Exploring Petra & Wadi Rum from Eilat: A Practical, Authentic 3-Day Tour Review
Travelers looking to explore Jordan’s legendary treasures often face the challenge of navigating border crossings, logistics, and planning. This 3-day, 2-night package from Eilat, offered by Jordan Horizons Tours, aims to simplify that process, combining comfort, guided insights, and authentic experiences. From the moment you’re picked up at the border to the final drive back, this tour seems designed for those who want to see the highlights without the hassle.
What sets this experience apart? First, you get door-to-door transportation—no taxis or confusing transfers. Second, the included guided tours and local Bedouin guides promise deeper context and personal stories, not just checklist sightseeing. Third, the all-inclusive meals and accommodations ensure you’re well-fed and rested, making the trip both convenient and enjoyable. That said, one consideration might be the limited free time for spontaneous exploration, especially in Petra, where the guided portion is about three hours.
This tour feels best suited for travelers who prefer a well-organized, hassle-free way to experience Jordan’s top sights, especially if arriving from Eilat. It’s ideal for those with moderate physical fitness, as some walking and jeep rides are involved. If you’re after a balanced mix of guided insight and free time, this could be a perfect fit.
Key Points
- All-Inclusive Convenience: Includes visas, entrance fees, accommodations, meals, and guided tours.
- Authentic Insights: Local Bedouin guides enrich your understanding of Wadi Rum and Petra.
- Door-to-Door Transport: Simplifies border crossings and internal transfers.
- Balanced Schedule: Time allocated for guided tours plus free exploration.
- Comfort & Quality: Hotels and camps are well-selected, with positive reviews on amenities.
- Value for Money: Competitive pricing considering the inclusions and hassle-free setup.
The Core Experience: A Practical Breakdown
Looking for more options in Eilat? We've reviewed plenty of other experiences.
Starting at the Israeli Border
Your journey begins with a straightforward process at the Eilat-Aqaba border. You will complete the Israeli side of border formalities on your own, which can be quick if you’re prepared—you’ll need your passport and possibly a visa if required for your nationality. Once you cross into Jordan, you’ll meet a Jordan Horizons Tours representative, who will assist with visa procedures, including the free visa for those staying over two nights. This personalized assistance can save travelers from the usual confusion or long waits that sometimes accompany border crossings.
Day 1: Arrival and Transfer to Petra
After border formalities, you’ll meet your driver for a rough two-hour scenic drive to Petra. The journey itself offers a chance to relax and enjoy the changing scenery, with a comfortable vehicle tailored for groups. Upon arrival, you’ll check into your hotel near Petra, where breakfast is included. This early arrival means you can settle in, perhaps take a quick rest, and get ready for the next day’s exploration.
Day 2: Full Day in Petra & Wadi Rum
The highlight of this trip is the guided tour of Petra, one of the 7 wonders of the world and a UNESCO site. The tour lasts about three hours, led by an English-speaking guide who offers detailed insights into the site’s history, architecture, and legend. From the famous Treasury (Al-Khazneh) to the Street of Facades and Royal Tombs, you’ll see the iconic landmarks and learn their stories.
The review from a past traveler notes that the guide “took care of all our bookings and everything went smoothly,” emphasizing the value of knowledgeable guides who keep things on track. After the guided tour, you’re free to wander more leisurely—climb up to the Monastery, explore hidden corners, or relax at a café.
In the afternoon, your driver will transfer you about 1.5 hours to Wadi Rum. This vast desert landscape is one of the most striking natural sights in Jordan, with towering sandstone cliffs and red dunes. Here, you settle into a Bedouin-style camp, where your hosts will greet you with legendary hospitality. The sunset over the rocks is a must-see, and the starry night sky is unforgettable—some reviews mention how mesmerizing the stars are in this remote desert.
Dinner at the camp is included, with vegetarian options available, and the ambiance is relaxed yet vibrant, perfect for unwinding after the day’s adventures.
Day 3: Wadi Rum Jeep Tour & Return
Wake up in the desert with a hearty breakfast, then prepare for a 4-5 hour 4×4 Jeep tour that covers key sites like Lawrence Spring, Khazali Canyon, Sand Dunes, Little Bridge, and Burdah Rock Bridge. The stops are carefully selected to showcase the area’s natural beauty and historical significance, and you’ll be accompanied by an English-speaking Bedouin driver who shares stories and local legends.
A notable perk is the optional camel ride from Rum Village to Lawrence Spring, which can be a fun, authentic addition—though it costs about 10 JD/15 USD per hour per camel, so you might want to budget for that extra experience.
