2 Days Private Tour to Wadi Rum and Petra from Eilat

Exploring Jordan in 2 Days: Wadi Rum and Petra from Eilat

This 2-day private tour offers a well-rounded glimpse into some of Jordan’s most iconic sites—Wadi Rum’s desert wilderness and Petra’s ancient stones. While we haven’t experienced it firsthand, reviews and detailed itineraries suggest it’s a fantastic way to cover two major highlights without the hassle of planning every detail yourself.

What makes this tour stand out? First, you get to enjoy a full Bedouin-style experience with a jeep tour through Wadi Rum’s stunning landscape. Second, the guided Petra visit provides insight into the city’s rich past, plus a horse ride to spice things up. Lastly, the value for money seems solid, especially when you consider the included transportation, accommodation, and entrance fees.

One thing to keep in mind: the tour’s pace is quite full, which might feel a bit rushed if you’re looking for a leisurely experience. It’s best suited for travelers who want a structured, authentic taste of Jordan’s top sights without the dedication of a longer trip.

Key Points

• All-inclusive experience with transportation, guides, and entrance fees included.
• Comfortable transfers from Eilat through the border, simplifying the crossing process.
• In-depth exploration of Wadi Rum’s scenery via 4×4 jeep tour.
• Guided Petra tour with historical highlights and optional horse ride.
• Overnight stay options in Bedouin camps or Petra hotels.
• Good value for money for a comprehensive two-day adventure.
• Highly rated guides and service, praised for professionalism and knowledge.
• Flexible overnight choices to suit different preferences.

Journey into Jordan: What to Expect

Border Crossing and Wadi Rum First

Your adventure begins at the Wadi Araba border, where the process is quite straightforward. The tour provides a meet-and-assist service on the Jordanian side, and you’ll need to handle the Israeli exit yourself. Once across, your driver—an English speaker—will whisk you approximately an hour into the desert landscape of Wadi Rum.

Here, the experience kicks off with a warm Bedouin welcome, including traditional tea or coffee, which is a lovely touch to start your journey. The scenery here is nothing short of breathtaking: towering rock formations, sweeping sand dunes, and narrow canyons. The highlight is a 4-5 hour jeep tour led by a Bedouin driver, who shares local insights that go beyond the typical tourist spiel.

Wadi Rum Jeep Tour: Desert Adventure

The jeep tour is a major highlight, offering a hands-on look at Wadi Rum’s natural wonders. You’ll visit key sites like the Nabatean Temple, Lawrence Spring—famous for Lawrence of Arabia lore—and the sand dunes that are perfect for photos and sandboarding (if you’re feeling adventurous). Reviewers mention the friendly, knowledgeable guides who make the experience both fun and educational.

Expect to climb sand dunes and cross rock bridges, with the guide sharing stories about the area’s history and geology. The jeep ride provides stunning panoramic views and a real sense of the vastness of this desert landscape. Many reviewers noted the authentic Bedouin hospitality—from sharing tea to tips on local customs—making the stop more than just a photo opportunity.

Overnight in Wadi Rum or Petra

After the jeep adventure, you’ll enjoy either a night in a Bedouin camp (with dinner and breakfast) or stay overnight in a hotel in Petra. The choice depends on your preference—glamping among the dunes offers a unique experience, while staying in Petra allows for more relaxed exploration the next day. Both options are included in the same price, valued for their authenticity and comfort.

Day Two: Exploring Petra

Early next morning, you’ll travel about 2 hours to Petra, the legendary city carved into rose-red cliffs. The guided tour lasts roughly three hours, covering primary highlights such as the Siq, the Treasury, the Royal Tombs, and the Amphitheatre. Reviewers appreciate guides who bring Petra’s history to life, making the visit more meaningful.

A horse ride of around 700 meters from the main gate offers a fun, traditional way to access the site—though tipping the handler is customary. The walk back through the Siq reveals the stunning color variations and the intricacies of Nabatean architecture. Some reviewers noted that the guided tour was well-paced, but optional free time allows for some personal exploration.

