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About Petra - The Rose City of Jordan
Petra, often called the Rose City of Jordan, is a magnificent archaeological wonder carved into rose-red sandstone cliffs. Founded in 312 BC as a flourishing city of the Nabataeans, it is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site and was included in the 2007 list of the New Seven Wonders of the World. With its dramatic rock-cut architecture, rich history, and awe-inspiring desert backdrop, Petra attracts over 1 million visitors annually, making it Jordan’s most visited and iconic destination.
Ancient Nabataean rock-cut architecture, cultural heritage, and historical trade routes
History of Petra - The Rose City of Jordan
Petra was founded in 312 BC as the capital of the Nabataean Kingdom, a wealthy civilization that controlled major trade routes across Arabia. It flourished as a commercial hub, linking the Mediterranean, Egypt, and Arabian Peninsula through caravans of incense, silk, and spices. With its advanced water conduit system, Petra defied the harsh desert environment. After Roman annexation and eventual earthquakes, Petra was largely abandoned and remained a secret to the modern world until it was rediscovered in 1812 by Swiss explorer Johann Ludwig Burckhardt.
Mesmerizing Views of Petra - The Rose City of Jordan
Why Visit the Petra - The Rose City of Jordan?
Routes for Petra - The Rose City of Jordan
3 hours (235 km) from Amman (the capital city)
2 hours (125 km) from Aqaba Airport
90 minutes (105 km) from Wadi Rum
Visitors have several convenient options to reach Petra depending on their point of arrival and travel preferences:
1. From Amman to Petra
🚘 By Rental Car or Taxi
Distance: ~235 km
Duration: 3 to 3.5 hours
Route:
Take Desert Highway (Highway 15) south from Amman.
Exit at Ma'an, then follow signs to Wadi Musa / Petra.
Taxi fare: Approx. 40–60 JOD (~55–85 USD)
Tip: Renting a car offers flexibility to stop at scenic spots like Dana Biosphere Reserve or Shobak Castle.
🚌 By Tourist Bus (JETT Bus)
Provider: JETT Bus (Jordan Express Tourist Transport)
Departure: 6:30 AM from JETT Abdali Station, Amman
Arrival: Around 10:30 AM at Petra Visitor Center
Fare: ~11 JOD (approx. 15 USD)
Return: Same-day return buses are also available
Tip: Book tickets in advance during high season via the JETT website.
🚐 By Organized Tour
Many travel agencies offer day or multi-day tours from Amman to Petra.
Includes round-trip transport, licensed guides, entrance tickets, and lunch.
Prices vary depending on group size and package type.
2. From Aqaba to Petra
🚘 By Rental Car or Taxi
Distance: ~125 km
Duration: 2 to 2.5 hours
Route:
Take Desert Highway (Highway 15) north, then exit to Wadi Musa.
Taxi fare: Approx. 30–50 JOD (~42–70 USD)
🚌 By Public Minibus
Depart from Aqaba Bus Station
Destination: Wadi Musa / Petra
No fixed schedule; buses leave when full
Fare: ~5–7 JOD (7–10 USD)
Tip: Best for budget travelers, though not ideal for those on tight schedules.
3. From Wadi Rum to Petra
🚘 By Private Taxi or Transfer
Distance: ~105 km
Duration: ~90 minutes
Fare: ~25–40 JOD (~35–55 USD)
Ideal for travelers combining Petra and Wadi Rum in one trip.
🚌 By Minibus
Buses from Rum Village to Petra depart in the morning.
Fare: ~7–10 JOD
Confirm schedule in advance through your camp or local tour operator.
✈️ From Outside Jordan (By Air)
1. Fly to Queen Alia International Airport (Amman)
Major international gateway
Connect to Petra via Amman as described above.
2. Fly to King Hussein International Airport (Aqaba)
Ideal for visitors coming from Gulf countries or Europe via low-cost carriers
Then drive or take a transfer to Petra
✨ Travel Tips
🚗 Self-drive option is great for those who want to explore other sites along the way.
🕗 Plan to arrive early at Petra to avoid crowds and midday heat.
🧭 Use Google Maps or local signage—Wadi Musa is the town directly adjacent to Petra.
🚌 Group tours are convenient for first-time visitors who want a guided experience without the hassle of planning logistics.
Facts about Petra - The Rose City of Jordan
Interesting Facts About Petra - The Rose City of Jordan You Should Know Before Visiting
- Petra’s name comes from the Greek word petros, meaning "rock."
- Petra’s complex water system included dams, cisterns, and underground channels that supported over 30,000 people.
- After appearing in the film "Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade," the Treasury became well-known throughout the world.
- Despite being a desert city, Petra was a lush oasis thanks to its water engineering.
Plan Your Visit: Petra - The Rose City of Jordan
Everything You Need to Know Before Visiting the Petra - The Rose City of Jordan: Stay Options, Activities, and Packing Tips
Best Time to Visit
The ideal time to visit Petra is during the spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November). The weather is mild, skies are clear, and the scenery is vibrant—perfect for photography and hiking. Summers can be extremely hot, while winters may bring occasional rain, making outdoor exploration difficult.
Accommodation
Petra offers diverse lodging options to suit every budget. Most accommodations are located in Wadi Musa, the gateway town to Petra:
Luxury stays: Mövenpick Resort Petra, Petra Marriott Hotel
Mid-range hotels: Petra Guest House, La Maison Hotel
Budget-friendly: Petra Moon Hotel, hostels, and local guesthouses
Activities
Walk through the Siq, a narrow canyon leading to The Treasury
Explore ancient tombs, temples, and Roman-style amphitheater
Trekking to the High Place of Sacrifice or the Monastery
Experience Petra by Night, a magical candle-lit event
Discover Bedouin culture, traditional tea, and local Jordanian cuisine
Things to Pack
For a comfortable and enjoyable trip to Petra, make sure to bring:
✅ Comfortable hiking shoes
✅ Sunscreen, hat, and sunglasses
✅ Reusable water bottle
✅ Camera or smartphone to capture breathtaking views
✅ Light snacks for long hikes and exploration
✅ Layered clothing suitable for hot days and cool evenings
Final Thoughts
Whether you're a history buff, adventurer, photographer, or cultural traveler, Petra – The Rose City of Jordan offers an experience that’s unlike any other. Its combination of ancient mysteries, stunning landscapes, and rich traditions makes it a must-visit destination in the heart of the Middle East.