Best Time to Visit
March to May, September to November
Currency
Jordanian Dinar (JOD)
Language
Arabic, English
Timezone
EET (UTC+2)
Discover Petra
Walking through the narrow, winding Siq canyon as the morning light begins to filter down the rose-red sandstone walls is an experience that transcends ordinary travel. The anticipation builds with every step until you catch that first glimpse of the Treasury's ornate facade, perfectly framed between the towering cliffs. This isn't just a monument—it's the gateway to an entire lost city carved by the Nabataeans over 2,000 years ago, where tombs, temples, and theaters emerge from the rock itself.
Petra reveals itself slowly, demanding exploration beyond the iconic Treasury. The ancient city sprawls across a vast desert valley, with over 800 monuments waiting to be discovered. From the 800-step climb to the monumental Monastery (Ad Deir) to the intricate Royal Tombs and the panoramic views from the High Place of Sacrifice, each corner offers new wonders. This UNESCO World Heritage site and New Wonder of the World isn't just about seeing—it's about experiencing the scale, craftsmanship, and mystery of a civilization that controlled the incense trade routes between Arabia and the Mediterranean.
What makes Petra truly special is how it changes throughout the day. The rose-red stone transforms from soft pink at dawn to fiery orange at midday and deep crimson at sunset. The Petra by Night experience, where the Siq and Treasury are illuminated by thousands of candles, creates an atmosphere of pure magic. This is living archaeology where you can touch the same carvings that traders and pilgrims touched centuries ago, walk through ancient water channels, and imagine the bustling Nabataean capital at its peak.
Why Visit Petra?
Witness one of the world's most dramatic archaeological reveals—the Treasury appearing through the narrow Siq canyon. This 1.2-kilometer walk through towering cliffs builds anticipation like no other approach to a monument, culminating in that iconic view immortalized in Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade.
Explore an entire city carved from living rock, not just individual monuments. The Nabataeans created a complete urban environment including the 3,000-seat Roman Theater, the Great Temple complex, colonnaded streets, and sophisticated water management systems that still function today.
Experience Petra's transformation through light—from the soft morning glow on the Treasury to the dramatic sunset views from the Monastery and the magical Petra by Night experience where the Siq is illuminated by 1,500 candles leading to the Treasury.
Challenge yourself with epic hikes to panoramic viewpoints. The 800-step climb to the Monastery rewards with Jordan's most spectacular view, while the High Place of Sacrifice trail offers breathtaking vistas over the entire Petra basin and intricate Nabataean altars.
Discover the intricate craftsmanship of Nabataean architecture, from the elaborate Corinthian columns of the Treasury to the massive, multi-story Royal Tombs and the beautifully preserved Urn Tomb with its interior chambers and carved niches.
Connect with Bedouin culture that has been part of Petra for generations. Local guides share family stories passed down through centuries, while tea stops in cave dwellings offer authentic cultural interactions amidst the ancient ruins.
Petra is Known For
Ready to explore Petra?
Petra Neighborhoods
The Siq & Treasury Area
The dramatic entrance to Petra, featuring the iconic 1.2-kilometer canyon approach and the breathtaking reveal of the Treasury. This is Petra's most photographed and visited area, bustling with visitors during the day but offering magical quiet moments early in the morning.
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Best for:
Street of Facades & Theater District
The heart of ancient Petra's urban center, featuring rows of Nabataean tombs, the impressive Roman Theater, and the beginning of the Colonnaded Street. This area feels like walking through a living archaeological site with tombs at street level.
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The Monastery (Ad Deir) Highlands
Petra's most challenging but rewarding area, requiring an 800-step climb to reach Jordan's most spectacular viewpoint. The journey passes smaller tombs and monuments, culminating at the massive Monastery facade carved into the mountain peak.
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Wadi Musa Town
The modern gateway town to Petra, offering accommodations, restaurants, and practical services for visitors. This bustling town provides a contrast to the ancient ruins with its lively markets and Bedouin hospitality.
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Top Attractions
Local Tips & Insider Knowledge
- •Arrive at opening time (6 AM) to experience the Siq and Treasury in relative solitude and perfect morning light—the difference between sharing with thousands versus dozens is profound.
- •Purchase the Jordan Pass online before arrival—it includes your visa fee and Petra entry (1, 2, or 3 days) and saves approximately 20 JOD compared to buying separately.
- •Wear proper hiking shoes with good grip—Petra involves miles of walking on uneven stone, gravel paths, and steep climbs to major sites like the Monastery.
- •Carry Jordanian dinars in small denominations (1, 5, 10 JOD notes) for tips, small purchases, and taxi rides—credit cards aren't accepted at most stalls and small vendors.
- •Hire a local Bedouin guide at the visitor center for at least part of your visit—their knowledge of hidden details and family stories adds depth you won't get from guidebooks.
- •The 'back door' trail to the Monastery via Little Petra is less crowded and equally spectacular—arrange transportation to the starting point for a different perspective.
- •Stay hydrated strategically—carry a refillable bottle and use the free water stations near the Theater and Basin Restaurant rather than buying expensive bottled water inside.
