Petra 1-Day Tour from Eilat + FREE Traditional Lunch

Petra 1-Day Tour from Eilat + FREE Traditional Lunch: A Practical Review

Traveling to Petra is often on many travelers’ bucket lists, but crossing borders, organizing transport, and planning a day trip can sometimes feel overwhelming. This tour from Eilat, offered by Bein Harim Ltd, promises a stress-free way to visit the ancient city with hotel pickups, guided insights, and a traditional Jordanian lunch—all for around $215 per person.

What we love about this experience? First, the comfort of door-to-door service, which takes the hassle out of crossing borders. Second, the insightful guided tour that brings Petra’s fascinating history alive. Lastly, the included entrance fees and lunch that add value and authenticity to your day.

However, one thing to keep in mind is the border crossing process, which can take up to an hour and requires preparation, including cash payments for visas. This trip suits those wanting a comprehensive yet manageable experience without overnight stays, ideal for travelers with limited time in the region seeking a taste of Petra’s grandeur.

Key Points

• Comfortable transportation with air conditioning and door-to-door hotel pickup.
• Expert English-speaking guides who enhance your understanding of Petra’s history.
• Hassle-free border crossing with assistance, though expect some waiting time.
• Includes entrance fees and lunch, making it easy to budget.
• Time-limited visit—about 4 hours exploring Petra, so early planning helps.
• Suitable for most travelers, but not ideal for children under 2 or those with mobility issues.

An Honest Look at the Petra Day Trip from Eilat

This tour offers a compelling way to see Petra without the need to spend a night in Jordan. For travelers based in Eilat, it bridges the gap between Israel and Jordan smoothly, thanks to pre-arranged, climate-controlled transport. The value here lies in convenience—your guide handles border formalities, and the entire day is organized, allowing you to focus on the experience.

The journey starts early, with a 7:15 am pickup from your Eilat hotel, giving you plenty of time to enjoy Petra’s highlights. The drive to the border takes approximately 2.5 hours through desert scenery that’s surprisingly mesmerizing, especially when the morning light hits the red sand and rocky formations.

Once you cross into Jordan, the vehicle whisks you away to Petra, where the real adventure begins. The guided tour lasts around four hours, covering key sites like the Treasury, the Siq gorge, the Royal Tombs, and the Nabatean Theater. Throughout, your guide offers insights into the city’s history and significance, making the experience more meaningful—something reviewers consistently appreciated.

The included entrance fee simplifies things, saving you time and money. Past travelers mention that their guides, like Muhammad, made the experience both engaging and informative, enhancing their visit with interesting facts and friendly service. The tour also features a bonus stop at Wadi Rum, giving you a peek into Jordan’s stunning desert landscape—an extra that many found worthwhile.

After exploring Petra, the return journey, again about four hours, offers lovely desert views, rounding out a full, satisfying day. The included lunch is a traditional Jordanian meal, adding an authentic flavor to your visit, and reviewers consistently mention it as a highlight.

Transport and Border Crossing

Transportation is a significant aspect of this tour. The vehicle is described as modern and air-conditioned, which makes a huge difference in the desert heat or winter chill. While some reviews have mentioned dissatisfaction with the vehicle size—one reviewer noted a “miserable, uncomfortable van”—this isn’t unusual for day trips, and the vehicle’s comfort level varies based on expectations.

Border crossing is efficiently managed by the tour staff, often taking up to an hour. For most travelers, this is manageable, but it’s worth arriving prepared with your passport, visa (if needed), and cash—$125 USD/EU/NIS—to pay border fees, unless you already have a visa or a valid entry stamp.

The tour provider assists with border formalities, which reduces stress, especially for those unfamiliar with the process. Travelers have reported quick formalities and friendly border staff, but wait times can still vary depending on the day.

Itinerary Breakdown: What to Expect

Start in Eilat: Early morning pickup ensures you beat the crowds and maximize your time at Petra. The drive through the desert is about 2.5 hours, and while it might seem long, the scenery is surprisingly captivating, with vivid rock formations and sparse wilderness reminiscent of a Martian landscape.

