General Information
Petra, often called the “Rose City,” is one of the world’s most stunning archaeological sites and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Carved into pink sandstone cliffs by the Nabataeans around 300 BC, Petra was a thriving trade hub linking the East and West. Its breathtaking rock-cut architecture, including the famous Al-Khazneh (The Treasury), makes it one of the New Seven Wonders of the World.
Today, Petra is Jordan’s top tourist attraction, drawing millions of visitors who come to explore its ancient tombs, temples, and dramatic landscapes.
Location
Petra is located in southern Jordan, about 240 km south of Amman and 120 km north of Aqaba. Nestled within the desert mountains of Wadi Musa, Petra is famous for its rugged terrain, hidden valleys, and impressive rock formations.
Nearby Destinations:
- Wadi Rum (110 km south): A surreal desert landscape known as the “Valley of the Moon”.
- Aqaba (120 km southwest): A coastal city on the Red Sea, perfect for diving and relaxation.
- Dead Sea (200 km north): The lowest point on Earth, famous for its healing salt waters.
- Amman (240 km north): Jordan’s capital, home to Roman ruins and vibrant culture.
How to Get There
- By Air:
- The closest airport is King Hussein International Airport (AQJ) in Aqaba (120 km away).
- Queen Alia International Airport (AMM) in Amman is a major hub, about 3-4 hours from Petra.
- By Bus:
- JETT Bus operates daily routes from Amman to Petra, taking about 4 hours.
- Local minibuses run from Wadi Rum and Aqaba to Petra.
- By Car:
- Self-driving is an excellent option, with well-maintained highways from Amman and Aqaba.
- Rental cars and private taxis are available for a more flexible trip.
- By Tour:
- Many travel agencies in Amman, Aqaba, and Wadi Rum offer guided day tours to Petra.
Best Time to Visit
- Spring (March – May): Ideal weather, with mild temperatures (15-25°C) and blooming desert flowers.
- Autumn (September – November): Another great time with pleasant weather and fewer crowds.
- Winter (December – February): Cool and less crowded, but nights can be cold, and occasional rain may occur.
- Summer (June – August): Hot and dry, with temperatures exceeding 35°C, making midday hikes challenging.
Key Festivals & Events
- Petra Desert Marathon (September): A scenic yet challenging marathon through Petra’s ancient trails.
- Petra by Night (Monday, Wednesday & Thursday): A magical candle-lit experience at The Treasury.
Where to Stay
- Luxury:
- Mövenpick Resort Petra: A 5-star hotel with direct access to Petra’s entrance.
- Petra Marriott Hotel: Offers stunning mountain views and traditional Jordanian hospitality.
- Mid-range:
- Petra Guest House Hotel: Located next to the entrance, with a unique cave bar.
- Old Village Hotel & Resort: A traditional-style resort with great amenities.
- Budget:
- Petra Moon Hotel: Affordable and just a short walk from the entrance.
- Valentine Inn: A backpacker-friendly stay with budget rooms and Bedouin-style dinners.
Top Attractions
- Al-Khazneh (The Treasury): Petra’s most iconic structure, carved into rose-red rock.
- Siq: A stunning 1.2 km narrow canyon leading to The Treasury.
- Ad-Deir (The Monastery): A massive rock-cut temple with breathtaking views.
- Royal Tombs: A collection of ornate Nabataean tombs carved into cliffs.
- The Great Temple: One of Petra’s largest and most impressive archaeological ruins.
- Al-Beidha (Little Petra): A smaller, less crowded version of Petra.
- High Place of Sacrifice: A panoramic viewpoint with ancient altars and rock carvings.
- Colonnaded Street: A remnant of Petra’s Roman-influenced city center.
- Petra Theatre: An ancient amphitheater carved into rock, once seating 8,500 people.
- Wadi Musa: The town serving as the gateway to Petra, with restaurants and accommodations.
Getting Around
- Walking: Most of Petra is accessible only on foot, so expect to hike!
- Horse & Donkey Rides: Available at the entrance, but always negotiate prices in advance.
- Camel Rides: A unique way to explore deeper parts of Petra’s ruins.
- Electric Carts: Available for elderly visitors or those with mobility issues.
Local Cuisine
Must-Try Dishes:
- Mansaf: Jordan’s national dish, made with lamb, yogurt sauce, and rice.
- Zarb: A Bedouin-style barbecue, cooked underground.
- Maqluba: A delicious upside-down rice, meat, and vegetable dish.
- Falafel & Hummus: A classic Jordanian staple found in many restaurants.
- Bedouin Tea: A sweet herbal tea with cardamom, sage, and mint.
Top Restaurants:
- My Mom’s Recipe Restaurant: Serves authentic home-cooked Jordanian meals.
- Al Qantarah Restaurant: Great for traditional Zarb and Mansaf.
- Red Cave Restaurant: Offers local and international dishes in a cozy cave setting.
- The Basin Restaurant: Located inside Petra, perfect for a midday break.
Shopping in Petra
- Bedouin Market: Sells handcrafted silver jewelry, woven rugs, and ceramics.
- Petra Souvenirs: Includes sand bottles with colorful desert landscapes.
- Handmade Nabataean Pottery: Traditional clay pots with ancient designs.
- Jordanian Spices & Tea: Perfect for a unique and flavorful gift.
Nightlife in Petra
Petra’s nightlife is relaxed and cultural, with traditional music and candle-lit settings.
- Petra by Night: A must-see candle-lit tour of The Treasury, with storytelling and music.
- Cave Bar: One of the oldest bars in the world, located in a 2,000-year-old Nabataean tomb.
- Bedouin Campfire Nights: Experience authentic Bedouin hospitality with tea, music, and stargazing.
Day Trips from Petra
- Wadi Rum (1.5 hours): Explore the desert wilderness by 4×4, camel, or hot air balloon.
- Aqaba (2 hours): A Red Sea coastal city known for snorkeling and diving.
- Dana Biosphere Reserve (1.5 hours): A stunning eco-reserve with hiking trails.
- Shobak Castle (45 min): A 12th-century Crusader castle with fascinating ruins.