Petra
Amman, Jordan
The ancient city of Petra was carved into Jordan’s red rock sandstone cliffs more than 2,000 years ago. It was once an important stop on Roman trade routes and stronghold of the Nabataean Arab kingdom. Today, the lost city is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the world’s most iconic archaeological destinations. Covering more than 100 square miles, or about four times the size of Manhattan, it’s also one of the largest in the world. Biblicicaly, it’s also significant. According to the Bible, it was here, at Wadi Musa, that Moses struck a rock resulting in a stream of water that quenched the Israelites’ thirst.
The basics
Petra is a highlight of the Middle East. It’s renowned for its astonishing cliff-bound monuments carved into the rock and Greek-influenced architectural style. Thanks to the city’s Hollywood portrayal in Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade, it rose to international fame, especially in the Western World, and is now one of Jordan’s most-visited attractions. Travelers usually approach the site through the long and narrow Siq. This chasm opens up on the magnificent Treasury (al-Khazneh)—Petra’s most-photographed building. Within the winding mountain ravines you’ll also find tombs, an 8,000-seat amphitheater, and the triumphal arch of the Temenos Gateway.
While it’s possible to catch Petra’s highlights on a day trip from Eilat, Jerusalem, or Amman, there’s enough to see to warrant a multi-day stay. Longer tours of Israel and Jordan often include the city on their itineraries. They typically include visits to Wadi Rum, the Dead Sea, Jerusalem, and Bethlehem, depending on the length and option chosen. For a personalized experience, opt for a private tour.
Things to know before you go
Petra is a must-see for adventure travelers and archaeology buffs.
Visitors can opt for 1-day or 2-day Petra tickets, purchased online or at the visitor center.
It gets hot in the Jordan desert; don’t forget to bring sun protection and plenty of water.
Remember to dress respectfully in loose-fitting clothing that covers your legs and shoulders.
Petra tours from Eilat, Jerusalem, and Amman can last up to 12 hours.
How to get there
Petra is 150 miles (240 kilometers) south of Jordan, near the town of Wadi Mousa. It takes roughly 20 minutes to walk from town to the archaeological site. The most convenient way to get there is on a guided day tour, but you can also reach Wadi Mousa by JETT bus from Amman or Aqaba. You can also take a taxi.
When to get there
Plan to arrive at the main entrance first thing in the morning to explore the site before crowds begin to arrive. Spring and autumn offer the best weather, with warm days and cool nights. Expect temperatures over 100°F (38°C) in summer.
Petra Monastery hike
While the Treasury ranks as Petra’s most famous structure, the Monastery is just as impressive and often much less crowded, due in part to the strenuous hour-long hike necessary to get there. The reward for braving the journey up some 800 rock-cut steps is the chance to explore Petra’s largest carved monument. The path up to the Monastery sits mostly in the shade during the afternoon.
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