If you’re dreaming of wandering through the ancient rose-red city of Petra and experiencing the surreal landscapes of Wadi Rum, this two-day tour from Eilat might just be what you need. It’s designed for those who want to combine convenience with authentic adventure, without the hassle of organizing transport and entry fees themselves.
What makes this tour stand out? First, the all-inclusive nature — from private transfers to overnight camping, meals, and guided sightseeing, it offers a seamless way to see some of Jordan’s most iconic sites. Second, the expert guides and smooth border crossing simplify what can otherwise be a complicated international visit. Lastly, the cultural exchange and Bedouin hospitality provide a genuine feel of local life amidst stunning scenery.
However, a possible consideration is the tight schedule, which leaves little room for spontaneous exploration beyond the planned itinerary. If you’re someone who prefers to explore at your own pace or wants more time at each site, this might feel a bit rushed.
This tour is perfect for travelers who want a well-organized, in-depth experience without the stress of planning every detail. It suits first-timers eager to see Petra and Wadi Rum with expert guidance and a group setting, balancing cost with convenience.
Key Points
- All-inclusive experience covers transportation, entrance fees, meals, and accommodation.
- Expert guides enhance understanding of Petra’s history and Wadi Rum’s landscape.
- Overnight camping in Bedouin-style tents offers an authentic desert experience.
- Flexible options like camel rides or hot air balloon tours are available for extra fun.
- Seamless border crossing service makes transferring between Israel and Jordan smooth.
- Authentic Bedouin hospitality and local touches make the experience memorable.
The Itinerary: What to Expect
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Petra: The Rose-Red Wonder
Our journey begins at Petra Visitors Center, the gateway to this UNESCO-listed marvel. Known for its vivid pinkish hue, Petra’s stunning facades, tombs, and ruins are fascinating with layers of history dating back over 10,000 years. The guide will walk you through the key highlights, including the famous Treasury (Al Khazneh) and the Theatre, giving context to this intricate city carved from rock.
Expect about 3 hours in Petra, which allows enough time to absorb the grandeur, take photos, and even enjoy a horse or carriage ride (optional, not included in the price). Reviewers mention that guides are very knowledgeable, often sharing lesser-known stories and practical tips, making the visit more enriching.
Wadi Rum: The Valley of the Moon
After Petra, you’ll head to Wadi Rum, about 60 km east of Aqaba. Known for its towering sandstone and granite formations, this area feels like stepping onto another planet. The Jeep tour lasts around 4-5 hours, where you’ll traverse the dramatic landscape with an English-speaking guide who doubles as your driver.
The highlight? The Bedouin hospitality—hot tea served amidst the rocks, and the chance to climb or walk around the surreal formations. Reviewers mention the stunning views and the knowledgeable guides, who make the landscape not just a photo op but a storybook of geology and Bedouin culture.
Overnight Camp in Wadi Rum
Camping in a traditional Bedouin-style tent is part of the adventure. The camp offers a chance to enjoy a BBQ dinner under the stars, followed by breakfast the next morning. Many reviewers praised the authentic atmosphere and the friendly, welcoming Bedouin hosts.
Optional activities like a hot air balloon ride are available for an extra fee, offering a spectacular way to see Wadi Rum from above — perfect for those wanting a panoramic perspective.
Practical Details: What Does the Tour Cover?
Transportation and Border Crossing
All transfers are made in brand-new vehicles, with a professional English-speaking driver to ensure comfort and ease. The assisted border crossing is a key feature — it minimizes the typical hassle, letting you focus on the adventure rather than paperwork.
Meals and Accommodation
Your package includes lunch at Petra, dinners in Wadi Rum, and breakfast each morning. The camp stays overnight in Bedouin tents, offering authentic hospitality in a desert setting. These are often praised for their warmth and cultural authenticity, with reviews emphasizing the Bedouin tea and friendly staff.
Additional Options
You can opt for a hot air balloon tour or a camel ride, both available on-site and bookable without prior notice. Prices are reasonable, and many reviewers appreciate the flexibility to enhance their experience.
Cost and Value
Priced at $587 per person, this tour provides significant value given the inclusions: private transport, professional guides, entrance fees, meals, and overnight accommodation. When divided across the activities and the convenience offered, it becomes a cost-effective way to tick off these iconic sites.
Travelers have noted that the guided tours enrich the experience, offering insights you might miss exploring alone. The seamless organization and small group feel (only your group participates) boost the overall value.
Authentic Experiences and Insights
From the reviews, it’s clear that the knowledgeable guides make a big difference. One reviewer mentioned that guides are very responsive and skilled at sharing stories that add depth to the visit. Visitors also appreciate that the scenic spots — especially Petra’s intricate facades and Wadi Rum’s vast, lunar landscape — are highly photogenic and evoke a sense of wonder.
The overnight camping adds a layer of authenticity, giving travelers a chance to truly connect with Bedouin culture and enjoy the desert’s tranquility. Many mention the warm hospitality, with Bedouin tea and friendly smiles helping to craft memorable moments.
The timing of the tour ensures you’ll experience a desert sunset, which many reviewers describe as breathtaking. The full day in Petra allows for a more leisurely exploration, contrasting with typical day-trips that often leave little time for interpretation or photos.
Who Would Love This Tour?
This tour is ideal for those craving a structured, guided experience with minimal planning. It’s perfect for first-time visitors who prefer to rely on experts to navigate borders and logistics while enjoying rich storytelling.
If you’re interested in special activities like hot air balloon rides or camel rides, the tour provides flexibility to add these on-site. It’s also suitable for travelers who want a romantic overnight under the stars or a family adventure in a safe, friendly environment.
However, if you’re seeking a more independent or flexible itinerary, you might find the schedule a bit tight. Likewise, those wanting to avoid group settings might prefer private or self-guided options.
FAQs
Is this tour suitable for everyone?
Most travelers can participate, and the tour is designed to accommodate different levels of mobility. However, those with mobility issues should check the specifics about activities like horse rides.
How long do I spend at each site?
You’ll have about 3 hours at Petra and 4-5 hours in Wadi Rum, enough to see the highlights and enjoy guided commentary.
Are meals included?
Yes, the tour includes lunch at Petra, dinner in Wadi Rum, and breakfast in the morning, providing good value and a taste of local cuisine.
Can I book additional activities like hot air balloon rides?
Yes, options such as balloon rides or camel rides are available and can be booked on-site or in advance for an extra fee.
What is the border crossing experience like?
With the meet and assist service, crossing between Israel and Jordan is straightforward and stress-free, allowing more focus on the scenery and exploration.
Is overnight camping comfortable?
The camp offers an authentic Bedouin experience with basic but comfortable tents, and many guests find it a delightful part of the adventure.
What’s the best time to do this tour?
While not specified, many scenic desert and archaeological sites are best enjoyed in mild weather, typically spring or fall.
Final Thoughts
This two-day Petra and Wadi Rum tour from Eilat offers a compelling mix of history, landscape, and culture. The carefully curated itinerary, combined with knowledgeable guides and seamless logistics, makes it a practical way to explore Jordan’s highlights without the stress of self-organizing.
The inclusion of overnight camping and authentic Bedouin hospitality adds a special touch, creating memorable experiences beyond just sightseeing. It’s especially suited for travelers who want a well-organized, immersive adventure with plenty of expert insights.
While it’s not the best choice for those seeking total flexibility or solo exploration, it excels for groups or first-timers eager to see these iconic sites with ease and comfort. Overall, it provides great value for anyone wanting to experience the magic of Petra and Wadi Rum in just a couple of days.