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JPY (Â¥)Petra is the most popular tourist attraction in Jordan. Located in the southwestern part of the country, it is a Nabatean city that was lost for thousands of years. Only rediscovered in the 19th century, the site is a must-see destination for many travelers. Named one of the New Seven Wonders of the World, hundreds of thousands of people visit Petra every year. Travelers can access Petra from major cities in Jordan, like Aqaba or Amman, or with Petra tours from Israeli cities like Tel Aviv, Jerusalem, and Eilat. Many Jordan tours pass through the desert of Wadi Rum on the way to Petra.
History of Petra
The city was built by the Nabataean empire in the first century BCE. The Nabateans carved beautiful structures and buildings into pink and red sandstone canyon walls, creating a breathtaking city that was a center for trade for about 500 years.
The city remained hidden and empty for almost two centuries until Swiss explorer John Lewis Burckhardt rediscovered it in 1812. The Lost City of Petra was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1985.
How To Visit
Just getting into this amazing city is an adventure. After arriving at the front entrance and paying the entrance fee, it is about a 20-minute walk to the most famous structure, the treasury. You will arrive at the treasury by passing through the Siq, a narrow entry point created when the mountain is split in two. Because the ancient city is so vast, it is important to wear comfortable walking shoes. For an additional fee, visitors also have the option of riding a horse or taking a carriage for part of the way to the treasury.
Throughout the city, there are various other highlights that should not be missed. Some of them are off the main walking path and take time to get to. These highlights include the monastery, the Roman theater, the Royal tombs, and the sacrificial altar. For those who like exploring with no time pressure, a two-day Petra tour is an ideal choice.
The best time of year to visit is in the spring or fall when temperatures are moderate. During the summer months (June-August), the temperatures can average 97 degrees Fahrenheit.
Petra Tours
One of the best ways to fully experience this ancient city is with our Petra tours from surrounding cities like Eilat or even Jerusalem. There are one-day Petra tours and Petra and Wadi Rum 2-Day tours for visitors who prefer to see more of the country during their tour.
Tour the best of both Israel and Jordan with our 7 Day Highlights of Israel and Jordan Tour, or even our 10-Day Ultimate Jordan and Israel Tour to enjoy a more relaxing, drawn-out immersive experience. Concerned about whether it is safe to visit Petra? Our detailed Jordan travel resources answer all your relevant concerns and questions.
Hours:
Summer: 6 am to 6 pm
Winter: 6 am to 4 pm
Price:
Visitors must pay an entrance fee to access Petra, but the price differs depending on whether or not visitors stay overnight in Jordan.
Visitor Staying Overnight in Jordan: 50 JD
Visitor Not Staying Overnight in Jordan: 90 JD
During the daytime, admission is complimentary for children under the age of 12.
Our Petra Tours often include a large portion of these entrance fees, helping reduce the hassle of planning. To reach Petra, the city is about a four-hour drive from Amman, Jordan, and a two-hour drive from Aqaba and the southern border crossing from Israel.
Plan Your Perfect Petra Adventure
Petra, the iconic “Lost City,” is one of Jordan’s most famous destinations, offering breathtaking history carved into red and pink sandstone. To ensure you maximize your precious vacation time, browse our Petra & Jordan travel resources, featuring essential tips and practical advice. For those short on time, our Petra day tours from cities like Eilat offer a seamless way to see the highlights, including the Treasury, Siq, Monastery, and Royal Tombs. To see even more of Jordan, our multi-day Petra Package Tours combine Petra with Wadi Rum and other incredible destinations, covering hotels, transfers, activities, guides, and even border assistance. With all the details planned for you, you can focus entirely on embracing the magic of Petra.
