03 Days – 02 Nights Petra & Wadi Rum Tour from Eilat Border

Exploring Petra and Wadi Rum from Eilat: An Honest Review

Traveling to the Middle East often means navigating complex itineraries and packed schedules, but a well-organized tour can unlock some of the most iconic sights like Petra and Wadi Rum without the hassle. This 3-day, 2-night package from Eilat offers just that—a chance to see the Pink City of Petra, explore the sweeping desert of Wadi Rum, and experience Bedouin hospitality in a single trip.

What sets this tour apart? First, the comprehensive itinerary includes both major highlights with guided detail and free time to explore on your own. Second, the value-added extras like included entrance fees, transport, and overnight stays, make it a solid deal. Third, the authentic experiences—from Bedouin hospitality to desert jeep rides—help you get a real taste of Jordanian culture.

However, one point to consider is the timing and pacing—the tour involves a good amount of travel each day, which may be tiring for some. It’s best suited for those who want a structured, in-depth introduction to Petra and Wadi Rum without the stress of planning every detail. This package is ideal for first-timers, history buffs, or adventure-seekers looking for a balanced mix of guided exploration and personal discovery.

Key Points

• All-Inclusive Value: Entrance fees, visa assistance, hotel, and transport are covered.
• Authentic Bedouin Experience: Camp overnight in Wadi Rum with traditional Bedouin hospitality.
• Comprehensive Sightseeing: Visit iconic sites like Petra’s Treasury, Siq, and Royal Tombs.
• Expert Guides: Knowledgeable guides enrich the experience with stories and insights.
• Efficient Itinerary: Well-paced schedule balances sightseeing and travel time.
• Traveler-Reviewed Quality: Consistently high ratings and positive reviews underline reliability.

Starting the Journey: Border Crossing and Wadi Rum

The adventure begins early in the morning, with a meet-up at the Eilat border around 8:00 am. The process is straightforward—your team helps organize your Jordanian visa in advance, streamlining what could otherwise be a tedious process. Once across, the 1-hour transfer to Wadi Rum sets the tone for adventure, surrounded by the rugged beauty of Jordan’s southern desert.

As you arrive, you’ll be greeted by an English-speaking Bedouin guide at the visitor’s center, who will serve as your host and storyteller throughout the day. The warmth of Bedouin hospitality is palpable here, with tea, coffee, and a visit to a local family’s home offering an authentic glimpse into desert life.

The highlight of this first day is the 4-5 hour jeep tour. You’ll follow in the footsteps of Lawrence of Arabia, climbing sand dunes, crossing rock bridges, and exploring sites like Nabatean Temple, Lawrence Spring, and Khazali Canyon. The guides are praised for their friendliness and knowledge; one reviewer specifically appreciated the “funny guide” at Wadi Rum, making the experience engaging and informative.

The jeep rides are a perfect way to cover the expansive terrain, with stops that allow plenty of time for photos and soaking in the stunning landscape. Optional camel rides are available, costing about 10 JD ($15 USD) per hour, and are highly recommended by travelers who want a more traditional desert experience.

As sunset approaches, you’ll settle in for a BBQ dinner in the desert. Many reviewers mentioned the legendary Bedouin hospitality and the chance to gaze at an incredible star-filled sky—an experience that makes Wadi Rum stand out as a must-visit destination.

Day Two: From Desert to the Ancient City

The morning begins with the mesmerizing sight of Wadi Rum’s sunrise, followed by a hearty breakfast at the camp. After packing up, you’ll be driven back to the visitor’s center for your transfer to Petra, a journey of roughly two hours. Along the way, there are brief stops for photos and photo ops of the scenic King’s Highway, which winds through the Jordanian mountains.

Arriving at Petra, the site’s dramatic entrance through the narrow Siq immediately captures your imagination. Your guided tour with an English-speaking guide lasts about three hours, covering key highlights like Al-Khazneh (the Treasury), the Street of Facades, the Royal Tombs, and the Roman Theater. One reviewer lauded their guide’s storytelling skills, noting that it brought the ancient city to life and made the experience more meaningful.

The site’s intricate carvings and towering sandstone facades are breathtaking, especially as you walk through the narrow canyon leading to the Treasury—a moment many visitors consider the highlight of their trip. After the guided portion, you’re free to explore more on your own, perhaps hiking to the Monastery or climbing the surrounding hills for panoramic views.

A notable feature of the tour is the horse ride available from the main gate, which many reviewers found adds a charming, relaxed touch to the visit (though tipping the horse handler is customary and expected). This optional 700-meter ride offers a different perspective and helps save energy for further exploration.

Overnight, you’ll stay in a 3-star hotel in Petra that includes breakfast. Travelers report the hotel as comfortable and convenient, offering a restful night after a full day of sightseeing.

Day Three: Flexibility and Return

On the final day, you have the option to revisit Petra independently or to opt for additional trails or hikes. Some reviews mention the possibility of exploring lesser-known parts of Petra, which can be arranged if time allows.

The return journey to Eilat begins around mid-morning, with a drive of approximately 1.5 hours back to the border. The tour ensures you’re back in Eilat before the border closes at 8:00 pm, providing peace of mind and a stress-free conclusion to your adventure.

The entire experience, as per reviews, is smooth and well-organized, with many travelers expressing satisfaction with the punctuality and friendliness of guides and drivers. It’s clear that the tour takes care of the details, from border crossings to hotel bookings.

What’s Included and What’s Not

This tour offers excellent value for money, considering the many inclusions: all transfers, entrance fees, visa assistance, Bedouin hospitality, overnight camps, hotel stay, and guided tours. The only extras are tips for guides and drivers, optional camel or horse rides, and personal expenses.

The flexibility to customize your Petra visit on the last day is a plus for those wanting to spend more time or explore voluntarily. The tour’s reviews consistently highlight the professionalism and friendliness of the guides, making the experience both educational and enjoyable.

Final Thoughts: Who Is This Tour Best For?

This tour is ideal for first-time visitors to Jordan who want a structured yet authentic experience of Petra and Wadi Rum without the stress of planning every detail. It’s perfect for adventure lovers eager to explore desert landscapes and ancient ruins in one trip, and culture enthusiasts attracted to Bedouin hospitality.

If you value guidance and convenience, this tour’s organized approach, inclusive prices, and experienced guides will serve you well. That said, travelers who prefer spontaneous exploration or long hiking adventures might find the itinerary somewhat limited, but for most, the balance of guided and free time hits the right note.

FAQs

How early does the tour start?
The tour starts at 10:00 am at Eilat, with a meet-up at the border around 8:00 am. It’s designed to allow ample time for border crossing and transfer to Wadi Rum.

Are entrance fees and visas included?
Yes, the tour includes all entrance fees and visa assistance, making the process simple and hassle-free.

Is there accommodation included?
Yes, you’ll spend the first night camping in Wadi Rum and the second night at a 3-star hotel in Petra, both with breakfast included.

Can I do additional activities like camel riding?
Camel rides are optional and available at an extra cost (around 10 JD / $15 USD per hour). Horse riding in Petra is also available but tips are customary.

What’s the group size?
Since this is a private tour, only your group participates, ensuring a personalized experience.

Is this tour suitable for kids or seniors?
Most travelers can participate, but be aware of the physical activity involved—such as walking and optional rides. The pace is moderate, but some may find the travel tiring.

To sum it up, this Petra and Wadi Rum tour from Eilat balances guided exploration with authentic Bedouin experiences, all at a fair price point. It’s perfect for those seeking a well-rounded, memorable trip to Jordan’s most famous sights, with guides who truly know their stuff and a schedule that respects your time and curiosity.