Is there any problem with exploring Jerash independently or is a guide necessary? We have visited many archeological sites around the world and really prefer wandering on our own rather than be rushed around on a time line. Thanks for ideas and input.

No need for a guide whatsoever, though you will be urged to hire one upon arrival as several will be hanging around waiting for work. Just take your guidebook with you or read ahead of time and you will greatly enjoy your visit.

Agreed, and skip the gladiator show.

Of course you don't need a guide, but often rather than your nose in a book, good to have as you move about. And, as you're not then pushed out, can stay longer in/around to return to things/areas of interest.

Our driver from Desert Horizons engaged a guide at the entrance and he was pretty good. He was only with us for about half an hour to an hour.. cannot remember and then let us look around the remainder of the site on our own. It was great geting some info about the history of the whole site as well as what we were seeing. No idea how much a guide might be but if they are not much, hire one and if you are not happy just go off on your own. You're the boss if you're paying the bills.. you can call the shots shortly

We were there in October and hired a guide at the entrance. Don't remember how much it cost but it was not a lot. A nominal fee. Anyway, the guide provided us a wealth of information not only on Jerash but on life in Jordan. We went at our own pace and were never, ever rushed. I recommend the guide.

Didn't do the gladiator show so can't comment on that.

Have a good trip.