Petra, the ancient city carved into the sandstone cliffs of Jordan, is a destination that captivates travelers from around the globe. If you’re wondering How To Travel To Petra, this guide provides comprehensive information for planning your visit, ensuring a memorable and seamless experience.
Royal Tombs in Petra, showcasing the intricate carvings and grandeur of the ancient city
Planning Your Trip to Petra
Petra is more accessible than you might think, with options to suit various budgets and travel styles. Whether you prefer organized tours or independent exploration, understanding the logistics is key to a successful trip. Let’s delve into the essentials of planning your visit to this wonder of the world.
Accommodation Near Petra: Where to Stay
The town of Wadi Musa serves as the gateway to Petra, offering a wide array of lodging options. From luxurious resorts to budget-friendly guesthouses, you’ll find something to fit your needs.
- Luxury: The Mövenpick Resort* boasts a prime location just across from Petra’s entrance. It features multiple dining options, an outdoor pool, and a stunning rooftop terrace.
- Mid-Range: The Petra Guest House* is situated next to the visitor center, offering convenient access. Choose between rooms and chalets with mountain views.
- Budget: The Rocky Mountain Hotel*, though a bit further up the hillside, provides excellent value with free tea/coffee and shuttles to Petra. The views are a definite plus.
A local Bedouin musician playing a traditional instrument, offering a glimpse into the culture surrounding Petra
Getting to Petra: Transportation Options
Reaching Petra is relatively straightforward, with several transportation modes available.
- Walking/Taxi: If you’re staying in Wadi Musa, Petra is often within walking distance. Taxis are readily available and cost around JD5 within Wadi Musa.
- Driving: From Amman, the drive to Petra is approximately 3 hours (236km) via the Desert Highway or 4.5 hours (255km) via the King’s Highway. From Aqaba, it’s a 2-hour drive (126km). Free parking is available opposite the bus stop in front of the Petra Moon Hotel.
- Public Transportation: JETT buses connect Wadi Musa to Amman and Aqaba. The Amman-Petra bus takes 3 hours (JD10 one way), while the Aqaba-Petra bus also takes 3 hours (JD15 one way). Booking in advance is recommended.
- Tours: Numerous tour packages are available from Amman, Aqaba, Eilat, and Tel Aviv, offering convenient transportation and entry tickets.
Petra's carved tombs reflecting the architectural skills of the Nabataeans
Petra Entrance Fees and Jordan Pass
Plan your visit to Petra by familiarizing yourself with ticket costs and the Jordan Pass.
- Entry Fees: A one-day ticket costs JD50, a two-day ticket JD55, and a three-day ticket JD60. Note that if you’re not staying overnight in Jordan, the price is JD90.
- Jordan Pass: Consider purchasing a Jordan Pass, which includes entry to Petra and over 40 other sites. It costs JD70 (1 day), JD75 (2 days), or JD80 (3 days).
Best Time to Visit Petra
The spring (March-May) and autumn (September-November) months offer the most pleasant weather, with average high temperatures between 19°C–28°C (66–82°F). Summer can be extremely hot, while winter can be cold and rainy.
Petra Opening Hours and Petra by Night
Petra is open daily, with the ticket office operating from 6 am to 6 pm in summer and 6 am to 4 pm in winter. For a unique experience, consider Petra by Night on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays, where the Siq and Treasury are illuminated by candles.
How Long to Spend in Petra
While a day trip allows you to see the highlights, spending two or three days enables a more relaxed exploration of the site and its surrounding trails.
Exploring Petra's expansive archaeological site, revealing its rich history and captivating landscapes
What to Wear and Bring to Petra
Comfortable walking shoes are essential. Dress modestly, covering shoulders and knees. Bring a hat, sunglasses, sunscreen, and plenty of water.
Walking and Accessibility in Petra
Be prepared for a lot of walking, as Petra covers a vast area. Electric carts are available for a fee to shorten the distance from the visitor center to the Treasury.
Views from the Urn Tomb offering panoramic scenery of the Petra landscape
Food and Drink in Petra
Pack a lunch or purchase snacks and drinks outside the entrance to save money. Bottled water is widely available, but consider bringing a refillable water bottle. Several restaurants and cafes are located within the site.
Essential Tips for Visiting Petra
- Toilets: Public toilets are available at the visitor’s center, near the Theatre and museum, and at a few cafes.
- Souvenirs: Be prepared for persistent souvenir vendors.
- Respect: Remember that Jordan is a Muslim country and dress respectfully.
Concluding Your Petra Adventure
Camels resting at Petra, an integral part of the desert landscape
Knowing how to travel to Petra and planning ahead ensures a seamless and unforgettable experience. From transportation and accommodation to what to wear and bring, being prepared enhances your journey to this ancient wonder. Embrace the history, marvel at the architecture, and create lasting memories in the heart of Jordan.
