Things To Do
in Ar Ruşayfah
Ar Ruşayfah is a quiet Jordanian town set on rolling hills just north of Amman. It's known for traditional stone architecture, warm hospitality, and easy access to rural landscapes. Narrow lanes, mosques, and family-owned eateries offer a window into everyday life in central Jordan.
Visitors use Ar Ruşayfah as a gateway to nearby wadis, viewpoints, and a slower pace away from the capital.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Begin your day with a guided tour of the ancient ruins surrounding Ar Ruşayfah, where you can marvel at remnants of Roman and Byzantine architecture. The crisp morning air is perfect for exploring the stone pathways and intricate mosaics still visible beneath the dust of centuries. Capture the soft morning light filtering through the arches as you learn about the site's historical significance.
After a traditional Jordanian lunch in a nearby village, spend your afternoon visiting the local archaeological museum to see artifacts excavated from the area. Engage with knowledgeable curators who share stories of Ar Ruşayfah’s role in ancient trade routes and regional history. Take time to stroll through the village market, where handcrafted souvenirs and local produce offer a sensory delight.
As the sun sets, find a quiet spot atop a hill overlooking the ruins to watch the sky turn vibrant shades of orange and pink. Enjoy a peaceful tea at a rooftop café, absorbing the tranquil atmosphere of this historic landscape. End your evening with a storytelling session by local elders, weaving tales of the region’s past under a canopy of stars.
Set out early to hike the scenic trails that wind through the hills surrounding Ar Ruşayfah, where wildflowers bloom and native birds sing. The morning light casts a golden glow on the rugged landscape, providing perfect conditions for photography and nature appreciation. Pause at panoramic viewpoints to take in sweeping vistas of the Jordan Valley below.
Pause for a picnic lunch beside a tranquil spring, savoring local cheeses, fresh bread, and olives while listening to the gentle rustle of the wind through the olive groves. Continue your trek through shaded groves and rocky outcrops, spotting indigenous wildlife and rare plants unique to this area. The afternoon offers a serene opportunity to connect deeply with Jordan’s natural beauty and solitude.
Return to town as dusk falls and relax at a family-run guesthouse offering homemade Jordanian dishes. Share stories with fellow travelers around a cozy fire, sampling traditional desserts like knafeh and sipping mint tea. The clear night sky reveals a brilliant constellation display, perfect for stargazing before turning in.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $6-12 |
| 🍽️Meal for two at a mid-range restaurant | $20-40 |
| 🚕Local taxi ride | $3-10 |
| 🏨One night in a budget hotel | $25-60 |
| 🛒Groceries (weekly, basic items) | $25-60 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Warm hospitality and a strong sense of community
- Proximity to Amman while retaining rural charm
- Accessible hikes and photo opportunities
- Affordable food and lodging relative to major cities
- Safe and welcoming for solo travelers
- Limited nightlife and entertainment options in town
- Less extensive public transport; reliance on taxis or car hire
- Hot summers can be exhausting without proper planning
- Rural amenities can be basic compared with the capital
- "مرحبا" - Hello
- "شكراً" - Thank you
- "من فضلك" - Please
- "كم السعر؟" - How much is this?
- "أين الحمام؟" - Where is the bathroom?
Places to Visit in Ar Ruşayfah
Visit one of these nice places.
A hilltop overlook offering sweeping views of the valley and distant hills, ideal for sunrise and golden-hour photography.
Narrow streets lined with limestone houses and wooden balconies, perfect for atmospheric street photography and portrait shots.
A rural scene with olive trees, white-washed walls, and distant mountains—great for wide landscape shots.
A simple cafe terrace that faces west, capturing warm colors as the sun dips behind the hills.
Food in Ar Ruşayfah
Ar Ruşayfah Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
The national dish of Jordan, tender lamb over rice with a jameed yogurt sauce, usually served on a large shared platter.
Must-Try!
A comforting mix of lentils, rice, and caramelized onions, often paired with plain yogurt and salad.
Upside-down rice dish with meat and vegetables; plated with the meat resting on a bed of colorful vegetables.
Crunchy chickpea fritters served with tahini, pickles, and warm pita.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A small market selling fresh bread, olives, dairy, herbs, and seasonal fruits. Look for hand-rolled pastries and pomegranate juice.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet with 'As-salamu alaykum' (peace be upon you) and respond with 'Wa alaykum as-salam'.
Respect local norms—cover shoulders and knees, especially in villages and religious sites.
If offered tea or food, accept politely. Always ask before photographing people, especially inside homes.
Public displays of affection are discouraged; give locals time and space when taking photos.
Safety
Tipping in Ar Ruşayfah
Ensure a smooth experience
In restaurants, 10-15% is customary if service is not included. For taxis, a small tip of 0.5-1 JOD is appreciated.
Cash is widely accepted, especially in rural areas. Cards are commonly used at hotels, larger restaurants, and tourist shops; keep some local currency for smaller stalls.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
March to May brings mild temperatures (15-25°C) and blooming wildflowers; excellent for hiking and outdoor markets.
Hot and dry, with temperatures often reaching 30-38°C; plan early-morning outings, stay hydrated, and seek shade during peak heat.
September to November offers comfortable days with cooler evenings; great for outdoor activities and photography.
Cool to cold with occasional rain; pack layers, a waterproof jacket, and good walking shoes for wet trails.
Ar Ruşayfah at Night
Hiking in Ar Ruşayfah
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Lush oak and pine forests with shaded trails and scenic viewpoints, about a short drive north of Amman.
River canyon hikes with dramatic limestone walls and water features; established routes suitable for various levels.
Ridge and valley sections offering panoramic views of the countryside and ancient terraces.
Airports
How to reach Ar Ruşayfah by plane.
Main international gateway near Amman, about 25-40 miles (40-65 km) from Ar Ruşayfah; taxi or private transfer to town takes about 45-60 minutes, depending on traffic.
Smaller airport with regional flights; less frequent service, primarily for domestic and charter flights; ground transfer to Amman and then Ar Ruşayfah is possible via taxi or rental car.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority population, with deep-rooted family networks and community traditions.
A longstanding community with strong ties to local culture and heritage.
Visible in some areas, contributing to demographics and local markets.
A small but growing number of travelers, volunteers, and temporary residents connected to Amman and the region.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport across Jordan, with local clubs and informal games in towns and schools.
Widely played in schools and community centers; you’ll see pickup games in towns and parks.
Riding clubs and events are common, especially in rural areas with open spaces.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Ar Ruşayfah.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Jordanian meals are often meat-forward, but vegetarian options are available. Ask for muhammara, hummus, falafel, mujaddara, maqluba without meat, and fresh salads; specify no garlic if needed and request olive oil instead of ghee.