Things To Do
in Kafr ‘Awān
Kafr ‘Awān is a rural village in northern Jordan known for its hillside landscapes and olive groves. The area offers a calm base for exploring nearby historical sites, rural life, and scenic walks away from the bustle of bigger cities. Visitors encounter warm hospitality, simple guesthouses, and locally produced foods that reflect the region’s farming traditions.
In the surrounding countryside, seasonal harvests and citrus groves add color to daily life and photography alike.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the local museum, where you can learn about the rich history and culture of Kafr ‘Awān. The museum showcases artifacts from different eras, giving you a glimpse into the life of the ancient inhabitants. After exploring the exhibits, enjoy a traditional breakfast at a nearby café featuring local delicacies.
In the afternoon, stroll through the vibrant bazaar, mingling with local vendors and perhaps purchasing handmade crafts. Engage with the friendly locals to understand their stories and more about their crafts. Enjoy a leisurely lunch at a family-run restaurant, savoring authentic Jordanian dishes.
As the sun sets, take in the serene views of the surrounding hills from a nearby overlook. Head back into town and find a cozy spot for dinner, where you can enjoy live music while tasting delicious regional flavors. Conclude the evening with a gentle walk through the charming streets, soaking in the atmosphere of Kafr ‘Awān.
Kick off the day with an early hike in the nearby mountains, where the fresh air and stunning views will invigorate your spirit. As you traverse the trails, keep an eye out for local wildlife and unique plant species. After the hike, rejuvenate with a hearty breakfast at a mountain lodge.
Spend the afternoon at a natural spring or waterhole, perfect for a refreshing dip or a picnic lunch among nature. Enjoy the peaceful surroundings while you relax and maybe read a book or take photos of the landscape. If time allows, visit nearby agricultural farms to learn about local farming practices.
Return to Kafr ‘Awān as dusk falls, and enjoy a traditional Jordanian dinner featuring local vegetables and herbs. After dinner, engage in storytelling with locals, who will share tales of past legends and folklore. Wind down your day with a starlit walk, enjoying the clear skies and peaceful sounds of the countryside.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $6-12 |
| 🥪Street food snack | $1-4 |
| 💧Bottle of water | $0.5-1 |
| 🍝Meal for two at mid-range restaurant | $15-25 |
| 🏨One-night budget hotel | $40-70 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Warm hospitality and friendly locals
- Affordable travel costs and simple, flavorful cuisine
- Quiet, scenic rural landscapes with accessible day trips to historic sites
- Limited nightlife and urban amenities
- Public transportation can be infrequent in rural areas
- Weather can be hot in summer and cooler in winter, requiring planning
- "Salam" - Hello
- "Shukran" - Thank you
- "Min fadlik" - Please
- "Kam hatha?" - How much is this?
- "Ayna al-hammam?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "La shukran" - No thank you
Places to Visit in Kafr ‘Awān
Visit one of these nice places.
Soft morning light on terraced fields offers warm colors and long shadows; a classic framing spot for landscape and macro shots of trees and fruit.
Narrow lanes, whitewashed walls, and rustic doors provide authentic architectural textures and human-interest compositions.
Sweeping valley views with the village foreground; ideal for wide-angle landscapes and evening golden hour shots.
Vibrant market activity, colorful produce, and friendly faces; best captured in candid street photography.
Food in Kafr ‘Awān
Kafr ‘Awān Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Lamb cooked in a fermented yogurt sauce and served over rice, traditionally made for celebrations and widely available in local eateries.
Must-Try!
Sumac-spiced chicken baked on taboon bread with onions and pine nuts; a staple autumn and winter dish in many homes.
Lentils and rice topped with caramelized onions; a simple, flavorful vegetarian option commonly found in village cafés.
Crispy falafel served with creamy hummus, tahini, and fresh vegetables—popular as street food or a light meal.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A morning market with seasonal produce, herbs, olives, cheese, and baked goods; ideal for sampling fresh staples and meeting growers.
Roadside stalls selling cold-pressed olive oil, feta, labneh, and locally produced dairy products; great for gifts and pantry staples.
Small stalls offering falafel, shawarma, grilled halloumi, and mint tea—perfect for a quick, flavorful bite.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Respect local norms by wearing modest clothing, especially in religious sites and traditional neighborhoods.
A warm hello with eye contact and a handshake is common; wait for a woman to offer a handshake in mixed-gender settings if unsure.
Hospitality is important; accepting tea or coffee is polite, and refusing food should be done with courtesy.
Ask permission when photographing people, especially in private homes or markets; offer a small tip if a local helps with a shot.
Safety
Tipping in Kafr ‘Awān
Ensure a smooth experience
In restaurants and cafés, a tip of around 10-15% is common if service is not included. Small tips to hotel staff and drivers are appreciated but not obligatory.
Cash is widely used in rural towns; many places accept cards in larger shops. ATMs are available in nearby towns, and mobile payments are becoming more common in urban areas but may be limited in remote villages.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild temperatures with blooming orchards; great for hikes and outdoor photography. Light layers recommended in the evenings.
Hot days with clear skies; carry sun protection, stay hydrated, and plan outdoor activities for early mornings or late afternoons.
Warm days with cooler evenings; ideal for long village walks and harvest-related activities; light layers advised.
Cool to chilly with occasional rain; pack a warm jacket and waterproof footwear for markets and short hikes.
Kafr ‘Awān at Night
Hiking in Kafr ‘Awān
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Forest-covered hills with marked trails, diverse wildlife, and shaded routes suitable for day hikes.
Protected wetlands and seasonal water pools offering birdwatching and easy hiking paths.
Gentle slopes around the ancient ruins area with panoramic views of the surrounding countryside.
Low elevation, farm-studded routes ideal for easy morning or late afternoon strolls.
Airports
How to reach Kafr ‘Awān by plane.
Jordan’s main international gateway located near Amman; access to Kafr ‘Awān typically via bus or taxi and a drive through northern Jordan.
Located closer to Amman; historically served limited international traffic and sometimes used for domestic or charter flights; transport to northern regions generally requires a drive from Amman.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Predominant ethnic group in the region with long-standing rural and urban communities.
A significant community contributing to local culture and cuisine in northern Jordan.
Rural traditions and hospitality traditions are still visible in daily life and local events.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport across Jordan, with local matches and informal games common in towns and villages.
Common in schools, clubs, and community centers; casual hoops are a frequent after-school activity.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Kafr ‘Awān.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options are widely available in local eateries (lentil dishes, mujadara, hummus-based plates). When ordering, request no meat-based sauces and consider asking for extra vegetables or dairy to maintain protein intake.