Petra Visitor Center
An ancient city carved into rose-red cliffs, Petra is a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the New7Wonders of the World.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, cooler temps
Petra Visitor Center
Best Time
Fewer crowds, cooler temps
Highlights
Must-see attractions
An ancient city carved into rose-red cliffs, Petra is a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the New7Wonders of the World.
"It is one of the most beautiful places you could ever visit in the world and in your lifetime."
🎯 Start Your Day Early
Arrive at the Visitor Center at 6 AM to beat the heat and crowds. :clock1:
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
Petra involves extensive walking on uneven terrain. Prioritize comfort for your feet! :athletic_shoe:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Treasury (Al-Khazneh)
Main Trail
The iconic facade carved into sandstone cliffs. A breathtaking first glimpse of Petra's ancient grandeur.
The Monastery (Ad-Deir)
High up, requires a climb
A monumental structure, larger than the Treasury, offering panoramic views after a rewarding climb.
The Siq
Entrance to Petra
A narrow, winding gorge with towering sandstone walls, building anticipation for the wonders ahead.
Petra by Night
Main Trail to Treasury
Experience Petra illuminated by thousands of candles, a magical and unforgettable spectacle.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Beat the Crowds: Timing is Everything
+1Tickets & Exploration: Plan Your Days
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Start Your Day Early
Arrive at the Visitor Center at 6 AM to beat the heat and crowds.
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
Petra involves extensive walking on uneven terrain. Prioritize comfort for your feet!
💧 Stay Hydrated
Carry plenty of water, especially during warmer months. You can buy more inside, but it's pricier. :droplet:
🗺️ Hire an Official Guide
Enhance your understanding of Petra's history and discover hidden gems with a local guide.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Start Your Day Early
Arrive at the Visitor Center at 6 AM to beat the heat and crowds.
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
Petra involves extensive walking on uneven terrain. Prioritize comfort for your feet!
💧 Stay Hydrated
Carry plenty of water, especially during warmer months. You can buy more inside, but it's pricier. :droplet:
🗺️ Hire an Official Guide
Enhance your understanding of Petra's history and discover hidden gems with a local guide.
💰 Multi-Day Tickets Save Money
Petra is huge! A 2 or 3-day ticket is more economical than a single day if you plan to explore thoroughly. :moneybag:
🐪 Consider Local Transport
For longer distances or tired legs, options like donkeys, camels, and horse-drawn carriages are available. :camel:
📱 Download Offline Maps
Cell service can be spotty. An offline map of Petra will be invaluable for navigation. :iphone:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently describe Petra as an awe-inspiring, breathtaking, and unforgettable experience, often calling it a must-see wonder of the world. The sheer scale of the ancient city carved into rock, coupled with its historical significance, leaves a profound impression. While tickets are considered expensive, most agree the experience is well worth the cost. Some note the extensive walking required and the potential for crowds, advising early visits.
"If you're ever in the Middle East, let alone Jordan, you must add Petra to your itinerary. It is one of the most beautiful places you could ever visit in the world and in your lifetime. The majestic views are courtesy of nature, that made that rock display take that form and red colour, as well as the ancient civilization of Nabataeans, who carved that magnificent monument called "the treasury".
Petra is considered one of the 7 Wonders of the World and it's a UNESCO World Heritage site, so visiting this site isn't just a touristic activity, but rather a walk through a space that is both unique and breath-taking. While there, you should enjoy a camel ride, and put on the traditional headscarf to immerse yourself in the experience.
I visited Petra in December, and I was lucky that it didn't rain that day. It is recommended that you visit in the Spring or Autumn when the weather is mild and beautiful. Either way, it's a lot of walking in open space, so don't plan your visit when it's very hot."
Sam Jaroudi
"An amazing ancient city carved in the rocks. The site is huge with multiple transport options available such as mules and horses. We decided to hike all the way to the last building called the safe.
On the way there are multiple amazing buildings and sculptures to admire.
It is truly an amazing place to visit and spend a full day there.
They even do events at night with candles and lights.
Tickets are expensive but it is definitely worth it."
naim joubran
"Absolutely incredible. Management is too notch. They've maintained the Petra area exceptionally well. Very clean with trash points emptied regularly. Maintenance staff is also very respectful and professional.
Petra by Night is a fantastic experience. Try not to miss it. If you buy tickets for more than 1 day, it turns out to be much more economical. As of posting this, it cost 50jod for 1 day, 55 for 2 days, and 60 for 3 days. And Petra requires at least 2 days of exploration and hiking."
Shishira Thomas
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Petra is about a 3-hour drive from Amman and a shorter drive from Wadi Rum. You can rent a car, hire a private driver, or take a JETT bus. +1 Many travelers combine Petra with Wadi Rum for a desert and ancient city experience.
