Petra, the ancient city carved into red sandstone cliffs, is one of the New Seven Wonders of the World and a must-see destination for any traveler in the region. If you’re staying in Jerusalem and wondering how to experience this remarkable site in a day, you’re in luck. Organized day trips from Jerusalem to Petra make it possible to visit this UNESCO World Heritage Site without spending the night in Jordan. This article will guide you through everything you need to know about the day trip from Jerusalem to Petra.
How Do You Get from Jerusalem to Petra?
The most convenient way to get from Jerusalem to Petra is to join a guided day tour. This ensures a smooth journey with all logistics taken care of, including transportation, border crossing, and a knowledgeable guide to enhance your experience. Several operators offer daily tours departing from Jerusalem and taking you to Petra.
There are a few routes you can take to reach Petra from Jerusalem, depending on the tour you choose:
Popular resort town by the Red Sea, and then cross into Jordan at the Arava (Itzhak Rabin) border. From there, you’ll continue to Petra by taxi or arranged transport. While this route might take a little longer, it offers a chance to see the southern parts of Israel and Jordan.
Can You Make a Day Trip from Jordan to Jerusalem?
Yes, it’s possible to do a day trip from Jordan to Jerusalem. However, the logistics involved are slightly more complex due to border crossings. For travelers coming from Jordan, you would cross the border at one of the entry points, such as the Allenby Bridge. Remember that border procedures can take some time, so factoring this into your itinerary is essential. Depending on the border crossing and the waiting time, you might only have limited time to explore Jerusalem.
See also: Jordan Vacation Packages All Inclusive
If you’re in Jordan and want to visit Jerusalem for a day, it’s advisable to plan the trip early in the morning and return to Jordan by evening. Organized day tours from Jordan to Jerusalem, including visa assistance and transport, can help streamline the process.
Jerusalem to Petra Distance
The distance from Jerusalem to Petra is approximately 200 kilometers (124 miles) by road. The trip takes about 4 to 5 hours, depending on traffic and border crossing times. The drive offers stunning views of the desert landscapes as you cross from Israel into Jordan, making the journey an integral part of the experience.
For those traveling independently, the border crossing time can be unpredictable, so it’s essential to be prepared for potential delays. On the other hand, a guided tour typically streamlines the process. It offers more efficient border crossings, ensuring you can maximize your time at Petra.
Jerusalem to Petra Tour
A Jerusalem to Petra tour offers an excellent way to visit one of the most famous archaeological sites in the world without worrying about the logistics. These tours usually depart early in the morning, ensuring that you have enough time to explore Petra and return to Jerusalem the same day. Here’s a breakdown of what to expect from a typical one-day tour:
Early Morning Departure
Most tours begin early, usually around 6:00 AM, to maximize the time spent at Petra. You’ll travel in a comfortable air-conditioned vehicle, going through Israel’s Negev Desert and across the border into Jordan.
Border Crossing
You’ll go through customs and immigration checks at Tyou’llenby Bridge or Arava border crossing. To ensure a smooth crossing, it’s crucial to have all necessary documents, including a pre-arranged visa. The border procedures typically take 1-2 hours, so be prepared for this waiting time.
Arrival at Petra
Once in Jordan, you go to the historic city of Petra. The first stop is usually the famous Siq, a narrow, winding gorge that leads to the Treasury. Your guide will walk you through the city, explaining its fascinating history and taking you to key sites like the Royal Tombs, Roman Theater, and Al-Khazneh (The Treasury).
Exploring Petra
After the guided tour, you’ll have some free time to explore Petra independently. You can take a hike to the Monastery, explore the High Place of Sacrifice, or simply walk around the ancient city and soak in the breathtaking views.
Lunch and Return
After your time at Petra, most tours include a traditional Jordanian lunch, often at a local Bedouin-style restaurant. The journey back to Jerusalem typically begins around mid-afternoon, arriving back by late evening.
Ready to explore the wonders of Petra on a day trip from Jerusalem? Book your guided tour now and embark on an unforgettable adventure to one of the world’world’siconic ancient cities. Don’t Forget about this once-in-a-lifetime experience!
Book here: Jordan and Jerusalem Group Tour – 6 Days
Why a Day Trip to Petra is Worth It
A day trip from Jerusalem to Petra might seem like a long journey, but it’s definitely worth it for several reasons:
- Efficient Use of Time: For those short on time but eager to visit Petra, a day trip offers an efficient way to experience one of the world’s most incredible ancient sites without committing to an overnight stay.
- Guided Expertise: A guided tour enriches your experience by providing historical and cultural context, ensuring you fully appreciate the significance of the sites you visit.
- Seamless Logistics: With all transportation, border crossings, and entrance fees taken care of, a guided tour eliminates the stress of planning and navigation. It also helps avoid any confusion with border procedures, making the journey smoother and faster.
- Unforgettable Memories: From the moment you step foot in Petra, the grandeur and beauty of the ancient city will take your breath away. Whether you’reyou’reling at the Treasury, exploring the Monastery, or soaking in the desert views, the experience will be unforgettable.
The day trip from Jerusalem to Petra offers an incredible opportunity to explore one of the world’s most spectacular archaeological sites without needing an extended journey. While the journey involves some travel time, the beauty and history of Petra make it all worthwhile. With organized tours handling all the logistics, the trip is made seamless and stress-free, leaving you free to enjoy the stunning landscapes and the awe-inspiring monuments of this ancient city. Whether you’re in Jerusalemyou’reyou’rerusalem for a short visit or planning a more extended stay in the region, a Petra day trip is an experience you won’t forget.
