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A word from Jenn:

Hi everyone! I’m handing over the travel blog this week to Lowri of Many Other Roads. Lowri is going to cover someplace that’s very high on my bucket list, Petra, Jordan. Is it worth visiting? What’s to see? And how difficult is it to get around? Find out all this and more below as Lowri takes us to breathtaking Petra, Jordan!

Visiting Petra Jordan

Are you visiting Jordan and wondering if Petra is worth visiting?

This is the guide for you!

Jordan is a dream destination located in the Middle East. With its incredible deserts, ancient history, and delicious delicacies you can easily see why so many visit here. However, many book a getaway here mainly to set eyes on the ancient city of Petra.

But, like most places, you hear mixed reviews making it hard to know if you should part with your hard-earned cash to visit here.

To help you out, let’s look at everything you need to know about exploring Petra so you can decide if you want to add it to your Jordan Itinerary.

Is Petra Worth Visiting? A Quick Overview

Yes, Petra in Jordan is definitely worth visiting!

Petra is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the New Seven Wonders of the World. It is renowned for its unique and stunning architecture and is such an amazing experience. No matter what type of traveller you are, Petra will leave a lasting mark on you.

You can easily explore the rose-red city alone with just a map which makes it great for those who do not love joining tours. However, having a guide will help you see things that you can easily miss on your own.

As it is such a popular tourist site there are plenty of ticket options available. You are looking at paying 50-90 JOD. However, entry is free if you have the Jordan Pass. For those who want to experience Petra at night, you will have to pay 15 JOD More. This extra fee applies to those with and without the Jordan Pass.

Why Is Petra Special?

Just looking at photos and videos of Petra you can see how unique it is. But aside from its appearance, there are a few reasons why Petra is such a special place.

It was carved into the rock by the Nabataeans more than 2,000 years ago. The most famous structure in Petra is Al-Khazneh, also known as the Treasury, which is a magnificent facade carved into the pink sandstone. The lost city also includes various royal tombs, temples, and other structures, all set in a breathtaking desert landscape.

The city is situated in a unique geological setting, surrounded by rugged mountains and accessible only through a narrow, winding gorge known as the Siq. The Siq serves as a dramatic entrance to the city and enhances the overall sense of awe and mystery as visitors approach the archaeological site.

Petra also played a crucial role in ancient trade routes, helping in the exchange of goods and ideas between Asia and the West. This is not just a city that stood still, its deep history and unique structure make this an epic place to explore.

How Long Should You Spend In Petra?

While it's possible to see the main highlights of Petra in a day, some visitors choose to spend more time exploring additional areas like Wadi Rum and Little Petra and enjoy a more relaxed pace.

However, the Jordan pass does include only one day pass into Petra so you are going to end up paying more for extra days. This is also the case if you do not have the Jordan Pass so if you want to save money, just do one day.

If you enter Petra in the early morning this will give you plenty of time to explore the sites out of the heat and without fewer tourists. It also means you can easily see everything in one day but it will be a full day.

Is One Day Enough To See Petra?

One day is plenty of time to see the sites in Petra. Even though there is a lot to see, the buildings are close together.

To make sure you make the most of your day in Peta, arrive early. The site is usually open around 06:00 am and the morning light is fantastic for photos. It also gives you plenty of time to explore without feeling rushed.

This can be a long day. If you’re a traveler with limited mobility or need to go at a slower pace, it’s recommended you spend as much as three days in Petra to fully take in the sites.

Is Petra At Night Worth It?

This is another experience in Jordan that gets mixed reviews. For visitors already having to pay a lot to visit Petra then having to pay extra for this, it puts a lot of people off.

Walking through and experiencing this already stunning location under candlelight is an experience you will never have again. Not only is it extremely romantic if you are travelling as a couple but super relaxing.

However, even though the candlelight creates a beautiful ambience, it also means that visibility is limited. You won't be able to see the details of the rock formations or other structures as clearly as during daylight.

Depending on the time of year, the weather at night can be chilly, so make sure you are prepared for this.

It’s also worth noting that Petra by Night is only offered on certain evenings, so plan accordingly if this is something you really want to do.

Is Petra Wheelchair Accessible? What About Those With Limited Mobility?

Horse carts, donkeys, and camels offer transportation inside the park, but walking is still the recommended mode of transport. But what if walking is difficult or impossible for you?

People with physical disabilities can certainly visit the park, but will mainly be confined to the valley floor as most of the higher places are not accessible to those with limited physical abilities. Deep sand in some areas will render mobility devices useless.

It is advised that when visiting Petra you take a taxi as far as possible as the trip from Petra city center to the Petra Visitor Center is a rather steep downhill walk. From the Visitors Center down is much more of a gentle slope, and there are horse carts available to take you on your journey.

Another option is to take one of the electric service carts available at the Visitor’s Center. Just be warned you need to book in advance and there are a limited number of electric golf carts available for hire. Each golf cart holds a maximum of 5 guests and the driver. The golf cart booking is for 1.5 hours maximum.

While some of the sites may be off limits to those with mobility issues, you can still see the iconic Treasury Building and other facades by walking on flat ground, taking a horse cart, or taking an electric golf cart.

There are plenty of shops and places to rest along the pathway, so you do not have to walk straight through the valley without stopping.

How Do You Get To Petra?

The best way to get to Petra does depend on your start destination. There is no direct airport near Petra so the most popular ways to get here are from Amman or Aqaba. Many visitors do opt for a tour to pick them up and drop them off so they don’t need to stress.

