Quick Snapshot
- Best For: History lovers, photographers, adventurous couples
- Location: Petra & Wadi Musa, Jordan
- Time Needed: 3 days (2 nights)
- Best Season: Mar–May & Sep–Nov
- Budget Range: £350–£900 per person excluding flights
- Starting Point: Amman (AMM) or Aqaba (AQJ); base in Wadi Musa
Why It’s Bucket List Worthy
Carved into rose-red sandstone canyons, Petra is both an archaeological wonder and an atmospheric labyrinth—its magic peaks at dawn, dusk, and by candlelight.
- Walk through the Siq and emerge face-to-face with the Treasury—an all-time reveal.
- Ancient Nabataean capital with tombs, temples, and a Roman-style theatre.
- Hidden viewpoints and stairways lead to quieter, cinematic vistas.
- ‘Petra by Night’ adds a mystical glow under the stars.
How to Do It
When to Go
- Spring (Mar–May) & Autumn (Sep–Nov) have pleasant daytime temps.
- Summer is hot—start at sunrise; winter nights can be cold.
How to Get There
- Fly to Amman (AMM) or Aqaba (AQJ). Drive/taxi to Wadi Musa (2–3 hrs from AMM; ~2 hrs from AQJ).
- Buy the Jordan Pass if staying 3+ nights in Jordan (bundles visa + Petra entry).
- Stay in Wadi Musa near the Petra Visitor Center for easy early starts.
Routes / Tour Options
- Standard entry (1–3 day tickets) with optional licensed guide.
- Petra by Night (select evenings): candlelit Siq and Treasury performance.
- Add-ons: Little Petra, Wadi Rum overnight, or Aqaba/Dead Sea extensions.
Cost Guide
Entry varies by number of days; guides and Petra by Night are extra. Budget for meals, water, transfers, and tips.
Preparation
- Wear supportive footwear; expect 15–25k steps/day with stairs.
- Carry 2–3L water, sun protection, and snacks.
- Respect heritage: avoid climbing fragile structures; use designated trails.
Step-by-Step / Day-by-Day
- Day 1: Early entry via the Siq → Treasury reveal → Street of Facades → Royal Tombs → High Place of Sacrifice loop → Sunset at a viewpoint → Optional Petra by Night.
- Day 2: Main trail to the Theatre → Colonnaded Street → Qasr al-Bint → Monastery (Ad-Deir) hike → Café at the top → Quiet sunset walk back.
- Day 3: Little Petra (Siq al-Barid) → Back trails or viewpoints → Cooking class or hammam in Wadi Musa → Depart.
Tips to Make It Unforgettable
- Start at gate opening for cooler temps and empty photos.
- Hire a guide for context; then roam at your own pace.
- Use back trails for less-crowded views (check current access).
- Carry cash for cafés and tips; card acceptance varies.
- Petra by Night sells out—book ahead or arrive early.
Where to Stay
Budget: Peace Way Hotel (great value near the gate)
Mid-Range: Petra Moon Hotel (rooftop pool, close to Visitor Center)
Luxury: Mövenpick Resort Petra (prime location, polished service)
Booking & Resources
- ✈️ Flights to AMM/AQJ via Skyscanner
- 🎟️ Consider the Jordan Pass (visa + Petra entry)
- 🚌 Private transfer or car hire for Amman–Wadi Musa
- 🌌 Petra by Night tickets on official/approved outlets
Instagram / TikTok Highlights
- The first glimpse of the Treasury through the Siq.
- Candlelit night shots (tripod recommended).
- Monastery staircase timelapse.
- Sunset silhouettes over royal tombs.
Final Word
Petra rewards early starts, good shoes, and a curious spirit. Give it three days and it will give you a lifetime of images and stories.