Petra Private Full-Day Tour

Planning a trip to Jordan and eager to see Petra without feeling rushed or overwhelmed? This Petra Private Full-Day Tour promises a customized experience, blending expert guidance with enough free time to explore at your own pace. While the price might seem steep at $350 for a group of up to four people, the personalized approach and convenience make it worth considering for those wanting a hassle-free visit to this iconic site.

What makes this tour stand out? First, the door-to-door private transportation means no navigating public transport or crowded groups. Second, the knowledgeable local guides share insights and stories that bring Petra’s ancient stones to life. Third, the flexibility to linger at certain parts of Petra or skip others allows you to tailor the day to your interests. On the downside, some past travelers have expressed dissatisfaction with limited visiting time—so managing expectations about the schedule is key. This tour is best suited for travelers who value comfort, personalized attention, and authentic insights, especially if it’s your first visit or you want a comprehensive, stress-free Petra experience.

Key Points

• Private transportation ensures comfort and convenience from Amman to Petra and back.
• Flexible itinerary allows you to spend more time at favored sites or explore at your own pace.
• Guided insights from local chauffeurs can enrich your understanding of Petra’s history and significance.
• Cost includes a full-day pass to Petra, but entrance fees are paid separately at $50 JOD per person.
• Tour duration runs approximately 8 to 10 hours, making it a full but manageable day.
• Reviews highlight friendly drivers and a generally positive experience, though some have expressed dissatisfaction with limited time at key sites.

Exploring the Itinerary: What You Can Expect

This private tour is thoughtfully designed to hit all the major highlights of Petra, with enough free time to soak in the sights or take photos without feeling hurried. Here’s a detailed breakdown:

The Siq – The Dramatic Entrance

Your day begins with a stop at the Siq, the winding canyon that leads into Petra. Almost 1,200 meters long, this narrow passage is lined with towering rocks that create a sense of anticipation. While the admission ticket is not included in the tour price, the walk through the Siq feels like stepping into a secret world. Reviewers mention that the Siq’s dramatic cliffs and play of light make it one of the most striking parts of the visit, setting the tone for what lies ahead.

The Treasury – Petra’s Iconic Face

Next, you’ll visit the Treasury (Al Khazna), the most famous façade in Petra. Standing nearly 40 meters high, its intricate carvings and imposing presence make it an instant photo opportunity. While the entrance fee isn’t included, many travelers say that seeing the Treasury up close is worth the extra cost. One reviewer described it as a “magnificent façade,” emphasizing how the detailed Corinthian capitals and friezes bring out the craftsmanship of the Nabataean artisans.

The Monastery (Al Dayr) – A Climb with a View

The Monastery is one of Petra’s largest monuments, measuring roughly 47 by 48 meters. It’s built in a similar style to the Treasury but is more remote and involves a bit of a hike. The climb offers rewarding views of the surrounding mountains, and many appreciate the opportunity to stretch their legs. Expect roughly an hour here, with some reviewers praising the challenging walk but stunning vistas that make it worthwhile.

The Royal Tombs and Other Necropolises

Overlooking Petra’s center, the Royal Tombs are a collection of impressive mausoleums with elaborate façades carved into the hillside. While their specific builders or owners are unknown, their scale and craftsmanship are impressive. Nearby, the Obelisk Tomb, Urn Tomb, and Sextius Florentinus Tomb each tell different stories through their architecture and inscriptions. Past visitors note that these tombs offer a glimpse into Nabataean burial practices and the extent of their architectural skills.

Silk Tomb and Other Notable Sites

The Silk Tomb stands out for its vivid sandstone coloration, giving it a distinctive appearance. Its name reflects its rich hue, adding a splash of color to Petra’s landscape. The guide might share insights into the first-century AD origins of these structures, making the visit both visually and historically engaging.

High Place of Sacrifice – A Steep Climb and a View

For those willing to trek a little, the High Place of Sacrifice offers a panoramic view of Petra and the surrounding mountains. The path involves a half-hour steep ascent, but reviews mention that the views are breathtaking and the effort is well worth it. It’s a favorite among visitors who enjoy a bit of adventure.

