Middle East

Petra

Discover top-rated Petra tours, excursions, and activities powered by AI. From exploring the Treasury to hiking the Siq, find the perfect way to uncover this ancient marvel.

Petra

Why Visit Petra?

Witness the iconic Treasury carved directly into rose-red sandstone cliffs, a truly unforgettable ancient wonder.

Explore the vast Nabataean city, a UNESCO World Heritage site revealing centuries of history and ingenuity.

Experience the Siq's dramatic narrow gorge walk, building anticipation before the breathtaking reveal of Al-Khazneh.

Immerse yourself in the rich history of the Nabataeans, masters of trade and water engineering.

Enjoy a Bedouin tea break with locals inside the ancient city, offering a genuine cultural connection.

Discover the awe-inspiring scale and intricate detail of this rose-red city, a testament to human ambition.

Getting Around

Getting around Petra primarily involves walking, as the ancient city is extensive. The main path from the Visitor Centre to the Treasury is wide and relatively flat, suitable for most. For longer distances or to reach the Monastery, you can hire local Bedouin guides or use donkeys and camels, though be mindful of animal welfare. Horse-drawn carriages are available for the initial stretch through the Siq. Comfortable walking shoes are essential for exploring Petra's vast archaeological site.

Prefer renting a car? See options here.

Must-See Attractions

  • The Treasury (Al-Khazneh) is Petra's most famous facade, an intricately carved masterpiece that leaves visitors speechless.
  • The Monastery (Ad-Deir) offers stunning views after a rewarding climb, showcasing Nabataean architecture on a grand scale.
  • Wadi Farasa offers a quieter experience with impressive tombs and the Garden Triclinium, a great spot for reflection.
  • The Royal Tombs, including the Urn Tomb and Palace Tomb, display incredible Hellenistic architectural influences within Petra.
  • Hike to the High Place of Sacrifice for panoramic views across the entire ancient city and surrounding mountains.
  • Look for ancient water channels and cisterns; understanding their engineering is key to appreciating Petra's survival.

Best Time to Visit

Weather

Petra experiences a desert climate with hot, dry summers and cool, potentially rainy winters. Spring and autumn offer the most pleasant temperatures for exploring the extensive site. Expect significant temperature fluctuations between day and night, especially outside the summer months.

Best Months

The best months to visit Petra are typically March to May and September to November, offering mild temperatures ideal for extensive walking and sightseeing without extreme heat or cold.

Peak Season

Peak season in Petra usually falls during the spring (March-May) and autumn (September-November), coinciding with the most favorable weather. Expect larger crowds and potentially higher accommodation prices during these periods.

Off Season

The off-season months are winter (December-February) and summer (June-August). Winter can be cold and rainy, while summer is intensely hot, making midday exploration challenging. However, visiting during these times can mean fewer crowds and lower costs.

Popular Petra Tours & Activities

Discover the best tours and activities in Petra with our AI-powered recommendations

Tours are loading or no tours found at the moment.

Try browsing all tours to see what's available.

Browse All Tours & Activities

Plan Your Petra Trip

Transportation Tips

Getting around Petra primarily involves walking, as the ancient city is extensive. The main path from the Visitor Centre to the Treasury is wide and relatively flat, suitable for most. For longer distances or to reach the Monastery, you can hire local Bedouin guides or use donkeys and camels, though be mindful of animal welfare. Horse-drawn carriages are available for the initial stretch through the Siq. Comfortable walking shoes are essential for exploring Petra's vast archaeological site.

Car Rental Deals in Petra

Rent a car for maximum flexibility and explore at your own pace on Expedia USA.

Where to Stay

Find the perfect accommodation for your Petra adventure. From luxury resorts to cozy hotels, we've got you covered.

Best Hotel Deals in Petra

Discover top-rated hotels with exclusive rates and special offers on Trivago USA.

Frequently Asked Questions About Petra

What is the best time to visit Petra?

Petra experiences a desert climate with hot, dry summers and cool, potentially rainy winters. Spring and autumn offer the most pleasant temperatures for exploring the extensive site. Expect significant temperature fluctuations between day and night, especially outside the summer months.

How do I get around Petra?

Getting around Petra primarily involves walking, as the ancient city is extensive. The main path from the Visitor Centre to the Treasury is wide and relatively flat, suitable for most. For longer distances or to reach the Monastery, you can hire local Bedouin guides or use donkeys and camels, though be mindful of animal welfare. Horse-drawn carriages are available for the initial stretch through the Siq. Comfortable walking shoes are essential for exploring Petra's vast archaeological site.

Why should I visit Petra?

  • Witness the iconic Treasury carved directly into rose-red sandstone cliffs, a truly unforgettable ancient wonder.
  • Explore the vast Nabataean city, a UNESCO World Heritage site revealing centuries of history and ingenuity.
  • Experience the Siq's dramatic narrow gorge walk, building anticipation before the breathtaking reveal of Al-Khazneh.

What types of tours are available in Petra?

Petra offers a variety of tour experiences including:

Petra Treasury & Siq Tours
Nabataean History & Archaeology Walks
Petra Hiking & Trekking Adventures
Bedouin Cultural Experiences in Petra

What are the must-see attractions in Petra?

  • The Treasury (Al-Khazneh) is Petra's most famous facade, an intricately carved masterpiece that leaves visitors speechless.
  • The Monastery (Ad-Deir) offers stunning views after a rewarding climb, showcasing Nabataean architecture on a grand scale.
  • Wadi Farasa offers a quieter experience with impressive tombs and the Garden Triclinium, a great spot for reflection.
  • The Royal Tombs, including the Urn Tomb and Palace Tomb, display incredible Hellenistic architectural influences within Petra.
  • Hike to the High Place of Sacrifice for panoramic views across the entire ancient city and surrounding mountains.
  • Look for ancient water channels and cisterns; understanding their engineering is key to appreciating Petra's survival.

Ready to Explore Petra?

Discover the best tours and activities in Petra with AI-powered recommendations tailored just for you.