2 Days Petra & Wadi Rum Tour from and to Amman

Taking a 2-day adventure from Amman to explore Jordan’s most iconic sites—Petra and Wadi Rum— offers a compact yet immersive experience. While this tour is designed for those with limited time, it manages to balance comfort, authenticity, and the chance to see some of the country’s most breathtaking landscapes.

What we really like about this tour is the seamless private transfer with a friendly, knowledgeable driver, the option to choose your own local guide at Petra, and the chance to experience Wadi Rum’s desert magic via a jeep ride. Plus, the tour’s reviews highlight the excellent driver service and the stunning views you’ll encounter.

On the flip side, the main consideration is the price of entrance fees, which aren’t included and can add up. Travelers should also be prepared for a fair amount of walking, especially in Petra, and understand that some activities, like camel rides, are optional extras.

This itinerary suits adventurers with a moderate fitness level who want a rich taste of Jordan’s highlights without the hassle of organizing transport and guides on their own. If you’re after a well-organized, insightful tour that maximizes value and minimizes stress, this trip could be a perfect fit.

Key Points

• Comfortable private transport with WiFi and water keeps you refreshed during the long drive between sites.
• Flexibility to choose a local guide in Petra allows for a more personalized experience.
• Jeep ride in Wadi Rum offers an authentic way to explore the desert’s stunning scenery.
• Entrance fees are extra, so budget accordingly.
• The tour provides a balanced mix of guided and free time to explore on your own.
• Highly praised driver service enhances the overall comfort and safety of the trip.

A Close Look at the 2-Day Petra & Wadi Rum Tour

This tour combines the best of Jordan’s natural beauty and ancient marvels, all wrapped into a manageable two-day package. It’s designed for travelers who want the essentials done right—without feeling rushed or overwhelmed.

Day 1: From Amman to Wadi Rum

The journey begins early, with a pickup from your Amman hotel around 8:00 am. The private transfer ensures a smooth start—no stress about navigating busy roads or figuring out transportation. The driver, who speaks English and is highly rated, will be your constant companion, answering questions and sharing local insights.

After about four hours, you arrive at Wadi Rum, Jordan’s most iconic desert landscape. The area feels timeless—vast, silent, and full of stories. The tour includes a jeep ride led by a Bedouin driver, which lasts about three hours. This is your chance to see highlights like the Nabataean temple, the Lawrence spring, and the Khazali Canyon, famous for its ancient inscriptions.

Reviewers mention the jeep ride as a major highlight, with one emphasizing the stunning views and the personalized experience. Some travelers opt for a camel ride (at own expense) to add a bit of traditional desert charm. The desert’s striking red sands and unique formations make it a photographer’s dream.

Following the Wadi Rum excursion, the group transfers to Wadi Musa for overnight stays near Petra. The drive takes about 1.5 hours, offering a relaxing transition to the next day’s exploration.

Day 2: Full Day in Petra

After breakfast, it’s time for Petra, the beating heart of Jordan’s ancient history. Once inside the visitor center, you’ll meet a local guide (if selected) for a two-hour walking tour through the Siq, a narrow canyon that reveals the iconic Treasury building—a sight that truly lives up to its reputation. The guide will point out key sites like the Royal Tombs and Pharaoh’s Castle, helping you understand their significance.

Reviewers love the guided tour for its depth and storytelling, noting guides like Ali who added a personal touch. But you’ll also have plenty of free time afterward to wander at your own pace—climbing, snapping photos, or simply soaking in the ambiance of this “Pink City.”

Expect to walk over uneven sand and rocks, so comfortable shoes and sun protection are must-haves. The entire Petra visit can stretch over roughly five hours, balancing guided insights with personal discovery.

Finally, you’ll return to Amman via a scenic drive along the Desert Highway, ending your adventure with a drop-off at your hotel.

The Value of This Tour

At $232 per person, this experience offers a solid balance of convenience and authentic exploration. The private transfers mean no waiting for buses or unreliable taxis, while WiFi and bottled water on board help keep you comfortable throughout the journey.

While entrance fees—about $78 USD per person—are not included, this is typical for such tours and allows you to tailor your visit, perhaps opting for guides or additional activities. The drivers and guides who come highly recommended from reviews genuinely add value, making the trip smoother and more educational.

The jeep ride in Wadi Rum, in particular, is a highlight, offering an up-close view of the desert’s stunning formations that photographs simply can’t do justice. Plus, the optional camel ride provides a taste of Bedouin tradition, if you’re keen.

What’s Really Special?

Travelers have praised the stunning vistas and the personalized attention of the drivers and guides. One reviewer called their driver “perhaps the best in Jordan,” emphasizing how his local knowledge and friendliness made the trip memorable.

The timing is well-managed, giving enough time at each site without feeling rushed, which is ideal for those who want to soak in the atmosphere. The combination of guided tours and free exploration strikes a nice balance for independent-minded travelers.

Possible Drawbacks

The main consideration is the additional cost of entrance fees and optional activities, which can add up. The tour also requires a moderate level of physical activity—walking and climbing in Petra are unavoidable—so travelers need to be prepared.

Weather can impact the experience; if it rains or is extremely hot, some outdoor activities like camel rides might be less enjoyable or unavailable. The tour is best suited for those comfortable with a fair amount of walking and outdoor exposure.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This tour is perfect for first-time visitors to Jordan wanting a comprehensive snapshot of Petra and Wadi Rum without the hassle of planning every detail. It’s also ideal for travelers who value comfort, safety, and local insights provided by a professional driver and optional guides.

If you’re on a tight schedule but still want to see the highlights, this tour delivers a balanced blend of guided and independent exploration. It’s suited for adventurers with moderate fitness who enjoy walking, and for those looking for a cost-effective way to experience Jordan’s most iconic sights.

FAQ

Is transportation provided between all sites?
Yes, private air-conditioned transportation is included, making travel between Amman, Wadi Rum, and Petra seamless and comfortable.

Can I choose my guide in Petra?
Yes, you have the option to select a local guide at Petra, which can enrich the experience with tailored insights and storytelling.

Are entrance fees included in the price?
No, entrance fees (about $78 USD per person) are paid separately, so budget accordingly.

Is this tour suitable for people with limited mobility?
Travelers should have a moderate fitness level, as walking over uneven terrain in Petra is required.

Can I add extras like a camel ride?
Camel rides are available at your own expense and can be arranged during your visit to Wadi Rum.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour is weather dependent; if canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

To sum it up, this 2-day Petra & Wadi Rum tour from Amman offers a well-rounded experience for those wanting to see Jordan’s highlights with ease. The combination of comfortable private transport, expert drivers, optional guided tours, and authentic desert adventures makes it a compelling choice for many travelers.

It’s especially suited for those who appreciate stunning vistas, cultural insights, and a touch of adventure, all packed into a manageable itinerary. While the additional entrance fees and physical activity are considerations, the overall value and personalized touches make this tour a memorable introduction to Jordan’s timeless allure.