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Picture of Petra, Jordan

Travel Guide for
Petra

Jordan

Arid, hot summers, mild winters, low rainfall

Introduction

Petra, Jordan, is a breathtaking ancient city carved into rose-red cliffs, set in the rugged desert landscape of southern Jordan. Once a thriving trading hub, Petra boasts stunning monuments like the iconic Treasury and Siq canyon. The city’s Nabataean heritage and welcoming local Bedouin culture give it a fascinating, friendly vibe.

Visiting Petra in mid-October means pleasant weather—sunny and warm, but not too hot—perfect for exploring with friends. Hike the scenic trails, share delicious local meals, and snap group photos by spectacular ruins. Petra combines history, adventure, and affordable travel for an unforgettable friends’ getaway.

Customized for these preferences:

Travel StyleTravelling with friends

Dates14-17 October 2025

BudgetAverage budget

AccommodationHotel, hostel, apartment or house, villa, homestay

Interests and Activities:

arts and culturefestivals and eventsgastronomysightseeing and toursoutdoor adventuresnightlife and entertainmentvolunteering

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Picture of Petra, Jordan

Key Facts

Location

Ma'an Governorate, southern Jordan

Currency

Jordanian Dinar (JOD)

Religion

Islam (Sunni)

Population

9,000

Language

Arabic (Modern Standard, Jordanian dialect)

Electricity

230V, 50Hz, Type C/D/G

Time zone

UTCEEST (UTC+3)

Country code

+962

Internet access

Widespread 4G/mobile, moderate Wi-Fi in hotels, affordable

Climate

Arid, hot summers, mild winters, low rainfall

Language:

Arabic

  • hello

    مرحبا (mar-ha-ban)
  • goodbye

    مع السلامة (ma-a as-sa-la-ma)
  • yes

    نعم (na-am)
  • no

    لا (la)
  • how much

    بكم هذا؟ (bee-kam ha-tha)
  • please

    من فضلك (min fad-lik)
  • thank you

    شكراً (shook-ran)
  • excuse me

    عفواً (af-wan)

Map

Logistics

To reach Petra, fly into Queen Alia International Airport in Amman, Jordan’s capital. From Amman, most travelers take a JETT bus or hire a car for the roughly three-hour drive to Petra (Wadi Musa). Shared taxis are also available, offering a balance of comfort and cost for groups of friends.

There are no trains or boats to Petra, and flying directly to Petra isn’t possible. The weather in mid-October is usually pleasant, with mild temperatures and little chance of rain—ideal for exploring. Book accommodations in Wadi Musa for convenience. Plan ahead, as Petra can be busy during autumn, especially with friends.

Weather

Petra has a semi-arid climate, with hot, dry summers and cooler winters. Summer temperatures (June–August) can soar above 35°C (95°F), while winter (December–February) brings cooler days, chilly nights, and occasional rain. Spring (March–May) and autumn (September–November) are pleasant, making them the most popular seasons to visit.

From October 14 to October 17, Petra typically enjoys mild, comfortable weather, with daytime highs around 22–28°C (72–82°F) and cooler nights. Rain is still rare but possible, though extreme weather events are unlikely during this period. It’s an ideal time to explore Petra’s ancient wonders and scenic trails without intense heat or crowds.

Food & Drink

Petra’s local cuisine is hearty and flavorful, featuring dishes like mansaf (lamb with yogurt sauce), maqluba (rice and vegetables), mezze, and sweet knafeh. Mint tea and strong Arabic coffee are popular drinks, often served with meals or after your day of exploring.

Great places to eat with friends include Al Qantarah, renowned for its traditional buffet and Bedouin atmosphere, and My Mom’s Recipe, a friendly spot for home-style Jordanian food. Petra Night Restaurant offers a mix of local and Middle Eastern dishes, plus you can unwind at Cave Bar, set in a 2,000-year-old Nabataean tomb.

Tipping 10% is customary. Vegetarians will find plenty of options with mezze and salads, but it’s wise to check menu details. Ramadan may affect hours, but hospitality remains warm year-round.

A picture of Mansaf

Mansaf

Mansaf is a traditional Jordanian dish consisting of tender lamb cooked in a flavorful jameed sauce made from...

A picture of Maqluba

Maqluba

Maqluba is a popular Jordanian one-pot dish featuring layers of rice, vegetables, and meat (often chicken or lamb)...

