Private 2-Day Tour: Petra, Wadi Rum, and Dead Sea

Taking a quick glance at a tour that promises to cover Petra, Wadi Rum, and the Dead Sea in just two days might leave you wondering if it’s worth the price or if it’s just a whirlwind without substance. Based on the glowing reviews and detailed itinerary, this private tour by Trans Jordan seems to strike a good balance between value, flexibility, and authentic experiences.

What we love about this tour? First, it offers a personal driver and private transportation, making the logistics smooth and stress-free. Second, it includes exclusively private touring since 2016, meaning you enjoy your journey without the hustle of large groups. Lastly, the knowledgeable guides and added extras like WiFi and bottled water make traveling more comfortable.

One possible drawback? The cost of entry tickets for Petra, Wadi Rum, and the Dead Sea are not included, so you’ll need to budget for those separately. This is typical for such tours, but worth noting if you’re budget-conscious.

This experience is best suited for travelers who want to see Jordan’s top sights without the hassle of planning every detail themselves. It’s perfect for those who value personalized attention, flexible scheduling, and a blend of adventure with cultural discovery.

Key Points

• Private Transport & Flexible Scheduling: Enjoy the comfort and convenience of a private vehicle with pickup and drop-off in Amman, plus the freedom to choose your own timing.
• Expert Local Guides & Drivers: Guides like Zaid have built strong reputations for helpfulness and knowledge, making each stop more meaningful.
• Authentic Experiences: You’ll visit iconic sites like Petra, Wadi Rum, and the Dead Sea, with opportunities for camel rides, jeep tours, and relaxing swims.
• Value for Money: At $799 for a group of up to four, this tour offers a personalized experience often hard to find with larger group packages.
• Additional Costs to Consider: Entry tickets and activities like the Dead Sea day pass are not included, so prepare to pay those separately.
• Comfort & Convenience: WiFi, bottled water, air-conditioning, and hotel pickup make the journey smooth and enjoyable.

A Deep Dive into the 2-Day Itinerary

Day 1: Petra and Wadi Rum

The adventure starts early with a private English-speaking driver picking you up from your Amman hotel. For the first three hours, you’ll be whisked away to Petra, often called the “Rose City.” The tour covers the main attractions—the treasury, the ancient water channels, and the Siq, the famous narrow canyon leading into Petra’s heart. While the entry fee isn’t included in the $799 price, most visitors find the experience worth the extra cost, especially given the opportunity to explore at your own pace.

What makes this tour stand out, according to reviews, is the guides’ knowledge. One reviewer highlighted how their guide made the trip perfect and ensured safety, especially for groups of friends or families. Another noted that the guides are well-prepared, making sightseeing smooth rather than rushed. You’ll love the chance to walk through the Siq and marvel at the iconic treasury, with some opting to ride a camel—an experience many cherish for its photo opportunities and fun factor.

After a light snack break (not included in the price), the journey continues to Wadi Rum in the afternoon. The drive through this vast desert landscape is stunning, but the real highlight is the jeep tour. Visitors often mention the breathtaking views of towering sandstone formations and desert plains, perfect for snapping memorable photos. As the sun sets, you’ll watch the desert glow in warm hues—an unforgettable moment.

Spending the night in a Bedouin camp adds an authentic touch. Many reviewers appreciated the Bedouin-style dinner and tea, which felt both cozy and culturally immersive. Staying inside the Rum reserve allows you to experience the quiet serenity of the desert and feel like a true explorer.

Day 2: Dead Sea and Return

After a hearty breakfast, the second day begins with some free time—whether to relax, soak up the atmosphere, or do optional activities. The highlight is heading to the Dead Sea, sitting over 1,300 feet below sea level. The day pass isn’t included in the price, but visitors recommend taking advantage of it to float effortlessly in the salt-rich waters, known for their therapeutic properties.

Many reviewers mention the mud bath experience as a must-do; applying mineral-rich mud offers a unique spa-like benefit that’s both fun and rejuvenating. The Dead Sea’s buoyancy and mineral mud are what make it worth the journey. After your swim, you can relax and take in the surreal views—something few destinations rival.

