Dana Biosphere Reserve: This reserve offers visitors a chance to explore the natural beauty of Jordan. There are numerous hiking trails, and you can see a variety of wildlife, including wolves, hyenas, and ibex.
- Dead Sea: While not technically in Kerak, a visit to the Dead Sea is a must-do when in Jordan. The saltwater lake is the lowest point on earth and has therapeutic properties due to its high salt content.
Hiking/Biking Routes of Kerak
Kerak offers some of the best hiking trails in Jordan. The most popular ones include:
- Wadi Mujib Trail: This trail takes you through the Wadi Mujib nature reserve and offers stunning views of some of the country’s most impressive waterfalls. It’s a moderate hike and takes around three hours to complete.
- Dana to Petra Trail: This is a challenging hike that takes you from the Dana Biosphere Reserve to Petra, passing through some of Jordan’s most stunning landscapes. It takes around five days to complete.
- Kerak to Shawbak Trail: This trail takes you on a journey through history as you follow the footsteps of the Crusaders. It is a relatively easy hike and takes around two hours to complete.
Best Things to Do in Kerak: Activities and Tours
There are plenty of activities and tours available in Kerak. Some of the most popular ones include:
- Castle Tour: Take a guided tour of Kerak Castle and learn about its rich history.
- Petra Day Trip: Take a day trip to Petra, one of the world’s most famous ancient cities.
- Wadi Mujib Canyoning: This is a thrilling activity that takes you through the Wadi Mujib nature reserve via a series of waterfalls.
Week-Long Itinerary for Kerak
If you’re planning to spend a week in Kerak, here’s a suggested itinerary:
| Day | Activity |
|---|---|
| 1 | Arrive in Kerak, explore the town, and visit the castle |
| 2 | Hike the Wadi Mujib Trail |
| 3 | Visit the Kerak Museum and Shawbak Castle |
| 4 | Take a day trip to Petra |
| 5 | Explore the Dana Biosphere Reserve |
| 6 | Go canyoning in Wadi Mujib |
| 7 | Relax at the Dead Sea before departing Kerak |
Food and Drink Scene of Kerak
Kerak offers a range of delicious local dishes and beverages that you must try when visiting. Some of the must-try dishes include:
Must-Try Dishes
- Mansaf: This is a national dish made with lamb cooked in a yogurt sauce served on top of rice.
- Musakhan: This is a traditional Palestinian dish made from chicken, onions, and sumac served on top of flatbread.
- Maqluba: This is a popular dish made with rice, vegetables, and meat cooked in a pot and then flipped over when served.
Local Beverages
- Mint tea: This is a refreshing beverage that is perfect for hot days.
- Tamarind juice: This tangy drink is made with tamarind pods and is not to be missed.
- Arak: This anise-flavored alcoholic drink is popular in Jordan and is typically served during celebrations.
Where to Stay in Kerak: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses
There are several accommodation options available in Kerak, ranging from luxury hotels to budget-friendly guesthouses. Some of the best options include:
- Kerak Rest House: This budget-friendly guesthouse is centrally located and offers comfortable rooms and excellent views of the castle.
- Al-Qala’a Hotel: This mid-range hotel offers a range of amenities, including a restaurant, bar, and free Wi-Fi.
- Dana Guesthouse: This eco-friendly guesthouse is located in the Dana Biosphere Reserve and offers stunning views and comfortable rooms.
What to Buy in Kerak: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home
Kerak is known for its handmade crafts and souvenirs. Some of the best things to buy include:
- Pottery: You can find beautifully crafted pottery made by local artisans in the markets of Kerak.
- Handwoven rugs: These stunning rugs are made using traditional techniques and can be found in many shops in the town.
- Spices: Jordan is known for its spices, and Kerak is no exception. You can find a range of spices, including sumac, za’atar, and cumin, in the local markets.
Local Culture and Customs of Kerak
When visiting Kerak, it’s essential to be respectful of the local culture and customs. Some things to keep in mind include:
- Dress modestly: Jordan is a conservative country, and it’s important to dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites.
- Respect Ramadan: During the holy month of Ramadan, it’s important to be respectful of those who are fasting by not eating, drinking, or smoking in public during the day.
- Greet people: Jordanians are known for their hospitality, and it’s important to greet people with a friendly “hello” or “Salam” when meeting them.
Best Time to Visit Kerak
The best time to visit Kerak is during the spring (March to May) and fall (September to November) when the weather is mild, and there are fewer crowds. However, if you’re interested in hiking or canyoning, the best time is during the summer (June to August) when the weather is hotter.
Do’s and Don’ts of Kerak
Do:
- Explore the town on foot: Kerak is a small town, and the best way to get around is on foot.
- Try the local food: Jordanian cuisine is delicious, and Kerak offers some of the best traditional dishes.
- Learn about the local history: Kerak has a rich history, and a visit to the castle and museum is a must-do.
Don’t:
- Take photographs of people without their permission: It’s important to be respectful of people’s privacy and ask before taking their photograph.
- Drink tap water: It’s advisable to drink bottled water in Jordan to avoid getting sick.
- Worry about haggling: Haggling is a common practice in Jordan, and it’s expected that you’ll negotiate the price in markets and souks.
Safety and Health
Safety in Kerak
Jordan is a safe country to visit, and Kerak is no exception. However, it’s important to take standard safety precautions, such as not walking alone at night and not carrying large sums of cash.
Health in Kerak
Jordan has excellent healthcare facilities, and it’s advisable to have travel insurance that covers medical expenses. It’s also important to drink bottled water to avoid getting sick.
Getting to Kerak: Transportation Options and Logistics
Airports Near Kerak
The closest international airport to Kerak is Queen Alia International Airport in Amman. From there, you can hire a car or take a bus to Kerak.
Bus Stations Near Kerak
There are several bus stations in Kerak that offer connections to other parts of Jordan, including Petra and Amman.
Other Options
You can also hire a car to explore Jordan, and there are several car rental companies available at Queen Alia International Airport.
How to Get Around in Kerak
The best way to get around Kerak is on foot, as the town is small and easy to navigate. Alternatively, you can hire a taxi to take you around to the different attractions.
Where to Go Next from Kerak: Nearby Destinations and Excursions
There are several nearby destinations and excursions that you can take from Kerak. Some of the best options include:
- Petra: Visit one of the world’s most famous ancient cities, located just a few hours’ drive from Kerak.
- Wadi Rum: Explore the stunning desert landscape of Wadi Rum, which has been featured in many films.
- Aqaba: Relax on the Red Sea coast in the resort town of Aqaba.
Conclusion
Kerak is a hidden gem in Jordan that offers visitors a chance to explore its rich history, stunning landscapes, and delicious cuisine. With its well-preserved castle, excellent hiking trails, and nearby attractions, Kerak should be on every traveler’s itinerary when visiting Jordan.
