Petra, Jordan
The rose-red city
Petra was the capital of the Nabataeans, Arab traders who grew wealthy on the caravan routes that crossed this region more than 2,000 years ago. They carved temples, tombs and houses straight into the pink and red sandstone and built clever systems to collect and store water in the desert.
Today the ancient city is protected as the Petra Archaeological Park. It was inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1985 and named one of the New Seven Wonders of the World in 2007.
Highlights
What to see in Petra
A first visit usually follows the main trail from the Visitor Centre through the Siq to the city centre, and on up to the Monastery.
The Siq
A narrow, winding canyon about 1.2 km long, with walls rising high on either side. It is the dramatic main entrance to the city.
The Treasury
Al-Khazneh, the famous carved facade that appears at the end of the Siq. It is one of the most photographed monuments in the world.
The Royal Tombs
A row of grand tomb facades cut into the Jabal al-Khubtha cliffs, overlooking the Street of Facades and the colonnaded street.
The Monastery
Ad Deir, one of Petra’s largest monuments, reached by a long climb of around 800 rock-cut steps. The views from the top are worth every one.
After dark
Petra by Night
On selected evenings, the Siq and the Treasury are lit by hundreds of candles for Petra by Night. It is a separate ticket and a completely different way to see the city.
Days and times can change, so check the current schedule with the Petra Visitor Centre or on the official Visit Petra website before you plan your evening.
Practical tips
Planning your visit
- Buy tickets at the Petra Visitor Centre in Wadi Musa. The Jordan Pass includes entry to Petra.
- Start early for cooler temperatures and quieter trails.
- Wear good walking shoes and carry water. Distances inside the site are long.
- Consider more than one day. There is a lot to see beyond the main trail.
- A popular hiking route links the Little Petra area with the Monastery. You need a valid Petra ticket, and a local guide is recommended.
- For opening hours and ticket prices, see the official Visit Petra website.
Stay near Petra
Explore by day, rest by night
Petra rewards an early start and a full day on your feet. Staying at Petra Wassaif Camp puts you a short drive from the Visitor Centre, with a calm camp, a hot shower and a traditional dinner waiting when you return.
19 min
To Petra Visitor Centre
7 min
To Little Petra
Free
Breakfast before you go
Drive times are Google Maps estimates and vary with traffic and road conditions.
Plan your stay
Stay Near Petra. Experience Jordan Differently.
Tell us your dates and we will confirm availability and price directly with you. WhatsApp is the quickest way to reach our team.