Petra, Northern Jordan Valley Travel Guide

4.8 (42793)

Discover the breathtaking beauty and rich history of Petra, the Rose City of Jordan, a UNESCO World Heritage site and archaeological treasure.

Petra, known as the Rose City, is a breathtaking archaeological wonder in Jordan. This UNESCO World Heritage site captivates visitors with its stunning rock-cut architecture and vibrant history. As you stroll through the Siq, the narrow canyon leading to the iconic Treasury, you'll be immersed in the ancient Nabatean civilization's rich legacy. Explore the vast site, from grand tombs to intricate carvings, and experience the magic of Petra.

A brief summary to Petra

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Petra.

Wear comfortable shoes, as you'll be doing a lot of walking on uneven terrain.
Visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid the heat and crowds.
Bring plenty of water to stay hydrated during your exploration.
Consider hiring a local guide for deeper insights into Petra's history and architecture.
Don't miss the Petra by Night experience for a magical view of the Treasury lit by candles.

Do you manage this location?

Take control to get all the benefits, like improved information, better appearance, and stronger visibility across AI-powered discovery. Learn more

Activate your presence

Other nearby places you may find interesting

The closest places of the same kind, if this one is not quite what you had in mind.

Jordan Valley

Pella

Archaeological Site of Jerash

Ajloun Castle

Amman Citadel

Explore Petra on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots near Petra, mapped for you.

Getting There

Car

If you are traveling by car from the Northern Jordan Valley to Petra, start by heading south on the main road (Highway 65). Continue driving for approximately 70 kilometers until you reach the junction near Ma'an. Here, take the exit toward Ma'an (follow signs for Highway 15). After about 20 kilometers, you will reach the city of Ma'an. From Ma'an, follow the signs towards Petra, which is about 10 kilometers away. The drive will take around 1.5 to 2 hours, depending on traffic. Ensure your vehicle has enough fuel, as there are limited gas stations along this route. Entrance to Petra requires a ticket, which costs around 50 JOD for a day pass.
Public Transportation

To reach Petra by public transportation, take a bus from the Northern Jordan Valley to Ma'an. Buses frequently travel from cities like Irbid and Jerash to Ma'an, costing around 5 to 10 JOD. Once you arrive in Ma'an, you can find local minibuses or taxis that will take you to Petra for approximately 5 JOD. The total travel time, including waiting for buses, may take between 2 to 3 hours. Ensure you check the bus schedules in advance, as they can vary.
Taxi or Rideshare

For a more direct route, consider taking a taxi or rideshare service from Northern Jordan Valley to Petra. This option is more expensive, typically costing between 60 to 80 JOD for a one-way trip. The journey will take about 1.5 to 2 hours, depending on traffic. Ensure to negotiate the fare or confirm the price beforehand. This option is ideal if you prefer convenience or are traveling in a group.

Discover more about Petra

Nestled in the heart of southern Jordan, Petra is a UNESCO World Heritage site that boasts an extraordinary blend of natural beauty and rich history. Often referred to as the 'Rose City' due to the color of its sandstone cliffs, Petra was once a thriving trading hub for the Nabateans. As you approach the site, the dramatic entrance through the Siq, a narrow gorge flanked by towering rock walls, sets the stage for the breathtaking experience that awaits. Emerging from the Siq, visitors are greeted by the iconic Al-Khazneh, or Treasury, its intricate façade carved directly into the rock face, representing the pinnacle of Nabatean architecture.Exploration of Petra reveals a vast array of structures, including elaborate tombs, temples, and the impressive Roman-style theatre. The site covers over 100 square kilometers, offering a wealth of hiking trails that lead to stunning viewpoints and lesser-known ruins. For those seeking adventure, trekking to the Monastery, a monumental building perched high on the cliffs, rewards visitors with panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.The best times to visit Petra are during the spring and autumn months when temperatures are milder, making it ideal for exploring this vast archaeological wonder. Local guides are available to provide insights and stories that enhance the experience, bringing the ancient city to life. Additionally, visitors should not miss the enchanting Petra by Night experience, where the path to the Treasury is illuminated by thousands of candles, creating a magical atmosphere that transports you back in time.