2 Day Petra Tour from Jerusalem

Planning a trip to Petra from Jerusalem? This 2-day tour package promises an organized, guided journey into one of the world’s most iconic archaeological sites, complete with transport, border crossing assistance, and cozy overnight stays. While it’s not flawless, it offers a practical way to explore Jordan’s crown jewel without the hassle of planning every detail yourself.

What we really appreciate about this tour is the convenience of having everything sorted — from transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle to a knowledgeable guide who can bring Petra’s history alive. The included hotel stay with breakfast is a nice touch for travelers wanting to keep things simple, and the opportunity to see Petra by night adds a special sparkle after the daytime crowds. However, some reviews hint that the border crossing and transport logistics can be unpredictable, so flexibility is key.

This tour is best suited for travelers who want a balanced mix of guided exploration and free time, and those comfortable with long travel days and border procedures. If your goal is to experience Petra without the stress of organizing transport or accommodation, this package could be a good fit — just keep in mind the mixed reviews about transport and border delays.

Key Points

• Convenience: Organized pickup, border crossing help, and guided tours make logistics easier.
• Value for money: For $379, you get guided tours, hotel accommodation, and border assistance, which can be more cost-effective than DIY travel.
• Expert guides: Several reviewers highlight guides like Kareem and Nizar for their knowledge and friendliness.
• Border crossing: Assistance at the northern border helps streamline the process, but delays can happen.
• Accommodation: A comfortable 3-star hotel with free breakfast is included, offering a restful overnight after a day of exploration.
• Time management: Early start and early return are necessary due to border and site opening hours, which might mean some travelers miss sunrise or sunset views.

A Practical Look at the Itinerary

Day 1: Jerusalem to Petra

Your adventure begins early, with a pickup around 3:00 am at the King David Hotel in Jerusalem. Yes, that’s a very early start, but it’s necessary because of the long drive ahead — approximately four hours across the Israeli desert, with a bathroom and refreshment stop along the way. This timing ensures you cross the Israeli border, which can be a bit hectic, so assistance from the tour staff is a relief here. Many reviewers note that crossing the border is well-organized, but delays are possible, especially during busy periods.

Once in Jordan, you’ll enjoy a scenic transfer through the Jordanian desert, with a brief view of Aarons Tomb, before arriving at Petra around 11:30 am. The day’s highlight is the guided tour of Petra’s famous Rose City, where your guide will walk you through key sites like the Treasury (Al-Khazneh), the Roman Theater, and the Royal Tombs. Expect plenty of opportunities for photos and to learn about the history behind this UNESCO World Heritage site.

For those who like a bit of ambiance, joining “Petra by Night” is a memorable option (available on selected days), where the path to the Treasury is lit by thousands of candles — a magical experience after a busy day of sightseeing.

Day 2: Leisure and Return

You’ll wake up in your hotel with a good breakfast, ready for another round of exploring Petra at your own pace. The tour allows for a free morning, so you can revisit parts of the site, climb to the Monastery, or just soak in the atmosphere. Many reviews mention that two days are the minimum needed to see Petra properly — a sentiment echoed by travelers who advise against trying to squeeze everything into a single day.

At 11:00 am, you’ll leave Petra and begin your return journey to Eilat, then cross back into Israel. The return trip is approximately three hours, after which you’ll be back in Jerusalem by late evening.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

Guided Exploration with Local Experts

Many reviews mention guides like Kareem and Nizar as knowledgeable and engaging. They help make sense of the labyrinthine site and explain Petra’s history, which is invaluable for those unfamiliar with Middle Eastern archaeology. The guided tour ensures you hit the highlights without missing key spots, especially helpful if you’re short on time or don’t want to get lost in the site’s sprawling layout.

Border Crossing Assistance

Crossing between Israel and Jordan can be a logistical headache, but this tour offers help from staff skilled in navigating the process. Reviews say the border crossing is “very well organized,” although delays still occur, sometimes stretching several hours, so patience is essential.