No, private vehicles are not allowed inside the Petra Archaeological Park. You'll park at the Visitor Center and walk or use local transport.
Wadi Musa is the town adjacent to Petra. The Petra Visitor Center is located in Wadi Musa, making it easy to access the site on foot or by a short taxi ride.
Yes, once inside Petra, you can hire donkeys, camels, or horse-drawn carriages for longer distances or if you need a break from walking.
The drive from Aqaba to Petra typically takes around 2 hours by car or taxi.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Ticket prices vary. A one-day pass is around 50 JOD, but multi-day passes (55 JOD for 2 days, 60 JOD for 3 days) offer better value if you plan to explore extensively.
Tickets can be purchased at the Petra Visitor Center, located right at the entrance to the archaeological park.
The Petra Visitor Center and the archaeological park are generally open from 6 AM to 6 PM in summer and 6 AM to 4 PM in winter. Petra by Night has specific hours.
While not always mandatory, booking in advance can save time, especially during peak seasons. However, purchasing at the Visitor Center is straightforward.
Yes, Petra by Night is a separate ticketed event and requires an additional fee. It's a magical experience with candles and music.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Petra is a vast site. Expect to walk several kilometers, especially if you aim to see the Monastery. Comfortable shoes are essential.
Light, breathable clothing is recommended, along with a hat and sunglasses for sun protection. Comfortable walking shoes are a must.
Yes, Petra can be enjoyed by families. Consider bringing a stroller for younger children or utilizing local transport options for longer distances.
Photography is allowed throughout Petra. The natural light and rock formations make for stunning photo opportunities.
Early morning, right after opening, offers the best chance to see the Treasury with fewer crowds and softer light.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, there are several restaurants and cafes within the Petra Archaeological Park offering local and international cuisine.
The town of Wadi Musa has numerous restaurants. The Visitor Center itself also has some food and beverage options, including BLK cafe.
While food and water are available for purchase, bringing your own is a good idea to save money and ensure you have enough, especially during long hikes.
You can find traditional Jordanian dishes, grilled items, and lighter snacks. Many options cater to tourists.
Most restaurants in Wadi Musa and within Petra offer vegetarian options. Vegan choices might require specific requests.
📸 📸 Photography
The Siq, the Treasury, the Monastery, and various viewpoints along the trails offer incredible photographic opportunities.
Early morning and late afternoon provide the best light for photography, minimizing harsh shadows and capturing the sandstone's colors.
Drone usage is generally restricted in archaeological sites like Petra to preserve the environment and visitor experience. Check local regulations.
Yes, guided tours often include stops at prime photography locations and can offer insights into capturing the best shots.
A versatile lens (like a 24-70mm) is useful. A wide-angle lens can capture the grandeur of the Siq and facades, while a telephoto can isolate details.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Focus on key highlights like the Treasury and the Siq, which are easily accessible. If your children have the stamina, the hike to the Monastery can be a rewarding challenge.
Engaging with local Bedouin guides can also make the history come alive for younger visitors. 🚶 Solo Travelers
Be prepared for a lot of walking, and ensure you have a reliable way to navigate, perhaps by downloading offline maps.
💰 Budget Travelers
Consider walking the entire distance from the Visitor Center to the Treasury and back, rather than immediately opting for horse-drawn carriages or donkeys, to save on costs.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Vastness of Petra
Many visitors underestimate the sheer size and end up rushing their experience. Beyond the main attractions, numerous tombs, temples, and natural formations are scattered throughout the site. Hiring an official guide from the Visitor Center can significantly enrich your understanding of the Nabataean civilization and help you discover lesser-known gems.
The natural beauty of the sandstone cliffs, sculpted by wind and time, is as much a part of the experience as the man-made structures. For those seeking a unique perspective, Petra by Night offers a magical ambiance. The main trail leading to the Treasury is illuminated by thousands of candles, accompanied by traditional Bedouin music.
The Bedouin People of Petra
Some travelers have shared personal stories of being invited into Bedouin homes or caves, experiencing their hospitality firsthand.
It's worth noting that the economic impact of tourism on the Bedouin community is significant.
Navigating Petra: Practicalities and Tips
Staying hydrated is crucial, especially during the hotter months. Carry plenty of water, and be prepared to purchase more inside the park, though it will be at a higher cost. When it comes to tickets, consider the value of multi-day passes. Petra's sheer size means one day is often insufficient to explore its entirety. A 2-day or 3-day pass can be more economical and allow for a more relaxed pace.
For those who find extensive walking challenging, various transport options are available within Petra, including horse-drawn carriages, donkeys, and camels.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit