Petra The Rose City Adventure from Sharm El Sheikh

Traveling from Sharm El Sheikh to Petra offers an incredible blend of natural beauty, ancient history, and cultural discovery, all packed into a roughly 21-hour day trip. While it’s a long day on the move, the journey is designed to maximize your time exploring one of the world’s most iconic archaeological sites — and it does so with a well-structured itinerary and professional guides.

What we love about this experience are the seamless logistics that make such a complex trip manageable — from hotel pick-up to ferry crossings — the chance to see Petra’s famous Treasury up close, and the opportunity to enjoy authentic local food. The highlight for many travelers is definitely the opportunity to walk through the Siq and marvel at the carved facades, alongside natural wonders like the Rainbow Canyon.

A potential consideration is that the tour is quite packed, meaning you’ll need to be comfortable with a busy schedule and some long transit times. It’s best suited for those with a keen interest in history, landscape photography, or just ticking off a bucket-list destination, who are prepared for an early start and a full day of exploration.

Key Points

• All-inclusive value: The tour covers transportation, entry fees, and lunch, making it a convenient package for travelers wanting an organized experience.
• Expert guides: Knowledgeable guides enrich the tour with insights into Petra’s history, geology, and cultural significance.
• Natural beauty: Beyond Petra, you’ll enjoy views of colorful canyons and rock formations that are just as breathtaking.
• Time management: The itinerary is tightly scheduled, ensuring you see key sites but requiring some stamina.
• Authentic experience: From walking through the Siq to exploring Roman ruins, this tour offers a genuine connection to the site.
• Ideal for adventurous travelers: This tour is perfect for those eager to see Petra without the hassle of planning every detail.

The Journey Begins: Pickup and Transfer

The adventure kicks off at 1:00 am, an early start that might seem daunting but is necessary to maximize your day. The air-conditioned vehicle ensures comfort during the approximately 3-hour drive from Sharm El Sheikh to Taba. The transfer is straightforward and smooth, with most travelers appreciating the professionalism of Stepway Tours’ organization.

While the early start requires a bit of sleep sacrifice, it allows for a timely crossing into Jordan and more daylight hours in Petra. The group sizes are capped at 45, creating a more intimate experience where guides can provide personalized insights.

Crossing into Jordan: Taba and Aqaba

The ferry ride from Taba to Aqaba takes about 90 minutes and is a highlight for many. The scenic Gulf of Aqaba views are spectacular, offering a fresh perspective on the region’s maritime beauty. Reviewers mention that the ferry trip provides a relaxing break in a day otherwise filled with bus rides and walking.

Once in Aqaba, the journey continues by bus, where the landscapes change to reveal Jordan’s rugged terrain and desert vistas. The roughly 3-hour drive to Petra is scenic, and the guide will likely point out interesting geological features or historical tidbits along the way.

Entering Petra: The Siq and the Treasury

Your Petra day begins with walking through the narrow Siq gorge, a dramatic entrance that heightens anticipation. The guides are praised for their knowledge, often sharing stories of how Petra was rediscovered and its significance.

Reaching the Great Treasury (Al-Khazneh) is a jaw-dropping moment — its ornate façade carved out of rose-red sandstone has fascinated visitors for centuries. As one reviewer notes, “We loved the way the guide explained the history behind the Treasury, making it come alive.”

Beyond the Treasury, your exploration includes the Roman Theatre, Royal Tombs, and a chance to photograph the Rainbow Tomb with its vibrant hues. Some travelers opt to add the Colored Canyon, which adds natural beauty and offers a break from the stone carvings. The canyon’s vivid layers provide excellent photo opportunities and a chance to experience nature’s artistry firsthand.

Dining and Climbing for Views

After exploring these monuments, there’s a well-deserved lunch break. The included meal provides a taste of local Jordanian cuisine, helping to energize you for the afternoon. Many travelers appreciate that the meal is part of the package, saving time and effort.

