Petra

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.

Ways to explore

Most travelers spend at least one day, if not more, exploring Petra, and tickets are available as single or multi-day passes. You can also see the site after dark during Petra By Night events, which take place five nights a week from 8:30pm. You can wander the site independently or arrange a licensed guide.

Many people visit Petra with tours that handle all travel logistics, and depart from Eilat, Jerusalem, Amman, Aqaba, Sharm el Sheikh, or Dahab. Day tours are possible to see the highlights, while longer tours of Jordan will typically also visit Wadi Rum and the Dead Sea.

Accessibility

The site features a mix of paved areas with some cobblestones and sandy trails that may be challenging for travelers using manual wheelchairs. Golf cart tours are available for those with limited mobility, although wheelchair users will need to transfer to the cart seating. There are accessible restrooms in the visitor center.

Age limits

None; admission is free for children under 12 during the daytime visiting hours, while the Petra Night Show is free to kids under 10.

What to pack

If visiting in summer, pack a hat, sunglasses, sunscreen, and water— there’s little shade here. Also, bring a fully-charged camera and cash for souvenirs.

What to wear

Modest dress is important to Jordanians; opt for loose-fitting clothing that covers legs and shoulders. Practical shoes are essential, as you’ll be doing a lot of walking. Add a jacket in winter.

Not allowed

Drone photography requires special permissions.

Amenities

Visitor center, restaurants, shops, restrooms

Address 

Petra is about a 150-mile (241-kilometer) drive south of Amman, near the town of Wadi Musa. It takes roughly 25 minutes to walk from town to the archaeological site.

Driving

From Amman, you can drive the scenic King’s Highway (Highway 35) via Madaba, crusader castles, and the Mujib Biosphere Reserve (Wadi Mujib)—the journey takes about four hours. It is around a 3-hour drive via the faster Desert Highway (Highway 15).

Public transportation

Buses run to Petra from both Amman and Aqaba; the bus journey from Amman is around four hours, while from Aqaba it is about three hours.

Best times to visit

Petra is open 6am to 6pm during summer (March through September) and 6:30am to 5pm in winter (October through February). Plan to arrive at the main entrance first thing in the morning to explore the site before crowds begin to arrive.

Best days to visit

Petra by Night runs Sunday through Thursday only, so plan accordingly if you’d like to see the site after dark.

Best months to visit

Late spring (April and May) and early fall (September to November) offer the best weather, with warm days and cool nights. Desert summers can be very hot.