Welcome to one of the most unforgettable travel adventures in the Middle East! Jordan is an incredible land of ancient cities, breathtaking desert landscapes, spiritual places, and cultural treasures. And the journey from Umm Qais to Madaba is one of the most rewarding ways to experience this rich tapestry of history and beauty.
In this guide, you’ll discover:
What makes this route special
How to travel between these highlights
Top attractions and hidden gems
Best places to eat and stay
Pro tips for travelers
Suggested itinerary you can easily customize
Whether you’re planning a week‑long exploration of Jordan or weaving this route into a longer journey through Amman, Petra, the Dead Sea, and Wadi Rum — this blog has you covered.
Let’s dive into the zero‑to‑hero guide for your Umm Qais → Madaba and beyond adventure!
Why Travel from Umm Qais to Madaba?
If you’re crafting a Jordan itinerary that blends ancient history, stunning scenery, and deep cultural experiences, the route from Umm Qais to Madaba is a dream. You’ll travel from the northernmost historical ruins of Gadara on a hilltop with sweeping views to the “City of Mosaics” in the heart of the country near Amman.
Here’s what makes this route unforgettable:
- Historical diversity: From Roman ruins at Umm Qais to stunning Byzantine mosaics in Madaba.
- Scenic drive: Follow sections of Highway 35 (the ancient King’s Highway) — one of the oldest trade routes in the world.
- Cultural richness: Experience archaeology, religion, and vibrant modern Jordanian life in one multi‑day loop.
But wait… this route isn’t just a point‑to‑point drive. Combined with nearby gems like Petra, Wadi Rum, Amman, and the Dead Sea, your trip becomes a full immersion in Jordan’s greatest hits.
Keyword: Jordan travel itinerary
Related keywords: Umm Qais travel, Madaba City of Mosaics, Jordan road trip, best places to visit in Jordan
How to Travel: Route, Distance, and Logistics
Here’s the core travel info you need before planning your journey.
🛣️ Drive Distance & Time
- Umm Qais to Madaba: ~130 km (80 miles), about 2 hours by car.
- Depends on your stops: If you stop at Amman or Jerash on the way, plan a full day of travel.
🚗 Best Way to Get Around
- Private Car Rental: Most flexible for multi‑city routing and allows scenic stops.
- Taxi or Private Transfer: A comfortable alternative if you don’t want to drive.
- Organized Tour: Great if you want a guide and structured itinerary.
Don’t miss booking a reliable transfer or rental in advance — especially in high season!
📌 Note: This route follows parts of historic roadways, like the ancient King’s Highway, boosting the scenic adventure feel.
Stop #1: Umm Qais — Northern Highlands & Roman Ruins
Umm Qais — known historically as Gadara — is a must‑visit ancient city perched on a hilltop overlooking the Jordan Valley and Sea of Galilee.
📍 Top Things to See in Umm Qais
- Roman Ruins: Walk ancient colonnaded streets and amphitheaters.
- Umm Qais Museum: Explore archaeological finds from Roman through Islamic periods.
- Panoramic Views: Enjoy vistas stretching to Syria, Israel, and the Sea of Galilee.
- Cafes with Views: Sit at a terrace restaurant to sip tea while soaking in the scenery.
Best time: Early morning or late afternoon for softer light and cooler temperatures.
Best Restaurants & Hotels in Umm Qais
Umm Qais is small, but charming, and offers some relaxing places to rest and taste local flavors.
🍽️ Local Eats
- Umm Qais Rest House: Great views with local cuisine.
- Basalt Café: Unique ambiance near the archaeological site.
🛏️ Recommended Stays
- Mountain View Guesthouse: Stylish stays with panoramic views.
- Umm Qais Village Guesthouse: Cozy and authentic local experience.
Staying overnight gives you more time to watch the sunset and explore beyond the main ruins.