A picture of Knafeh

Knafeh

Knafeh is a beloved Jordanian dessert made of shredded phyllo dough layered with sweet, gooey cheese, and soaked...

A picture of Falafel

Falafel

Falafel is a popular street food in Jordan, made from ground chickpeas or fava beans blended with herbs...

A picture of Sayadieh

Sayadieh

Sayadieh is a classic seafood dish in Jordan, featuring tender fish (often white fish like cod or grouper)...

Accommodation

For a trip with friends on an average budget, look for accommodation in Wadi Musa, the town closest to Petra’s entrance. Popular hotels like Petra Moon and Petra Guest House offer comfort and easy access, while hostels such as Petra Capsule Hostel and Valentine Inn cater to budget travelers and provide a social atmosphere.

Apartments, private rooms, and homestays can be found on Airbnb, Booking.com, or Agoda, giving you privacy and local experiences. October is peak season, so book well ahead for October 14–17, as hotels fill up quickly. Staying near the Petra Visitor Center maximizes your time exploring and makes returning at night easier.

Itinerary

Kick off your Petra adventure by immersing yourself in the city’s ancient history, rich cultural heritage, and vibrant artisan traditions alongside friends.

Main Entrance and Siq Walk

Begin your adventure with a walk through the dramatic Siq, Petra’s iconic gorge. Marvel at the stunning rock formations and ancient carvings. Tip: Arrive early to enjoy cooler temperatures and fewer crowds for photos.

Marvel at The Treasury (Al-Khazneh)

Experience the breathtaking sight of The Treasury, Petra's most famous facade. Learn about its history and enjoy sharing the moment with friends. Don’t miss the photo opportunities here – it’s a must for your Petra journey!

Bedouin Tea and Handicraft Experience

Immerse yourself in Petra’s living traditions by visiting a Bedouin tent for locally brewed tea. Browse handmade crafts and souvenirs while chatting with friendly artisans about their heritage and daily life.

Private Petra Day Trip Including Little Petra from Amman

Private Petra Day Trip Including Little Petra from Amman

INSTANT
Free Cancellation

Experience Jordan’s greatest ancient treasure on this private day trip to Petra from Amman. After traveling from Amman to Petra with a private driver, enjoy a 2-hour guided tour of UNESCO-listed Petra: a rock city cut into a sandstone valley some 2,000 years ago. Walk along the “Siq” entrance canyon, and behold the rose-tinted Treasury, Royal Tombs, and more. During your explorations, learn about Petra’s history from your local guide and see lesser-known Little Petra, whose sculpted rock buildings were a suburb of the main city.

4.6 (119 reviews)

From $187 USD

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Attractions

5.0 (92 reviews)
Jordan Private 4-Day Tour: Mt Nebo, Kerak, Petra, Wadi Rum, Baptism Site, Amman

Jordan Private 4-Day Tour: Mt Nebo, Kerak, Petra, Wadi Rum, Baptism Site, Amman

INSTANT

Visit Jordan and discover the country's amazing tourist's spots. This 4 day tour gives you a glimpse of what Jordan has to offer and takes you to the ancient and modern sites of the capital Amman, the heritage of the Roman heyday, the Byzantine mosaic art and the legacy of the Nabateans Petra. Float on the waters of the Dead Sea and explore the impressive Wadi Rum desert in the south of the country during a 4x4 Jeep tour. You will have to book 2 nights in Petra and 1 night at the Dead Sea.

From $420 USD

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4.0 (5 reviews)
Private Petra Day Trip Including Amman Sightseeing from Amman

Private Petra Day Trip Including Amman Sightseeing from Amman

INSTANT
Free Cancellation

Explore the rose-colored city of Petra after pick up from your central Amman hotel, settle into your air-conditioned comfortable vehicle with your English – Speaking Driver, who doubles up as your guide on your journey to and from Petra, UNESCO – listed Heritage and one of the Seven Wonders of the World. Enjoy a 2-hour guided tour of Petra, a rock city cut into a sandstone valley 2,000 years ago. Walk towards the “Siq” entrance canyon, and behold the rose-tinted Treasury, visit the Royal Tombs, the Theater, and more like the Byzantine Church. Proceed back to Amman for a panoramic tour of Amman’s top attractions including the Citadel viewpoint, the Roman Theater, the downtown souks, and views of the city's mosques, churches, and historical Jabal Amman and Jabal Al-Webdeih ancient quarters, besides proceeding to the new modern part of Amman’s capital.

