Petra, the historic city sculpted into the rock formations of southern Jordan, stands as one of the most renowned archaeological landmarks in the world. Known for its majestic Treasury (Al-Khazneh), Petra was once the thriving capital of the Nabataean Kingdom and is now a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the New Seven Wonders of the World. If you’re planning a visit, you’ll want to experience it through the best Petra Jordan tours available. Whether you’re a history enthusiast, an adventure seeker, or simply someone in love with nature, Petra offers something for everyone. This article explores the best Petra tours, answering all the essential questions for a smooth and memorable visit.
Is It Worth Getting A Guide for Petra?
The Importance of A Guide in Petra
While it’s certainly possible to explore Petra on your own, hiring a guide for your Petra tour can significantly enhance your experience. A local guide brings a wealth of knowledge about Petra’s history, including the fascinating details of its rock-hewn tombs, temples, and water systems, which you might miss if exploring on your own.
Petra’s history dates back over 2,000 years, and the Nabataeans who built it left behind incredible feats of engineering and artistry. A guide can provide context and stories that breathe life into the ruins, making your visit far more meaningful. Moreover, navigating the vast Petra site, which spans over 100 square kilometers, can be challenging without someone familiar with the area.
A good guide can also take you off the beaten path, revealing hidden spots like the High Place of Sacrifice or the more secluded Little Petra. These areas are often overlooked by tourists but offer breathtaking views and quieter experiences.
Guided vs. Self-Guided Tours
If you’re looking for a more structured experience, a guided tour is ideal. However, if you prefer exploring at your own pace, a self-guided tour with a map might suffice. The advantage of a guided tour is that it saves you time, allowing you to explore the main attractions efficiently and with deeper insights.
See also: Jordan Group Tours
How Many Days Is Enough for Petra, Jordan?
Petra in One Day: A Quick Overview
If you’re pressed for time, a single day is enough to explore Petra’s highlights. A full-day tour usually covers the main trail through the Siq (the narrow canyon entrance), leading to the Treasury. Afterward, you can visit the Street of Facades, the Royal Tombs, and perhaps even climb to the Monastery (Ad-Deir). While one day is enough to capture the essence of Petra, a guided tour will help you see as much as possible.
Petra in Two Days: A More Relaxed Exploration
For a more in-depth exploration, two days in Petra is ideal. This allows you to take your time and explore more distant areas such as Little Petra and the lesser-visited sites like the Petra High Place of Sacrifice. Spending an extra day also gives you the flexibility to visit Petra by Night, a magical experience where candles light up the Treasury under the stars.
Two-day tours are perfect for those who want to explore Petra without rushing. These tours often combine Petra with a visit to Wadi Rum or the Dead Sea, making for a well-rounded Jordanian adventure.
See also: Petra to Dead Sea Distance
What Is the Best Month to Visit Petra?
Petra’s Climate: The Best Time to Go
Petra is a destination that can be visited year-round, but the ideal times to go are during the spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November).
During these months, the weather is mild, making it comfortable to walk and explore Petra’s vast terrain.
The weather is mild, with clear skies that provide breathtaking views of the desert landscapes.
Summer vs. Winter
Summer (June to August) in Petra can be quite hot, with temperatures often exceeding 40°C (104°F). While the mornings and evenings may be bearable, midday heat can be overwhelming. If you’re visiting during this time, it’s crucial to stay hydrated and plan your outdoor exploration early in the morning or later in the afternoon.
On the other hand, winter (December to February) in Petra can be chilly, with temperatures dropping to around 5°C (41°F). Snowfall is rare but possible, so be prepared for cold mornings and evenings. Despite this, winter crowds are fewer, so if you prefer a quieter visit, winter is an excellent option.
See also: Jordan Ziyarat Tour Packages
How Difficult Is Walking in Petra?
The Terrain: A Physical Challenge
Exploring Petra involves walking on uneven terrain, rocky paths, and sometimes steep inclines. While the main trail to the Treasury is relatively easy, some of the more remote areas, like the High Place of Sacrifice or the Monastery, require hiking uphill. The walks can be physically demanding, particularly if you plan on visiting several sites in one day.
What to Expect: Walking Difficulty
If you’re in good health and prepared for a moderate amount of walking, you’ll have no trouble navigating Petra. However, it’s essential to keep in mind that the ancient city is expansive, and the walking distances can accumulate. For instance, the trek from the Treasury to the Monastery is approximately 3 kilometers uphill
. It’s recommended to wear comfortable shoes with good grip and bring plenty of water.
For those who want a more relaxed experience, there are options to ride camels, donkeys, or horse-drawn carriages, though these services are often offered for a fee.
Accessible Options for Those with Limited Mobility
If walking long distances is difficult for you, Petra also offers some accessible paths and electric vehicles. The main trail to the Treasury is wheelchair accessible, and there are also paths suitable for those with limited mobility. It’s always a good idea to inform your tour operator of any special needs in advance to ensure a smooth visit.
See also: New Year’s Eve Tour in Jordan
Top Petra Tour Packages
When visiting Petra, you can choose from a variety of tour packages that suit different interests and budgets. Here are some of the best options:
1. Petra One-Day Tours
A one-day Petra tour is perfect for those who are short on time. It includes a full day of exploration, from the Siq to the Treasury and beyond, with an expert guide to help you navigate the site. Tours often start from Amman or the Dead Sea.
2. Petra & Wadi Rum Two-Day Tours
For a more relaxed experience, consider a two-day tour that combines Petra with Wadi Rum. These tours allow you to explore the rock-cut city of Petra at a leisurely pace and spend the night in a Bedouin camp in Wadi Rum, experiencing Jordan’s iconic desert landscape.
See also: Jordan Luxury Tours
3. Petra, Wadi Rum & Dead Sea Three-Day Tours
A three-day tour is the ultimate way to explore Petra and its surroundings. This package includes visits to Petra, Wadi Rum, and the Dead Sea, providing a well-rounded experience of Jordan’s natural and historical wonders.
4. Custom Petra Tours
For those looking for a more tailored experience, private tours offer the flexibility to customize your itinerary according to your preferences.
Whether you’re a solo traveler, a couple, or a group, Best Petra Jordan Tours offer flexibility and the chance to explore Petra at your own pace with a guide who can tailor the experience to your preferences.
We’d love to have you with us, join the tour now and get your special discount!
Petra is a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to Jordan, and the best way to experience it is through best Petra Jordan tours. Whether you opt for a one-day visit or a longer tour combining Petra with other iconic Jordanian attractions, there’s something for every type of traveler.
If you’re ready to experience the wonders of Petra, don’t wait! Join us now for unforgettable journey to the Lost City!
People Also Ask
Are there Entrance Passes that Include Multiple Jordan Sites Along with Petra?
Yes, the Jordan Pass is an excellent option. It covers entry to Petra, Wadi Rum, Jerash, and many other attractions, saving both time and money for travelers.
Can I Take Night Tours in Petra?
Yes, Petra by Night is available on certain days, where the Siq and Treasury are lit by candles, creating a magical experience. It’s a shorter tour, ideal for those who have limited time during the day.
Are there Any Dining Options Inside Petra?
Food options inside Petra are limited to small cafes and refreshment stalls near the main attractions. Many visitors bring snacks and water, especially for longer hikes to remote sites.
