Petra and Wadi Rum Private Day Tour

If you’re looking to tick off two of Jordan’s most iconic sights—Petra and Wadi Rum—in just a single day, this private tour might be your best bet. While it packs a lot into roughly 12 to 14 hours, it offers a convenient and well-organized way to experience the country’s highlights without sacrificing comfort or authenticity.

What we love about this experience is how seamlessly it combines luxury transportation, expert local guides, and flexible options for exploring these extraordinary sites. Plus, the fact that it’s a private tour means you get personalized attention and the chance to tailor your stops, which makes the long day more manageable.

One potential consideration? Since the tour doesn’t include entry tickets or meals, you’ll need to plan those separately. This is especially important if you’re keen on exploring Petra fully or enjoying local cuisine at your own pace.

This tour appeals most to travelers who value comfort, flexibility, and want an authentic experience with knowledgeable guides. It works particularly well for those on a tight schedule or who prefer a private, curated journey over group tours.

Key Points

• All-in-One Day: Visit both Petra and Wadi Rum without needing multiple days.
• Private, Comfortable Transport: Air-conditioned vehicle with WiFi and bottled water makes the long drive pleasant.
• Expert Guide: Knowledgeable drivers who speak fluent English enhance the experience.
• Flexible Activities at Wadi Rum: Enjoy a jeep tour, camel ride, or just relax with tea—at your own expense.
• Cost-Effective for Small Groups: Price covers up to 3-4 people, offering good value for a personalized experience.
• No Entrance or Meals Included: Budget accordingly for entrance tickets and food.

The Itinerary in Detail

Starting Point: Pickup from Anywhere in Amman

The tour begins with a convenient pickup from your accommodation or any location in Amman. This sets a relaxed tone, avoiding the hassle of navigating public transport or arranging separate transfers. The journey to Petra is approximately a 3-hour drive in a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle equipped with WiFi and bottled water—a small luxury that makes the long road more bearable.

Stop 1: Petra – One of the world’s New Seven Wonders

Arriving at Petra, you’ll have around 3 hours to explore this awe-inspiring site. Known as the Rose City due to its striking pink-hued rock formations, Petra’s vast complex features carved facades, tombs, and ancient pathways that span over centuries. While the entry ticket isn’t included in the tour price, your guide or driver can suggest nearby ticketing options or tips on how to navigate the site efficiently.

Travelers often comment on how much there is to see, from the iconic Treasury (Al-Khazneh) to the lesser-known but equally fascinating tombs and structures. One reviewer shared, “Zaid the driver is friendly, speaks very good English, is knowledgeable of good nearby restaurants, and overall enhances the experience.” This hints at how your guide’s insights can make a difference, turning what might be a quick visit into an engaging story.

Transition: Drive to Wadi Rum

After your time in Petra, you’ll hop back into the vehicle for a scenic drive southward to Wadi Rum, often called the Valley of the Moon. Covering 720 square kilometers of dramatic desert landscapes, this protected area offers visitors stunning sandstone mountains, narrow canyons, and sweeping sands.

Stop 2: Wadi Rum – Desert and Adventure

Your time at Wadi Rum includes a 2-hour exploration, during which an included 4×4 jeep tour takes you through the rugged terrain, revealing iconic landmarks and sweeping vistas. Many reviewers praised the driver, Muhannad, describing him as a “very good photographer and driver in the desert,” adding an authentic and visually enriching layer to the experience.

You also have the option to take a camel ride or enjoy tea at your own expense, offering a taste of Bedouin hospitality and traditional desert life. The landscape here is perfect for photos, and the guide’s local knowledge can help you pinpoint the best spots for memorable pictures or quiet contemplation.

Return Journey: Back to Amman

After exploring Wadi Rum, you’ll begin the return trip to Amman, reflecting on a jam-packed day of discovery. The private transport ensures a smooth, relaxed trip back, with WiFi still available if you want to share photos or check local tips.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

Comfort and Convenience

The key selling point is the private, air-conditioned vehicle. Long days in Jordan’s desert heat can be tiring, but this travel setup keeps you comfortable with climate control, bottled water, and WiFi. The flexibility to start and end your day wherever you prefer in Amman adds to the convenience.

Expert Local Guides and Drivers

Multiple reviewers have emphasized the friendly, knowledgeable nature of the driver, Zaid, who not only navigates the roads with ease but also offers insights into Jordanian culture, history, and good restaurant recommendations. His fluency in English and willingness to go beyond just driving — sharing stories and tips — really heightens the experience.

Authentic Experiences at Wadi Rum

While the jeep tour is included and seems to satisfy most visitors, some travelers also appreciate the optional camel ride or simply soaking in the scenery with a cup of tea. Wadi Rum’s landscape, with its dramatic rock formations and vast open spaces, provides a sense of adventure and tranquility that many find compelling.

Cost and Value

At $399 for up to 3 people, this private tour offers good value considering the benefits of personalized service, transport, and guided insights. It’s especially appealing for small groups or couples wanting a tailored experience without the hassle of self-driving or arranging multiple tours separately.

Limitations and Considerations

The main caveat is that entry tickets to Petra are not included. You’ll need to purchase these separately, which can add to your overall expense. Also, meals are not part of the package, so plan your lunch or snacks accordingly. This flexibility lets you choose where to eat and how much time to spend inside Petra, but it requires some planning.

Authentic Insights from Reviewers

One reviewer summed up their experience perfectly: “We had an excellent day with Zaid! He gave us clear and helpful instructions as we toured Petra and was a great conversationalist throughout our day. He also took us to the perfect restaurant and helped us order a delicious meal.” This highlights how a knowledgeable guide can turn a busy day into a memorable, personalized adventure.

Another said, “Zaid is a calm, friendly, and very responsible driver. He took us on several trips around Jordan, always on time, and always ready to help.” Such reviews reinforce the importance of having a guide who is not just professional but genuinely invested in making your trip enjoyable.

Who Is This Tour For?

This tour is ideal for travelers with limited time but big ambitions, who want to see Petra and Wadi Rum without sacrificing comfort. It’s perfect for small groups or couples wanting a more intimate experience, especially if you value a guide’s local knowledge and personalized service. Adventure seekers can enjoy the jeep tour and optional activities, while those looking for cultural enrichment will appreciate the insights from their driver.

However, if you’re someone who prefers to spend more time at each site or needs a fully inclusive experience (tickets and meals), you might want to consider alternative options or be prepared to add extra costs.

FAQs

Are entry tickets to Petra included? No, the price covers transportation and a guide/driver but not the Petra entry tickets. You will need to purchase these separately.

Is the tour suitable for all fitness levels? The tour requires a strong physical fitness level, especially if you plan to explore Petra extensively or participate in activities like camel riding.

What’s the duration of the trip? The entire experience lasts approximately 12 to 14 hours, including travel, sightseeing, and breaks.

Can I customize the stops or activities? Since it’s a private tour, there’s flexibility to tailor your experience, such as extending time in certain areas or choosing activities at Wadi Rum.

Is WiFi available during the trip? Yes, WiFi is provided onboard the vehicle, making it easy to share your adventures or look up local info.

What should I bring? Bring comfortable shoes, sun protection, and enough water. Also, plan for optional expenses like entrance tickets, meals, and activities like camel rides.

Final Thoughts

This Petra and Wadi Rum private day tour offers a fantastic way to see two of Jordan’s most celebrated sites without feeling rushed. The combination of comfortable transportation, knowledgeable guides, and flexible activities makes it an excellent choice for those short on time but eager to experience the country’s highlights authentically.

The tour’s focus on personalized service and attention to detail is clear from the glowing reviews, particularly highlighting the professionalism and friendliness of guides like Zaid and Muhannad. While not including entrance fees or meals might be a downside for some, it also means you can better tailor your experience and budget.

If you’re a traveler who appreciates good value for money, enjoys guided insights, and wants a hassle-free way to explore Petra and Wadi Rum in one day, this tour is worth considering. Just remember to plan ahead for tickets and meals to make the most of your Jordanian adventure.