2-Day Petra, Little Petra and Dana Nature Reserve Tour From Amman

Exploring Jordan’s Hidden Gems: A 2-Day Petra, Little Petra, and Dana Tour Review

Traveling to Jordan offers a fantastic blend of ancient marvels and untouched nature, and a 2-day guided tour from Amman delivers just that. While we haven’t personally experienced this specific trip, detailed reviews and tour descriptions reveal an adventure packed with authentic sights, comfortable logistics, and a flexible itinerary — perfect for history buffs and nature lovers alike.

What we love about this tour is its ability to combine key archaeological sites with stunning natural reserves in a compact timeframe; the inclusion of off-the-beaten-path stops like Little Petra and Dana, rather than just Petra’s main attractions, adds depth and variety. Plus, the convenience of pre-arranged transport and accommodation makes it accessible, especially for travelers unfamiliar with local logistics. That said, a potential consideration is the moderate level of walking involved—so comfortable shoes are a must. This tour suits those who want a balanced mix of history, nature, and cultural exploration without the hassle of planning every detail themselves.

Key Points

• Authentic Experience: Combines major sites with lesser-known gems for a well-rounded visit.
• Comfort and Convenience: Includes hotel pickup, private transport, and overnight stays.
• Flexibility: Allows ample time at Petra to explore at your own pace.
• Natural Beauty: Visits Dana Nature Reserve, offering lush views and peaceful surroundings.
• Educational Value: Stops like Mount Nebo and Shobak Castle add layers of history.
• Value for Money: For $284 per person, you get a comprehensive experience with accommodations included.

An In-Depth Look at the Itinerary

Day 1: From Amman to Dana, Little Petra, and Shobak Castle

Start with Mount Nebo
Most travelers start their Jordan journey here, and for good reason. Mount Nebo offers sweeping views of the Jordan Valley, and it’s also a site of religious significance. Although the admission ticket isn’t included, the panoramic vistas and views of the Dead Sea are worth the short stop. We read that visitors can appreciate the mosaics and the remarkable history connected to Moses’ death place, making it a meaningful beginning.

Dana Nature Reserve
Next, a quick stop at Dana Nature Reserve introduces travelers to Jordan’s largest protected natural area. It’s a highlight for those who enjoy scenic landscapes and want a taste of Jordanian wilderness. While only a brief visit, it adds a peaceful contrast to the more structured archaeological sites.

Shobak Castle
The next stop at Shobak Castle is about an hour long, offering a chance to explore Crusader ruins perched on a hilltop. The castle’s strategic importance and existing structures provide a tangible link to medieval history, and wandering through its corridors feels like stepping back in time. No admission fee is required, but the stories from guides or literature make it even more interesting.

Little Petra
Arriving at Little Petra, or Siq al-Barid, offers a quieter, more intimate experience compared to its larger sibling. The site features original blue fresco ceilings and narrow canyon passages, giving a glimpse of daily life in ancient times. One reviewer pointed out that the “original ceiling blue fresco” is an unexpected delight, offering authentic details often missed at larger sites. An hour here is enough to appreciate its charm without feeling rushed.

Day 2: The Grand Reveal — Petra

A full day at Petra
The crown jewel of this tour, Petra, gets a generous 8 hours for exploration. The entrance, through the famous Siq, leads to the iconic Treasury — the postcard image of Jordan. But this tour provides enough time for you to explore beyond the main attractions, including the Monastery and the High Place of Sacrifice.

Insight from reviews:
One traveler mentioned, “Magical adventure in Jordan,” highlighting that the site’s “wonderful and amazing timeless sites” truly come alive when given time to wander freely. The opportunity to walk through less crowded corners or revisit favorite spots without feeling rushed is a major plus.

Tour logistics:
Since transport and entry tickets are included, the focus is on experiencing rather than stressing over logistics. However, guides at the site are not included, so self-guided exploration is the plan.

