Wadi Farasa Trail
A challenging yet rewarding hike in Petra leading to ancient sacrificial altars and spectacular panoramic views.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
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Best Time
Beat the heat and crowds
Wadi Farasa Trail
Best Time
Beat the heat and crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A challenging yet rewarding hike in Petra leading to ancient sacrificial altars and spectacular panoramic views.
"The view of the Petra valley is definitely worth the climb up to this place."
👟 Wear Sturdy Shoes
The trail involves many steps and uneven terrain. Comfortable hiking shoes are a must for this climb!
💧 Bring Plenty of Water
Stay hydrated on this uphill trek. There's a tent at the top for refreshments, but it's best to come prepared.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
High Place of Sacrifice
Summit of Wadi Farasa
Nabatean sacrificial altar with breathtaking panoramic views over Petra and the surrounding valleys.
Garden Triclinium
Wadi Farasa Trail
An impressive Nabatean tomb carved into the rock face, offering a glimpse into ancient burial practices.
Ancient Dams and Inscriptions
Along the Wadi Farasa Trail
Discover remnants of Nabatean engineering and historical inscriptions scattered along the scenic route.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Hike
Beyond the Treasury
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
👟 Wear Sturdy Shoes
The trail involves many steps and uneven terrain. Comfortable hiking shoes are a must for this climb!
💧 Bring Plenty of Water
Stay hydrated on this uphill trek. There's a tent at the top for refreshments, but it's best to come prepared.
🗺️ Look for the Fork
If you get lost, look for a fork in the road with small steps carved into the rock face to find the correct path.
🐪 Donkey Ride Option
Donkey rides are available for the ascent if you prefer not to climb, but be ready to negotiate prices.
Tips
from all over the internet
👟 Wear Sturdy Shoes
The trail involves many steps and uneven terrain. Comfortable hiking shoes are a must for this climb!
💧 Bring Plenty of Water
Stay hydrated on this uphill trek. There's a tent at the top for refreshments, but it's best to come prepared.
🗺️ Look for the Fork
If you get lost, look for a fork in the road with small steps carved into the rock face to find the correct path.
🐪 Donkey Ride Option
Donkey rides are available for the ascent if you prefer not to climb, but be ready to negotiate prices.
🚶♀️ Descend via Wadi Farasa
The alternate route downwards through Wadi Farasa is highly recommended for its scenic beauty.
✨ Explore Hidden Gems
This trail offers a quieter, richer Petra experience away from the main tourist paths. 
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Wadi Farasa Trail for its breathtaking views from the High Place of Sacrifice, calling the climb absolutely worth the effort. The trail offers a more peaceful and less crowded experience compared to Petra's main attractions, allowing for a deeper appreciation of the ancient Nabatean sites. Some reviewers note that while there are Nabatean structures, the primary draw is the stunning vista and the rewarding hike itself.
"This place has the best view over the valley.
Is a bit of a hike but nothing too difficult nor complicated and the view from the top is definitely worth the time and effort!!
The High Place of Sacrifice in Petra is one of the ancient city’s most fascinating and spiritually significant sites. Perched high above the city, it requires a climb up a series of rock-cut steps that offer scenic views of Petra’s rugged landscape along the way. Dating back to the 1st century BCE, the site was used for ceremonial rituals and offerings to Nabatean deities, with altars, obelisks, and channels carved directly into the rock.
Once at the top, visitors find a large sacrificial altar with stunning panoramic views over Petra and the surrounding valleys. The experience of reaching the summit, combined with the site’s historical depth, makes the High Place of Sacrifice both a rewarding and contemplative destination for those interested in Petra’s religious and cultural heritage."
Nadia Mustafa
"The view of the Petra valley is definitely worth the climb up to this place. There is also a tent at the top offering tea, coffee, etc. But there isn’t much to see in terms of Nabatean structures, just a couple of columns."
Debojyoti Ghosh
"The High Place of Sacrifice (al-Madhbah in Arabic) is one of the highest easily accessible points in Petra, perched on cliffs that drop an almost sheer 170m to the Wadi Musa below. It's just one of dozens of High Places perched on ridges and mountain-tops around Petra, all of which are of similar design and function."
Khanh Tran
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Wadi Farasa Trailhead is located within the Petra archaeological park, not far from the Theater. You can access it after entering Petra. Many visitors start their journey from the main entrance and follow signs or ask for directions to the start of the trail.
