Visiting Petra: An Essential Guide

Petra Travel Guide: When to Visit, What to See, and How to Get There

PLANNING TIPS AND RECOMMENDATIONS 

One of the New Seven Wonders of the World, Petra, requires careful planning to ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience. This short guide provides essential information on planning and making the most of your visit to this ancient city, covering when to go, what to see, and how to get there.

When to Visit Petra

Choosing the right time to visit Petra can change your experience. The best times to visit are during the spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) when the weather is mild and pleasant, which is also the high season in Jordan. Don’t be scared of June; although the country is not as green as the previous months, the weather is still lovely, warm with a cool wind breeze. Summer can be very hot, with temperatures soaring above 40°C (104°F) at some locations like the Dead Sea and Aqaba, making it less ideal for visiting these sites. Visiting other sites like Amman, Petra, and Wadi Rum is still possible. Winter, on the other hand, can be chilly, especially at night, but it is still a viable option if you prefer fewer crowds.

To ensure a smooth experience, consider visiting Petra Jordan in the early morning or late afternoon to avoid the midday heat. Local transportation options include buses and taxis from Amman or Aqaba, and you should allocate at least a full day to explore the site thoroughly.

How to Get to Petra 

Petra is located in southern Jordan, around 240 km (150 miles) from Amman. The main options for getting to Petra are:

By Car

Car renting is a convenient way to travel to Petra. The drive from Amman to Petra takes around 3 hours via the Desert Highway.

By Bus

the JETT Bus Company has daily buses from Amman to Petra. The journey takes around 4 hours and has a fixed schedule that might not suit everyone's timeline, especially for short itineraries.

Private tours & Transfers

Booking a private tour or transfer service is an ideal choice for a more personalized experience and convenient timing, especially for short itineraries without the need for self-driving. Check out our  private day tours, offering comfortable transportation and expert guides.

Entrance Fees and Jordan Pass

Entrance Fees:

One-day pass: 50 JOD (approx. 70 USD)

Two-day pass: 55 JOD (approx. 77 USD)

Three-day pass: 60 JOD (approx. 84 USD)

Jordan Pass:

Purchasing the Jordan Pass in advance is highly recommended. It waives the visa fee and includes entry to Petra along with over 40 other attractions in Jordan. The cost of the Jordan Pass is 70 JOD (approx. 99 USD) for one day in Petra, 75 JOD (approx. 105 USD) for two days, and 80 JOD (approx. 112 USD) for three days.

What to See in Petra

Petra sprawls with an array of attractions, each offering its unique allure. Here's a rundown of the must-see highlights:

The Siq

A narrow gorge serving as Petra's main entrance. It's about 1.2 km long and leads to the famous Treasury.

The Treasury (Al-Khazneh)

An iconic landmark carved into a sandstone cliff, believed to be a royal tomb.

The Royal Tombs 

You’ll also find The Royal Tombs, showcasing the Nabataeans’ architectural skill with grand tombs carved into the rock. The Palace Tomb, bigger than the Treasury and almost as impressive, offers visitors a slightly off the beaten path experience with its giant rooms. The Urn Tomb, a place of worship during the Byzantine Empire, is also worth exploring along with its adjacent tombs to appreciate their architectural and historical significance.

The Theatre 

A large amphitheater carved into the mountainside, accommodating up to 8,500 spectators.

The Monastery (Ad-Deir) 

An impressive structure reached after climbing about 800 steps. Very few people take the back entrance to the Monastery, making it a less crowded option.

Additional Activites

In addition to exploring Petra, there are other captivating activities to enjoy in the region:

Little Petra

Don't miss the chance to visit Little Petra, a lesser-known but equally fascinating archaeological site located nearby. Explore its ancient structures and soak in the serene atmosphere of this hidden gem.

Wadi Rum

Extend your adventure by combining your Petra visit with a trip to Wadi Rum. 1.5 Hrs drive from Petra. This breathtaking desert landscape, famous for its crimson dunes and stunning rock formations, offers an unforgettable experience. Discover more about our  Wadi Rum tours  for an immersive desert journey.

Accommodation

For accommodation, consider staying at the Petra Guest House, conveniently located inside the park and home to the famous Cave Bar. Another excellent option is the Petra Moon Hotel, which is close to transportation options like the JETT buses that connect Wadi Musa to Amman and Aqaba, and offers a free car park.

A hidden gem in Wadi Musa is the Ata Ali Hotel. With its lovely views and prime location just 5 minutes from the city center, it's a great choice for travelers. As one of the first hotels to open in Petra, it holds historical significance. We highly recommend it for its charm and convenience. Don't forget to enjoy their traditional freshly cooked meals!

Conclusion

A visit to Petra isn't just a journey; it's a voyage through history, offering a glimpse into one of the world's most astounding archaeological treasures. With our tour packages, you can guarantee a seamless and unforgettable adventure. Begin planning your trip today and delve into the enchanting marvels of Petra alongside The Jordanian Mappers.

For in-depth itineraries and convenient bookings for your visit to Jordan & Petra, don't hesitate to explore  our tours page.