Exploring Jordan in Two Days: Petra and Wadi Rum from Eilat
Traveling from Eilat to Jordan for a quick yet immersive experience can be surprisingly rewarding. This 2-day guided tour offers a well-structured itinerary that balances sightseeing, culture, and authentic Bedouin hospitality. Whether you’re short on time or seeking a manageable way to see two of Jordan’s most iconic sites, this tour is designed to deliver.
What we love about this experience is the convenient border crossing, the depth of the guided tours, and the delicious food options, especially the vegetarian and vegan choices. The chance to sleep under the stars in a traditional Bedouin camp adds a layer of magic to the trip. However, one thing to consider is that the itinerary includes a fair amount of driving and free time, which may not suit travelers seeking constant activity.
This tour is perfect for those craving a taste of Jordan’s spectacular landscapes without the hassle of organizing their own transport or accommodation. It’s also a good fit for travelers wanting a balanced mix of sightseeing and cultural experience, all wrapped into a manageable two-day adventure.
Key Points
- All-inclusive value: Meals, entrance fees, guide, and accommodation are included, making it a straightforward experience.
- Authentic Bedouin experience: Sleep in a desert camp with comfortable beds and warm showers.
- Expert-guided tours: Knowledgeable guides lead you through Petra and Wadi Rum, enriching the experience.
- Easy border crossing: The border process is described as smooth, with clear guidance.
- Flexible exploration: Free time in Petra allows for personal discovery after the guided tour.
- Great for short trips: Fits into tight schedules while still offering a deep cultural and scenic experience.
Looking for more options in Eilat? We've reviewed plenty of other experiences.
A Closer Look at the Itinerary
Day 1: From Eilat to Wadi Rum
The adventure begins early, with a pick-up from Eilat at 9:00 am and a border crossing via the Arava border, which many reviewers find to be straightforward. The tour includes a Jordanian brunch at a local restaurant in Aqaba, featuring staples like hummus, falafel, foul, and fresh pita bread. This meal isn’t just filling; it offers a genuine taste of Jordanian cuisine, which is a highlight in itself.
Afterward, the journey continues to Wadi Rum, arriving around 1:00 pm. Here, you’ll hop into a jeep safari that meanders through the stunning desert landscape, famous for its towering cliffs, endless dunes, and intriguing rock formations. The jeep tour is an appreciated activity, with some reviewers describing the desert as breathtaking and the guides as knowledgeable, making the experience both scenic and educational.
By late afternoon, you arrive at a traditional Bedouin campsite for dinner and an overnight stay. The camp experience is often highlighted as a unique and authentic part of the trip. Expect comfortable beds and warm showers, a welcome feature after a day of exploration. The camp also offers a chance to connect with fellow travelers in an informal setting, with no Wi-Fi in sight—something many find refreshing and a good way to disconnect.
Day 2: Petra – The Jewel of Jordan
Rise early for a breakfast in the camp before heading out at 7:15 am towards Petra. The journey takes about an hour, with the guided tour starting at 9:00 am. The visit to Petra, a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the Seven Wonders of the World, is undoubtedly the highlight. The guide provides insights into the site’s history and architecture, making sure you don’t just walk through but understand what you’re seeing.
The guided portion ends at noon, giving you the chance to explore Petra at your own pace. Many reviewers appreciate the flexibility here, with some opting to hire guides to see specific parts like the Treasury, the Siq, or the Royal Tombs. Lunch at Petra is included, offering a chance to refuel before an optional afternoon of further exploration.
You’ll gather back at the visitor center around 4:00 pm for the transfer back to Eilat, arriving around 7:00 pm, just in time for a well-earned rest after two full days.
What Sets This Tour Apart?
Seamless border crossing: Many travelers note how straightforward this part of the journey is, especially with a guide assisting from the Jordanian side. The process is described as smooth, which is a significant boon given how stressful border procedures can sometimes be.
