For visitors who have delved into the wonders of Petra, marveling at its iconic Treasury and exploring the ancient city’s vast network of tombs and temples, the adventure doesn’t end with the things to do in Petra. Day trips from Petra can expand your journey into Jordan’s rich tapestry of natural and historical sites, offering experiences that complement the majestic beauty of the Rose City.
Venturing beyond Petra, the array of things to do in Jordan unfolds, from the serene wilderness of Wadi Rum, where you can sleep under the stars, to the rejuvenating waters of the Dead Sea. These excursions allow travelers to immerse themselves in the diverse landscapes and centuries-old cultures that make Jordan a unique destination.
Selecting where to stay in Petra is crucial for maximizing your exploration of this ancient wonder and the surrounding areas. The right lodging not only provides comfort after a day of adventure but also positions you perfectly for easy access to both Petra’s archaeological sites and the natural wonders that lie beyond, ensuring a memorable and comprehensive Jordanian experience.
Discover Best Day Trips from Petra, Jordan
1. Wadi Rum, Jordan
Wadi Rum, also known as the Valley of the Moon, is famous for its stunning desert landscapes, massive sandstone mountains, and unique rock formations. It’s a paradise for adventure seekers and nature lovers alike.
Distance: Approximately 112 km
Travel Time: About 2 hours by car
Transportation: Car (GetRentacar.com)
Main Attractions: Desert landscapes, sandstone mountains, unique rock formations
Best Time to Visit: Year-round
Entrance Fees:
- Wadi Rum Entrance: $7
- 4×4 Jeep Tour: $35
Budget: Approximately $50-$100 (including transportation, entrance fees, and food)
Scenic Spots: Lawrence’s Spring, Khazali Canyon, Burdah Rock Bridge
Travel Tip: Consider a 4×4 jeep tour to fully explore the desert’s beauty, and don’t miss the opportunity to witness a spectacular sunset over the Martian-like terrain.
2. Aqaba, Jordan
Aqaba, Jordan’s only coastal city, offers a contrast to Petra with its beautiful Red Sea beaches, coral reefs, and a relaxed atmosphere. It’s a great spot for water activities like snorkeling and diving.
Distance: Approximately 126 km
Travel Time: Approximately 2 hours by car
Transportation: Car (GetRentacar.com)
Main Attractions: Red Sea beaches, coral reefs, water activities
Best Time to Visit: Year-round
Entrance Fees:
- Snorkeling/Diving: $30-$70
Budget: Approximately $50-$100 (including transportation, entrance fees, and food)
Scenic Spots: South Beach, Aqaba Marine Park, Aqaba Fort
Travel Tip: Try snorkeling or diving to explore the vibrant coral reefs of the Red Sea, and enjoy fresh seafood at a local restaurant.
3. Little Petra (Al-Beidha), Jordan
Little Petra, also known as Siq al-Barid, is an archaeological site similar to Petra but smaller in scale. It features rock-carved buildings and was likely used as a suburb of Petra.
Distance: Approximately 10 km
Travel Time: Only a 15-minute drive from Petra
Transportation: Car (GetRentacar.com)
Main Attractions: Rock-carved buildings, archaeological site
Best Time to Visit: Year-round
Entrance Fees: Free
Budget: Approximately $10-$20 (including transportation and food)
Scenic Spots: Siq al-Barid, Nabatean ruins, Neolithic village
Travel Tip: Visit late in the afternoon to avoid the crowds and to see the rocks glow in the warm light of the setting sun.
4. Shobak Castle, Jordan
Shobak Castle, a 12th-century Crusader castle, stands as a reminder of the former Crusader presence in the Middle East. Its hilltop location offers breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside.
Distance: Approximately 32 km
Travel Time: About 45 minutes by car
Transportation: Car (GetRentacar.com)
Main Attractions: 12th-century Crusader castle, hilltop views
Best Time to Visit: Year-round
Entrance Fees:
- Castle Entrance: $1
Budget: Approximately $10-$20 (including transportation and food)
Scenic Spots: Castle ruins, underground tunnels, hilltop views
Travel Tip: Explore the castle’s underground tunnels but be sure to bring a flashlight as some areas are poorly lit.
5. Dana Biosphere Reserve, Jordan
Dana Biosphere Reserve, the largest nature reserve in Jordan, showcases diverse landscapes ranging from sandstone cliffs to wooded highlands. It’s a haven for hikers and wildlife enthusiasts.
Distance: Approximately 50 km
Travel Time: It’s approximately a 1-hour drive from Petra
Transportation: Car (GetRentacar.com)
Main Attractions: Diverse landscapes, hiking trails, wildlife
Best Time to Visit: Year-round
Entrance Fees:
- Reserve Entrance: $10
Budget: Approximately $20-$40 (including transportation, entrance fees, and food)
Scenic Spots: Wadi Dana Trail, Rummana Camp, Dana Village
Travel Tip: Bring good hiking shoes and explore some of the trails for a chance to spot various bird species and other wildlife.
