Petra a week

Amman's international airport, the main gateway to Jordan. Upon arrival, you'll proceed through immigration and customs to collect your luggage.

Secure a private transfer or shared taxi from Amman to Petra (Wadi Musa). The journey takes approximately 3 hours and offers scenic views of the Jordanian landscape.

• Book your transfer in advance for better rates.
• Consider stopping at Madaba for its mosaics if time permits.

A smaller, less crowded version of Petra, believed to be a suburb or agricultural area. It features carved dwellings, temples, and triclinia (dining rooms) with well-preserved Nabataean frescoes.

• Visit just before sunset for beautiful light.
• It's a good introduction to the Nabataean architecture you'll see in Petra.

Enjoy your first taste of Jordanian cuisine in the town of Wadi Musa, the gateway to Petra. Many restaurants offer traditional dishes like Mansaf and Maqluba.

• Try Al Wadi Restaurant for authentic local food.

Start your day here to purchase your Petra entry ticket and gather information. The center also houses a museum and facilities.

• Consider the Jordan Pass if you plan to visit other sites in Jordan; it often includes Petra entry.
• Purchase your tickets here or online in advance.

A narrow gorge, over 1km long, with towering sandstone cliffs, serving as the main entrance to Petra. The walk through the Siq builds anticipation for the reveal of the Treasury.

• Wear comfortable walking shoes.
• Look out for the ancient water channels carved into the rock walls.

Petra's most iconic monument, a magnificent temple facade carved directly into the sandstone cliff. Its intricate Hellenistic-inspired architecture is breathtaking and was famously featured in 'Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade'.

• Arrive early to avoid the biggest crowds.
• There are local Bedouins offering camel and horse rides; negotiate prices beforehand.

Beyond the Treasury, the valley opens to the Street of Facades, a row of monumental Nabataean tombs carved into the cliffs. Nearby is the impressive Roman-style theater, also carved from the rock, capable of seating thousands.

Relax after a day of exploration with dinner in Wadi Musa. Many establishments offer a variety of cuisines.

A magnificent set of monumental Nabataean tombs carved into the eastern cliff face, including the Urn Tomb, Silk Tomb, Corinthian Tomb, and Palace Tomb. They offer stunning views over the city center.

• Climb up to the Urn Tomb for panoramic views.
• The scale and detail of these tombs are impressive.

A strenuous but rewarding hike up to the High Place of Sacrifice, an ancient Nabataean ritual site offering spectacular panoramic views of Petra and the surrounding mountains. The trail passes by obelisks and a Roman road.

• Start early in the morning to avoid the heat.
• Bring plenty of water and wear sturdy hiking boots.
• The descent via Wadi Farasa offers additional sights like the Garden Tomb and Roman Soldier's Tomb.

Enjoy a simple and satisfying lunch at one of the cafes within Petra, often offering local fare and refreshments.

Experience the magic of Petra illuminated by thousands of candles. This special event takes place on select nights (usually Monday, Wednesday, and Thursday) and offers a unique perspective of the Siq and the Treasury.

• Check the schedule in advance as it varies.
• The experience includes traditional Bedouin music and tea.
• Requires a separate ticket or valid Petra entrance for the day.

Petra's largest monument, the Monastery is similar in style to the Treasury but even larger. It requires a climb of about 800 steps, offering a sense of accomplishment and stunning views.

• The hike is challenging but manageable; take breaks.
• Donkeys are available for hire to go up, but negotiate the price.
• There's a small cafe at the top for refreshments.

After visiting the Monastery, embark on a hike to a viewpoint overlooking the Treasury from above. This trail offers a different perspective and is less crowded than the main approach.

• Follow signs for 'Treasury Viewpoint' or ask locals.
• The path can be rocky; wear appropriate footwear.

Return to Wadi Musa for a well-deserved lunch and rest.

Browse local handicrafts, souvenirs, and Bedouin crafts in the market area of Wadi Musa. It's a good place to find unique items and interact with local vendors.

This trail offers a less-trafficked route through Petra, showcasing the Garden Tomb, Roman Soldier's Tomb, and the Renaissance Tomb. It connects back to the main path near the Theater.

• This trail can be accessed as a descent from the High Place of Sacrifice or as a separate walk.
• It's a good option for those seeking quieter parts of Petra.

Located near the Visitor Centre, this modern museum provides excellent context for Petra's history, Nabataean culture, and archaeological discoveries. It's a great place to deepen your understanding of the site.

• Visit after exploring Petra to consolidate your knowledge.
• Includes interactive displays and artifacts.

Arrange a unique cultural experience by having lunch with a local Bedouin family. This offers insight into their way of life and traditional hospitality.

• Inquire at your hotel or through local tour operators about arranging this.
• Be prepared for simple, home-cooked meals and genuine conversation.

Enjoy a relaxed evening with dinner in Wadi Musa, perhaps trying a restaurant you haven't visited yet.

Embark on a day trip to the spectacular desert landscape of Wadi Rum, also known as the Valley of the Moon. This journey takes you through dramatic sandstone mountains and vast sandy plains.

• Arrange a tour that includes transport from Petra.
• The drive offers changing scenery as you leave the mountains.

Explore Wadi Rum's iconic sites, such as Lawrence's Spring, the Khazali Canyon with its ancient inscriptions, and natural rock bridges, on a thrilling 4x4 jeep tour. This is the best way to cover significant distances and see key landmarks.

• Tours typically last 3-4 hours.
• Many tours include stops for photos and short walks.

Experience the traditional Bedouin mode of transport with a short camel ride through the desert. It offers a unique perspective and a sense of tranquility.

• Negotiate the price and duration before starting.
• It's a gentle way to experience the desert floor.

Head back to Wadi Musa after a day of desert adventure and enjoy dinner.

Enjoy a final Jordanian breakfast at your hotel or a local cafe before your departure.

Arrange a transfer from Wadi Musa back to Queen Alia International Airport for your onward journey. Allow ample time for the drive and airport procedures.

• Book your transfer in advance.
• Factor in potential traffic delays, especially closer to Amman.

Depart from Amman's international airport. Check-in for your flight at least 2-3 hours prior to departure.