Practical Details and Benefits

Transportation and Accommodation

The tour provides private transport from Amman with an English-speaking driver, making the journey comfortable and straightforward. The overnight stay in Wadi Musa (the town near Petra) is typically in a casual hotel—some reviews mention a “single room for up to 3 beds including breakfast,” which suggests options for solo travelers or small groups. This hotel choice balances comfort with affordability, allowing you to rest well before a full day of walking.

The Walking Experience

Travelers should be prepared for moderate walking, especially in Petra, where some paths can be uneven or steep. Sneakers or hiking boots are recommended, particularly if you plan to hike up to the Monastery or other high points. Reviewers mention that the tour involves enough walking to make comfortable shoes worthwhile.

Cost and Value

At $284 per person, this tour delivers a solid value. It includes all transport, accommodations, breakfast, and key stops, making it a hassle-free option. Notably, entry tickets to sites are not included, but this is typical for tours of this nature, allowing you flexibility with optional visits or additional costs.

What’s Not Included

Guides at local sites are not part of this package, so if you want a full narrative at each stop, consider hiring a guide separately. Meals outside breakfast and extras like souvenirs or additional entrance fees are also on your tab.

Authentic Experiences and Reviews

One reviewer described the trip as a “magical adventure,” emphasizing the stunning views and mosaics at Mount Nebo, as well as the original frescoes in Little Petra. Others appreciated the knowledgeable guides and scenic routes that made the journey engaging and smooth. The mention of personalized, private transport adds to the feeling of a tailored experience, with the flexibility to explore at your own pace.

The quiet, less crowded atmosphere of Little Petra was a favorite for those wanting something authentic and intimate. The sense of stepping back in time, combined with the natural beauty of Dana Reserve, makes this tour suitable for travelers seeking a mix of history and nature without feeling overwhelmed.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This tour is ideal for travelers who want a comprehensive, hassle-free overview of Jordan’s highlights without the challenge of independent planning. It’s perfect for those with a moderate physical fitness level, as it involves walking and some hiking. History enthusiasts will enjoy the blend of ancient ruins and biblical sites, while nature lovers will appreciate the scenic Dana Reserve.

It also suits travelers interested in off-the-beaten-path sites like Little Petra, providing a taste of authentic Jordanian culture and architecture, often missed in larger, more crowded tours. If you’re looking for a relaxed yet immersive experience with all logistics taken care of, this 2-day trip offers solid value and memorable sights.

FAQ

Is transportation provided for the entire tour?
Yes, an English-speaking driver will pick you up from your Amman hotel and transport you comfortably to all stops, including Dana, Shobak Castle, Little Petra, and Petra, with drop-off at the end of the trip.

Are entrance tickets to Petra, Little Petra, or other sites included?
No, the tour does not include admission tickets, so you’ll need to purchase those separately at each site or prepare for optional visits.

How much walking should I expect?
A moderate amount of walking is involved, especially in Petra, where paths can be uneven and some steep. Sneakers or hiking shoes are recommended.

Can I explore Petra at my own pace?
Yes, the itinerary provides an 8-hour window at Petra, giving you ample time to stroll, revisit favorite spots, or hike up to the Monastery, with no guided tour rushing you.

What kind of hotel is included?
The overnight accommodation in Wadi Musa is typically a simple, comfortable hotel with breakfast included, suitable for resting after a day of exploration.

Is this tour suitable for children or older travelers?
It’s best suited for those with moderate physical fitness. The walking involved might be challenging for very young children or those with mobility issues.

Final Thoughts

This 2-day Petra, Little Petra, and Dana Nature Reserve tour from Amman offers a thoughtfully curated experience that balances history, natural beauty, and practical comfort. The inclusion of off-the-beaten-path stops like Little Petra and Dana makes it stand out, providing a richer understanding of Jordan beyond just Petra’s iconic facade. The private transport and overnight stay add convenience, allowing travelers to focus on the experience rather than logistics.

It’s a fantastic choice for those who want a comprehensive yet relaxed introduction to Jordan’s most treasured sights. The mix of guided stops and free exploration time makes it adaptable for different travel styles, while the value for money is clear given the included transport, overnight stay, and breakfast. If you’re after an authentic, well-organized adventure that avoids major crowds, this tour could be your ideal Jordanian escape.