Petra was our dream and we were blown away by every second of exploring this ancient city. Petra is not just an archeological site. It’s also a sprawling city that once housed 30,000 people. It is important to know what you can expect to make the most out of your visit to Petra. We have shared our top tips for visitors to Petra – including our favorite things to do, best hikes and where to stay in Petra. What to wear, our essential planning tips, and more. Have fun planning!
Petra
Petra, located in the south of Jordan is an ancient city that was carved into rock by the Nabataean civilization, a nomadic Bedouin tribe, who lived in the Arabian Desert. They established Petra as a major trading center. It was established as the capital of Nabatean in the 6th Century BC. However, it was struck by a major earthquake during the first century. After that, all other inhabitants of Petra’s caves and tombs were left. It is a Jordanian icon, and the Treasury is an emblem of it. It was the Lost City in Indiana Jones’ quest for the holy grail. Petra was designated UNESCO World Heritage Site. It has been named one of the New 7 Wonders of the World.
Plan a trip to Petra
When is the best time to visit Petra?
Petra is best visited in spring and autumn. Winter can be cold and unpredictable, and summer temperatures can be scorching. However, March to May and September through November are the best months to visit Jordan.
How long should you spend in Petra?
We have been to many historic sites all over the world, but Petra is our favorite. We recommend staying at least two nights and preferably three. There is so much to see inside the site, and it is worth at least two trips to fully explore it. Petra’s uniqueness and beauty make it a difficult place to visit all of its parts. There are also many wonderful hikes throughout the site. Petra was visited on four occasions. We did two sunrise hikes, one daytime visit, and an evening at Petra by Night. This only happens on Monday, Wednesday, and Thursday. A visit to Little Petra is also worthwhile, which is a smaller, quieter version the main Petra site.
Where to stay in Petra
The Marriott Petra – This hotel is just minutes from Petra. We loved the stunning views of the Petra Mountains. Our highlight was the traditional Jordanian meal we had in a Bedouin tent overlooking Petra Mountains.
Candles Hotel is a budget-friendly option located just a few hundred meters from the entrance of Petra.
Movenpick Resort Petra-Located at the entrance of Petra, the Movenpick Resort makes an excellent choice for people without transport. It offers good rooms and a delicious breakfast.
How much hiking will I need to do In Petra?
There are many hiking options available for those who wish to explore Petra. These are the main hiking trails in Petra:
Visitor’s centre to the Treasury: 2km
The main trail runs from the visitor center through The Siq to The Treasury, The Treasury, The Royal Tombs, The Treasury, The Colonaded Street, and The Girl’s Palace. It is 4km
- The Monastery and main trail: 8km
- 6 km: Main trail, High Place of Sacrifice
- Part 5: Accessibility is for those who are physically or mentally disabled.
5 | Is Petra accessible?
The main entrance to Petra is through the Wadi Musa gate to the Treasury. The hike is slightly uphill and takes you through the Siq, which is a narrow passageway that winds its way to the Treasury Building. If you’re unable to walk, the ticket includes a horse ride. You can also take a horse-drawn carriage to the Treasury from the Siq’s entrance. A carriage costs 20JD per person for a return trip to the Treasury from the visitor’s center.
There are many walks and hikes in Petra that will keep you active for hours. The main hike that most people do is to the Monastery. The hike to the Monastery is a strenuous one, especially in the early morning. It is also more difficult when the sun rises. It is possible to rent a donkey for the day at the Treasury. Donkeys can walk very close to the edges of roads so be careful! You can negotiate the cost of the donkey ride. Keep smaller notes in your pocket and make sure you agree on the drop-off/return locations before agreeing on the price.
Is Petra safe to visit in 2018?
The UK and the US have not issued travel warnings about Jordan. And, while terrorist attacks are a concern, the same story is used for European countries, including Germany and the US. In 2018, Jordan saw a rise in tourist numbers and we felt safe in the whole country. Safety cannot be guaranteed 100%, as with any other country in the world.
What should you bring for a trip to Petra?
Hiking Boots and Socks
Good footwear is essential for hiking in Petra. Although it wasn’t something Elaine thought of before she traveled, her hiking boots made long treks through the sands and uneven terrain much easier. To avoid blisters or sore feet, make sure you break in your new hiking boots before you leave for the trip.
Hat and Sunscreen
It can get very hot in the afternoons and mornings. With almost no shade after the trek through Sik, you should bring plenty of sunscreen and a sun hat.
Water and Snacks
You can buy bottled water from the Petra stalls, but you should bring your own if you plan to hike very early in the morning before the stalls are open. A reusable, collapsible water container is a must-have for any trip. It can be refilled and used during shorter hikes. A water bladder is a must-have for those who are going on longer hikes to Petra. A 2 litre Camelbak is our preferred choice. It’s lightweight and easy to carry.
What to wear at Petra
While there aren’t any set rules for what you should wear to Petra, we recommend these:
For long hikes on rough terrain, comfortable walking shoes/boots will be a necessity.
Jordan is conservative. We felt most at home with our shoulders and knees covered. This seemed to be the norm for most tourists. Although we did see some tank tops and shorts on occasion, it was more difficult to spot them than the locals.
You will need a scarf or hat to cover your head after you leave the Siq at Treasury.
What are the best things to do at Petra?
Petra is home to many attractions, including the Treasury, shaded Siq and Monastery. You can also enjoy drinks at the oldest bar on the planet. To help you plan your trip, check out our detailed guide to Petra and Wadi Musta.
- Tips for visiting Petra
- Buy a multi-day ticket
Petra tickets can be purchased for one, two or three days at 50JD each. For visitors not staying over night in Jordan, 90JD is available. You can purchase tickets by cash or card. A valid passport/ID must be presented. Tickets for Jordanian residents and children under 12 years old are free. We recommend purchasing the 3-day pass if you plan to stay in the area. We returned later in the day, and again on our second morning. Although the ticket includes a ride on a horse from the Visitors Centre to Siq, we recommend walking. You must tip your horse if you take it on a ride. Please ensure that the animal is in good condition and well-cared for as Petra is concerned about animal welfare.
Make a plan in advance of what you want to see.
To see the main sights of Petra, you will need at least two days and preferably three. It is important to have a plan. We were first to the gate at 6am every morning. The tickets include a map, but it is worth planning ahead so that you have enough time to get everything done.
Bring Cash
Petra may be an old city, but it still offers modern conveniences such as souvenir stalls and snack stands.
Visit Early in the morning
Petra is best visited early in the morning. This will allow you to enjoy the coolest parts of the day, and there will be few people at the site. You don’t have to miss the main gate opening at 6:15 am so you can squeeze in a hike before breakfast!
Guides
A Petra guide can be hired at the visitor’s center for the following prices:
The main trail runs from the visitor center through The Treasury, The Treasury, The Royal Tombs, The Treasury, The Collonaded Street, and The Girl’s Palace. 50JD
- The main trail and the Monastery are 100JD
- The main trail and High Place of Sacrifice are 100JD
We decided to use a guidebook instead of trying to navigate the site on our own. We also purchased a Petra-specific guidebook from Jordan.
Don’t underestimate the hikes
Many of the hikes in Petra involve strenuous uphill climbs under the sun. Some hikes can be quite strenuous (it takes approximately 2 hours to walk from the Treasury to Monastery). Make sure to bring water, sunscreen, and good walking shoes. Avoid the noon sun..
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