Planning a trip to see Petra from Jerusalem? This 3-day private guided tour offers a manageable, well-organized way to visit one of the world’s most iconic archaeological sites without the hassle of planning every detail yourself. Based on traveler reviews and detailed itineraries, we’re here to give you an honest, thorough look at what to expect from this experience.
What we love about this tour is its convenience—thanks to the private transport, the knowledgeable guides, and the efficient border crossing process. We also appreciate the flexibility of free time at Petra and the comfort of modern vehicles with Wi-Fi and bottled water. The only potential hiccup? The border crossing, which can sometimes involve extra waiting and fees, so it’s good to be prepared. This tour suits travelers eager for a straightforward, hassle-free way to explore Jordan’s most famous site, especially if you prefer private guiding over group hustle.
Key Points
- Convenient private transport with Wi-Fi and bottled water makes the journey comfortable.
- Expert, friendly drivers enhance the border crossing and travel experience.
- Border crossing details require a Jordan Pass and passport photocopy beforehand.
- Flexible itinerary with free time at Petra allows personalized exploration.
- Authentic insights from previous travelers highlight seamless service and knowledgeable guides.
- A good fit for those with limited time but a strong wish to visit Petra hassle-free.
How This Tour Stands Out
This 3-day tour from Jerusalem is designed for travelers who want to see Petra with minimal fuss. The main appeal lies in the private transportation, which eliminates the need to coordinate multiple bookings or shuttle schedules. The modern, air-conditioned vehicle with Wi-Fi and bottled water ensures your comfort during the approximately 5-6 hour drive each way.
The border crossing process is streamlined, with your driver handling customs and passport procedures. You’ll cross Allenby Bridge into Jordan, then transfer via shuttle or VIP car to King Hussein Bridge, where your driver will meet you on the Jordanian side—an aspect highly praised by travelers for its efficiency when coordinated properly. One point to note: a Jordan Pass is required ahead of time, and sending a passport photocopy is necessary for border permits, which can seem like a hassle but is standard for this route.
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Detailed Trip Breakdown
Day 1: Jerusalem to Petra
Your adventure begins early, with a driver picking you up and heading toward the Allenby Bridge. Travelers report that the border crossing can take some time—about 1-2 hours—but the private driver usually makes the process smoother. Once you clear customs and passport controls, you’ll switch to a shuttle or VIP car for the final leg to King Hussein Bridge, where your driver will be waiting with a sign for easy identification.
The drive to Petra is around three hours, during which you’ll likely enjoy the comfort of your vehicle, with Wi-Fi to catch up on messages or browse. Once in Petra, check into your hotel, relax, and enjoy the rest of the day at leisure. Many guests appreciate the smooth transition from Israel to Jordan, describing the entire border process as “seamless and stress-free.”
Day 2: Full Day in Petra
This is the highlight. Waking up in Jordan, you’ll have a full day to explore Petra. The guide will likely take you through the Siq, the winding canyon that reveals the Treasury, the most famous monument. Past visitors mention the Street of Facades, Roman Theater, and Royal Tombs as must-see sites. The guides, praised for their knowledge and friendliness, help bring the city’s history alive and give tips on less crowded spots.
Expect a long, rewarding day—a solid 10 hours—so wear comfortable shoes and bring water. Some travelers mention that the guided tours do not include entry tickets, so you’ll need to purchase those separately, but the experience of walking through this incredible city is priceless.
Day 3: Return to Jerusalem
After breakfast, you’ll get a chance to revisit a few favorite spots in Petra or just enjoy a quick walk to soak in the atmosphere one last time. Then, it’s back to the hotel to shower and pack up. Your driver will meet you at the hotel entrance and escort you to the King Hussein Bridge for the return trip. The journey back to Jerusalem takes roughly 4 hours, making this a manageable trip even for those with tight schedules.
Travelers note that the border crossing on the return can involve a waiting fee of around $49 for every extra hour, so planning accordingly is wise. Once back in Jerusalem, you’ll be dropped at your starting point, completing a well-rounded, hassle-free journey.
