2 Day Tour to Petra, Wadi Rum, and Dead Sea from Amman

Experience the Best of Jordan in Just Two Days: Petra, Wadi Rum, and the Dead Sea

Traveling through Jordan often feels like stepping into a storybook filled with ancient wonders and breathtaking landscapes. This 2-day tour from Amman offers a condensed yet comprehensive glimpse into some of the country’s most iconic sights. While it’s perfect for those short on time, it doesn’t skimp on the details that make Jordan unique—from the mystic rose-red city of Petra to the surreal silence of the Dead Sea.

What makes this tour stand out? First, the expert guides who enthusiastically share their knowledge, making the experience more enriching. Second, the stunning scenery—think towering sandstone cliffs and vast desert expanses—that feels straight out of a National Geographic feature. Lastly, the value for money—covering so much ground with well-organized logistics and comfortable transportation. However, keep in mind that since it’s a fast-paced trip, you’ll spend a good deal of time on the road, which might be tiring for some travelers.

This journey is best suited for adventurers limited on time, history buffs eager to see Jordan’s highlights, or curious travelers who want an authentic taste of Jordan’s natural and cultural treasures without the fuss of planning each detail themselves.

Key Points

• Authentic Experiences: Guided tours enhance the understanding of Jordan’s cultural and natural wonders.
• Convenient Transportation: Climate-controlled vehicles and hotel pickups make for smooth travel.
• Rich Cultural Insights: Guides share stories and facts that deepen your appreciation for each site.
• Impressive Landscapes: From Petra’s intricate facades to the vast Wadi Rum desert, scenery is unforgettable.
• Good Value: The price includes transportation, entry fees, and expert guidance, making it a cost-effective option.
• Time-Efficient: Perfect for travelers with only a weekend or limited days in Jordan.

A Well-Rounded Itinerary Packed with Highlights

The tour kicks off early in the morning with a hotel pickup in Amman, setting the tone for a day packed with memorable sights. Traveling via the Desert Highway, the journey to Petra takes approximately 2.5 to 3 hours, giving you a chance to relax and enjoy the scenery. The vehicle is climate-controlled, which is a blessing considering Jordan’s warm climate, and the group is small enough—up to 47 travelers—that you won’t feel lost in the crowd.

Exploring Petra

Once at Petra, the experience truly begins. The first stop is the Visitor’s Centre, where your knowledgeable guide will introduce you to the site’s history and layout. The walk through the Siq, a narrow gorge winding through towering red sandstone walls, builds anticipation. As you approach the Khazneh (Treasury)—the iconic façade seen in countless photos—you’ll understand why Petra is often called the “Rose City.”

Your guide will also lead you past the Street of Facades, the Royal Tombs, the Theatre, and Qasr Al Bint. These sites unfold stories about the Nabateans, their craftsmanship, and their sophisticated water systems. Reviewers mention the guides’ enthusiasm and depth of knowledge—one noted that Samir, their driver, was “personable, knowledgeable, and added more to the experience with information about the country, the history, and stories from many aspects.”

Depending on your pace, you’ll have some free time for photos, wandering, or simply soaking in the atmosphere. For an optional extra, you can add a Wadi Rum jeep tour—a highlight for many travelers who rave about their dune adventures and stunning vistas. An extra $15 per person, and well worth it for the off-road thrill and breathtaking desert views.

Wadi Rum: The Valley of the Moon

In the afternoon, the tour moves toward Wadi Rum, famously called the “Valley of the Moon.” The landscape here is surreal—massive sandstone mountains, towering cliffs of reddish hues, and endless sandy plains. The jeep tour offers a fantastic way to explore this rugged terrain, stopping at various points for photos and stories. Reviewers love the “wonderful time with our jeep tour” and mention how the guides’ local knowledge made every stop more meaningful.

Travelers often stay overnight in a desert camp, experiencing traditional Bedouin hospitality, which adds an authentic touch to the adventure. Although optional, many rave about the desert camp as a unique experience that enhances the trip’s authenticity.

Day Two: From Desert to Dead Sea

Wake up early in Wadi Rum to catch the sunrise, then enjoy a hearty breakfast at the camp—an amazing way to start your day. The drive to the Dead Sea takes around four hours, giving you ample time to relax and take in the changing scenery. The Dead Sea, at the lowest point on Earth, is a highlight that travelers frequently praise. Its mineral-rich mud and salty waters create a swimming experience unlike any other.

Once at the Dead Sea, you’ll float effortlessly in its buoyant waters, which are famous for their therapeutic minerals. Many reviews mention how the salt and mineral content make for a therapeutic, relaxing experience—a perfect way to unwind after a busy couple of days. You’ll also have time for a meal and some leisure before heading back to Amman.

Wadi Rum’s Unique Landscape

Before leaving Wadi Rum, some travelers mention how the towering cliffs and colorful sand of the desert are unlike anything else in the world. A reviewer called it “a uniquely-shaped mountain among rosy red sands,” emphasizing the otherworldly feel of the place.

Floating and Relaxing in the Dead Sea

As one reviewer highlighted, “the calm, shining water glowing from the scorching sun” makes a visit to the Dead Sea an unforgettable experience. The mineral content not only provides a fun float but also offers skin benefits, making it worth the visit for health-conscious travelers or those seeking relaxation.

Practical Details That Matter

This tour is priced at $200 per person, which many reviewers see as a good value given the inclusions: transportation, guide services, and entry fees. The tour offers pick-up from your hotel, which simplifies logistics, and the vehicle’s comfort ensures a smooth journey through Jordan’s vast landscapes.

Group size is capped at 47 travelers, which keeps the experience relatively intimate but still lively. The tour operates with professionalism, and the guides are praised for their friendliness and knowledge—creating a welcoming atmosphere that’s both informative and fun.

The itinerary is flexible enough to accommodate some free time at Petra and the Dead Sea, allowing travelers to customize their experience slightly. Plus, the optional jeep tour in Wadi Rum adds an extra adventure for those craving a bit of thrill.

What Travelers Love

Reviewers consistently mention the guides’ expertise, with one saying, “Samir not only drove us around but shared valuable stories about the country, making the visit more meaningful.” The scenery, too, receives frequent praise—“the landscapes look like they’re straight out of a National Geographic documentary,” as one traveler put it.

Potential Drawbacks

The main consideration is the pace. With only two days, expect a lot of driving and minimal downtime. If you’re looking for a leisurely trip, this might feel rushed. Also, the tour’s success depends heavily on good weather—bad weather could mean cancellations or delays.

Who Will Benefit Most?

This tour offers incredible value for first-time visitors eager to see Jordan’s most famous sights without the hassle of planning logistics themselves. It’s ideal for adventurers who want a quick yet authentic taste of Petra, Wadi Rum, and the Dead Sea. If you’re a history enthusiast or a landscape lover, the scenery and stories will likely resonate deeply.

However, if you prefer slow-paced travel or wish to explore sites in greater depth, consider longer, more relaxed options. Still, for a tight schedule, this adventure offers an impressive, well-organized snapshot of Jordan’s highlights.

The Sum Up

This 2-day tour from Amman provides a solid, well-rounded introduction to Jordan’s most iconic sites. From the awe-inspiring facades of Petra to the otherworldly dunes of Wadi Rum, and finally the tranquil float of the Dead Sea, it covers a lot of ground in a short period. The professionalism of guides and drivers ensures a smooth experience, while the included sites offer jaw-dropping scenery and stories that stay with you.

Whether you’re a curious traveler on a tight schedule or someone who wants a taste of Jordan’s natural and historical treasures, this tour offers great value and genuine, memorable experiences. For anyone looking to tick off major highlights with an authentic touch, it’s a highly recommended option.

FAQ

How long is the drive from Amman to Petra?
It takes approximately 2.5 to 3 hours via the Desert Highway, giving you time to relax and enjoy the scenery en route.

What is included in the tour price?
The price covers transportation in a climate-controlled vehicle, hotel pickup, guided tours at Petra, and entry fees. Optional activities like the Wadi Rum jeep tour are extra.

Can I explore Petra on my own?
Yes, after the guided tour, you have free time to wander Petra independently before heading back to the bus.

Is the tour suitable for all ages?
Generally, yes, but keep in mind the walking involved at Petra and the desert camp experience in Wadi Rum. Travelers should be prepared for a fair amount of physical activity.

What should I bring for Wadi Rum and the Dead Sea?
Pack comfortable walking shoes, sunglasses, a hat, sunscreen, and a swimsuit. Don’t forget a towel if you plan to float in the Dead Sea.

What is the cancellation policy?
You can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours in advance. Cancellations within 24 hours are non-refundable, so plan accordingly.

This tour offers a balanced mix of culture, stunning scenery, and convenience—making it a top pick for anyone eager to experience Jordan’s highlights in a short time.