
Al-Habis Fortress
A Crusader fortress within Petra, featuring ancient caves and offering superb views of the surrounding landscape.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, cooler temperatures

Al-Habis Fortress
Best Time
Fewer crowds, cooler temperatures

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A Crusader fortress within Petra, featuring ancient caves and offering superb views of the surrounding landscape.
"A unique Crusader fortification features caves on the first two levels. Crossing the wooden bridge is an awesome experience!"

👟 Wear Sturdy Shoes
The terrain can be uneven; comfortable walking shoes are essential for exploring Al-Habis Fortress and Petra .
💧 Stay Hydrated
Carry plenty of water, especially during warmer months, as you explore the site and its surroundings.

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Crusader Fortification
Within Petra
Explore the unique Crusader fortification with intriguing caves on its lower levels.

Scenic Views
Upper levels of the fortress
Enjoy superb panoramic views of the surrounding Petra landscape from the fortress.

The Wooden Bridge Experience
Access to the fortress
An awesome, though potentially challenging, experience crossing the wooden bridge to reach the site.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Petra Visit
Navigating Al-Habis Fortress
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
👟 Wear Sturdy Shoes
The terrain can be uneven; comfortable walking shoes are essential for exploring Al-Habis Fortress and Petra.
💧 Stay Hydrated
Carry plenty of water, especially during warmer months, as you explore the site and its surroundings.
⏳ Allow Ample Time
Factor in time to explore the fortress and enjoy the views within your Petra itinerary.
📸 Capture the Views
The panoramic vistas from Al-Habis Fortress are stunning; bring your camera for memorable shots.
Moving to Wadi Musa for a couple of months; trying to figure out how to regularly hike Petra without paying the 50JD tourist fee
Tips
from all over the internet
👟 Wear Sturdy Shoes
The terrain can be uneven; comfortable walking shoes are essential for exploring Al-Habis Fortress and Petra.
💧 Stay Hydrated
Carry plenty of water, especially during warmer months, as you explore the site and its surroundings.
⏳ Allow Ample Time
Factor in time to explore the fortress and enjoy the views within your Petra itinerary.
📸 Capture the Views
The panoramic vistas from Al-Habis Fortress are stunning; bring your camera for memorable shots.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Al-Habis Fortress is a unique Crusader fortification within Petra, appreciated for its historical caves and superb surrounding views. While the upper levels are damaged and access via the wooden bridge can be challenging, it remains an interesting site for those exploring the broader Petra archaeological park.
"A unique Crusader fortification features caves on the first two levels. Unfortunately, the third level was almost completely destroyed, but it is still interesting to visit this site, especially since it is inside Petra. Crossing the wooden bridge is an awesome experience!"
Alex Bezrukov
"The site looks very beautiful and can offer a superb view of the surrounding area. Unfortunately, the wooden bridge is destroyed, making it impossible to reach the end of the path."
V TR
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Ali Karahasan
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Al-Habis Fortress is located within the ancient city of Petra. You'll need to purchase an entrance ticket to Petra and then follow the trails towards the fortress. It's a hike from the main visitor center, so wear comfortable shoes.
Yes, it's a significant walk from the Petra Visitor Center to Al-Habis Fortress. Plan for at least an hour of walking, depending on your pace and the route you take within Petra.
No, private vehicles are not allowed inside Petra. Access to Al-Habis Fortress is on foot via the designated trails within the archaeological park.
Many guided tours of Petra include Al-Habis Fortress as part of their itinerary. It's a good option if you want to learn more about its history and significance.
The most common way is to follow the main trails within Petra. Some reviews mention a wooden bridge as an access point, though its condition can vary.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Al-Habis Fortress is located within the Petra archaeological site, so your Petra entrance ticket covers access to it.
Al-Habis Fortress follows the general opening hours of Petra. These typically vary by season, so it's best to check the official Petra website for the most current times.
Petra entrance fees vary for international tourists and Jordanian residents. International visitors typically pay around 50 Jordanian Dinars for a one-day pass.
Yes, it is often possible to purchase Petra entrance tickets online in advance, which can save you time upon arrival.
Discounts may be available for students, children, and Jordanian residents. Check the official Petra tourism website for details.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
Al-Habis Fortress is a Crusader fortification with caves on its lower levels. While the upper levels were largely destroyed, it offers interesting historical insights and great views.
The climb to Al-Habis Fortress involves uneven terrain and some rocky paths. While not extremely strenuous, it requires a moderate level of fitness and sturdy footwear.
You can expect superb panoramic views of the surrounding Petra landscape, offering a different perspective of the ancient city.
Restrooms and water are generally available at the main Petra visitor center and at various points within the site, but may be limited directly at Al-Habis Fortress itself. It's best to come prepared.
Children can visit Al-Habis Fortress, but parents should supervise them closely due to the uneven terrain and potential drop-offs. The historical aspect might be more engaging for older children.
📸 📸 Photography
The best photo opportunities include the unique cave structures on the lower levels, the views from the upper parts of the fortress, and the approach via the wooden bridge.
Early morning or late afternoon offers the best light for photography, with softer shadows and a warmer glow on the sandstone.
Drone usage is generally prohibited within Petra for preservation and safety reasons. Always check the latest regulations before your visit.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive views, while a standard zoom lens is versatile for details. A tripod can be useful for low-light conditions.
Photography is generally allowed, but be respectful of the historical site and other visitors. Avoid using flash inside any enclosed cave structures.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🚶♀️ Hikers and Adventure Seekers
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The History of Al-Habis Fortress
Evidence of earlier inhabitation can be seen in the caves carved into the rock on the lower levels of the fortress. These caves likely served various purposes, from dwellings to storage, hinting at a longer history of human presence in this location even before the Crusaders arrived. While the upper sections of the fortress have suffered significant damage over time, the remaining structures still offer a glimpse into its past military significance and architectural style.
The interplay between the natural rock formations and human-made structures at Al-Habis Fortress makes it a fascinating site for history enthusiasts. It represents a convergence of different eras, from ancient Nabataean settlements to medieval Crusader presence, all within the breathtaking landscape of Petra.
Navigating the Terrain and Access
One of the notable features mentioned by visitors is the wooden bridge that historically served as an access point to the fortress. While this bridge is described as an 'awesome experience' by some, reviews also note that it has been damaged or is in disrepair, potentially making full access to the end of the path impossible. This means that while the fortress is visible and parts are accessible, the intended full traversal might be limited. Always exercise caution and be aware of your surroundings.
Planning your route within Petra to include Al-Habis Fortress is key. It's not a primary landmark like the Treasury, so it requires a bit more intentionality to reach. Consider it a rewarding detour for those looking to explore beyond the most famous sites and experience a different facet of Petra's historical landscape.



Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit