Petra and Petra By Night Private Guided Tour

Petra and Petra By Night Private Guided Tour Review

Taking a trip to Jordan often means one thing: visiting Petra, the ancient city carved into rose-colored cliffs that’s now one of the New Seven Wonders of the World. While a full exploration can take days, this private tour offers a condensed, yet deeply fulfilling, peek into this iconic site—all within a single day.

What makes this tour stand out are three key aspects: its personalized guidance, the chance to experience Petra by Night, and the convenience of door-to-door transportation. Plus, the flexible timing means you can fit this into a tight schedule if you’re flying in or out of Amman.

However, one thing to keep in mind is the long drive; about three hours each way from Amman to Petra. It’s not the most relaxing if you’re looking for a leisurely day, but the tradeoff is a comprehensive experience that covers the highlights efficiently. This tour is ideal for travelers who want a meaningful Petra visit without committing to multiple days on the ground.

If you’re someone who values expert guidance, efficient itineraries, and a taste of Petra’s magic in a short time, this trip could be a perfect fit. Now, let’s take a closer look at what you’ll experience and why it might be the right choice for your Jordanian adventure.

Key Points

• Private Guided Experience: Personal attention from knowledgeable guides enhances understanding and engagement.
• Visit Key Petra Highlights: From the Siq to the Treasury, Roman Theater, and Royal Tombs—see the essential sights.
• Petra by Night Included: Experience the enchanting atmosphere of Petra illuminated by candlelight, a uniquely memorable moment.
• Flexible Duration: Ranges from 3 to 14 hours, allowing you to tailor the trip to your schedule.
• Comfortable Transportation: Air-conditioned private vehicle offers ease and convenience.
• Cost-Effective: At $79.99, it provides a balanced mix of guided insight and access to one of the world’s most spectacular sites.

The Itinerary in Detail

Pick-up and Transfer

The journey begins with a pick-up from your hotel in Amman or the airport, making it simple to start your day without any logistical stress. The private vehicle ensures a comfortable ride, with the drive taking approximately three hours each way, giving you a chance to relax and soak in Jordan’s scenery during the journey.

Arrival at Petra

Once at Petra, you’ll meet your private guide. This is where the magic begins. The guide, often praised for their knowledgeable explanations, will lead you down the famous Siq, a narrow, winding canyon with towering sandstone walls that seem to glow as the sunlight filters through. This walk is not just scenic but also rich in anticipation, as it leads directly to the Treasury, Petra’s most iconic façade.

Reviewers mention that guides like Helal make all the difference, explaining the history and stories behind each monument in an engaging way. Expect to see the Street of Facades, the Roman Theater, and the Royal Tombs—each offering a glimpse into Petra’s past grandeur.

Exploring Petra’s Highlights

The three-hour exploration period is well timed to see the core attractions without feeling rushed. You’ll walk or ride a horse down the canyon, which adds a fun, local touch and helps conserve energy for the sightseeing.

Relaxation in Petra

After touring the main sites, you’ll have some free time to relax in one of the cafes or enjoy the scenery. This pause is appreciated by travelers who want to absorb the atmosphere and take photos without feeling hurried.

Petra by Night Experience

In the evening, the tour includes the famous Petra by Night. The site transforms into a mysterious wonderland, lit by hundreds of candles and oil lamps. This experience is often described as magical and surreal, offering a different perspective of Petra that’s hard to match during the day. Reviewers highlight that guides explain the historical significance of the illumination, enhancing the experience.

Return to Amman

After savoring the candlelit cityscape, the journey back begins. The total duration varies, but most travelers find the day length manageable and rewarding—especially given the unforgettable sights.

Transportation & Comfort

The use of an air-conditioned vehicle makes a big difference, especially considering the 6-hour round trip. Travelers consistently mention the comfort and convenience of this arrangement, which minimizes fatigue and maximizes enjoyment.

Guide Quality

The reviews praise guides like Helal, who are described as explaining everything very well and making the visit engaging and educational. This personal touch often turns a sightseeing trip into a memorable learning experience.

Price and Value

At $79.99 per person, the tour offers good value, especially considering it includes private transportation and guided insights. The entrance fee to Petra isn’t included, but the overall package is designed to make the most of limited time—delivering a comprehensive snapshot of Petra’s highlights.

Practical Tips and Considerations

• Timing: Since the drive is about 3 hours each way, plan your day to start early if you want ample time at Petra.
• Comfort: Wear comfortable shoes, as walking is involved, especially through the Siq and other archaeological sites.
• Petra by Night: Check the schedule—this experience often takes place in the evening, so plan your day to include this enchanting walk.
• Photography: Bring a camera or smartphone with good battery life; the sunset and candlelit scenes are picture-perfect.
• Guidance: The expertise of your guide is a key part of the experience—don’t hesitate to ask questions or request deeper insights.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This private tour is perfect for travelers who want a thorough yet efficient introduction to Petra without dedicating multiple days. It suits those with a tight schedule, first-timers eager for highlights, or anyone who appreciates guided narratives. The inclusion of Petra by Night makes it especially appealing for those seeking a romantic or atmospheric experience.

It’s also ideal if comfort and convenience matter—private transportation and a personal guide mean you won’t have to worry about navigating or crowds. But beware of the long drive if you prefer slower-paced, more relaxed sightseeing.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for all travelers?
Most travelers can participate, as the tour is designed to accommodate various needs. The drive and walking are manageable for most, though those with mobility issues should check with the provider.

What’s included in the tour?
The tour includes private, air-conditioned transportation and guidance. The entrance fee to Petra is not included, so you should budget for that separately.

How long does the total trip take?
The duration ranges from about 3 to 14 hours, depending on your preferred schedule and whether you choose to include Petra by Night.

Can I customize the trip?
Since it’s a private tour, you may be able to discuss specific interests with your guide, such as focusing more on certain sites or adjusting timing.

Is Petra by Night worth it?
Absolutely. Many reviewers describe it as a magical, unforgettable experience that provides a different perspective of Petra’s grandeur illuminated by candlelight.

How far in advance should I book?
Most travelers book around 61 days ahead, indicating it’s popular and worth securing early.

What is the price per person?
The cost is $79.99, which offers good value considering private transport and guided expertise.

What if I need to cancel?
You can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours before the tour for a full refund.

Final Thoughts

This Petra and Petra by Night private tour offers a well-rounded, accessible way to experience one of the world’s most treasured archaeological sites. Its combination of expert guides, private transportation, and a special evening experience makes it a compelling choice for those short on time but eager for authentic sights.

Travelers will appreciate the personalized attention and the balance of guided exploration with free time to soak in the scenery. It’s particularly suited for first-time visitors and anyone looking for a seamless, stress-free visit that covers the key highlights with a touch of magic at sunset and candlelight.

While the long drive might be a consideration, the overall quality and value make this tour a worthwhile investment for a memorable Petra experience—especially if a visit to Petra by Night is on your Jordanian bucket list.

Remember: Prepare for a full day, wear comfortable shoes, and bring your camera. With good planning, this tour will leave you with unforgettable memories of Jordan’s most famous jewel.