Why Petra Belongs on Every Traveller's List
Carved directly into sheer rose-red sandstone cliffs over two thousand years ago, Petra stands as one of humanity's most extraordinary achievements. This ancient city — once the thriving capital of the Nabataean Kingdom — is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the New Seven Wonders of the World. No photograph, however beautiful, truly prepares you for the moment the Treasury reveals itself at the end of the Siq.
Getting to Petra
Petra is located in southern Jordan, approximately 240 kilometres south of Amman. Your main options for reaching the site are:
- By car or rental vehicle — The most flexible option. The drive from Amman takes around 3–3.5 hours via the Desert Highway or the scenic Kings Highway.
- By bus — JETT buses run daily services from Amman's Abdali station to Wadi Musa, the town adjacent to Petra. Journey time is around 3 hours.
- Organised tour — Many Amman-based agencies offer day trips to Petra, though a single day barely scratches the surface.
The nearest town is Wadi Musa, where you will find hotels, restaurants, and the entrance to the Petra Archaeological Park.
What to See: The Key Sites
The Siq
Your journey begins through the Siq — a narrow, winding gorge stretching 1.2 kilometres through towering sandstone walls that rise up to 80 metres on either side. Walking through it builds extraordinary anticipation, culminating in the first glimpse of Al-Khazneh.
Al-Khazneh (The Treasury)
The iconic façade of the Treasury is Petra's most recognisable image. Standing 40 metres high and 28 metres wide, it was carved in the 1st century BC, likely as a royal tomb. Despite its name (given by local Bedouin who believed it housed a pharaoh's treasure), it served a funerary purpose.
The Street of Facades and Royal Tombs
Continuing beyond the Treasury, you encounter rows of carved tomb façades and the dramatic Royal Tombs — the Urn Tomb, the Silk Tomb, the Corinthian Tomb, and the Palace Tomb — each hewn directly into the cliff face.
The Monastery (Ad Deir)
Even larger than the Treasury, the Monastery requires a climb of approximately 800 rock-cut steps — but the reward is staggering. Arrive in the late afternoon for warm golden light and fewer crowds.
Practical Visitor Information
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Opening Hours | Daily, sunrise to sunset (approximately 6am–6pm) |
| Entrance Fee | Covered by the Jordan Pass (recommended) or purchased separately |
| Best Months to Visit | March–May and September–November |
| Recommended Stay | Minimum 2 days to explore comfortably |
| Footwear | Sturdy, comfortable walking shoes are essential |
Tips for a Better Visit
- Start early. Arrive at opening time to experience the Siq and Treasury before tour groups arrive.
- Buy the Jordan Pass. It includes the Petra entrance fee and Jordan visa — excellent value for international visitors.
- Stay at least two days. Petra covers 264 square kilometres. One day leaves most of it unseen.
- Attend Petra by Night. On Monday, Wednesday, and Thursday evenings, the Siq and Treasury are lit by thousands of candles — a magical, unforgettable experience.
- Bring water and snacks. The site is large, the heat can be intense, and you will walk more than expected.
Where to Stay in Wadi Musa
Wadi Musa offers accommodation ranging from budget guesthouses to luxury hotels with views over the hills. Staying in town — rather than making it a day trip — allows you to begin at opening time and return in the evening. Many visitors find the quiet of the site in the early morning hours to be the most profound part of the entire experience.