Things To Do
in Al Mazār ash Shamālī
Al Mazār ash Shamālī is a northern Jordanian town that sits amid rolling hills with sweeping views of the Jordan Valley. It blends traditional stone architecture, welcoming locals, and a relaxed tempo perfect for slow travel. The area makes a great base for exploring nearby cultural sites and countryside trails.
Visitors can savor warm hospitality, simple cafés, and clear skies ideal for photography and outdoor activities.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive in Al Mazār ash Shamālī and check into your chosen accommodation. Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at a local café, sampling traditional Jordanian dishes like foul and labneh. Spend the morning settling in and acclimatizing to your new surroundings.
Head out to explore the beautiful mountain landscapes surrounding Al Mazār ash Shamālī. Take a guided hike through the hills, discovering local flora and fauna while soaking in the breathtaking views. Enjoy a picnic lunch amidst the natural beauty, allowing yourself to relax and reconnect with nature.
Return to the town and partake in a cooking class where you’ll learn to prepare some classic Jordanian recipes. As the sun sets, savor the dishes you've created with new friends and share stories over a delicious dinner. Wind down your evening with a leisurely stroll through the lively streets, soaking in the local atmosphere.
Take a scenic drive to the ancient city of Jerash, renowned for its incredibly preserved Roman ruins. Arrive early to avoid crowds, and begin your exploration of the colonnaded streets and grand temples. Marvel at the intricate architecture and the historical significance of this archaeological gem.
After a midday meal at a local tavern, continue exploring Jerash, venturing inside the impressive amphitheater and witnessing live performances if scheduled. Capture stunning photographs of the monumental arches and the Temple of Artemis. Don't forget to visit the small local market for unique souvenirs.
Return to Al Mazār ash Shamālī and unwind with a visit to a traditional tea house. Savor mint tea with local sweets and pastries as you reflect on the day’s adventures. Share your experiences with fellow travelers, creating bonds over your love for history and culture.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $6-12 |
| ☕Coffee at a cafe | $2-4 |
| 🥗Meal for two at a mid-range restaurant | $25-40 |
| 🛍️Groceries for a week | $40-90 |
| 🚗Taxi ride (short trip within town) | $3-8 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Warm hospitality and friendly locals
- Close to nature with easy access to countryside trails
- Affordability and good value for money
- Rich cultural experiences in a peaceful setting
- Limited nightlife and heavy nightlife options
- Healthcare facilities are more limited outside major cities
- Public transport options are fewer than in bigger towns
- Occasional road conditions on rural routes
- "Marḥaba" - Hello
- "Shukran" - Thank you
- "Min fadlik" - Please
- "Kam al-thaman?" - What is the price?
- "Ayna al-hammam?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "Ana min Jordan" - I am from Jordan
- "La shukran" - No thank you
Places to Visit in Al Mazār ash Shamālī
Visit one of these nice places.
A sweeping vantage point over the Jordan Valley, especially dramatic at sunrise or sunset.
Characterful narrow streets and traditional houses that make for intimate portrait and street photography.
Rows of olive trees with warm, golden light and distant hills—perfect for landscape and nature shots.
Food in Al Mazār ash Shamālī
Al Mazār ash Shamālī Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
The national dish of lamb cooked in a thick yogurt sauce and served over rice or bulgur, traditionally shared on special occasions.
Must-Try!
Sumac-spiced chicken with onions and flatbread, a robust, warming dish popular in Jordanian homes.
Crispy chickpea patties served with creamy hummus, tahini, and fresh vegetables—great as a quick street snack or light meal.
A layered pot with rice, vegetables, and meat that flips onto the platter when served, offering a flavorful surprise.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A compact daytime market where locals buy produce, spices, bread, olives, cheese, and freshly baked treats.
A broader market area with stalls for street snacks, grilled kebabs, and sweet pastries—great for a casual tasting stroll.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A handshake is common; greet elders with a respectful ‘Salam’ and maintain polite, calm conversations.
Women and men should dress modestly, especially in rural areas and when visiting religious sites.
Ask for permission if photographing people, especially in private spaces or marketplaces.
During Ramadan, be mindful of eating and drinking in public during fasting hours in day; evenings become more active.
Safety
Tipping in Al Mazār ash Shamālī
Ensure a smooth experience
In restaurants, a 5-10% tip is appreciated if service is good; in casual eateries, rounding up is common. Taxis often expect a small tip; hospitality and tour guides may also appreciate a modest gratuity.
Cash is widely accepted, especially in small towns. Cards are increasingly accepted at hotels, larger restaurants, and shops in towns like Al Mazār ash Shamālī; ATMs are available in town centers and near larger merchants.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot and dry with long sunny days. Hydration is essential; plan outdoor activities for early morning or late afternoon and seek shade in mid-day.
Cool to mild daytime temperatures with potential rain. Bring a waterproof layer and dress in layers; evenings can be chilly.
Pleasant temperatures and clear skies; ideal for hiking, photography, and wandering the town without extreme heat or cold.
Al Mazār ash Shamālī at Night
Hiking in Al Mazār ash Shamālī
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A modest, scenic circuit through terraced fields and olive groves with several viewpoints.
Accessible forested trails with shade, streams, and intermediate climbs; suitable for a half- to full-day hike.
Short to moderate routes along the valley rim offering expansive views and sunset photography opportunities.
Airports
How to reach Al Mazār ash Shamālī by plane.
Jordan's main international gateway; connections to Europe, the Middle East, and beyond. Ground transfer to northern towns can take 1.5-2.5 hours depending on traffic.
A smaller airport serving domestic and limited international flights; closer to some northern routes but with fewer options.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Predominant population in the area with strong local traditions and hospitality.
Communities in rural settings with deep ties to land, crafts, and seasonal work.
Present in urban and rural areas across northern Jordan; contribute to culture and commerce.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport across Jordan, with local leagues and informal games in towns and schools.
Common in schools and community centers; often played in outdoor courts during cooler evenings.
Rural areas offer opportunities for short rides and equestrian demonstrations tied to Bedouin heritage.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Al Mazār ash Shamālī.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options include hummus, falafel, mutabbal, baba ghanoush, salads, and bread-based dishes; communicate clearly about dairy and egg usage if needed.