Petra day-trips and tours

The "Mysterious Lost (and Found) City of Petra" is located deep in the heart of Jordan, hidden by countless Arabian wadis and canyons. The "Pink City" has maintained most of its archaeological wonders intact due to the favorable meteorological conditions, specifically the lack of rainfall and strong winds.

An ancient and mysterious land, the area surrounding Petra has been inhabited by numerous populations since the Neolithic times (7000 BC). However, its Golden Age began with the occupation of warrior merchants known as the Nabateans. Through commercial trade and ingenious ways to collect and control water supplies, they were able to prosper and build the actual archaeological complex we see today.

Contrary to popular belief, the city itself was not the living-quarters of the Nabateans, rather it was an enormous necropolis, home of ancient and megalithic tombs dedicated to the rulers of the time. The city of Petra was eventually conquered by the Roman Empire with the decline of the Nabateans and became the capital of Palestrina Tertia and maintained much of its splendor during the Roman occupation.

Due to the commercial decline and an earthquake, Petra was completely abandoned for centuries, to only be occupied later by the local bedouin tribes. It was eventually rediscovered by the West a bit more than over a century ago by Burckhardt. In order to gain access to the city's complex, the explorer had to gain the trust of the locals.

Today, Petra is an archaeological site explored by millions of tourists coming from all corners of the world. In order to have a full-feel of this mysterious city, you should give yourself at least 2 days to fully explore the area; however, you can squeeze in the main attractions on a day-trip.

Petra will have you feel like you are in an Indiana Jones movie, as you literally breathe in the history, which will inspire you to discover every single hidden corner of the city. Explore the Theater that is carved into the mountain at the High Place of Sacrifice or make your way over to The Dam and see how the original Nabateens protected their capital from floods.

Adventure up to the Monastery on a hike, or experience a camel or donkey ride to the top if you want to arrive in style. It is recommended to do this first, and then backtrail to the treasury where you can follow a trail that takes you to what the local Beduins describe as the best view in the world, overlooking the Treasury.

The ancient site is open from 8:00 AM-6:00PM during the summer months, and from 8:00AM-4:00PM during the winter. Petra is easily accessible by taxi, car, or public transportation, while all day trips provide transportation to and from the city.

It is best to visit this ancient city during the spring and autumn months since the temperature isn't too hot and the city is less crowded.