
Petra
An ancient city carved into rose-red sandstone cliffs, Petra is a breathtaking testament to Nabataean ingenuity and a UNESCO World Heritage site.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Beat crowds & heat

Petra
Best Time
Beat crowds & heat

Highlights
Must-see attractions
An ancient city carved into rose-red sandstone cliffs, Petra is a breathtaking testament to Nabataean ingenuity and a UNESCO World Heritage site.
"When you come to Petra, you are expecting to be stunned, but nothing can really prepare you for the immense beauty of this place."

🎯 Get a Jordan Pass
Includes Petra entry & other sites. Saves money and hassle!
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll walk miles on uneven terrain. Prioritize comfort!

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Treasury (Al-Khazneh)
The Siq
Petra's iconic facade, carved into rose-red sandstone. A breathtaking first glimpse after the narrow Siq.

The Monastery (Ad-Deir)
High in the hills
A monumental structure requiring a significant climb, offering stunning views and a sense of accomplishment.

The Siq
Entrance to Petra
A dramatic, narrow gorge leading to the Treasury, with towering sandstone walls that build anticipation.

Cave Dwellings
Various locations within Petra
Ancient homes and tombs carved directly into the sandstone cliffs, showcasing Nabataean ingenuity.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Beat the Crowds and Heat
Comfortable Footwear is Key
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Get a Jordan Pass
Includes Petra entry & other sites. Saves money and hassle!
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll walk miles on uneven terrain. Prioritize comfort!
💧 Stay Hydrated
Carry plenty of water, especially during warmer months.
🚶♀️ Go Early to Beat Crowds
Arrive at opening (6 AM) for a less crowded experience.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Get a Jordan Pass
Includes Petra entry & other sites. Saves money and hassle!
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll walk miles on uneven terrain. Prioritize comfort!
💧 Stay Hydrated
Carry plenty of water, especially during warmer months.
🚶♀️ Go Early to Beat Crowds
Arrive at opening (6 AM) for a less crowded experience.
💰 Negotiate Vendor Prices
Be firm with prices for rides and souvenirs. Say 'no,' not 'maybe later.'
🐪 Skip Animal Rides
Support ethical tourism; some animals may be mistreated.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently describe Petra as a magical and breathtaking experience, with the Treasury and Monastery being standout highlights. The sheer scale and ancient artistry carved into the sandstone leave a lasting impression. However, some find the abundance of vendors and the pressure to purchase services or rides to be overwhelming, and the extensive walking can be taxing.
"Walking through Petra was magical — from the Siq opening, up to the Treasury, to the Qasr al-Bint, to the climb to the Monastery. Every corner has history carved in stone. Wear good shoes, stay hydrated, and take your time — it’s an unforgettable experience.
Ideally 2 days is good, but if you have a whole day starting at 6-7am in the morning, you can go to the Monastery, climb up and make it back. Its taxing, but doable.
(Even if you come back on the 2nd day, you will still have to start from the beginning?
Best way is to slowly reach Qasr al-Bint, take a rest, eat some food and continue to the Monastery"
Sharad Sud
"Just incredible. When you come to Petra, you are expecting to be stunned, but nothing can really prepare you for the immense beauty of this place. Not many places in the world are blessed with both unique archaeological remains and such a spectacular natural setting. If you can, don’t miss out the monastery. We only stayed one day, but this place deserves at least three days."
Simona Bordoni
"An absolutely awesome experience. It's an enjoyable walk through the canyons leading to this beautiful site. Seeing the Treasury for the first time was breathtaking. There are so many cool sites to see once you get past the Treasury. I'm so glad I went to see this "Wonder Of The World". If you go, plan to spend at least several hours there
A note of caution. There are a lot of vendors trying to sell you all kinds of souvenirs, photos with camels, horseback rides, etc. Be sure to negotiate any and all prices especially for getting on a camel and getting a picture. Beware of your surroundings as there are a lot of people."
B Schmidt
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Petra is about a 3-hour drive from Amman. You can rent a car, hire a driver, or take a bus. Many visitors opt for a guided tour that includes transportation.
Yes, it's possible, but it's a long day. You'll need to start very early from Amman or other nearby cities to maximize your time. Consider staying overnight in Wadi Musa for a more relaxed experience.
The primary way to explore Petra is by walking. For longer distances, golf carts are available for a fee, and horse or camel rides are also offered, though ethical concerns have been raised.
Yes, within Petra, you can hire horse-drawn carriages for the initial walk through the Siq, or opt for camel rides and donkey rides to reach further sites. Be prepared to negotiate prices.
The walk from the Visitor Center to the Treasury through the Siq is approximately 2 kilometers (1.2 miles) and takes about 30-45 minutes at a moderate pace.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Entry fees vary depending on whether you have a Jordan Pass. A Jordan Pass typically includes Petra entry and is more cost-effective if you plan to visit multiple sites in Jordan.
Petra generally opens at 6 AM and closes around sunset. It's highly recommended to arrive at opening to avoid crowds and the heat.
While not always mandatory, booking tickets in advance or purchasing a Jordan Pass is advisable, especially during peak season, to save time and potentially money.
Yes, Petra by Night is a special event held on certain nights, where the Siq and the Treasury are illuminated by thousands of candles. Check the schedule in advance.
