For those who are venturing to the Middle East, the ultimate adventure is to explore the highlights of the ancient city of Petra, Jordan. This real-life architectural wonder was hand-carved by the Nabataean Kingdom in the cliffs of pink sandstone over 2000 years ago. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the 7 New Wonders of the World.Petra snakes for miles through the jagged canyons of the desert and has ancient temples, royal tombs, and dramatic mountain views. This is your must-know guide to the best of the best sites and places in this famous archeological park.
Destination Overview
What Makes Petra Special?
Petra is located in southern Jordan, not far from the town of Wadi Musa. Petra was once a bustling capital city that controlled the ancient trade routes for spices and incense. The site is a unique mix of sophisticated Nabatean engineering and monumental Hellenistic architecture. Dubbed the “Rose-Red City,” it got its name from the natural red-and-pink hues of the carved sandstone rocks.
Why Visit Petra on Your Jordan Trip?
• Incredible ancient engineering: See giant stone facades, ancient water channels and cave tombs cut right into the sides of mountains with no modern tools.
• Memorable Hikes: Walk scenic mountain trails to high viewpoint lookouts over the surrounding desert valley.
• Unique Cultural Experience: Ride camel trails, enjoy sweet mint tea in historical caves and meet local Bedouin hosts.
Best Things To Do in Petra, Jordan
1. The Siq (Entrance to the Main Canyon)
• Activity: Walk 1.2 km along a narrow, winding canyon with 80 m-high walls.
• The highlight are the Nabataean water channels carved into the walls and the spectacular view of the Treasury at the end of the gorge.
2. Al-Khazneh (Treasury) • Activities: Photo taking, admiring the 40 meter high rock face, camel riding.
• Highlight: Petra's most famous rock-cut monument; decorated classical columns and statues carved into the rock face.
3. The Monastery (Ad-Deir)
• Activity: Hike 800 rock-hewn steps to a mountain top and Petra’s largest carved façade.
• Top Pick: A huge, 50m wide monument, with a tea shop right next to it on the cliffside, with views all the way out to Israel and the West Bank.
4. The Royal Tombs
• Activity: Watch sandstone turn red in the late afternoon sun, explore large cave chambers.
Key Highlight: The King’s Wall has four grand mausoleums carved into its face including the Urn Tomb and the Palace Tomb.
Best things to do & experiences
• Al-Khubtha Trail – Hike to the top cliff edge for the iconic high angle view straight down on The Treasury.
• Petra by Nite: A candlelit walk thru the Siq (1,500 candles) to sit outside The Treasury and listen to traditional Bedouin flute music.
• Go to the Great Temple. On the main street with the colonnades, you can see big columns that are broken, stone arches, and an old theater.
Best Time to Visit
• spring (March to May) & autumn (September to November): warm sunshine, pleasant temperatures for hiking and no rain.
• Time of Day: Arrive when the gates open at 6:00 AM to enjoy The Siq and Treasury before the day-tour crowds and heat arrive.
How to Reach Petra
• By Car/Taxi from Amman: 3 hours south on the Desert Highway or scenic King’s Highway.
• By JETT Bus: There is a daily tourist bus that leaves Amman (Abdali station) early in the morning and goes directly to Petra Visitor Center.
• Aqaba: 2 hours drive north from the Red Sea coast or Israeli border crossing;
Useful tips for traveling
1. Buy a Jordan Pass Get your Jordan Pass online before you travel. It gets you into Petra, waives the tourist visa fee and gives you 1, 2 or 3 days to do it.
2. Good hiking shoes: You will be walking at least 10 to 15 kms on rough gravel, sand and stone steps.
3. Carry Cash (JOD) Food stalls, local Bedouin tea shops and Donkey/Camel handlers inside the park only accept cash in Jordanian Dinars.
Nearby Attractions
• Little Petra (Siq al-Barid): A smaller Nabataean canyon site just 10 minutes north of Petra. It is free to enter.
• Wadi Rum Desert – beautiful red desert valley with jeep tours and Bedouin camps – 1.5hrs south.
Conclusion
These ancient attractions in Petra, Jordan, bring ancient history to life like nowhere else on Earth. Wear good shoes, drink plenty of water and get ready for a journey you won't forget!