Later, a visit to Al-Habis Hill offers panoramic views of Petra’s gorges and rock formations. The vistas are stunning, especially for those interested in landscape photography or simply soaking in the scale of the site.

Evening Relaxation and Return Journey

Post sightseeing, guests enjoy a dinner—a relaxing way to unwind after a busy day of walking and exploration. The tour then departs for Aqaba, where the ferry awaits to take you back across the Gulf of Aqaba to Taba.

The return trip takes roughly 3 hours, followed by a comfortable bus ride back to Sharm El Sheikh, arriving late in the evening. While the schedule is packed, the trip is efficient, and most travelers report feeling satisfied with the value given the full day’s activities.

What’s Included and What to Keep in Mind

The tour includes professional guides, transportation in air-conditioned vehicles, all entrance fees, and lunch. This all-in-one package simplifies logistics, allowing you to focus on enjoying the sights rather than worrying about tickets or navigation.

However, be aware that ferry tickets and entrance fees are not included in the base price, so budget accordingly. Also, the tour is quite comprehensive, packing in multiple stops and long hours, so it’s best suited for those with good stamina and time management skills. The free cancellation policy offers peace of mind, allowing you to cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Authentic Insights from Past Travelers

Multiple reviews highlight the knowledgeable guides as a standout feature. One reviewer mentioned that their guide, who was well-versed in Jordanian history, made the entire experience more engaging and memorable. Others appreciated the small group size, which fostered a more personalized atmosphere.

Travelers also noted the benefits of the early start, which maximized daylight hours and meant they could see everything without feeling rushed. The scenic ferry crossing was described as a highlight, giving a different perspective on the region’s maritime landscape.

Some travelers, however, pointed out that the schedule was tight and that the overall day felt a little rushed. One reviewer commented, “It’s a full day, but the guides are great at pacing and making sure we saw the highlights.”

Who Will Love This Tour?

This tour is best for adventurous travelers who don’t mind an early start and a full day of exploration. It’s ideal if you want to see Petra without spending multiple days in Jordan or arranging your own logistics. The included transportation, guides, and meals make it convenient for those seeking hassle-free travel.

History buffs, landscape photographers, and cultural explorers will find plenty to admire, especially with guides providing context and stories that bring the site to life. It’s also a good pick for solo travelers or small groups wanting an organized experience with a social element.

The Sum Up

The Petra The Rose City Adventure from Sharm El Sheikh offers an efficient, well-organized way to experience one of the world’s most famous archaeological sites. While the long hours and packed schedule might not suit everyone, the inclusion of expert guides, natural beauty stops, and all logistics handled for you make it a strong choice for those eager to tick Petra off their travel list.

If you’re comfortable with early mornings and want to make the most of a day trip that combines history, natural scenery, and culture, this tour provides solid value and memorable moments. It’s especially suited for curious travelers who prefer a guided experience, ensuring they don’t miss the highlights of Petra and its surroundings.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour offers pickup from your hotel in Sharm El Sheikh, simplifying logistics.

How long is the ferry ride?
The ferry crossing from Taba to Aqaba lasts about 90 minutes and is part of the scenic journey.

What sites are visited in Petra?
Highlights include the Great Treasury (Al-Khazneh), Roman Theatre, Royal Tombs, and possibly the Colored Canyon if you choose to add that extension.

Is lunch provided?
Yes, a lunch is included, giving you a taste of Jordanian cuisine during the day.

What is the best time to take this tour?
The tour starts at 1:00 am, making it ideal for maximizing daylight and seeing Petra comfortably.

Are entrance fees included?
All entrance fees are included in the tour price, except for ferry tickets which are separate.

How many people typically join?
The group size is limited to 45 travelers, offering a balance between social interaction and personal attention.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is this tour suitable for children or elderly travelers?
Generally, yes, but keep in mind the long hours and walking involved. It’s best for those in good health and capable of a full day of activity.

What should I wear and bring?
Comfortable, breathable clothing, sturdy walking shoes, sun protection, and water are recommended for the day.