Petra solo

The starting point for all visitors, where you can purchase tickets, hire guides, and get maps. It's also a good place to use restrooms and grab a quick snack before entering the ancient city.

• Purchase your Jordan Pass here if you haven't already, as it often includes Petra entry.
• Consider hiring a licensed guide at the center for a deeper understanding of the history.

A narrow, winding gorge, over a kilometer long, flanked by towering sandstone cliffs. Walking through the Siq is a dramatic prelude to Petra's main attractions, with ancient water channels and carvings along the way.

• The Siq can be crowded; arriving early offers a more serene experience.
• Keep an eye out for the intricate water channels carved into the rock walls.

Petra's most iconic monument, revealed dramatically at the end of the Siq. This magnificent facade, carved directly into the sandstone cliff, is believed to have been a tomb or temple for a Nabataean king. Its intricate Hellenistic-style architecture is breathtaking.

• The best light for photos is usually in the morning or late afternoon.
• Be aware of Bedouin vendors offering camel or donkey rides; negotiate prices beforehand.

Beyond the Treasury, the valley opens up to the Street of Facades, a row of monumental Nabataean tombs carved into the cliff face. Nearby is a large Roman-style theatre, also carved from the rock, capable of seating thousands.

• Climb up to some of the tombs for different perspectives.
• The theatre offers a glimpse into the Roman influence on Petra.

A spectacular series of large Nabataean tombs, including the Urn Tomb, Silk Tomb, Corinthian Tomb, and Palace Tomb, perched on the mountainside. The scale and detail of these facades are impressive, offering panoramic views of the ancient city below.

• The Urn Tomb was later converted into a church.
• Wear sturdy shoes for the climb up to the tombs.

Experience authentic Jordanian cuisine in a cozy, traditional setting. This restaurant offers cooking classes where you can learn to prepare local dishes, followed by enjoying the meal you helped create.

• Book your spot well in advance, especially during peak season.
• It's a great way to meet other travelers and learn about local food culture.

A monumental facade, even larger than the Treasury, perched high in the hills. The hike to Ad-Deir is challenging but rewarding, offering stunning views and a sense of accomplishment. It's believed to have been a temple or monastery in later times.

• The climb involves approximately 800 steps; start early to avoid the heat.
• There are small cafes near the Monastery offering refreshments and great viewpoints.

A challenging but rewarding hike to an ancient Nabataean ritual site atop a mountain. From here, you get breathtaking panoramic views of Petra's vast landscape, including the Treasury and the Royal Tombs from a unique vantage point.

• This hike can be done as a loop, descending via Wadi Farasa.
• Bring plenty of water and wear good hiking shoes.

A less-trafficked trail offering a different perspective of Petra. Features include the Roman Soldier's Tomb, the Garden Tomb, and the Renaissance Tomb, culminating in the fascinating Lion Fountain.

• This is a great alternative route for returning from the High Place of Sacrifice.
• The area is quieter, allowing for more contemplative exploration.

A smaller, less-crowded version of Petra, featuring carved buildings, a triclinium (dining room), and a unique painted fresco. It's believed to have been a suburb or trading post for the main city.

• It's an excellent spot to visit before or after the main Petra site.
• Look for the rare Nabataean painted fresco inside one of the rock-cut rooms.

Enjoy a relaxed dinner in Wadi Musa, the town adjacent to Petra. This restaurant offers a good selection of local and international dishes in a comfortable setting, perfect for unwinding after a day of hiking.

• Try the Mansaf, Jordan's national dish, if available.
• It's a convenient option for a meal before heading back to your accommodation.