From $213 USD

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4.7 (6 reviews)
Jordan Pass 7-Day Tour Roman Ruins of Jerash, Petra, Wadi Rum, and the Dead Sea

Jordan Pass 7-Day Tour Roman Ruins of Jerash, Petra, Wadi Rum, and the Dead Sea

INSTANT_THEN_MANUAL

See some of the world’s most impressive sites on this private, 7-day tour of Jordan, including six nights stay in Jordan. Visit Petra one of the Seven Wonders of the World and UNESCO World Heritage, ride a 4x4 local jeep through the wonderful Wadi Rum desert of moon valley. Swim in the Dead Sea, the lowest point on earth and the world’s first natural spa. Along the way, stop and visit Mount Nebo, the mosaic city of Madaba’s Church of Saint George, The Crusader Castle of Karak, as well as Ajloun Islamic Castle. This tour is not complete without visiting the Ancient Roman ruins of Jerash from the Decapolis. This is one unique program not to be missed with your own private English – Speaking Driver who doubles up as your guide! This tour includes accommodation in 3,4,5-star hotel option of your choice, breakfast, dinner, as well as arrival and departure transfers.

From $875 USD

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5.0 (3 reviews)
Petra & Little Petra Full-Day Private Guided Tour from Amman

Petra & Little Petra Full-Day Private Guided Tour from Amman

INSTANT

Discover two of Jordan’s most iconic Nabataean sites on this full-day private tour. Depart from Amman to the south and explore the legendary Rose-Red City of Petra, walking through the Siq to marvel at its stunning rock-carved architecture. Then, head to Little Petra (Siq al-Barid), a charming archaeological site north of Petra and Wadi Musa, where buildings are carved into the sandstone canyon walls, offering a more intimate glimpse of Nabataean life. Conclude your journey with a comfortable return to Amman City or Queen Alia Airport, making this an unforgettable Jordanian adventure.

From $480 USD

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5.0 (4 reviews)
Jordan Pass 4-Night Private Cultural Tour: Jerash, Petra, and Wadi Rum Overnight

Jordan Pass 4-Night Private Cultural Tour: Jerash, Petra, and Wadi Rum Overnight

INSTANT_THEN_MANUAL

This five-day tour gives you a great opportunity to see the cultural main sites of Jordan.Start with a panoramic tour of Amman center,downtown area with its Roman Theater,Citadel,traditional markets,churches,mosques,and the new modern city.Proceed to Jerash one of the most complete and best-preserved cities of the Roman Empire.Then head to visit Petra one of the Seven Wonders of the World,and one of Jordan’s most enchanting archaeological sites.A city carved in stone more than 2000 years.Carry through for a classic 2 hours visit of Wadi Rum in a 4x4 local Jeep to explore its mountains of reddish hue.The desert of Wadi Rum where Matt Damon movie the Martian was filmed.Proceed to Madaba the mosaic city,as well as Mount Nebo.Roll down to the lowest point on earth and the first natural spa,the Dead Sea for a unique swimming experience not to be missed.Your private tour includes overnight in 3,4,or 5-star hotel accommodation in Amman,Petra,Dead Sea with one-night camping in Wadi Rum desert.

From $739 USD

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5.0 (7 reviews)
2-Day Private Tour in Jordan: Petra | Wadi Rum | Dead Sea from Amman

2-Day Private Tour in Jordan: Petra | Wadi Rum | Dead Sea from Amman

INSTANT
Free Cancellation

Explore Jordan’s natural wonders and ancient history on a 2-day, Private tour of Petra, Wadi Rum, and the Dead Sea. Travel by climate-controlled vehicle with an English-speaking driver as you explore Petra’s rock-cut architecture, go off-road in Wadi Rum, and soak up the mineral-rich mud of the Dead Sea. Then, spend the night beneath the stars and enjoy an evening of Bedouin cuisine and culture.

From $240 USD

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4.4 (123 reviews)
3-Night Jordan Flavors Tour: Petra, Wadi Rum, and the Dead Sea

3-Night Jordan Flavors Tour: Petra, Wadi Rum, and the Dead Sea

INSTANT_THEN_MANUAL

Experience Jordan’s most famous natural historical beauty spots, accompanied by your own friendly and knowledgeable English – Speaking Driver who doubles up as your guide in a private leisure vehicle. Overnight in Amman continue the next morning to the Dead Sea, the world’s first natural spa, proceed to Wadi Rum; a protected desert valley renowned for its natural beauty. Take an exciting 4x4 jeep ride. Travel south through Jordan’s sunbaked desert landscapes to Petra, the UNESCO-protected, ancient city hew into a rocky valley more than 2,000 years ago and one of the 7 world's wonders. Your tour includes round-trip private transport, 3 nights of accommodation in your choice of 3, 4, and 5-star hotels; meals as per program.