Major Architectural Sites

The Great Temple, Temple of Dushares, and Temple of the Winged Lions round out the tour, showcasing Petra’s religious and social complexity. You’ll learn about their excavation history and architectural features, with some reviews praising guides like Mustafa for their helpfulness and knowledge. One reviewer specifically mentioned how Mustafa’s assistance helped them maximize their time and enjoy the visit more fully.

What Makes This Tour a Good Value?

Although the $350 cost might seem high at first glance, consider what’s included: private transport, a full-day guided experience, bottled water, WiFi, and restroom access on board. The full-day Petra pass is a significant perk, giving you the flexibility to explore more comfortably than on a group tour with fixed timings.

Past travelers mention that the service quality, vehicle comfort, and driver friendliness make the experience feel personalized. One reviewer expressed gratitude for their guide Mustafa, noting that he was “amazing and helpful,” which highlights the value of having a knowledgeable local guiding your journey.

However, it’s important to remember that entrance fees are extra—$50 JOD per person—so budget accordingly. Some travelers felt that the limited hours allotted to key sites like the Treasury or Monastery could be a drawback. If you’re someone who prefers a very tight schedule or wants to see every inch of Petra, this might not be the best fit.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This private full-day Petra tour is perfect for travelers who want a comfortable, flexible, and insightful experience. It’s especially suited for those who appreciate personalized service, want the convenience of door-to-door pickup, and prefer to avoid the crowds or logistical hassles of public transport.

It’s also a good choice for first-timers to Petra who want a rundown without the stress of navigating alone. If you’re traveling with friends or family and value privacy and flexibility, this tour offers an excellent way to see Petra at a relaxed pace.

Limitations and Considerations

While the tour offers many benefits, some guests expressed disappointment about the restricted time at major sites like the Treasury and the Monastery. One review even mentioned feeling that “only one hour” was allocated, which might make some travelers feel rushed. It’s worth clarifying with the operator beforehand about how much time you’ll have at each stop.

Another point to consider is the additional entrance fee; since it’s not included, you’ll need to set aside some extra cash. Also, the quality of the vehicle and the driver’s attitude** can vary, as some reviews mention older cars and rude drivers, but others praise the professionalism of the service.

The Sum Up

This Petra Private Full-Day Tour offers a solid, flexible way to explore Jordan’s most famous archaeological site without the stress of organizing logistics yourself. The combination of private transport, knowledgeable local guides, and the freedom to explore at your own pace makes it stand out from standard group tours. It’s a particularly good fit for those who value comfort, personalized insights, and a full-day adventure.

While it isn’t the cheapest option—mainly due to entrance fees—and some sites may feel rushed, the overall experience seems to leave many travelers satisfied, especially those who appreciate the human touch and insider tips from local guides. If you’re looking for a hassle-free, immersive day at Petra that balances guided knowledge with free exploration, this tour is worth considering.

FAQ

Is pickup offered?
Yes, the tour includes door-to-door pickup and drop-off, making it very convenient.

What is included in the price?
The $350 fee covers private transportation, bottled water, WiFi on board, restroom access, and a full-day pass to Petra.

Are entrance fees included?
No, Petra’s entrance fee of 50 JOD per person is paid separately.

How long does the tour last?
The tour lasts approximately 8 to 10 hours, giving you ample time to explore Petra’s main sites.

Can I customize my visit?
Yes, the flexible schedule allows you to spend more time at certain sites or skip others, depending on your interests.

What about the guides?
Guides are local chauffeurs, friendly and willing to share insights. Some reviews mention guides like Mustafa, who actively enhance the experience.

Is the tour suitable for all travelers?
Most travelers can participate, but those with mobility issues should note some sites involve walking or climbing.

How do reviews reflect the experience?
Many reviews praise friendly drivers and good value, though some express dissatisfaction with limited time at major landmarks or older vehicles.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, sunscreen, hat, and a camera are recommended. Extra cash for entrance fees is also advised.

Is this tour worth the price?
Considering the private transport, guided insights, and flexibility, many find the experience to be good value—especially for first-time visitors to Petra.

In brief, if you’re after a personalized, comfortable way to see Petra’s highlights with knowledgeable guides and the freedom to explore, this private tour offers a compelling option.