2 Days Petra Private Guided Tour

Exploring Petra in a Weekend: An Honest Look at a 2-Day Private Tour from Jerusalem

If you’ve ever dreamed of wandering through the mysterious, ancient city of Petra but only have limited time, this 2-day private guided tour from Jerusalem might just be your best bet. It promises a well-organized, hassle-free way to witness one of the New Seven Wonders of the World without the need for a lengthy, multi-week trip.

What drew us in is the promise of expert-guided insights, the convenience of private transportation, and the chance to see Petra’s iconic highlights in just two days. On the flip side, such a quick visit might limit the depth of exploration, especially if you’re craving a more leisurely, immersive experience. Still, for those with tight schedules or a desire for a straightforward journey, this tour hits many of the right notes.

This experience is ideal for travelers who want a guided, hassle-free way to visit Petra, particularly if they’re short on time or prefer the comfort of private transport. It’s also a solid choice for those who value organized logistics and expert drivers who handle border crossings smoothly. If you’re eager to see one of the most famous archaeological sites in the world without the stress of planning every detail yourself, this tour could be a perfect fit.

Key Points

• Convenient 2-day itinerary covers the essentials of Petra with private transport from Jerusalem.
• Expert English-speaking driver and private transportation ensure smooth border crossings and comfortable travel.
• Includes breakfast and bottled water, adding comfort to the journey.
• Guided exploration of Petra’s most famous sights like the Treasury, Street of Facades, Roman Theater, and Royal Tombs.
• Reviews highlight knowledgeable guides and seamless organization, making it a reliable choice.
• Price point offers good value considering the transportation, guided insight, and border logistics.

The Journey from Jerusalem to Petra – What You Can Expect

Starting early in the morning, you’ll be picked up from your accommodation in Jerusalem. The transfer involves crossing the Jordanian border at Allenby Bridge, where your driver handles border formalities, saving you from the stress of navigating immigration procedures alone. Expect about a 3-hour drive to Petra, with the comfort of air-conditioned private transport making the journey pleasant. Most travelers appreciate the bottled water provided, especially if you’re visiting during warmer months.

The drive itself is fairly straightforward and scenic, providing glimpses of the landscape that frames this historic region. According to reviews, the driver’s professionalism and care for clients make the border crossing smoother than expected. One reviewer mentioned that the “trip was organized perfectly,” and the driver took care of everything from start to finish, which is a significant plus for travelers unfamiliar with border procedures.

First Day: Arrival and Overnight in Petra

Arriving in Petra, you’ll check into your accommodation, giving you some time to relax or start exploring the neighboring areas if you wish. Petra’s vast archaeological site is best appreciated over multiple days, but for this tour, the focus is on hitting the highlights efficiently.

Some travelers found the overnight stay in Petra to be a great advantage, allowing for an early start the next day without rushing. It also gives you the chance to experience the site with fewer crowds and enjoy the magical atmosphere of Petra at dusk or dawn, if timing allows.

Exploring Petra: The Highlights of Day 2

On the second day, the tour kicks off with a guided exploration of Petra’s most iconic features. Walking down the Siq, the narrow, winding sandstone canyon, you’ll get your first glimpse of the legendary Treasury (Al-Khazneh). This stunning façade, carved into rose-colored rock, is a symbol of Petra and one of the world’s most photographed monuments.

From there, guides typically take you through other noteworthy areas like the Street of Facades, where ancient tombs line the hillside, and the Roman Theater, which adds a touch of classical grandeur. The Royal Tombs offer insight into the burial practices of the Nabataean kings and are a favorite for immersive history buffs. Reviewers mention that guides are knowledgeable and engaging, helping to bring the ancient city to life with stories and background.

Expect a full day of walking—about 8 hours including some breaks—and plenty of photo opportunities. Since the tour includes admission tickets, you won’t need to worry about additional costs, and you’ll have the chance to truly appreciate the craftsmanship and grandeur of Petra’s ruins.

The Return Journey: Cross Border and Back to Jerusalem

After a full exploration, you’ll meet your driver at Allenby Bridge to cross back into Israel. This part of the journey is often highlighted as smooth and well-coordinated, with reviews praising the professionalism of the driver. The drive back to Jerusalem takes around three hours, giving you some time to relax and reflect on the trip.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The tour offers a lot of value for its $419.99 per person price tag, especially considering the private transport, guided insights, and border convenience. Included are breakfast, a private air-conditioned vehicle, and bottled water—small touches that can make a long day more comfortable.

However, some costs are outside the tour package, such as tips for the driver, border shuttle bus, visa or Jordan Pass fees, and any personal expenses. Travelers should plan ahead to arrange a Jordanian visa or pass before the tour and budget for optional costs.

Reviews and Real-Life Experiences

The consistent praise from previous travelers highlights the expert guides and smooth logistics. One reviewer appreciated the “great team” that took care of everything from start to finish, making their trip stress-free. Another shared that the trip was “organized perfectly,” and the service was “high class,” emphasizing the professional nature of the experience.

Many reviews also point out the stunning views and the guides’ knowledge. Such insights help visitors appreciate the site beyond just taking photos, adding layers of historical context and answering questions that arise during the walk.

Final Thoughts: Who Should Consider This Tour?

This 2-day private Petra tour is perfect for busy travelers who want to see one of the world’s most iconic archaeological sites without dedicating multiple days or dealing with complex travel arrangements. It’s well-suited for those who value comfort, guided expertise, and organized logistics.

If you’re someone who prefers a guided experience with a professional driver handling border crossings, this tour offers peace of mind. It’s also great for first-time visitors who want a rundown with minimal hassle, but perhaps less ideal if you’re looking for a deep, leisurely exploration of Petra’s many hidden corners.

Travelers with a sense of adventure, appreciation for historical sights, and a limited schedule will find this tour a worthwhile option—delivering the essentials with ease.

FAQ

Is transportation included?
Yes, you get private air-conditioned transportation from Jerusalem to Petra and back, including border crossing assistance by your driver.

Are admission tickets included?
Yes, the tour includes all necessary admission tickets for Petra.

How long is the drive?
The drive from Jerusalem to Petra takes about 3 hours each way, with a border crossing at Allenby Bridge.

What should I bring?
Comfortable walking shoes, water, sun protection, and a camera are recommended. Breakfast is included, but bring snacks if needed.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 6 days before the scheduled date for a full refund.

Do I need a visa?
Yes, travelers must arrange a Jordanian visa or Jordan Pass before the tour.

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
Most travelers can participate, but be prepared for about 8 hours of walking and sightseeing.

In essence, this 2-day Petra private tour from Jerusalem offers a practical, well-organized way to tick one of the world’s most awe-inspiring archaeological sites off your bucket list. With expert guides, seamless border crossings, and a focus on the highlights, it’s a smart choice for those seeking a meaningful experience without sacrificing comfort or convenience.