Entering Petra: Once at the entrance, your guide will escort you through the UNESCO World Heritage Site. The walk through the Siq is about a 1 km narrow gorge flanked by towering red cliffs, leading you to the iconic Treasury. Reviewers loved this part, with one noting that their guide shared interesting information and walked a good path, making the visit engaging.

Highlights of the tour: Expect to see the Royal Tombs, Nabatean Theater, and Obelisk Tomb. The guide will explain the significance of each site, and you’ll have ample opportunities for photos. Some travelers mention that their time was limited, so if you’re a hardcore explorer, a longer visit might be preferable, or a two-day trip.

Wadi Rum stop: On the way back, there’s a bonus stop at Wadi Rum, offering more stunning desert vistas, which many reviews highlighted as a bonus, not just a routine part of the itinerary.

Return to Eilat: The drive back offers more desert views, and the day wraps up around 8 pm, giving you a full day of adventure without staying overnight.

Pricing and Value

At $215 per person, this tour provides a convenient package with transport, guidance, entrance fees, and lunch—all bundled together. When compared to the hassle and potential costs of organizing your own trip, it’s quite reasonable, especially considering the included extras.

Some travelers commented that the guided tour made a difference, as it provided context that might otherwise be missing on a self-guided visit. The included traditional Jordanian lunch also adds a cultural touch that many find worthwhile.

However, it’s vital to recognize the time limitations—you’ll have about 4 hours on-site—which means you won’t see every corner of Petra. For those craving a more in-depth visit, a multi-day tour might be better, but for a quick taste, this trip hits the main highlights efficiently.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

• Travelers with limited time who want to experience Petra without overnight stays.
• Those who prefer a stress-free border crossing with assistance.
• Visitors who enjoy guided experiences that add context and local insights.
• Anyone seeking authentic food and culture during their trip.
• Travelers who don’t mind early mornings and efficient schedules.

On the flip side, if you’re looking for a leisurely exploration or traveling with very young children, this might feel rushed. Also, if comfort during travel is a priority, be aware that some reviews mention less-than-luxurious vans.

The Sum Up

This Petra day trip from Eilat offers an excellent balance of convenience, insight, and value. It’s perfect for those who want to tick Petra off their list without the hassle of overnight planning or complicated border crossings. The guides are knowledgeable, making the history come alive, and the included lunch adds a local flavor to the experience.

Though the journey is long and the time at Petra limited, the organized nature and comprehensive package make it a worthwhile option for busy travelers or first-timers. For anyone eager to see one of the world’s most iconic archaeological sites with ease and comfort, this tour fits the bill—just be prepared for a full, busy day.

FAQs

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour offers door-to-door pickup and drop-off at Eilat hotels, making the day hassle-free.

What’s the best time to join the tour?
The tour starts at 7:15 am, so plan to be ready early. An early start helps maximize your time at Petra.

Do I need a visa for Jordan?
Most travelers will need to pay $125 cash at the border unless they already have a visa or valid entry stamp. Check your nationality’s requirements beforehand.

How long is the border crossing?
Border formalities can take up to an hour, so patience is key. The staff assist with paperwork to make it smoother.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Most travelers can participate, but it’s not recommended for children under 2. The walk and heat might be taxing for younger kids.

What should I wear?
Comfortable walking shoes are essential. In winter, wear warm clothing; in summer, a hat and sunscreen are advisable.

Are meals included?
Yes, you’ll enjoy a traditional Jordanian lunch, which many reviews praise as delicious and authentic.

How much free time do I get at Petra?
Approximately four hours, enough to see the main highlights but not an exhaustive exploration.

Is the vehicle comfortable?
While the vehicle is described as modern and air-conditioned, some reviews mention it can be cramped or less luxurious than expected. Be prepared.

Can I customize this tour?
Since it’s a guided group tour, customization isn’t available, but you can discuss specific needs with the tour provider in advance.

Final Thoughts

This Petra day trip from Eilat, operated by Bein Harim Ltd, offers a practical, well-organized way to experience one of the world’s most famous archaeological sites. It balances the thrill of adventure with the comfort of guided logistics, making it ideal for busy travelers, first-timers, or those short on time. The combination of stunning desert scenery, insightful guides, and authentic local cuisine makes it a compelling choice for a memorable day out.