In the late afternoon, you’ll be transported back to Amman, concluding your adventure. The journey feels well-paced, balancing sightseeing, adventure, and downtime, with the comfort of private transport and WiFi on board.

The Value of a Private Tour

At $799 for a group of up to four, this tour offers great value compared to coordinating each site independently. The inclusion of hotel pickup/drop-off, private vehicle, and a dedicated English-speaking driver simplifies logistics, especially in a country where navigating public transport or shared tours could be tricky.

Being a private experience since 2016 indicates a commitment to quality and genuine customer service, which many reviews praise. Guests often highlight the knowledge and friendliness of guides like Zaid, who go beyond just driving to enriching the journey with insights and local tips.

While the cost of entrance fees for Petra, Wadi Rum, and the Dead Sea are additional, most travelers agree that the overall experience and personalized attention justify the expense. The flexibility to book at your convenience, combined with the complimentary water and WiFi, adds to the overall comfort.

What Reviewers Say

Feedback about guides like Zaid consistently emphasizes their helpfulness and extensive knowledge. One reviewer mentioned feeling safe throughout the journey, especially traveling in a group of eight girls—highlighting the importance of a trustworthy driver.

Several travelers appreciated the stunning landscapes—from Petra’s ancient facades to Wadi Rum’s dramatic desert scenery—and valued the authentic Bedouin experiences, such as dinner and tea in the desert.

Many reviews speak to the value for money, describing the tour as “fantastic,” “memorable,” and “well-organized,” with guides making an effort to fulfill individual requests and share insider tips.

Practical Tips for Your Trip

• Book entrance tickets in advance if possible, to avoid long lines and ensure entry.
• Bring layers—desert temperatures can vary significantly from day to night.
• Prepare for optional activities like camel rides or mud baths, which aren’t included but add to the experience.
• Be aware of additional costs for the Dead Sea day pass and Petra/Wadi Rum entry fees.
• Stay hydrated—the tour provides bottled water, but extra hydration helps in the desert heat.
• Pack a camera—the landscapes are truly picture-worthy, from Petra’s facades to Wadi Rum’s expansive vistas.

The Sum Up

This private 2-day Jordan tour offers a personalized, flexible way to experience iconic sights like Petra, Wadi Rum, and the Dead Sea. The combination of knowledgeable guides, comfortable transportation, and authentic experiences makes it a compelling choice for travelers looking to make the most of a short visit.

It’s especially suited for those who value customized itineraries and insider insights, and who want to avoid the crowds or rigid schedules of group tours. The extra costs for entry tickets are a minor consideration against the convenience and richness of the experience.

Overall, if you’re after an immersive, well-organized trip that balances adventure with comfort, this tour is likely to deliver a memorable slice of Jordan. You’ll leave with stunning photos, stories to tell, and a genuine sense of the country’s beauty and hospitality.

FAQ

Are the entrance fees to Petra, Wadi Rum, and the Dead Sea included?
No, the tour price does not include entrance fees. You’ll need to purchase those separately, which many travelers find worthwhile given the overall experience.

Is this tour suitable for families or groups of friends?
Yes, the tour is private and flexible, making it suitable for families, friends, or small groups looking for a personalized adventure.

What’s the typical group size?
Up to four people—this keeps the experience intimate and allows for personalized attention from guides and drivers.

Can I customize the schedule or activities?
Since it’s a private tour with flexible booking options, you can discuss your preferences with the provider to tailor the experience.

What should I bring on the trip?
Bring comfortable walking shoes, layers for temperature variations, sunscreen, a camera, and some cash for entry tickets and optional activities.

How reliable is the guide?
Reviews consistently praise guides like Zaid for their helpfulness, extensive knowledge, and safety-conscious approach, ensuring a smooth journey.

This well-rounded tour offers a practical, authentic way to explore Jordan’s crown jewels—an experience that balances adventure, comfort, and cultural richness.