Comfortable Accommodation and Food

The included three-star hotel provides a good base for resting after a long day. Travelers report comfortable beds, clean rooms, and the peace of mind of breakfast included. The morning meal is typically described as “delicious,” giving you energy for your exploration ahead.

Petra by Night

This optional experience is a highlight for many travelers who want a more atmospheric view of the site. The candlelit walk towards the Treasury is a rare, enchanting moment that’s worth trying if available during your visit.

Practical Details and Considerations

Transportation and Group Size

The vehicle used for transfers is air-conditioned, making the long drives more bearable. The tour group is capped at 25 travelers, which helps maintain a feeling of intimacy and easier logistics, though some reviews mention larger groups or delays, especially during peak times.

Timing and Flexibility

The schedule is quite tight, with an early start and late return. For travelers who like to sleep in or explore leisurely, this might feel rushed. The early departure (around 3 am) means you’ll miss a cozy morning at home, but it also maximizes your time in Jordan.

Cost and Value

At $379 per person, this package packs in a lot: guided tours, border crossing assistance, overnight accommodation, and entrance fees. Compared to DIY options, it’s often more cost-effective and less stressful, especially for those unfamiliar with Middle Eastern travel logistics.

Potential Drawbacks

• Some reviews mention border delays and long wait times, which could cut into your sightseeing time.
• The pick-up experience varies, with some travelers describing confusion or miscommunication, so punctuality and patience are key.
• The ride back can be bumpy or rough, especially if traffic or road conditions are less than ideal.
• Not everyone appreciates the early start or the busy schedule, which might diminish the relaxed vibe some travelers seek.

Who would enjoy this tour?

This tour is best for adventurous travelers eager to see Petra without the hassle of organizing transport and border crossings. It’s suitable for those comfortable with early mornings and long travel days, and who value guided commentary along the way. If you’re after a hassle-free, well-organized experience that covers the essentials in a short timeframe, this option offers solid value.

However, if you’re looking for a more flexible, leisurely trip with extra time to explore at your own pace, you might prefer a different approach or a longer stay in Petra.

Final Thoughts

This 2-day Petra tour from Jerusalem offers a practical, guided way to visit one of the world’s most stunning sites, especially for those pressed for time or unfamiliar with the logistics of border crossings. The included hotel, guided tour, and border assistance make it a convenient choice, but be prepared for early mornings, potential delays, and busy sites. The knowledgeable guides and optional Petra by Night add special touches that elevate the experience beyond just ticking a box.

If you’re looking for an organized, value-packed trip that balances guided insights with free exploration, this tour is worth considering. Just stay flexible, patient, and ready for a bit of adventure.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for all travelers?
Most travelers can participate, but be prepared for early mornings and long travel days. Those with mobility issues might find some parts of Petra challenging.

What times does the tour start and end?
Pickup begins around 3:00 am in Jerusalem, with the day ending back at the Israeli border late in the evening, after returning from Petra.

Does the tour include border crossing help?
Yes, staff assist with crossing the Israeli-Jordanian border, which helps streamline the process. However, delays can still occur, so patience is advised.

Are meals included?
Breakfast is included with the hotel stay. Other meals are not specified but can be purchased in Petra or along the way.

Can I join Petra by Night?
Yes, if available during your visit, you can join the candlelit walk to the Treasury. Tickets are bought on the spot.

How much free time do I get at Petra?
The tour offers a guided morning and optional Petra by Night, with an afternoon free for independent exploration, giving you some flexibility.

What’s the overall value for money?
For $379, you get transport, guided tours, hotel accommodation, and border assistance, making it a convenient and cost-effective way to visit Petra from Jerusalem.

This detailed review aims to give you an honest, balanced picture of what to expect from this 2-day Petra tour, highlighted by the experiences of others and practical insights. Whether you’re in it for the history, the scenery, or just ticking off a bucket list destination, this trip offers a reliable route to the wonders of Petra.