In rare cases of extreme weather, like flash floods, Petra may close for safety. It's advisable to check local conditions and have travel insurance that covers such eventualities.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The best time is early morning, right at opening (6 AM), to experience the Treasury with fewer crowds and cooler temperatures. Late afternoon also offers beautiful lighting.
A full day is recommended to see the main sites, including the climb to the Monastery. Some suggest 2-3 days to truly appreciate the vastness of Petra.
Lightweight, breathable clothing is best. Comfortable walking shoes are essential. A hat and sunglasses are highly recommended for sun protection.
Yes, you can hire licensed guides near the Visitor Center. They can provide historical context and help you navigate the site more effectively.
Beyond the Treasury, explore the Monastery (Ad-Deir), the Royal Tombs, the Great Temple, Qasr al-Bint, and the numerous ancient cave dwellings.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, there are restaurants and cafes within Petra, particularly near the main sites like Qasr al-Bint. However, options can be limited and prices higher.
You can find local Jordanian dishes, snacks, and beverages. Bringing your own snacks and water is also a good idea, especially for longer hikes.
Yes, bringing your own water and snacks is permitted and highly recommended to stay hydrated and energized throughout your visit.
The town of Wadi Musa, just outside Petra, offers a wider range of restaurants and cafes with more diverse culinary options.
While traditional Jordanian cuisine has many vegetarian dishes, options might be more limited within Petra itself. Wadi Musa will offer more variety.
📸 📸 Photography
Early morning light is ideal for capturing the Treasury without crowds. Late afternoon also provides beautiful golden hour lighting on the sandstone.
The view of the Treasury from the end of the Siq is iconic. For panoramic views, consider the hike to the Monastery or viewpoints overlooking the Treasury.
Always ask for permission before photographing people. Be mindful of the welfare of animals if you choose to photograph them.
Drone usage is generally restricted in archaeological sites like Petra to protect the ancient structures and for safety reasons. Check with local authorities for current regulations.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the grand facades and the Siq. A telephoto lens can be useful for details and distant shots. A sturdy tripod can be helpful for low-light conditions.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Be prepared for a lot of walking, so ensure kids have comfortable shoes and plenty of water. Pack snacks, as food options inside can be limited and pricey. While the climb to the Monastery might be too strenuous for very young children, the main areas around the Treasury and the Royal Tombs offer plenty to explore. Keep an eye on children around vendors and animal rides, and always ask for permission before taking photos of people.
🚶 Budget Travelers
Consider staying in hostels or budget guesthouses in Wadi Musa, the town adjacent to Petra. Public transportation options from Amman might be more economical than private tours, though they require more planning. Visiting during the shoulder seasons (spring and autumn) can sometimes offer slightly lower accommodation prices.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Don't just focus on the Treasury; explore the intricate carvings of the Royal Tombs, the dramatic landscapes, and the textures of the sandstone. The Monastery offers stunning vistas, and the journey there provides unique photographic opportunities. Be mindful of the sun's position throughout the day, as it dramatically changes the colors of the rock. Always seek permission before photographing people.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The History and Nabataean Legacy
The city's strategic location and the Nabataeans' ingenuity allowed Petra to flourish for centuries. However, shifts in trade routes and a devastating earthquake in 363 AD led to its decline. Petra was largely abandoned and 'lost' to the Western world until its rediscovery by Swiss explorer Johann Ludwig Burckhardt in 1812. Today, it stands as a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the New7Wonders of the World, offering a profound glimpse into a sophisticated ancient civilization.
Recent discoveries, such as potential underground structures, continue to hint at the mysteries still buried beneath Petra, suggesting that our understanding of this ancient city may still be evolving.
Navigating Petra: The Walk and Key Sites
Emerging from the Siq, you're met with the iconic Treasury (Al-Khazneh), Petra's most famous facade, intricately carved into the rock face. This is often the first major stop for visitors. From here, the site opens up to reveal a vast city with numerous other significant structures. Don't miss the Royal Tombs, the Great Temple, and Qasr al-Bint. For those seeking a more challenging but rewarding experience, the climb to the Monastery (Ad-Deir) involves over 800 steps and offers a monumental structure comparable to the Treasury, along with breathtaking panoramic views.
Beyond the grand facades, Petra also features countless ancient cave dwellings, which were once homes and tombs for its inhabitants. These simpler, hand-carved spaces offer a different perspective on daily life in the ancient city. Exploring these areas provides a deeper understanding of the Nabataeans' architectural prowess and their adaptation to the desert environment.
Practicalities: What to Bring and Consider
When it comes to navigating the site, be prepared for numerous vendors offering souvenirs, camel rides, and other services. While these can be part of the experience, it's important to negotiate prices firmly and clearly. Redditors advise against saying 'maybe later' as vendors may persistently follow you. There are also ethical considerations regarding animal rides; some travelers report concerns about animal welfare and recommend skipping these services.
Consider purchasing a Jordan Pass before your trip, as it often includes entry to Petra and other attractions, offering significant savings. Arriving at Petra right at opening time (6 AM) is highly recommended to avoid the peak crowds and the intense midday heat, allowing for a more serene and enjoyable exploration.


Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit