Petra Full-Day Private Tour From Amman

Exploring Petra from Amman: A Private Full-Day Tour Review

Planning a trip to Jordan and eager to make the most of Petra’s incredible archaeological sites? A full-day private tour from Amman offers a personalized and relaxed way to visit this iconic city. With a knowledgeable driver, flexible timing, and the ability to set your own pace, this tour promises a stress-free adventure.

What we love about this experience is how it combines comfort with customization. You’ll enjoy modern vehicles with Wi-Fi and water, a dedicated driver’s local insights, and ample time to explore Petra’s famous landmarks—Treasury, Monastery, and Royal Tombs—at your own speed. Plus, the straightforward pricing makes it a clear choice for those wanting value and convenience.

However, one thing to keep in mind is that entry fees are not included, so you’ll need to budget for tickets and optional guides. This flexibility is perfect for travelers who prefer to avoid rigid schedules and want to tailor their day to personal interests. If you love exploring at your own pace with comfort and local expertise, this tour fits the bill.

This tour is best suited for history enthusiasts, solo travelers, or groups wanting a customizable, private experience without the hassle of group tours. If you’re after an immersive day that balances sightseeing with comfort, it’s an excellent pick.

Key Points

• Private, customizable experience tailored to your pace and interests
• Comfortable transportation with Wi-Fi and bottled water included
• Flexible schedule with 4 hours inside Petra for exploration
• Knowledgeable local driver providing insights and assistance
• Cost-effective at $92.50 per person, with optional extras
• Free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for peace of mind

The Journey to Petra: What You Can Expect

A typical day begins with pickup from your Amman hotel or the airport, where you’ll hop into a modern, air-conditioned vehicle. Your driver, who speaks fluent English, will then take you along the desert highway—an impressive route that transitions from Amman’s bustling streets into Jordan’s striking landscape. The three-hour drive is comfortable, often with the bonus of Wi-Fi on board, making the journey part of the adventure rather than just transportation.

Stop 1: From the Heart of Amman to Petra

Your pickup timing can be flexible, but the journey generally takes around three hours. The drive itself is a chance to chat with your driver, who might share local anecdotes or tips. Since the tour is private, you won’t be stuck with strangers, allowing you to stop for pictures or bathroom breaks as needed.

Stop 2: Petra Visitors Center

Once you arrive at Petra, you’ll stop at the visitor center to purchase your entry ticket (not included in the tour price). Here, you can also hire a licensed guide if you want a detailed narration, though many reviewers, like Ian, opted for a self-guided exploration and found it perfectly sufficient.

The visitor center is your gateway into Petra’s captivating landscape. From here, the walk up to the ancient city begins—it’s about 15 minutes, and the pathway offers glimpses of Petra’s distinctive rock formations and carved facades. Many visitors enjoy the opportunity to absorb the surroundings and get their first views of the iconic structures.

Stop 3: Free Exploration of Petra

You’re given around 4 hours to explore Petra at your own pace, which is ample time to visit the main sites and venture into some of the lesser-known corners. Major highlights include:

• The Treasury (Al-Khazneh): The most famous façade, carved into rose-colored rock, perfectly framed by the Siq. We loved how Ian remarked that “this was an excellent trip” and appreciated the freedom to linger and take photos without feeling rushed.

• The Monastery (Ad-Deir): A bit of a hike but worth every step for the stunning views and impressive architecture.

• Royal Tombs: A cluster of tombs showcasing Petra’s grandeur.

• Hidden Gems: If you’re feeling adventurous, your driver’s local knowledge can help you discover quieter spots or lesser-visited sites, enhancing your experience beyond the typical tourist trail.

Reviewers have praised the flexibility here. Shamim R noted, “The site is breathtaking. Walking through the tunnel and seeing the treasury. The carvings in the mountains. The amazing walking. Just ignore everyone trying to sell you things.” This highlights the importance of patience and focus on the scenery and history.

Stop 4: Return to Amman

After a full day of exploration, your driver will take you back to Amman. The return trip is about three hours, giving you time to relax and reflect on the day. Some travelers like to grab a quick dinner or coffee during the drive, while others prefer to unwind quietly.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out

Personalization and flexibility are the biggest draws. Unlike group tours with fixed schedules, this private experience allows you to decide how long to spend at each site, and your driver is there to assist with recommendations and local insights. Many reviewers, like Ian, appreciated “adding on to the trip in any way I liked,” emphasizing the customizable nature.

Comfort is another advantage. The modern vehicle with Wi-Fi and bottled water means you travel in style, and the private setup minimizes crowds and distractions. Those traveling with family or friends will find this particularly appealing.

The cost—around $92.50 per person—represents good value, considering the private transportation, flexibility, and personalized attention. You can also opt for extras like guides at the visitor center, which some travelers found beneficial for deepening their understanding.

The driver’s local knowledge stands out as a key asset. Many reviews highlight how helpful and friendly the drivers are, often providing tips on where to take photos or how to avoid the crowds.

Practical Considerations

• Entry fees are not included, so budget for tickets to Petra. Prices vary depending on the type of ticket you purchase, and hiring a guide is optional.
• The tour requires a moderate physical fitness level, as there’s some walking involved, especially when exploring the site.
• The timing is flexible but generally covers about 10 to 11 hours, making it a long but rewarding day.
• This is a private tour, meaning only your group participates, which enhances comfort and control over your experience.
• The tour is operated by North Amman Tourism Promotion, a trusted provider, and offers free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience.

Final Thoughts

This Petra full-day private tour offers a well-rounded experience for travelers seeking comfort, flexibility, and personal attention. The combination of a knowledgeable driver, private transportation, and the option to customize your visit makes it a standout choice for those wanting to explore Petra at their own pace.

While you’ll need to handle entry tickets separately, the overall value is clear when considering the ease of travel and the freedom to explore. It’s an especially good pick for travelers who prefer avoiding crowded group tours and want to take their time marveling at Petra’s iconic sights.

In short, if you’re after a relaxed, personalized adventure with expert local assistance, this tour offers an excellent way to experience one of the world’s most remarkable archaeological sites.

FAQ

Are entry fees included in the tour price?
No, entry fees to Petra are not included. You will need to purchase your tickets separately at the visitor center.

Is there a guide available during the visit?
Guided tours are optional. You can hire a licensed guide at the Petra visitor center for additional insights if you wish.

How long is the drive from Amman to Petra?
The journey takes about three hours one way, offering a comfortable ride with Wi-Fi and bottled water included.

What is the physical demand of this tour?
It requires a moderate level of physical fitness due to walking and exploring the site, including some uphill sections.

Can I customize the sightseeing at Petra?
Yes, the 4-hour exploration window allows you to decide what to see and how long to spend at each location.

Is this a group or private tour?
It’s a private tour, meaning only your group will participate, giving you more control and privacy.

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