After the jeep adventure, your driver will take you back to the Eilat border, completing the seamless journey. The entire experience offers a mixture of guided insight, outdoor adventure, and culture.
The Value of the Tour
When we analyze the price of around $635.90 per person, it includes most essentials: entrance fees, accommodations, meals, guided tours, and transport. This comprehensive package minimizes unexpected expenses and planning stress, which is especially helpful for travelers unfamiliar with Jordan or reluctant to navigate border processes alone.
Past reviews praise the well-selected hotels and camps, which add comfort to an already busy itinerary. Guests mention that guides are “very kind,” and cars are “new, equipped with cold water,” making the whole experience comfortable even in the desert heat.
The guided tours are appreciated for their informative value—one reviewer highlighted the “fabulous” experience and how well the team managed border crossings and logistics. The inclusion of local Bedouin guides brings authentic storytelling and cultural insights that you wouldn’t get from a self-guided tour.
What You’ll Love
- The well-organized logistics save you from the headache of planning border crossings and transportation.
- The local Bedouin guides bring genuine stories and insights to Wadi Rum and Petra.
- The all-inclusive meals and comfortable accommodations make the trip relaxing rather than tiring.
- The stunning landscapes—from the intricate canyons of Petra to the dramatic desert vistas of Wadi Rum—are breathtaking.
- Past travelers commend the knowledgeable guides and how they enhanced the experience, mentioning “fabulous” service and smooth logistics.
What to Consider
While the tour offers great value, it is somewhat structured—there’s limited time in Petra and Wadi Rum for spontaneous exploration. If you’re a slow traveler or want to set your own pace, this might feel a bit tight. Also, the border crossing process, though assisted, still requires some patience, especially if your timing coincides with busy periods.
Who This Tour Is Best For
This tour is perfect for travelers who value convenience and guided insight. If you want a straightforward way to see Petra and Wadi Rum without the hassle of planning transit and border procedures, this is a solid choice. It also suits those who appreciate authentic experiences—like Bedouin hospitality and stories—and don’t mind moderate physical activity, including walking and jeep rides.
It’s an excellent option for groups, couples, or solo travelers who prefer a well-organized, all-inclusive package that covers the essentials, with enough free time to soak in the sights.
The Sum Up
This 3-day Petra and Wadi Rum tour from Eilat offers a balanced blend of guided sightseeing, culture, and comfortable logistics. It’s a practical choice for travelers who want to experience Jordan’s iconic sites without the stress of coordinating border crossings or transportation. The included meals, accommodations, and guided insights bring added value, making this a well-rounded package.
If you’re someone who appreciates knowledgeable guides, stunning scenery, and hassle-free planning, this tour could be just what you need for a memorable Jordan adventure. The reviews confirm that it delivers on comfort, authenticity, and service quality.
However, if you’re looking for complete flexibility or a more relaxed pace, you might find the schedule a bit busy. Still, for most travelers seeking a comprehensive, well-organized experience that covers the highlights with expert guidance, this tour hits the mark.
FAQ
Is this tour suitable for travelers with limited mobility?
While the tour involves walking in Petra and some jeep rides, it requires a moderate level of physical activity. Travelers should be comfortable walking and climbing stairs or uneven surfaces.
Are visas included in the price?
Yes, the tour includes assistance with obtaining a visa upon arrival, which is free for those staying more than two nights in Jordan.
What meals are included?
Breakfasts are included at Petra and the desert camp, along with dinner at the camp. Lunches are also provided on Day 2 and Day 3, ensuring you’re well-fed throughout.
How long is the drive from Eilat to Petra?
The drive is approximately two hours from the border to Petra, making the transfer comfortable and quick, especially with a modern vehicle.
Can I customize the itinerary?
As a private tour, it’s possible to tailor some aspects, but the standard schedule includes key sites and activities as described. Contact the provider for specific requests.
Is this tour suitable for families?
Yes, with moderate physical activity involved, this trip can suit families with children who are comfortable with walking and outdoor activities.
What is the best time of year to take this tour?
While not explicitly stated, Jordan’s climate makes spring and autumn ideal for outdoor activities—expect hot summers or cooler winters to influence your packing and planning.
This tour offers a practical approach to seeing Jordan’s most famous sights, with the support of experienced guides and inclusive amenities. Whether you’re after a seamless experience or authentic insights, it’s a compelling choice for your Jordan adventure.