6. Dead Sea, Israel
The Dead Sea, the lowest point on earth, is famous for its super-salty water, which makes swimming more like floating. The mud from the Dead Sea is also known for its therapeutic properties.
Distance: Approximately 200 km
Travel Time: Traveling from Petra to the Dead Sea takes about 3 hours by car
Transportation: Car (GetRentacar.com)
Main Attractions: Super-salty water, therapeutic mud
Best Time to Visit: Year-round
Entrance Fees:
- Beach Access: $25
Budget: Approximately $50-$100 (including transportation, entrance fees, and food)
Scenic Spots: Floating in the Dead Sea, mineral mud baths, sunset views
Travel Tip: Don’t forget to try out the unique experience of floating in the Dead Sea and cover yourself with the mineral-rich mud for a natural spa treatment.
7. Kerak Castle, Jordan
Kerak Castle is another significant Crusader castle in Jordan, known for its impressive architecture and historical significance. The castle offers an insightful glimpse into the history of the Crusades in the Middle East.
Distance: Approximately 130 km
Travel Time: The journey from Petra to Kerak Castle takes about 1.5 hours
Transportation: Car (GetRentacar.com)
Main Attractions: Crusader castle, historical architecture
Best Time to Visit: Year-round
Entrance Fees:
- Castle Entrance: $2
Budget: Approximately $20-$40 (including transportation, entrance fees, and food)
Scenic Spots: Castle ramparts, museum, panoramic views
Travel Tip: Visit the castle museum to learn more about its history, and enjoy the panoramic views from the castle ramparts.
8. Madaba, Jordan
Madaba, known as the “City of Mosaics”, is famous for its 6th-century mosaic map of Jerusalem and the Holy Land. The city offers a rich array of Byzantine and Umayyad mosaics.
Distance: Approximately 190 km
Travel Time: It takes about 2 hours to drive from Petra to Madaba
Transportation: Car (GetRentacar.com)
Main Attractions: Byzantine and Umayyad mosaics, historical sites
Best Time to Visit: Year-round
Entrance Fees:
- Madaba Archaeological Park: $3
- Church of Saint George: $1
Budget: Approximately $30-$50 (including transportation, entrance fees, and food)
Scenic Spots: Madaba Map, Mount Nebo, St. John the Baptist Church
Travel Tip: Don’t miss the Madaba Archaeological Park and the Church of Saint George, where the famous Madaba Map is located.
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FAQ About Best Day Trips from Petra, Jordan
What are some recommended day trips from Petra?
Key day trips from Petra include visiting Wadi Rum for its stunning desert landscapes, the ancient city of Jerash for its well-preserved Roman ruins, and the Dead Sea for a unique floating experience.
Is a visit to Wadi Rum worth it from Petra?
Absolutely! Wadi Rum, known as the Valley of the Moon, offers breathtaking desert scenery, opportunities for jeep tours, camel rides, and even overnight stays in Bedouin camps.
Can I take a day trip to the Dead Sea from Petra?
Yes, the Dead Sea is accessible for a day trip from Petra. It’s the lowest point on earth and known for its hyper-saline water, which allows you to float effortlessly. The mineral-rich mud is also reputed for its health benefits.
How far is Jerash from Petra, and is it worth visiting?
Jerash, one of the largest and most well-preserved sites of Roman architecture outside Italy, is definitely worth a visit. It’s about a 3.5-hour drive from Petra, offering a fascinating glimpse into ancient civilizations.
Are there guided tours available from Petra to these destinations?
Yes, there are several guided tours available from Petra to Wadi Rum, the Dead Sea, and Jerash, among others. These tours often include transportation, entry fees, and a guide to enhance your understanding of the sites.
What cultural experiences can I have on a day trip from Petra?
Cultural experiences can include visiting Bedouin camps in Wadi Rum to learn about their nomadic lifestyle, exploring the ancient ruins of Jerash, and experiencing the therapeutic properties of the Dead Sea’s mud and waters.
Is there an opportunity to visit Aqaba from Petra for a day trip?
Yes, Aqaba, Jordan’s only coastal city, is within reach for a day trip from Petra. It offers beautiful Red Sea beaches, snorkeling and diving among vibrant coral reefs, and a chance to enjoy fresh seafood.
Can I explore the Dana Biosphere Reserve on a day trip from Petra?
While it’s possible to visit the Dana Biosphere Reserve from Petra, it’s a bit further away, making for a longer day trip. This reserve is a haven for nature lovers, offering hiking trails, diverse flora and fauna, and stunning landscapes.
Sources:
https://www.getyourguide.com/petra-l1624?activity_type=dayTrip
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