Amman – Petra – Wadi Rum Full Day Trip

A Full-Day Exploration of Jordan’s Most Iconic Sights

If you’re planning a trip to Jordan, a well-organized day trip from Amman to Petra and Wadi Rum offers a fantastic way to see two of the country’s biggest attractions without the hassle of self-driving or multiple bookings. This private tour, provided by The Holy Land Logistics Agency, promises a personalized experience, with the convenience of hotel pickup and drop-off, plus the opportunity to soak up Jordan’s stunning landscapes.

What makes this trip particularly appealing? First, the private vehicle ensures your group’s comfort and flexibility. Second, you’re able to explore Petra’s famous sights at your own pace—whether with a guide (at your own expense) or on your own. Third, the stop in Wadi Rum combines breathtaking desert scenery with optional 4×4 adventures and a Bedouin dinner, creating a well-rounded day. That said, keep in mind that the entry fees for Petra and Wadi Rum aren’t included**, so budget accordingly.

This tour suits travelers who value ease and flexibility over rigid group schedules, especially those eager to maximize their Jordan experience in a single day. It’s ideal for those with a sense of adventure and an appreciation for authentic, scenic stops—perfect for history buffs, landscape lovers, or anyone pressed for time but wanting the full Jordanian flavor.

Key Points

• Private, Flexible Experience: Ultimate convenience with a private vehicle and tailored options.
• Cost-Effective for Small Groups: Price is $305 for up to three people, giving good value for an exclusive experience.
• Expert Driver and Local Insights: Friendly, informative drivers like Yousef make the journey enjoyable.
• Includes Refreshments: Bottled water and Bedouin tea keep you hydrated amid the adventure.
• Optional Activities: You can choose to do a 4×4 tour at Wadi Rum and enjoy local Bedouin dinner.
• Time Efficient: The itinerary carefully balances sightseeing and travel time—roughly 10 hours of adventure.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Journey: What to Expect at Each Stop

Pickup and Transfer from Amman

Your day begins with hotel pickup, usually around early morning, giving you a head start to beat some of the crowds and the desert heat. The drive to Petra via the desert highway takes approximately three hours, offering glimpses of Jordanian landscape—rolling hills, desert plains, and small villages. The comfort of a modern, air-conditioned vehicle and onboard WiFi makes the early part of the journey pleasant, and your driver is there to answer questions or share tidbits about Jordan’s history and culture.

Petra: The Rose-Red Marvel

Once you arrive at Petra, you’ll be greeted by the sight of the marvelous Siq, the narrow canyon that leads into the ancient city. Walking through this natural corridor, you’ll feel a sense of anticipation building. The highlight? Approaching the Treasury, one of the world’s most iconic facades, carved into the vibrant pink rock. Many visitors may recognize this view from movies like Indiana Jones.

For those who prefer to go at their own pace, you can explore the site without a guide—although hiring a local guide (at your own expense) can enrich your understanding of Petra’s history and architecture. The tour recommends around two hours to see the key sights, including the theatre and the impressive monastery, which is carved into the mountain and boasts a door several stories tall.

Wadi Rum: The Desert of Dreams

After exploring Petra, your driver will take you on a roughly 1.5-hour drive to Wadi Rum, a UNESCO-listed desert wilderness famous for its spectacular sandstone formations and vast sand dunes. This landscape isn’t just beautiful—it’s also a place where many travelers say they feel a true sense of solitude and connection with nature.

At Wadi Rum, you’ll have the chance to take an optional 4×4 tour lasting around two hours, led by a Bedouin guide. These guides are often the highlight—they share stories of their ancestors, point out interesting geological features, and explain the significance of the area’s natural formations. Many reviewers have noted the “stunning views” and the “amazing sunset,” which truly showcase Wadi Rum’s raw beauty.

