Petra, Jordan

The Ultimate Guide to Travelling in Petra, Jordan

Overview

Petra, Jordan is one of the most iconic and awe-inspiring destinations in the Middle East. This ancient city, carved into the sandstone cliffs over 2,000 years ago, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a must-visit for any traveler.

Getting There

By Air

  • The nearest airport to Petra is King Hussein International Airport (AQJ) located in Aqaba, Jordan.
  • From there, take a taxi or bus to Wadi Musa, the town near Petra (approximately 1 hour).
  • Alternatively, you can fly into Amman and take a domestic flight to AQJ.

By Land

  • Take a bus from Amman or Aqaba to Wadi Musa (around 4-5 hours).

Places to Visit

  1. The Monastery (Al-Khazneh): The iconic facade of the monastery is a must-see, and it’s recommended to visit early in the morning to avoid crowds.
  2. The Street of Facades: This narrow canyon is lined with intricately carved facades of ancient buildings, offering a glimpse into Petra’s rich history.
  3. The Royal Tombs: A series of elaborate tombs carved into the sandstone cliffs, each one showcasing the craftsmanship and grandeur of the Nabataeans.
  4. The Museum: Located in the heart of Wadi Musa, this museum houses a collection of artifacts found within Petra’s ancient city.
  5. The Canyon: A scenic hike through the canyon offers breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.

Activities

  1. Camel Ride: Explore Petra on horseback or by camel for a unique and memorable experience.
  2. Hiking: Take a guided hike through the surrounding hills and valleys to discover hidden gems and enjoy stunning vistas.
  3. Sunset Viewing: Witness the breathtaking sunset over the Monastery, a truly unforgettable experience.

Where to Eat

  1. Movenpick Hotel’s Restaurant: Enjoy international cuisine in a luxurious setting with stunning views of Petra.
  2. The Trout Restaurant: Savor delicious Jordanian dishes and fresh seafood in this cozy restaurant.
  3. Local Street Food: Try traditional street food like shawarma, falafel, and kibbeh at one of the many stalls near Petra.

Where to Stay

  1. Movenpick Hotel Petra: Luxuriate in this five-star hotel’s upscale amenities and stunning views.
  2. Petra Moon Hotel: Experience modern comfort and warm hospitality in this family-run hotel.
  3. Local Guesthouses: Opt for a more rustic experience by staying at one of the many guesthouses near Petra.

Things to Know

  1. Respect Local Customs: Dress modestly when visiting ancient sites, especially during prayer times.
  2. Stay Hydrated: Bring plenty of water and snacks to avoid dehydration in the scorching desert sun.
  3. Bargain at Markets: Haggling is a way of life in Jordanian markets – be prepared to negotiate prices.

Transportation

  1. Taxi: Hire a taxi or take a ride-sharing service from Wadi Musa to Petra’s entrance (approximately 5-10 minutes).
  2. Public Bus: Use the public bus system to get around Wadi Musa and Aqaba.
  3. Walking: Explore Wadi Musa on foot, as it’s easily walkable.

Tips

  1. Book Ahead: Reserve your accommodation and tickets for popular attractions well in advance to avoid sold-out situations.
  2. Download Apps: Use apps like Google Translate or Maps.me to navigate Petra and surrounding areas.
  3. Learn Basic Arabic Phrases: Show respect by learning basic phrases like ‘hello’ (marhaba), ’thank you’ (shukraan), and ‘how much?’ (beet).

Other Interesting Facts

  1. Petra’s History: Petra was once a major center of trade and commerce, with the Nabataeans ruling from around 400 BC to 100 AD.
  2. Hidden Tombs: Many tombs within Petra remain undiscovered, waiting for archaeologists to uncover their secrets.
  3. Cultural Significance: Petra is considered sacred by many Christians, as it’s believed that Jesus Christ visited the site during his journey to Egypt.

By following this guide, you’ll be well-prepared to experience the majesty of Petra and make unforgettable memories in Jordan!