- •Visit the Royal Tombs in late afternoon when the setting sun illuminates the facades with golden light—the colors are dramatically different from morning visits.
- •Petra by Night (Monday, Wednesday, Thursday) is worth experiencing but go with realistic expectations—it's atmospheric rather than educational, with traditional music and storytelling.
- •The 'View of the Treasury' from above requires a local guide—it's not an official trail but offers the iconic overhead photo perspective (expect to pay 10-15 JOD for the guide).
Petra Food Scene
Petra's food scene blends traditional Jordanian cuisine with practical tourist offerings. In Wadi Musa, you'll find authentic local restaurants serving mansaf and mezze, while inside Petra, simple cafes offer refreshments with million-dollar views. Bedouin hospitality means tea invitations are common—always accept for a genuine cultural moment.
Must-Try Dishes
Traditional Jordanian
- • Al-Wadi Restaurant for authentic mansaf
- • Petra Kitchen for cooking classes and meals
- • My Mom's Recipe Restaurant for family-style mezze
Traditional meals are often shared—order several mezze dishes for the table rather than individual mains.
View Dining
- • The Basin Restaurant inside Petra (buffet with Treasury views)
- • Cave Bar at Petra Guest House (world's oldest bar)
- • Al Saraya Restaurant rooftop terrace
Make reservations for sunset dining—terrace seats with Petra views are limited and highly sought after.
Street Food & Quick Bites
- • Falafel sandwiches from Wadi Musa market stalls
- • Fresh pomegranate juice at Petra entrance
- • Knafeh from sweet shops near visitor center
Street food is safest in Wadi Musa town rather than inside Petra where refrigeration can be limited.
Bedouin Experience
- • Zarb barbecue dinners in Bedouin camps
- • Tea in cave dwellings inside Petra
- • Simple lentil soup at Monastery viewpoint cafes
When invited for tea by Bedouin vendors inside Petra, it's polite to accept—this is genuine hospitality, not just sales tactic.
Popular With
Best Time to Visit Petra
Spring
March to May brings ideal conditions with daytime temperatures around 20-25°C (68-77°F) and comfortable hiking weather. Wildflowers bloom in the surrounding hills, creating beautiful contrasts with the red rock.
Pros:
- + Perfect hiking temperatures
- + Beautiful green landscapes
- + Long daylight hours
- + Good conditions for photography
Cons:
- - Peak tourist season (especially April)
- - Higher accommodation prices
- - Can be crowded at major sites
Summer
June to August sees intense heat with temperatures regularly exceeding 35°C (95°F) in the afternoons. The sun is relentless in the open areas of Petra, though the Siq offers some relief.
Pros:
- + Longest opening hours (6 AM-6 PM)
- + Fewer crowds at peak heat times
- + Lower accommodation rates
- + Clear skies for photography
Cons:
- - Extreme heat limits exploration time
- - Need to start very early and rest midday
- - Dehydration risk is high
- - Petra by Night may be cancelled if too hot
Autumn
September to November offers another excellent window with cooling temperatures (20-28°C/68-82°F) and decreasing crowds after the summer peak. The light is particularly beautiful for photography.
Pros:
- + Comfortable hiking conditions return
- + Beautiful afternoon light
- + Fewer crowds than spring
- + Pleasant evenings
Cons:
- - Shorter days than summer
- - Occasional rain showers in November
- - Some facilities may reduce hours
Winter
December to February brings cooler temperatures (5-15°C/41-59°F) and occasional rain, with rare snow dusting the higher elevations. The low sun angle creates dramatic shadows on the monuments.
Pros:
- + Smallest crowds of the year
- + Dramatic photography with low light
- + Lowest accommodation prices
- + Possibility of seeing Petra with snow (rare)
Cons:
- - Cold mornings and evenings
- - Shorter opening hours (6 AM-4 PM)
- - Some trails may be slippery if wet
- - Fewer tour options available
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Day Trips from Petra
Little Petra (Siq al-Barid)
15 minutes by taxi from Wadi Musa
A compact version of Petra with similar rock-cut architecture but far fewer visitors. This was likely a suburban area or trading post for the main city, featuring beautifully preserved facades, triclinium rooms, and ancient water systems.
Wadi Rum Protected Area
1.5 hours by car from Petra
Jordan's spectacular desert landscape of red sand and dramatic rock formations, famous for Lawrence of Arabia connections and Mars-like scenery. Many visitors combine Petra with an overnight Wadi Rum desert camp experience.
Shobak Castle (Montreal)
45 minutes by car from Petra
A Crusader castle built by Baldwin I of Jerusalem in 1115, standing dramatically on a rocky knoll with commanding views. Less visited than Kerak Castle but equally impressive, with underground passages and original chapel.
Petra Budget Guide
Petra is Jordan's premium tourist destination with corresponding costs, but smart planning can manage expenses. The Jordan Pass offers significant savings, and staying in Wadi Musa rather than luxury hotels outside helps control budgets.
