Imagine a city carved right into pink sandstone cliffs. That's Petra, Jordan, a real-life Indiana Jones kind of place. Nicknamed the Rose City for its amazing color, Petra was once a bustling trade center and the capital of the Nabataeans. Today, it's a UNESCO World Heritage Site that stuns visitors with its epic architecture and long-lost history.
Best Time to Visit
Mar - May
● Peak Season
Sep - Nov
● Moderate Season
Dec - Feb
● Off Season
What to Prepare for:
This is a great time to explore the rock-cut wonders like the Treasury and Monastery.
What to Prepare for:
Similar to spring, you can enjoy the site without the intense summer heat.
What to Prepare for:
Cold, with average highs in the low teens ((10s^{circ }C)) and potential for freezing temperatures at night.
Itinerary
Day 1 The Classic Trail and Beyond
Early morning:
Follow the one-day itinerary from the Siq to the Monastery.
Afternoon:
High Place of Sacrifice: After returning from the Monastery, take the strenuous hike to the High Place of Sacrifice. This trail offers panoramic views of the entire site.
Evening (optional):
Petra by Night: On Mondays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays, experience the Siq and Treasury lit by thousands of candles. Note: Tickets are separate from your daytime entrance fee and the event can be crowded
Day 2 The Back Route and Royal Tombs
Morning: Back route to the Monastery:
Take a taxi to the "Little Petra" back entrance for an easier, scenic hike to the Monastery. This lets you arrive at the monument before the day's main crowds arrive.
Afternoon: Royal Tombs and Great Temple:
After walking back down the main trail, explore the magnificent Royal Tombs, which offer beautiful views, especially near sunset. Visit the remains of the Great Temple and the Byzantine Church, known for its intricate mosaics.
Late afternoon: Treasury viewpoint:
If you missed it, consider hiking the official Al-Khubtha Trail to see the Treasury from above.
How to Reach Petra
The closest airport to Petra is Aqaba Airport (AQJ), about a two-hour drive from Petra. Taxis or shuttles can whisk you there. Amman Airport (AMM) is the main airport, but it's a longer three-hour drive. To make it more adventurous, fly into Tel Aviv (TLV) in Israel and take a day trip.
Getting Around in Petra
Petra's main area is big, so comfy shoes are a must. Walking lets you soak it all in, but there are options if your feet get sore. Hire a horse-drawn carriage, especially for the long entrance through the Siq (super cool gorge). Donkey rides are available, but some folks don't like them. For a totally unique view, camel rides are offered outside the main area.
Jordanian Eats to Try
Jordanian food is a delicious mix of Mediterranean and Middle Eastern flavors. Grab a falafel sandwich - deep-fried chickpea goodness wrapped in pita bread with hummus and tahini sauce. For a fancy feel, try mansaf, Jordan's national dish - slow-cooked lamb on buttery rice with nuts and yogurt sauce. Veggie lovers will dig mujadara, a lentil and rice dish with caramelized onions. And don't forget the strong Arabic coffee, often flavored with cardamom - perfect pick-me-up for exploring.
Accommodations in Petra
Wadi Musa, the town next to Petra, has hotels for all budgets and styles:
Luxury Retreats:
The M�venpick Resort Petra and the Petra Marriott Hotel will pamper you with fancy service, swanky amenities, and unreal views.
Boutique Charm:
Seven Wonders Luxury Camp or Petra Guest House offers a more intimate stay.
Budget-friendly options:
Plenty of guesthouses and hostels offer clean and comfy rooms at easy-on-the-wallet prices.
Top Sights to Visit in Petra
The Siq: This narrow gorge is the dramatic entrance to Petra, giving you a sneak peek of the wonders ahead. The Treasury: This iconic facade, carved right into the cliff, is basically the picture of Petra. The Monastery: Hike up hundreds of steps for epic views and to reach this impressive monastery. The Roman Theater: Take a step back in time at this well-preserved theater, once used for plays and stuff. The Royal Tombs: Explore the elaborate tombs carved into the cliffs, a reminder of how rich and powerful the Nabataeans were. Petra by Night: Experience the magic of Petra illuminated by flickering candlelight on special nights (tickets sold separately, so plan ahead). Petra Marathon (September): Test your limits with a marathon or shorter run through the stunning Petra landscape.
The Verdict
So, if you're looking for an epic adventure with history, culture, and mind-blowing scenery, Petra is calling your name. Start planning your Jordanian adventure and get ready to be amazed by the "Rose City"
Traditional Food
The national dish of Jordan and their most distinctive food. Mansaf is a traditional dish made of lamb cooked in a sauce of fermented dried yogurt called jameed and served with rice or bulgur.
