Shoubak Castle
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Port
Aqaba (for Petra), Jordan
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Activity Level
Moderate Activity
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Excursion Type
All
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Wheelchair Accessible
No
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Starting At (prices in USD)
$140
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Minimum Age
Information Not Currently Available
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Duration
Approximately 5¾ Hours
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Meals Included
Meals not included
A two-hour scenic drive north of Aqaba brings you to the municipality of Shoubak, where you'll visit one of the best-preserved Crusader castles in Jordan.
Shoubak Castle is an early-12th-century Crusader castle perched on a rocky, conical mountain 4,265 feet above sea level. Although less famous than the popular Kerak Castle, its isolation from the nearest town makes it a more atmospheric setting. Built in AD 1115, Shoubak was originally called Krak de Montreal -- the first of many fortifications built by King Baldwin I of Jerusalem to guard the road from Egypt to Damascus. It successfully resisted several sieges before finally falling to Saladin troops in 1189.
Notes:
Shade is limited; to avoid sunburn, wear light, long clothing suitable for use as a cover-up. Bring a hat and sunglasses; wear biodegradable sunscreen. Bring bottled water. Wear comfortable walking shoes. Not advisable for guests with mobility limitations. Participants must negotiate stairs and/or uneven surfaces. No snack is included, and there will be no opportunity to purchase food; have a hearty meal on board the ship before commencing your tour.