Budget
€50-70 per day for budget travelers (hostel, street food, 1-day Petra ticket with Jordan Pass)
per day
Mid-Range
€100-150 per day for mid-range (3-star hotel, restaurant meals, guide for half-day, 2-day Petra ticket)
per day
Luxury
€250+ per day for luxury (5-star hotel, fine dining, private guide and transportation, 3-day Petra ticket with special experiences)
per day
Money-Saving Tips
- •Jordan Pass saves approximately 20 JOD versus buying visa and Petra ticket separately
- •Multi-day Petra tickets offer better value: 50 JOD (1 day), 55 JOD (2 days), 60 JOD (3 days)
- •Local guides inside Petra charge 50-80 JOD for 3 hours—negotiate at visitor center not with touts
- •Water and snacks are 3-4 times more expensive inside Petra—bring your own
- •Tipping is expected for guides (10-15%), restaurant staff (10%), and hotel portages (1-2 JOD)
Petra Hidden Gems
The Garden Tomb Complex
A rarely visited group of tombs and triclinium rooms near the Basin Restaurant, featuring unique architectural details and peaceful surroundings away from main paths.
You'll likely have this entire complex to yourself, offering a quiet moment to appreciate Nabataean craftsmanship without crowds.
Al-Habis Museum
A small museum housed in a cave within the ancient city itself, displaying artifacts found in Petra with explanations in English and Arabic.
The cave setting makes artifacts feel more connected to their original context than the modern Petra Museum.
The Snake Monument
An unusual carved stone snake on the path to the High Place of Sacrifice, representing an important Nabataean religious symbol often missed by visitors.
It's a subtle but significant religious artifact that reveals the spiritual beliefs behind the more dramatic monuments.
Wadi al-Mudhlim
An alternative canyon entrance to Petra used in ancient times, now a hiking trail that offers completely different perspectives of the rock formations.
Experienced hikers can enter Petra through this quiet, dramatic canyon and avoid the main entrance crowds entirely.
The Columbarium
A mysterious structure with hundreds of small carved niches, possibly used for ritual purposes or as a dovecote, located near the Theater.
Its purpose remains debated by archaeologists, letting you ponder the mysteries of Nabataean culture firsthand.
Petra Culture & Customs
Petra exists at the intersection of ancient Nabataean history and contemporary Bedouin culture. The local Bedouin communities have lived in and around Petra for generations and now serve as guides, vendors, and custodians of the site. Respect for elders, hospitality, and family are central values.
Cultural Etiquette
- •Always accept tea invitations—refusing is considered rude
- •Dress modestly (shoulders and knees covered) especially when interacting with local families
- •Ask permission before photographing people, particularly Bedouin women
- •Use your right hand for eating and handing items—left hand is considered unclean
- •Remove shoes when entering someone's home or a carpeted sitting area
Useful Phrases
Frequently Asked Questions about Petra
How many days do I need in Petra?
Minimum two days is recommended. Day one for the main trail (Siq, Treasury, Street of Facades, Theater, Royal Tombs). Day two for the Monastery hike and exploring lesser-visited areas. Serious photographers or archaeology enthusiasts might want three days.
Can I visit Petra independently or do I need a guide?
You can visit independently using maps and audio guides available at the visitor center. However, a local guide (2-3 hours) greatly enhances the experience by pointing out details you'd miss and sharing Bedouin perspectives. Consider a guide for your first half-day then explore on your own.
Is Petra accessible for people with mobility issues?
Limited accessibility. The main path through the Siq to the Treasury is relatively flat but uneven. Golf carts (20 JOD) can transport visitors through the Siq. Beyond the Treasury, paths become steep and rocky. The visitor center has detailed accessibility information.
What should I wear and bring to Petra?
Wear sturdy hiking shoes, hat, sunscreen, and layers. Bring at least 2 liters of water per person, snacks, cash in Jordanian dinars, passport (for ticket checks), camera, and a small flashlight if staying for sunset. A walking pole is helpful for the Monastery climb.
Is Petra safe for solo travelers?
Yes, Petra is very safe for solo travelers. Crime is extremely rare. Standard precautions apply: don't hike remote trails alone, arrange transport through reputable companies, and avoid poorly lit areas at night. Female travelers may experience some staring but rarely harassment.
What's the difference between Petra by Day and Petra by Night?
Petra by Day (6 AM-6 PM, varies by season) is for exploring the archaeological site. Petra by Night (Monday, Wednesday, Thursday 8:30-10:30 PM) is a separate ticketed event (17 JOD) where the Siq and Treasury are lit by candles with traditional music—atmospheric but not educational.
Can I use credit cards in Petra?
Credit cards are accepted at hotels, some restaurants in Wadi Musa, and the visitor center. Inside Petra archaeological site, only cash (Jordanian dinars) is accepted by vendors, for tips, and at small cafes. ATMs are available in Wadi Musa town.
Are there luggage storage facilities at Petra?
Yes, the Petra Visitor Center offers secure luggage storage for 3 JOD per bag per day. This allows day visitors to store bags while exploring. Most hotels in Wadi Musa will also store luggage for guests checking out before visiting Petra.
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