Parking is available at the main visitor center for Petra. From there, you will walk into the archaeological park to reach the trailhead for Wadi Farasa.
While there isn't direct public transport to the trailhead itself, you can take a bus or taxi to the town of Wadi Musa, which is the gateway to Petra. From there, you'll need to enter the archaeological park.
The trail involves a significant amount of climbing and steps, making it challenging for those with mobility issues. Donkey rides are available for part of the ascent, but it's still a strenuous activity.
The ascent to the High Place of Sacrifice typically takes about 30 minutes to an hour, depending on your pace. Exploring the various sites along the trail can add more time.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, the Wadi Farasa Trail is part of the Petra archaeological park. Your standard Petra entrance ticket covers access to this trail.
The Wadi Farasa Trail follows the general opening hours of the Petra archaeological park. It's best to check the official Petra website for the most current hours, as they can vary seasonally.
Yes, purchasing Petra tickets online in advance is highly recommended to save time and potentially avoid queues at the visitor center.
While not as common as tours for the Treasury or Monastery, you can arrange for a local guide at the Petra visitor center who can accompany you on the Wadi Farasa Trail and provide historical context.
Yes, there is an additional cost if you choose to hire a donkey for the ascent. Prices are typically negotiated with the donkey handler.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
The primary draw is the High Place of Sacrifice, an ancient altar offering spectacular panoramic views of Petra. The trail also features other Nabatean tombs and historical sites.
You'll encounter Nabatean tombs like the Garden Triclinium, ancient dams, inscriptions, and stunning rock formations, culminating in the High Place of Sacrifice.
Compared to the main trails leading to the Treasury and Monastery, Wadi Farasa is significantly less crowded, offering a more peaceful experience.
There is a tent at the summit of the High Place of Sacrifice offering tea and coffee. Restroom facilities are generally located near the main Petra entrance and at key points within the park, but may be limited directly on the trail.
The alternate route downwards through Wadi Farasa is highly recommended. It offers a different perspective and leads you through more ancient sites.
📸 📸 Photography
The panoramic views from the High Place of Sacrifice are incredible, especially during sunrise or sunset. The intricate carvings of the Garden Triclinium and other tombs also make for stunning shots.
Early morning or late afternoon offers the best light for photography, with softer shadows and a warmer glow on the ancient sandstone.
A standard camera or smartphone is sufficient. However, a wide-angle lens can be useful for capturing the expansive views from the High Place of Sacrifice.
Drone usage is generally restricted within archaeological sites like Petra for preservation and safety reasons. It's best to check the latest regulations with the Petra Development and Tourism Region Authority (PDTRA).
Focus on the architectural details, the scale of the carvings, and the way the tombs are integrated into the natural rock formations.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🚶♂️ Solo Adventurers
+1 The challenging hike provides a great physical workout and a significant sense of accomplishment upon reaching the High Place of Sacrifice. +1📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Capture the intricate Nabatean carvings of tombs like the Garden Triclinium, paying attention to the way they are integrated into the natural rock. The lesser crowds here mean you have more freedom to compose your shots and wait for the perfect light without being jostled. +1Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The High Place of Sacrifice: A Spiritual Summit
Upon reaching the summit, visitors are rewarded with truly panoramic views that stretch over the entire Petra valley and beyond. It's a place that inspires contemplation and awe, offering a profound connection to the past. The experience of conquering the climb and standing at this ancient altar, surrounded by such vastness, is a highlight for many who visit.
While the historical and spiritual significance is paramount, the visual reward is undeniable. The interplay of light and shadow on the sandstone cliffs, especially during the golden hours of sunrise and sunset, creates a photographer's paradise. It’s a testament to the Nabateans' strategic placement of their sacred sites, maximizing both spiritual impact and breathtaking vistas.
Navigating the Wadi Farasa Trail: Tips from Travelers
Finding the correct path can sometimes be tricky; a key tip is to look for a fork in the road with small steps carved into the rock face if you feel lost.
This trail is celebrated for offering a quieter, richer Petra experience, allowing visitors to connect with the ancient city away from the main tourist throngs. It’s a chance to discover hidden gems like the Garden Triclinium and ancient dams, making the effort of the hike truly worthwhile.
+2
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