Half-Day Private Indiana Jones Petra Back Road Trial Tour

Petra remains one of the world’s most captivating archaeological sites, and this Half-Day Private Indiana Jones Petra Back Road Trial Tour offers a fresh, exhilarating take on exploring its ancient splendor. Instead of the usual crowds and walking routes, this experience takes you on a horse ride through less-traveled paths, revealing hidden vistas and sacred sites others often miss.

What truly sets this tour apart are three aspects we love: the intimate access to lesser-known views, the chance to ride through historic terrain, and the expert guidance from knowledgeable guides who deepen your understanding of Petra’s stories. It also includes stunning panoramic vistas that you won’t find on regular tours—think of it as your personal adventure into the heart of Nabataean Jordan.

Yet, a potential consideration is that this tour requires moderate physical fitness due to the uphill climbs, especially to the Monastery. Travelers who prefer a more relaxed experience or have mobility issues might find the steep ascent challenging.

This tour appeals most to adventure seekers and history buffs who want an off-the-beaten-path perspective of Petra with an authentic, scenic twist. If you’re eager to combine horseback riding with cultural discovery, this could be your perfect excursion.

Key Points

• Unique horseback experience inside Petra, starting from Little Petra and extending into the main site.
• Expert guides like Mohammad enhance the experience with safety, knowledge, and local insights.
• Stunning views from high vantage points like Qararah Park and the Monastery are unforgettable.
• Authentic exploration of less-touristed areas such as caves, old villages, and hidden routes.
• Good value for a private, personalized adventure that includes bottled water and flexible timing.
• Physical readiness needed for some walking and uphill climbs, especially to major sites like Al Dayr.

A Closer Look at the Experience

Starting Point: Petra Visitor Center

Your journey kicks off at the Petra Visitor Center around 8:00 am, a logical meeting spot that sets the tone for a well-organized private tour. From here, the real adventure begins as your guide leads you through a mix of scenic routes and historic sites. The tour’s personalized nature means you’ll avoid large groups, giving you a more intimate look at Petra’s lesser-known corners.

The Scenic Ascent to Qararah Park

The first major stop is Qararah Park, a highland vantage point offering commanding views of Petra’s mountains. It’s a place that feels like stepping into a panoramic painting—vast, rugged, and awe-inspiring. As one reviewer put it, the views here are “the best in the world,” and it’s easy to see why. It’s an ideal spot for photos or just soaking in the landscape. The ascent involves a scenic ride through mountain terrain, giving you a taste of the Nabataean landscape from above.

Riding through Little Petra

Next, the tour takes you along Dabdabah Road to Little Petra, a quieter, peaceful site with caves and ancient villages. The horses, described by guests as well-behaved and cared for, make this part of the journey especially memorable. The experience of riding through ancient sites with minimal crowds was praised, with one reviewer noting, “We saw the valley from above—something I could never hike up to see” — perfect for those who want an authentic adventure without exhausting themselves.

The Monastery (Al Dayr)

The highlight for many is the ascent to Al Dayr (the Monastery)—a massive, beautifully carved structure that dominates the Petra skyline. The ride ends with an approximately 45-minute walk up about 800 rock-cut stairs. Once there, you’ll be rewarded with arguably Petra’s most impressive façade, 58 meters wide and over 2,000 years old. The guide’s insights, coupled with the stunning setting, make this a truly special moment. Several reviews praised the knowledgeable guides like Mohammad, who ensured safety while sharing fascinating stories about Petra’s history.

Exploring Petra’s Main Attractions

After the Monastery, the tour continues to explore the Colonnaded Street, Royal Tombs, and The Girl’s Palace—sites that highlight Petra’s architectural grandeur and spiritual significance. These spots are less crowded, and the tour offers a close-up look at their intricate carvings and historical importance. A reviewer mentioned the Byzantine Church from the 5th century, emphasizing the layered history that still echoes through Petra’s ruins.