Authentic Bedouin hospitality: Spending a night in a Bedouin camp is more than just a place to sleep; it’s an immersive cultural experience. The camp’s comfort levels are generally praised, with good beds and showers, and the dinner—featuring traditional Zerb dishes—is a highlight for many.
Expert guiding: Reviewers consistently mention how knowledgeable and friendly the guides are. One reviewer, for example, appreciated their guide Mahmmod, who made the entire trip engaging and safe. The guides help bring the sites to life with stories and insights that you wouldn’t get just wandering alone.
Value for money: For $345, the tour covers transportation, meals, entrance fees, and accommodation, which many see as a good deal considering the attractions included. The inclusion of meals, especially vegetarian and vegan options, adds to the overall value.
Stunning landscapes and photo opportunities: From Wadi Rum’s dramatic cliffs to Petra’s carved facades, the scenery is the main attraction. Many reviewers highlight how breathtaking the desert views are and how well the timing allows for capturing memorable photos.
What Could Be Improved?
While the experience is highly praised, some reviews mention the free time in Wadi Rum can feel a bit excessive, with some travelers wishing for more guidance or activities during that period. Also, the border crossing process can be a little daunting for first-timers, though guides do their best to streamline it.
Another consideration is the timing—the early mornings in Petra mean a long day of sightseeing, which might be tiring, especially for older travelers. Still, the overall package aims to balance activity with comfort.
Transportation and Group Size
Travelers will be transported in air-conditioned vehicles, providing comfort during the roughly 3-hour drive from Eilat to Jordan. The group size is capped at 47, which keeps the experience intimate enough for personal interaction but lively enough for a shared adventure.
Pricing and Value
At $345 per person, this tour offers excellent value considering all that is included: guided tours, entrance fees, meals, and a night in the Bedouin camp. While additional expenses like border taxes (Israel’s 115 ILS and Jordan’s 50 JOD) are payable separately, the package provides a hassle-free way to see Petra and Wadi Rum without extra planning.
Who is This Tour Best Suited For?
This trip is ideal for first-time visitors who want an organized, guided experience with minimal stress. It’s also perfect for those interested in desert landscapes, culture, and iconic sites like Petra, but who don’t want to spend days traveling or booking accommodations independently.
Travelers with a sense of adventure will appreciate the Bedouin camp and jeep safari, while history buffs will enjoy the guided insights into Petra’s significance. Keep in mind the early mornings and long days—this trip suits energetic travelers ready for a packed, rewarding experience.
FAQs
Is transportation included?
Yes, you’ll be traveling in an air-conditioned vehicle for the entire trip, starting from Eilat and during transfers to and from Petra and Wadi Rum.
How do I cross the border?
The border crossing via Arava is described as easy, with guides assisting from the Jordanian side. It’s straightforward but do bring your passport and be prepared for some waiting time.
Are meals included?
Yes, all meals—dinner in Wadi Rum, breakfast, and lunch in Petra—are included and are buffet style with vegetarian and vegan options.
What accommodation is provided?
You’ll stay overnight in a Bedouin campsite, with comfortable beds and warm showers. No Wi-Fi is available, promoting genuine social connection and relaxation.
Can I explore Petra freely after the guided tour?
Yes, after the guided portion, you have free time to further explore Petra at your own pace.
What’s the best time to take this tour?
While not specified, most travelers prefer the cooler months, spring and autumn, for comfortable sightseeing and desert conditions.
Are there any hidden costs?
Border taxes (115 ILS for Israel and 50 JOD for Jordan) are payable in cash and are not included in the tour price.
In summary, this 2-day Petra and Wadi Rum tour from Eilat offers a compelling blend of natural beauty, culture, and logistical ease. It’s especially suited for those eager to see Jordan’s highlights without the hassle of planning every detail, all while enjoying authentic experiences and stunning landscapes. Whether you’re an adventure seeker or a history enthusiast, this trip provides a memorable taste of Jordan’s remarkable scenery and welcoming culture.