2-Day Tour: Petra, Wadi Rum, and 3Hour Stop at Aqaba or Dead Sea

Exploring Jordan in just two days sounds ambitious, but this tour manages to pack in some of the country’s most iconic sights with a focus on comfort and authentic experiences. While we haven’t personally taken the tour, detailed reviews and the itinerary reveal an adventure tailored for curious travelers eager to see Petra’s grandeur, soak in Wadi Rum’s desert magic, and enjoy a relaxing stop at Aqaba or the Dead Sea.

What we love about this tour? First, the small group size (up to 7 people) makes for a more intimate and personalized experience. Second, the professional English-speaking driver ensures you get insightful commentary and smooth transfers. Finally, the flexibility to choose between Aqaba or the Dead Sea during the final stop adds a layer of customization. A potential downside? The tour involves a lot of driving in just two days, which might be tiring for some, but the scenic routes and guided insights help make the journey enjoyable.

This tour is an excellent choice for history lovers, adventure seekers, and those craving a taste of Jordan’s coastal and desert charms. It’s most suited for travelers with moderate physical fitness, given the walking involved at Petra and Wadi Rum, and those who appreciate guided transport over self-driving.

Key Points

• Intimate group setting with a maximum of 7 travelers for a more personalized experience
• Comfortable transport with air conditioning and Wi-Fi included
• Flexible final stop at Aqaba or the Dead Sea, based on your preference
• Expert driver with positive reviews for suggestions and courteous service
• Focus on authentic experiences like a Bedouin overnight stay (self-booked)
• Value for money considering site visits, transport, and guided insights

An In-Depth Look at the 2-Day Jordan Tour

The Experience Starts Early: Leaving Amman at 7:00 am

The tour kicks off bright and early, with pickup from Amman, which helps you maximize your sightseeing time. The journey begins with a drive south to Petra, a historic site that’s often considered the crown jewel of Jordan’s archaeological treasures. Traveling in an air-conditioned vehicle with Wi-Fi makes the long drive comfortable, and the driver’s local insights, carefully praised in reviews, add a layer of valuable context to the landmarks.

Visiting Petra: Jordan’s Most Famous Treasure

Arriving at Petra, your senses are immediately captivated by the sight of the rose-red city carved into cliffs. The full day at Petra allows travelers to explore the vast site, including the iconic Siq—a narrow canyon that serves as the entrance—and the Treasury, famously recognizable from films. While the full guided tour isn’t included, many travelers enjoy taking a horseback ride (own expense) to enhance the experience and save energy for the hike.

Reviewers highlight the importance of having a knowledgeable driver who can suggest the best routes and hidden spots. One traveler, Faith_F, notes, “Salim was a great driver with wonderful suggestions that made our trip much better,” emphasizing how a good driver can make or break your experience.

Transition to Wadi Rum: The Valley of the Moon

After exploring Petra, the journey continues to Wadi Rum, known as the “Lawrence of Arabia land.” The landscape here is unlike anything else—massive, colorful rock formations rising amid sweeping sands, perfect for photos. The 1.5-hour drive offers a chance to relax and prepare for the desert adventure ahead.

While the tour doesn’t include the site entrance fee, the scenery alone makes the visit worthwhile. Travelers often talk about the vivid colors and towering cliffs as a highlight, and some reviews mention the 10-hour day feeling long but rewarding.

Day 2: The Dead Sea or Aqaba

The final day offers a choice: spend a quick 3 minutes at the Dead Sea to snap photos and experience its unique floating sensation, or head to Aqaba for a couple of hours of beachside relaxation and perhaps some snorkeling in the Red Sea.

Reviews reveal that the stop at the Dead Sea is brief but perfect for photos and a quick dip if time permits. Many travelers appreciate the flexibility, especially since the tour ends with a scenic drive back to Amman via Wadi Araba Road, an area praised for its stunning desert vistas.

What’s Included and What’s Not?

The tour price of $250 per person covers the essentials: air-conditioned transport, Wi-Fi, and a professional English-speaking driver. However, entrance fees to Petra and Wadi Rum, meals, and guides are not included. This allows travelers to tailor their visit, whether that’s booking a guide at Petra or enjoying local eats independently.

Authenticity and Value

Having reviewed multiple accounts, it’s clear that the tour offers excellent value considering the sites visited and the small-group setup. The reviews mention the driver—Mohannan Salim—as courteous, patient, and full of helpful suggestions, which significantly enhances the experience. The personalized attention and ease of transport allow you to focus on absorbing the sights rather than logistics.

The Bedouin Overnight Stay

One notable aspect is the overnight stay in a Bedouin camp, which travelers book independently. It’s an opportunity to experience local culture authentically, with many recommending it for a deeper, more meaningful connection to Wadi Rum.

Who Is This Tour Best Suited For?

This 2-day Jordan tour is ideal for small groups or couples who want a comprehensive but manageable itinerary. It suits those interested in history, stunning landscapes, and cultural experiences without the hassle of planning complex logistics. Given the moderate walking involved, it’s suitable for most travelers with decent mobility.

The flexibility of choosing between Aqaba or Dead Sea makes it perfect for travelers with specific preferences—whether they want to relax by the sea or enjoy some snorkeling and beach time. The overall experience is perfect for those seeking a balance of adventure, relaxation, and cultural discovery.

Final Thoughts

This tour offers a compelling way to see Jordan’s top sights in just two days. The inclusion of well-reviewed, knowledgeable drivers and comfortable transport makes the experience smooth and enjoyable. While you will need to arrange your own accommodations and entrance fees, the value remains high when considering the sites covered and the personalized service.

It’s a wonderful option for travelers who want to maximize their time and see Petra’s grandeur, Wadi Rum’s desert magic, and enjoy a brief but memorable stop at Aqaba or the Dead Sea. If you’re happy with some driving involved and love exploring at your own pace, this adventure is a practical, enriching, and unforgettable way to experience Jordan.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for families?
While the tour isn’t explicitly designed for children, the moderate physical activity and sightseeing pace should be manageable for families with older kids or teens who are comfortable walking and standing for periods.

How much walking is involved?
You’ll walk around Petra and Wadi Rum, so having moderate physical fitness helps. The tour is designed for comfort, but some steps and hiking are part of exploring these sites.

Can I get a guide at Petra?
Guide services at Petra aren’t included in the tour price, but many travelers choose to hire a guide on-site for deeper insights. The driver can suggest options, and there’s flexibility to explore more independently.

What should I bring for the overnight in Wadi Rum?
If you book a Bedouin camp stay independently, pack essentials like warm clothes for the desert night, a hat, sunscreen, and comfortable shoes. The tour itself doesn’t include accommodation, but the experience is highly recommended.

Is the tour flexible if I want to spend more time at a site?
The itinerary is structured but somewhat flexible, especially in Wadi Rum and Aqaba. Communicate your preferences with the driver, who is praised for suggestions and accommodating requests.

Are entrance fees included?
No, entrance fees to Petra and Wadi Rum are not included. You’ll need to budget extra for tickets if you want a guided tour at Petra or access to specific sites.

What if the weather is bad?
The experience requires good weather; if canceled due to weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund. Check the forecast beforehand to avoid surprises.

This two-day tour is a fantastic way to get a taste of Jordan’s most famous sites with a comfortable, small-group experience. Whether you’re capturing stunning desert landscapes, marveling at Petra’s ancient architecture, or floating in the Dead Sea, it’s a memorable and worthwhile journey.