The Practical Side: Logistics and Value

Duration, Price, and What’s Included

This private tour lasts about 5 to 6 hours, starting early at 8:00 am, which allows you to beat the larger crowds and enjoy cooler temperatures for riding and sightseeing. Priced at $165 per person, the experience offers excellent value considering the level of personalization and the guided insights. The cost covers the horseback riding, guiding, and bottled water—though, of course, the Petra entrance fee (50 JD) is paid separately.

Transportation and Meeting Point

Meeting at the Petra Visitor Center ensures easy access, especially if you’re staying nearby or arriving via local transport. The tour ends back at the starting point, making logistics straightforward.

Guide Expertise

One of the standout features is the guide, Mohammad, praised for his horse riding skills and extensive knowledge. His ability to navigate the terrain safely and share engaging stories about Petra’s history enhances the tour’s authenticity.

Physical Fitness and Suitability

The tour’s activities include some walking and uphill climbs, notably to Al Dayr. Travelers should have a moderate physical fitness level to fully enjoy the experience without discomfort.

Authentic Experiences and Insights from Travelers

A few reviews stand out for capturing the essence of this tour. One traveler called it “a fun excursion” and appreciated the view of the valley from above—an angle most visitors don’t get on standard routes. Another mentioned the quiet, private route to the Sacrificial Site, highlighting the exclusivity and peacefulness of the journey.

Guide familiarity and safety are also recurrent themes. Several reviewers appreciated Mohammad’s careful, attentive guiding, which made the horseback riding safe and enjoyable, even for those without prior experience. The horses were described as well-cared-for and manageable, making the ride a true highlight.

Who Would Love This Tour?

This private horseback tour is perfect for adventurous travelers eager to see Petra from a different perspective. It’s ideal for those comfortable on horseback or willing to try something new. History buffs will enjoy the deeper insights into Petra’s sites, especially the lesser-explored areas like Little Petra and the hidden routes.

Those seeking a peaceful, scenic experience away from crowds will find this particularly appealing, as the private nature allows for a more leisurely exploration. However, it’s not suited for travelers with mobility issues or those who prefer low activity levels, given the walking and climbing involved.

The Sum Up

This Half-Day Private Indiana Jones Petra Back Road Trial Tour offers an engaging combination of scenic horseback riding, historical discovery, and breathtaking vistas. The tour’s personalized approach, guided by a knowledgeable guide like Mohammad, transforms Petra into a living, breathing adventure rather than just a set of ruins.

For the value, it’s a fantastic option for those who want an authentic experience, away from crowded routes and typical tourist paths. The views and the chance to explore lesser-known sites make this tour a special addition to any Petra itinerary.

If you’re looking for an active, immersive way to experience Petra’s grandeur—combining history, nature, and a bit of adventure—this could be your highlight.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for children or people with limited physical fitness?
While the tour is private and flexible, it involves some walking and uphill climbs, especially to the Monastery, so travelers should have a moderate physical fitness level. Children or those with mobility issues may find the ascent challenging.

Do I need to bring my own horse riding gear?
No, the horses are provided, and guides are experienced in handling the rides. They ensure the horses are well cared for and suited to the terrain.

What is included in the $165 price?
The fee covers the guided horseback riding, bottled water, and the personalized private experience. Entrance tickets to Petra are not included and must be purchased separately.

What should I wear for this tour?
Comfortable outdoor clothing, sturdy shoes for walking, and sun protection like a hat and sunscreen are recommended. Since you’ll be riding, avoid overly loose clothing that could get caught.

Can I cancel this tour if my plans change?
Yes, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, giving you flexibility if your plans shift unexpectedly.

Is the tour available in different languages?
While the data doesn’t specify language options, most private guides can typically accommodate common languages or provide basic explanations in English. Confirm with the provider before booking.

This private horseback experience in Petra combines adventure, history, and stunning scenery into a memorable half-day journey. It’s an excellent choice for travelers eager to explore Jordan’s most iconic site from a fresh, authentic angle.