However, if you plan on making your own way to Jordan, these are some of the best options you should consider:

Travel To Petra From Amman

Once you've arrived in Jordan, you can reach Petra from the capital city, Amman. There are several transportation options:

By Bus: Regular buses operate from the Abdali station in Amman to Petra. The journey takes about 3-4 hours.
By Car: You can rent a car and drive to Petra. The journey takes around 3 hours from Amman. The Desert Highway is the main route.
By Tour. I recommend this wheelchair-accessible full-day Petra Tour from Amman.

Click Here For A Wheelchair Accessible Ful Day Tour Of Petra From Amman

Travel To Petra From Aqaba

If you fly into Aqaba or are in the southern part of Jordan, you can reach Petra from Aqaba:

By Bus or Taxi: Buses and taxis are available to take you from Aqaba to Petra. The journey takes around 2-3 hours.
By Car: Renting a car in Aqaba and driving to Petra is another option. The journey takes approximately 2-3 hours. Some travellers recommend bringing a walkie-talkie just in case you run out of phone service.
By Tour: I recommend this wheelchair-accessible tour of Petra from Aqaba.

Click Here For A Wheelchair-Accessible Tour Of Petra From Aqaba

Can You Explore Petra On Your Own?

Yes, you can explore Petra on your own and have no issues at all. The archaeological site is designed to be accessible to independent travellers, and many visitors choose to explore Petra without a guide.

Discovering the sites of Petra alone means you can completely explore on your schedule and spend more time seeing the places that interest you the most. It will also save you a lot of money!

Even though there are a lot of benefits to exploring Petra on your own, hiring a local guide can enhance your experience by providing historical and cultural insights. It is worth arranging your guide in advance if you can because, in the summer months, this option sells out fast.

Is Petra Walkable?

Petra is a huge archaeological site, and exploring its main attractions can require covering considerable distances. The walk from the entrance to the Treasury alone is several kilometres.

The terrain in Petra is something you need to consider. It varies from well-paved paths to uneven, rocky surfaces. The main path through the Siq (the narrow gorge leading to Petra) and the areas around the iconic structures, such as the Treasury, are generally accessible.

Also, some of the trails leading to more remote or elevated sites may involve steeper ascents and descents. The steps above the Treasury is one challenging walk, especially in the heat so it’s best to avoid this area if you are struggling.

If walking long distances is a concern, guided tours with transportation options within Petra are available. Some visitors choose to take horse or camel rides for part of the journey.

Do You Need Walking Boots For Petra?

The terrain in Petra can be uneven, and you'll likely be doing a fair amount of walking so comfortable and supportive shoes are essential.

But saying that, trainers or some sort of supportive sandals are fine. Walking boots are not necessary to be comfortable when visiting Petra or any other sites in Jordan. Your luggage will also weigh a lot more with them in so it’s best to leave them at home!

Where To Stay When Visiting Petra

When visiting Petra, there are several accommodation options to consider for a delightful stay near this ancient archaeological site. From budget-friendly choices to more luxurious retreats, there is something for every traveler's preference. Here are a few recommendations:

Budget-Friendly Options:

Seven Wonders Bedouin Camp: Experience a traditional Bedouin stay at this camp located near Petra in Wadi Musa. Sleep in cozy tents under the stunning desert sky and enjoy authentic local hospitality. Unfortunately, accommodations are not wheelchair-accessible.

Mid-Range Choices:

Petra Guest House: Located right at the entrance to Petra, this hotel offers comfortable rooms with modern facilities. Enjoy the convenience of being just steps away from the archaeological site. The Petra Guest House offers wheelchair-accessible rooms with a bathroom emergency cord, a lowered sink, and a raised toilet with grab rails.
Petra Moon Hotel: Offering a mix of comfort and affordability, this hotel provides spacious rooms, a rooftop terrace with beautiful views, and easy access to Petra's attractions. The Petra Moon Hotel features wheelchair-accessible common areas and offers wheelchair-accessible rooms.

Luxury Retreats:

Movenpick Resort Petra: Indulge in luxury at this elegant resort overlooking the Petra Mountains. With well-appointed rooms, excellent dining options, and a relaxing spa, this is perfect for a luxurious stay. Movenpick offers wheelchair-accessible rooms with a bathroom emergency cord, a lowered sink, and a raised toilet with grab rails.
Petra Marriott Hotel: Experience luxury combined with Jordanian hospitality at this upscale hotel. Pamper yourself with top-notch amenities, multiple dining choices, and a serene ambiance after a day of exploring Petra. The Petra Marriott Hotel offers wheelchair-accessible rooms and wheelchair-accessible common areas.

No matter your budget or preferences, there are various accommodation options near Petra to enhance your visit to this remarkable UNESCO World Heritage site. Plan your stay wisely to make the most of your time exploring the ancient wonders of Petra.

How Many Tourists Visit Petra Each Year?

You may be wondering is it safe to visit Petra, Jordan? Do a lot of people visit Petra? Well, an estimated 900,000 visitors flocked to Petra last year, close to the record of one million set in 2019.

Petra is indeed a very safe place. The surrounding area has a very low crime rate and is an excellent place for families. So, no need to worry about visiting this incredible landmark. Almost a million people make the trip safely and successfully each year.

Is Petra Worth Visiting? Final Thoughts

The question if Petra is worth visiting when on a trip to Jordan is met with a resounding “Yes!”.

Whether you're an avid history enthusiast, an adventure seeker, or simply a traveller eager to witness the marvels of the world, Petra has it all. The best part is that you don’t even need a guide to explore it.

Despite the price, if you don’t invest in the Jordan Pass, it is a destination that transforms a trip to Jordan into an unforgettable and enriching experience.

So for the best value for money, get the Jordan Pass, it also includes 40 other sites across Jordan.

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