From $727 USD

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4.8 (13 reviews)
Full-Day Petra Adventure: Round-Trip Transportation from Amman

Full-Day Petra Adventure: Round-Trip Transportation from Amman

INSTANT
Free Cancellation

The ancient city of Petra, once the capital of the Nabataean Arabs, is one of the world’s most iconic archaeological marvels. Located 240 km south of Amman, this UNESCO World Heritage site has earned its place as a world wonder, captivating travelers from all corners of the globe. Recognized by Smithsonian Magazine as one of the "28 Places to Visit Before You Die," Petra offers a journey through history unlike any other, with its intricate rock-cut architecture, towering sandstone cliffs, and hidden treasures that tell the story of a lost civilization. As Jordan's most cherished cultural treasure and top tourist attraction, Petra promises an unforgettable experience for all who visit. After exploring the city’s awe-inspiring landmarks, including the famed Treasury, the Monastery, and the Street of Facades, you’ll return to your hotel or preferred location in Amman, carrying with you the memories of an extraordinary adventure through one of the world’s greatest wonders.

From $100 USD

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4.8 (36 reviews)
5-Day Jordan Discovery Tour: Jerash, Dead Sea, Petra & Wadi Rum

5-Day Jordan Discovery Tour: Jerash, Dead Sea, Petra & Wadi Rum

INSTANT

This 5-day private journey through Jordan combines the perfect balance of comfort, culture, and adventure—crafted for travelers who want to experience the best of the Kingdom in a limited time. Unlike standard group tours, this private experience offers personalized service with flexible timing and dedicated attention from your driver throughout the trip. Explore Jordan’s most iconic landmarks—Jerash’s Roman ruins, the Dead Sea’s natural wonder, the majestic city of Petra, and the breathtaking Wadi Rum desert—all in one seamless itinerary. Stay in handpicked hotels and enjoy authentic local experiences, from floating in the mineral-rich Dead Sea to sipping Bedouin tea under the stars. This tour is ideal for discerning travelers seeking comfort, authenticity, and a deeper connection to Jordan’s history, nature, and people.

From $645 USD

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5.0 (1 reviews)
Jordan Pass 3-Night Jordan Private Tour: Petra, Wadi Rum, and the Dead Sea

Jordan Pass 3-Night Jordan Private Tour: Petra, Wadi Rum, and the Dead Sea

INSTANT_THEN_MANUAL

Experience Jordan’s most famous natural and historical beauty spots on this 3-night tour, accompanied by your own friendly and knowledgeable English – Speaking Driver who doubles up as your guide in a private leisure vehicle. Overnight in Amman on the first day, continue the next morning to the Dead Sea, the world’s first natural spa, to swim in the salt-rich waters. Proceed to Wadi Rum; a protected desert valley renowned for its natural beauty. Take an exciting 4x4 jeep ride around the valley, mountains, and dunes. Travel south through Jordan’s sun baked desert landscapes to Petra, the UNESCO-protected, ancient city hew into a rocky valley more than 2,000 years ago. Enjoy a guided tour of Petra’s main sites, including the “Siq”, Treasury “El-Khazneh”, and rock tombs. Then, after an overnight stay in Petra, return to Amman. Your tour includes round-trip private transport, three nights of accommodation in your choice of 3, 4, and 5-star hotels; and meals as per program.

From $514 USD

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4.8 (4 reviews)
Private Full-Day Aqaba Shore Excursion to Petra and Little Petra

Private Full-Day Aqaba Shore Excursion to Petra and Little Petra

INSTANT_THEN_MANUAL
Free Cancellation

Discover the rock-cut architecture of the ancient Nabateans on a private shore excursion from Aqaba to Petra and Little Petra that includes a guided tour of the site. Meet you at the cruise boarding point at Aqaba Port. Traveling between Aqaba and Petra in a private leisure air-conditioned vehicle with your own English – Speaking Driver who doubles up as your guide is ideal for exploring Petra's UNESCO Heritage listed wonder Nabatean Red Rose City. You will have the flexibility to take in Petra at your own pace, without being rushed by a crowded group tour since this is a private tour.

From $300 USD

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