Petra

The Ultimate Guide to Travelling in Petra

Table of Contents

  1. Getting There
  2. Places to Visit
  3. Things to Do
  4. Where to Eat
  5. Accommodation Options
  6. Transportation
  7. Tips and Essentials

Getting There

By Air

Petra is located in Jordan, which has two international airports: Queen Alia International Airport (AMM) in Amman and Aqaba King Hussein Airport (AQJ). The closest airport to Petra is Aqaba King Hussein Airport.

  • From AMM:
    • Take a domestic flight from AMM to AQJ with Royal Jordanian or Arab Wings.
    • Alternatively, take a taxi or bus from the airport to Wadi Musa, which takes around 2 hours and costs approximately $20-$30.
  • From AQJ:
    • The airport is located near Petra, and you can take a taxi or shuttle directly to your hotel.

By Bus

There are several bus companies operating from Amman and Aqaba to Wadi Musa, including:

  • JETT: Offers daily buses from AMM and AQJ to Wadi Musa.
  • Abdali Express: Operates from AMM and AQJ to Wadi Musa.

Places to Visit

The Monastery (Al-Khazneh)

The iconic entrance of Petra, carved into the sandstone cliff face, is a must-visit. Be prepared for crowds and long lines during peak season.

  • Location: At the center of Petra
  • Best Time: Early morning or late afternoon to avoid the heat

The Royal Tombs

A collection of elaborate monuments believed to be the final resting place of ancient Nabatean kings.

  • Location: Above the Monastery, overlooking Wadi Musa
  • Best Time: Late morning to early afternoon to enjoy the shade

Street of Facades (Al-Siq)

A narrow canyon carved into the rock face, featuring intricately designed facades and monuments.

  • Location: On the way to the Monastery
  • Best Time: Early morning or late afternoon to avoid the heat

The Amphitheater

An ancient Roman theater used for gladiatorial games and other events.

  • Location: Outside Petra’s main site, near the Visitor Center
  • Best Time: Late morning to early afternoon to enjoy the shade

Things to Do

Hiking

Petra offers several hiking trails of varying difficulty levels:

  • The Classic Route: A 1.2 km hike from the entrance to the Monastery
  • The Mosaic Trail: A 3.5 km hike through Wadi Musa, featuring ancient mosaics
  • The High Place of Sacrifice: A challenging 4 km hike with breathtaking views

Camel Rides

Experience Petra on a comfortable camel ride:

  • Duration: Approximately 1-2 hours
  • Cost: Around $20-$30 per person

Cooking Classes

Learn the art of traditional Jordanian cuisine with a cooking class:

  • Location: In Wadi Musa or Aqaba
  • Duration: Approximately 3-4 hours
  • Cost: Around $50-$70 per person

Where to Eat

Petra and its surrounding areas offer a range of dining options:

Local Restaurants

  • Sitt Hamsam: Traditional Jordanian cuisine in Wadi Musa
  • Petra Kitchen: A cooking class cum restaurant in Wadi Musa
  • Al-Wasit Restaurant: Offers local dishes in the heart of Aqaba

International Cuisine

  • Mosaic: Serves Mediterranean and Middle Eastern fusion food in Wadi Musa
  • The Old Village Hotel’s Restaurant: Offers international cuisine with a focus on seafood in Wadi Musa
  • Al-Fanar Restaurant: Serves Italian and Arabic fusion food in the heart of Aqaba

Accommodation Options

Petra offers a range of accommodation options to suit various budgets:

Luxury Hotels

  • Movenpick Resort Petra: Offers luxurious rooms with stunning views of the Monastery
  • The Old Village Hotel & Spa: Provides upscale accommodations and an outdoor pool overlooking Wadi Musa
  • Frankincense Hotel: Features elegant rooms and a spa amidst beautiful gardens in Wadi Musa

Budget-Friendly Options

  • Wadi Rum Night Camp: Offers simple but clean and comfortable accommodations under the stars
  • The Bedouin Camp: Provides traditional tented accommodation with basic amenities in Wadi Rum
  • Wadi Musa’s Guesthouses: Various budget-friendly options, including apartments and hostels

Transportation

Walking

Petra is a walking destination. Wear comfortable shoes and explore the ancient city on foot.

  • Best Time: Early morning or late afternoon to avoid the heat

Camel Rides

Take a leisurely camel ride through Petra:

  • Duration: Approximately 1-2 hours
  • Cost: Around $20-$30 per person

Horseback Riding

Explore Petra on horseback, ideal for those who want to cover more ground.

  • Duration: Approximately 1-2 hours
  • Cost: Around $25-$35 per person

Tips and Essentials

  • Respect local customs: Dress modestly when visiting mosques or temples.
  • Bring water: Stay hydrated during the hot desert sun.
  • Sun protection: Bring sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses to protect yourself from the sun.
  • Comfortable shoes: Wear sturdy shoes for walking and exploring Petra’s terrain.
  • Language: Arabic is the official language; however, English is widely spoken in tourist areas.
  • Currency: The Jordanian Dinar (JOD) is the local currency; US dollars are also accepted.

Enjoy your journey to Petra!