Onward Journey: Stops Along the Way
As you head south toward Madaba, consider these worthwhile detours:
Jerash Ancient City
Not far off your path — explore one of the best‑preserved Roman cities in the world. Archaeological gems like Hadrian’s Arch, the oval plaza, and grand theatres await. (Add this as Day 1 if you’re doing a multi‑day trip.)
Ajloun Castle
Perched atop a hill with sweeping forest views, this 12th‑century castle adds medieval flair to your journey.
Stop #2: Madaba — The “City of Mosaics”
Madaba is a highlight of any Jordan itinerary. Famous worldwide as the “City of Mosaics”, it’s steeped in history and spiritual significance.
Must‑Visit Attractions in Madaba
Madaba Mosaic Map
- The most famous attraction: a 6th‑century mosaic floor showing the Holy Land and surrounding regions.
Byzantine & Religious Sites
- St. George’s Greek Orthodox Church: Home of the mosaic map.
- St. John the Baptist Roman Catholic Church: Architectural beauty and religious history.
Archaeological & Cultural Highlights
- Madaba Archaeological Park & Museum: Explore excavated ruins with mosaics and artifacts.
- Heritage Walk: Stroll heritage sites and markets through town.
Mount Nebo Day Trip
Just minutes from Madaba, Mount Nebo offers sacred views and an opportunity to reflect atop the spot where Moses glimpsed the Promised Land.
Best Restaurants & Hotels in Madaba
Madaba is travel‑friendly with rich dining and lodging options.
🍽️ Top Food Spots
- Haret Jdoudna Restaurant: Traditional Jordanian cuisine in a historic setting.
- Al‑Quds Restaurant: Authentic Middle Eastern dishes.
- Local cafés: Try knafeh, baklava, and strong Arabic coffee in town.
🏨 Recommended Hotels
- Mosaic City Hotel: Great comfort and central location.
- Nayhouse Hotel: Boutique style near all major sights.
- Luxury stays near Dead Sea: Combine Madaba with a relaxing resort night.
What Else to Include in Your Itinerary
If you have extra days — or want to expand your route — here are fantastic additions:
🌊 Dead Sea
Float in the world’s lowest point on earth and enjoy mineral mud treatments — a bucket‑list wellness experience.
🏜️ Petra
One of the New Seven Wonders, the rose‑red city of Petra is worth several days on its own.
🌄 Wadi Rum
Experience desert magic in Wadi Rum with jeep tours, Bedouin camps, and stargazing.
🏙️ Amman
Jordan’s capital blends ancient heritage and modern culture — perfect as a base or final stop.
Pro Travel Tips: What Every Explorer Should Know
Here are essential tips to make your trip smooth and unforgettable:
🕓 Best Time to Visit
- Spring & Fall (March–May, Sept–Nov): Mild weather perfect for sightseeing.
🧕 Local Customs
- Dress modestly at religious and cultural sites.
- Greet locals with “Salam” — it goes a long way!
💸 Costs & Booking
- Book rides, car rentals, and tours early, especially in peak season.
- Consider multi‑site passes for Madaba and nearby museums to save.
🚗 Driving Tips
- Roads in Jordan are generally excellent; GPS navigation helps.
- Highway 35 (King’s Highway) is scenic but may be slower in spots.
Suggested 7‑Day Jordan Itinerary
Here’s a sample itinerary you can tailor:
Day 1: Amman arrival + city tour
Day 2: Drive north to Jerash → Ajloun → overnight in Umm Qais
Day 3: Explore Umm Qais → drive south to Madaba
Day 4: Madaba sightseeing + Mount Nebo
Day 5: Dead Sea float + relaxation
Day 6: Petra exploration
Day 7: Wadi Rum desert adventure → return to Amman
Book Your Ride Today!
Ready to take the next step? Plan your Umm Qais to Madaba adventure with ease.
👉 Book your trip here: Umm Qais to Madaba travel details and booking
Your Jordan adventure starts with a great plan — and this route is one of the most rewarding ways to experience history, culture, and beauty.