Practicalities and Value

The tour includes all entrance fees, modern vehicle transfers, and meals, including a box lunch during the jeep tour and in Petra. The price of $682.06 per person covers a lot—transportation, guided visits, accommodation, and some meals—making it a good deal, especially considering the proximity of Eilat and the convenience of an organized tour.

The tour is private for your group, which means personalized attention and a flexible experience, something many travelers find worth the extra cost compared to group tours.

Authentic Reviews: What Travelers Say

Guests highlight knowledgeable guides who enhance the experience with stories and local tips. One reviewer mentioned their driver, guide, and Petra guide as being “highly professional and knowledgeable,” which contributed significantly to their enjoyment.

Another reviewer shared that JHT (Jordan Horizon Tours) provided excellent service from start to finish, including seamless border crossing and timely communication. They also praised the authentic hospitality in Wadi Rum, noting the warm Bedouin tea and the friendly atmosphere.

Some mention the pace can be intense—with long days packed full of sightseeing—but overall, the consensus is that the value and quality of this tour make it a worthwhile option for those wanting a comprehensive, authentic Jordan experience.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This trip is best suited for history enthusiasts, adventurers, and busy travelers looking to maximize their time in Jordan with minimal planning. The overnight options cater to different tastes: those wanting a taste of Bedouin life or a more comfortable stay in Petra. It’s an excellent choice for first-time visitors wanting a structured, insightful experience that covers the highlights efficiently.

The Sum Up

This 2-day private tour from Eilat offers an excellent balance of adventure, culture, and comfort. You’ll enjoy stunning desert landscapes, an immersive jeep safari, and a guided exploration of Petra’s legendary ruins—all packed into two memorable days. The inclusion of accommodations and meals adds to its convenience, making it a value-packed option for travelers eager to see Jordan without the hassle of complex logistics.

While the pace is brisk, it’s ideal for those who want a comprehensive snapshot of Jordan’s prime attractions. The tour’s highly praised guides and authentic experiences ensure you’ll leave with more than just pictures—you’ll take home stories and a deeper appreciation for this fascinating country.

For travelers craving organized ease, authentic Bedouin hospitality, and spectacular scenery, this tour is a fantastic choice. It’s especially valuable for those arriving from Eilat who want a seamless, memorable adventure with a trustworthy operator.

FAQs

Is border crossing included in the tour?
Yes, the tour includes meet-and-assist services and assistance with border formalities on the Jordanian side. You are responsible for crossing the Israeli side yourself.

What is the price of the tour?
It costs approximately $682.06 per person, which covers transfers, entrance fees, a jeep tour, accommodation options, and some meals.

Can I stay overnight in Petra or Wadi Rum?
Yes, the tour offers two overnight options—either in a Bedouin camp with dinner and breakfast or in a Petra hotel—both at the same rate.

How long is the jeep tour in Wadi Rum?
The jeep safari lasts about 4 to 5 hours, taking you through significant sites like Lawrence Spring, sand dunes, and rock formations.

What are the main highlights in Petra included in the guided tour?
You’ll see the Siq, Treasury, Royal Tombs, Theatre, and Qasr Al Bint, with some free time for personal exploration.

Are meals included?
Yes, the tour includes a box lunch during the jeep tour and a meal in Petra or a similar restaurant.

Is the tour suitable for travelers with moderate physical fitness?
Yes, but be prepared for some walking and the horse ride. The tour is designed for those with a moderate level of mobility.

Who are the guides?
The guides are local Bedouins and Jordanian experts known for their knowledge and friendly approach, enhancing the storytelling at sites.

What should I pack?
Bring comfortable shoes, sun protection, water, and a camera. Bedouin camps provide basic amenities, but pack essentials accordingly.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, cancellations up to 24 hours in advance are fully refundable, making it a flexible choice for planning your trip.

This detailed review should help you gauge whether this Jordan adventure fits your travel style. Whether you’re after stunning landscapes, ancient history, or a taste of Bedouin hospitality, this tour promises a memorable journey through some of the Middle East’s most captivating sights.