While the tour includes an option to have dinner in a Bedouin tent, this is not included in the base price but can be added for a more immersive experience. The tent experience offers a taste of Bedouin hospitality, with traditional tea and local delicacies under a star-studded sky.

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Return to Amman

The day wraps up with a drive back to Amman, roughly four hours from Wadi Rum. This late return allows for a relaxed pace and the chance to reflect on a full day of sightseeing. You can opt to be dropped at your hotel or directly at the airport, making this a convenient choice for travelers with tight schedules.

Real Experiences: What Travelers Say

A recent reviewer praised the driver, Yousef, calling him “very kind and helpful” and highlighting how he explained everything thoroughly. This personal touch adds a lot to the experience, especially in a day full of so many sights. The fact that this is a private tour means you can tailor the time spent at each site—whether you want more time at Petra or to skip certain parts.

Another aspect that stood out is the stunning views at Wadi Rum, which many travelers found to be the highlight of their day. The vastness and raw beauty of the desert are hard to beat, especially when complemented by a sunset.

Some travelers mentioned that entrance fees are not included, so it’s wise to factor those into your budget. Also, the optional activities such as the 4×4 tour and dinner can be added if you want a more in-depth experience in the desert.

The Value: Is It Worth the Cost?

At $305 for a group of up to three people, this tour offers good value considering the personalized service, private transportation, and the inclusions like bottled water and Bedouin tea. You’re essentially paying for a tailored experience that saves the hassle of self-driving or navigating unfamiliar roads.

For travelers eager to see both Petra and Wadi Rum in one day, this tour offers a practical, hassle-free solution. The flexibility to choose optional activities adds to the overall value, allowing you to customize your adventure.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This tour is ideal for small groups or couples who prefer a more private, personalized experience. It’s perfect if you want to avoid large tour groups and enjoy the flexibility of exploring at your own pace. It works well for travelers with limited time in Jordan but who want to see the country’s most iconic sights with ease.

It’s also suitable for those who appreciate landscape photography, as the journey offers plenty of opportunities for stunning shots—especially at Wadi Rum during sunset.

The Sum Up

For those eager to combine the must-see destinations of Jordan with ease and comfort, this private full-day trip from Amman is a fantastic choice. It balances well-organized logistics with the freedom to customize your experience, making it perfect for small groups or couples seeking a personalized adventure.

While there are optional costs for guides and activities, the core value lies in the convenience and access this tour provides. Whether you’re marveling at Petra’s intricate rock-carved facades or standing amid the towering dunes of Wadi Rum, you’ll leave with unforgettable memories—and maybe a few amazing photos, too.

If you’re looking for a smooth, hassle-free way to explore Jordan’s top highlights in a single day, this experience delivers. It’s best suited for travelers who want comfort, flexibility, and authentic views without the stress of planning every detail themselves.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for all travelers?
Yes, most travelers can participate as it is designed to be accessible and flexible, with pickup from your hotel and private transportation.

What’s included in the price?
The tour includes transportation, hotel pickup and drop-off, an air-conditioned vehicle with WiFi, bottled water, and Bedouin tea.

Are entrance fees included?
No, entry to Petra and Wadi Rum is not included in the price, so you should budget for those separately.

Can I explore Petra on my own?
Yes, you have the option to tour Petra alone or with a guide you hire at your own expense.

What is the duration of travel between stops?
From Amman to Petra, it’s about three hours; Petra to Wadi Rum takes approximately 1.5 hours, and Wadi Rum back to Amman is about four hours.

Is there an opportunity for activities at Wadi Rum?
Yes, you can opt for a 4×4 tour, which lasts around two hours, and enjoy dinner in a Bedouin tent if you choose.

This private trip balances convenience with authentic Jordanian sights, giving you a full day of adventure without the stress of planning every detail yourself. Whether you’re drawn to Petra’s grandeur or Wadi Rum’s desert serenity, this tour offers a well-rounded experience, crafted for comfort and genuine exploration.

You can check availability for your dates here: