Petra remains one of the world’s most compelling archaeological sites, offering a window into the past of human ingenuity and endurance. Its breathtaking beauty and historical significance make it a must-visit destination for travelers to Jordan.
Petra: Jordan’s Ancient Desert Wonder
Petra, also known as the Rose City due to the color of its stone, is an archaeological site in Jordan’s southwestern desert. Dating back to around 300 B.C., it was the capital of the Nabatean Kingdom. Today, Petra is a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the New Seven Wonders of the World.
The Siq and The Treasury
The journey into Petra begins with the Siq, a narrow gorge that leads to the city’s most iconic structure, the Treasury (Al-Khazneh). This stunning facade, carved directly into the pink sandstone cliff face, is believed to have been a mausoleum or a treasury for the Nabatean King Aretas IV.
Beyond the Treasury
Beyond the Treasury, Petra opens up into a vast city of tombs, temples, and intricate buildings. Key sites include the Street of Facades, the Royal Tombs, and the Roman-style Theatre that could seat 3,000 spectators.
The Monastery (Ad Deir)
A climb of over 800 steps from the city center leads to the Monastery (Ad Deir). Larger than the Treasury, this monument offers breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.
Cultural Significance and Preservation
Petra’s architecture and water conduit system reflect the Nabateans’ advanced understanding of engineering and water management. Efforts are ongoing to preserve these ancient structures from natural erosion and human damage.
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit Petra is during spring (March to May) or autumn (September to November). These seasons offer milder temperatures, making the exploration of this vast site more comfortable.
Tips for Visitors
Visitors should prepare for a lot of walking, often on uneven terrain. Wearing comfortable shoes, carrying water, and using sun protection are essential. Hiring a local guide can enhance the experience with insights into the site’s history and legends.
If you are interested in history, visit the Petra Museum. Visitors can see the actual water pipes that used to supply water to Petra. Visitors can also understand the changes that have taken place in the region over time. You can also learn about the Nabateans, who built a civilization in this region.
Tours
Many tours that visit Petra originate in Amman. Both day tours and 2-day tours that spend the night there are available. If you want to do a day trip, From Amman: Private full day Petra and Wadi rum is an affordable option. The 3-Day Private Tour from Amman: Petra, Wadi Rum, Dana, Aqaba, and Dead Sea takes you to the Dead Sea.
Petra in 2 full days
If you love ancient civilizations, you need two days in Petra. Many tours visit Petra for only one day, which I do not recommend. Even if two days are not possible, set aside a day and a half for the adventure in Petra.
This itinerary focuses on maximizing your time in Petra, especially if you enjoy walking and seeing as much as possible.
Day 1: The Classic Petra Experience
Morning:
Start your day early! Petra opens at 6:00 AM, and arriving early lets you experience the Siq and Treasury with fewer crowds.
Walk through the Siq, the narrow, winding gorge that leads to Petra’s most iconic monument, the Treasury (Al-Khazneh). The walk through the Siq is about 1.2 km (0.75 miles) and is an awe-inspiring experience in itself.
Spend some time at the Treasury, taking in its grandeur.
Continue along the Outer Siq to the Street of Facades, where you’ll see many Nabatean tombs carved into the sandstone cliffs.
Explore the Royal Tombs. These impressive structures, including the Urn Tomb, Silk Tomb, and Palace Tomb, showcase the wealth and architectural skill of the Nabataeans.
Afternoon:
Hike up to the High Place of Sacrifice. This is a moderately challenging climb, but it offers fantastic views of Petra. The High Place of Sacrifice is an important archaeological site where the Nabataeans performed religious rituals.
Do not miss Lion Spring. This beautiful sculpture is located halfway up the hill.
If you have time and energy, you can explore the area around the Great Temple and Qasr al-Bint.
Evening:
If you’re up for it, consider experiencing “Petra by Night.” This event is held on certain evenings (check the schedule) and involves walking through the Siq to the Treasury, which is illuminated by candlelight. It’s a magical experience.
Morning:
Start your day early again.
Hike to the Monastery (Ad Deir). This is one of the largest and most impressive monuments in Petra, even bigger than the Treasury. The hike to the Monastery involves climbing a lot of steps (around 800), but the views and the monument itself are well worth the effort.
Afternoon:
Explore the Monastery area. There are viewpoints around the Monastery that offer stunning panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.
Descend from the Monastery and explore any areas you may have missed on Day 1, or revisit your favorite spots.