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What Travelers Say
Reviewers consistently highlight the professionalism of the drivers. One mentioned, “The car was immaculate, and the driver was polite and friendly. Always arrived punctually,” emphasizing the comfort and punctuality that enhances the experience. The guides in Palestine and Jordan are also praised for their helpfulness and knowledge, with one reviewer describing their driver as “very kind, helpful, and knowledgeable,” making the trip more than just a transfer.
Many appreciate the flexibility of free time in Petra, allowing for personal exploration or resting. The overall tone from travelers is that this tour offers value for money, especially considering the convenience of private transport and the inclusion of Wi-Fi and bottled water.
Practical Considerations
While the tour covers most logistical aspects, travelers should remember to:
- Obtain a Jordan Pass before traveling, as it’s mandatory for entry.
- Send a passport photocopy via WhatsApp beforehand for border permits.
- Budget approximately $49 for any extra waiting time at the border.
- Be prepared for a long day of travel and sightseeing, and dress comfortably.
- Carry a small or medium-sized bag, as permitted by the tour.
The transportation is modern, private, and equipped with Wi-Fi, making the long drive more enjoyable. The group discounts and mobile tickets make booking straightforward, and the option for pickup from Jerusalem adds to the ease of planning.
Who Would Love This Tour?
This experience is perfect for travelers who want a stress-free, guided trip to Petra without the complication of logistics. If you value comfort, privacy, and expert guides, this is a strong choice. It’s suitable for those with limited time but who still want to see this marvel, especially if crossing borders can seem daunting alone.
It also appeals to travelers who like a mix of structured sightseeing and free time, as well as those who appreciate modern amenities and seamless service. Note that, while the price might seem steep compared to DIY options, the value lies in the convenience and comfort.
The Sum Up
For anyone dreaming of visiting Petra without the stress of planning every detail, this 3-day private tour from Jerusalem strikes a good balance. The private transport, knowledgeable guides, and efficient border crossing process make it an attractive option for travelers seeking comfort and simplicity. The flexible itinerary allows you to enjoy Petra at your own pace, while the round-trip logistics are handled smoothly.
The reviews consistently praise the quality of service, especially the drivers’ helpfulness and the modern, well-equipped vehicles. If you’re eager to see one of the world’s most recognizable landmarks with minimal fuss, this tour delivers a compelling, enjoyable experience.
However, do remember the border crossing’s potential delays and extra fees—being prepared is key. This tour offers excellent value, especially for those who prioritize comfort, ease, and expert guidance.
FAQs
What is included in the tour?
Transport in a private, modern vehicle with Wi-Fi and mineral water, an English-speaking driver, and a pickup from Jerusalem. The border crossing process is managed, but tickets to Petra are not included.
What do I need to bring for the border crossing?
You’ll need to send a passport photocopy ahead of time for the border permit. It’s also advisable to carry a small or medium-sized bag, as permitted on the tour.
Do I need a Jordan Pass?
Yes, the Jordan Pass is a requirement for entry. Make sure to obtain it before your travel date via jordanpass.jo.
How long is the drive from Jerusalem to Petra?
The total journey from Jerusalem, including border procedures, takes about 5-6 hours. The drive itself is approximately three hours each way.
Are there any extra charges I should be aware of?
Yes, a fee of $49 may be charged for each additional hour of waiting at the border beyond the free 60 minutes.
Is this tour suitable for solo travelers?
While it’s designed as a private experience, solo travelers can book it and enjoy the comfort and guidance of a private vehicle.
Can I customize the itinerary?
The tour is structured but offers some flexibility, especially the free time in Petra on Day 2.
What is the main highlight of this tour?
The chance to explore Petra comfortably with a knowledgeable guide, combined with the ease of private transport and border crossing support that most travelers find invaluable.
In summary, this 3-day Petra tour from Jerusalem offers a well-rounded, hassle-free way to explore Jordan’s crown jewel. It’s ideal for those who want comfort, expert guidance, and a straightforward itinerary—making one of the world’s most epic sights accessible without the stress of independent planning.
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