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

day 1
Exploring the Heritage of Kafr ‘Awān
morning
:

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.

afternoon
:

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.

evening
:

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.

day 2
Adventure into Nature
morning
:

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.

afternoon
:

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.

evening
:

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.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍔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.

Terraced olive groves at sunrise

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.

Village lanes and stone houses

Narrow lanes, whitewashed walls, and rustic doors provide authentic architectural textures and human-interest compositions.

Hillside viewpoints over the Jordan Valley

Sweeping valley views with the village foreground; ideal for wide-angle landscapes and evening golden hour shots.

Local market scenes

Vibrant market activity, colorful produce, and friendly faces; best captured in candid street photography.

Culinary Guide

Food in Kafr ‘Awān

Jordanian cuisine blends Levantine flavors with farm-to-table ingredients. In Kafr ‘Awān, you’ll find hearty meat dishes, fresh herbs, olive oil, and dairy-based sauces, all served with generous hospitality. Expect mezze-style sharing, seasonal produce, and simple, comforting flavors that reflect rural life.

Kafr ‘Awān Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Mansaf

Lamb cooked in a fermented yogurt sauce and served over rice, traditionally made for celebrations and widely available in local eateries.

Must-Try!

Musakhan

Sumac-spiced chicken baked on taboon bread with onions and pine nuts; a staple autumn and winter dish in many homes.

Mujadara

Lentils and rice topped with caramelized onions; a simple, flavorful vegetarian option commonly found in village cafés.

Falafel with Hummus

Crispy falafel served with creamy hummus, tahini, and fresh vegetables—popular as street food or a light meal.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Kafr ‘Awān Local Market

A morning market with seasonal produce, herbs, olives, cheese, and baked goods; ideal for sampling fresh staples and meeting growers.

Olive Oil and Dairy Stalls

Roadside stalls selling cold-pressed olive oil, feta, labneh, and locally produced dairy products; great for gifts and pantry staples.

Street Food Corners

Small stalls offering falafel, shawarma, grilled halloumi, and mint tea—perfect for a quick, flavorful bite.

Climate Guide

Weather

The climate is Mediterranean to semi-arid: hot, dry summers with cool nights and mild winters with some rain. Spring brings blooming landscapes and comfortable temperatures, while autumn offers pleasant outdoor conditions before winter rains begin. Overall, prepare for heat in summer and cool evenings in most seasons.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Dress modestly

Respect local norms by wearing modest clothing, especially in religious sites and traditional neighborhoods.

Greetings

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

Hospitality is important; accepting tea or coffee is polite, and refusing food should be done with courtesy.

Photography etiquette

Ask permission when photographing people, especially in private homes or markets; offer a small tip if a local helps with a shot.

Safety Guide

Safety

Kafr ‘Awān is generally safe for travelers, with typical rural Jordanian precautions. Keep an eye on weather-related hazards (wet roads after rains) and protect valuables in markets. Travel with a basic map, have local contacts, and stay informed about regional advisories when traveling to larger cities nearby.

Tipping in Kafr ‘Awān

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Etiquette

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.

Payment Methods

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...

Spring

Mild temperatures with blooming orchards; great for hikes and outdoor photography. Light layers recommended in the evenings.

Summer

Hot days with clear skies; carry sun protection, stay hydrated, and plan outdoor activities for early mornings or late afternoons.

Autumn

Warm days with cooler evenings; ideal for long village walks and harvest-related activities; light layers advised.

Winter

Cool to chilly with occasional rain; pack a warm jacket and waterproof footwear for markets and short hikes.

Nightlife Guide

Kafr ‘Awān at Night

In Kafr ‘Awān, nightlife is low-key and community-centered. Expect quiet cafés and tea houses where locals gather in the evenings for conversation, shisha (in some venues), and homemade desserts. Larger nightlife scenes and bars are concentrated in Amman or Jerash, but the village offers intimate, family-friendly evening settings instead.

Hiking in Kafr ‘Awān

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Ajloun Forest Reserve trails

Forest-covered hills with marked trails, diverse wildlife, and shaded routes suitable for day hikes.

Dibeen Nature Reserve trails

Protected wetlands and seasonal water pools offering birdwatching and easy hiking paths.

Jerash foothill paths

Gentle slopes around the ancient ruins area with panoramic views of the surrounding countryside.

Local countryside tracks

Low elevation, farm-studded routes ideal for easy morning or late afternoon strolls.

Airports

How to reach Kafr ‘Awān by plane.

Queen Alia International Airport (AMM)

Jordan’s main international gateway located near Amman; access to Kafr ‘Awān typically via bus or taxi and a drive through northern Jordan.

Marka International Airport (ADJ)

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.

Getting Around

Walkability

Walkable within the village with narrow lanes and compact town centers. For longer trips to nearby sights, a car or local taxi is recommended. Sidewalks are often uneven, so proper footwear is advised.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Arab Jordanians

Predominant ethnic group in the region with long-standing rural and urban communities.

Palestinian-Jordanians

A significant community contributing to local culture and cuisine in northern Jordan.

Bedouin heritage

Rural traditions and hospitality traditions are still visible in daily life and local events.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football (soccer)

The most popular sport across Jordan, with local matches and informal games common in towns and villages.

Basketball

Common in schools, clubs, and community centers; casual hoops are a frequent after-school activity.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in and around Kafr ‘Awān is typically light to moderate, with occasional congestion on main routes during weekends or harvest season. Intercity travel relies on shared taxis, minibuses, and private cars. Road conditions are generally good in town but may vary on rural lanes.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Kafr ‘Awān.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian

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.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Basic healthcare is available via local clinics in the region; for more comprehensive services, residents typically travel to Jerash or Irbid where larger hospitals and specialists are located. Travel insurance and knowledge of emergency numbers are advised.

Discover Jordan

Read more in our Jordan 2025 Travel Guide.

Jordan Travel Guide