From Amman: Petra, Wadi Rum, & Dead Sea 2-Day Trip

Travelers craving a quick yet immersive taste of Jordan’s most iconic sites often turn to organized tours. This 2-day adventure from Amman promises to combine history, adventure, and relaxation — all in a compact itinerary. While we haven’t personally taken this exact trip, the detailed reviews, extensive itinerary, and overall rating of 4.9 out of 5 suggest it’s a compelling option for those eager to maximize their Jordan experience without the fuss of independent planning.

What we love about this tour are its well-rounded itinerary, the personalized touch with private transport, and the opportunity to sleep overnight in a Bedouin camp—an experience that adds a layer of authenticity. The professional guides, stunning scenery, and smooth logistics make it appealing. A potential consideration? The long driving hours might be tiring for some, especially if you prefer a more relaxed pace. Still, this tour is perfect for travelers who want a focused, efficient trip that hits all the highlights of southern Jordan in just two days.

If you’re looking for a comprehensive, value-driven journey suited for first-timers or those with limited time, this experience can offer a memorable snapshot of Jordan’s most famous landmarks. It’s particularly good for adventurous travelers eager for cultural insights and dramatic vistas, but it might be less ideal if you prefer a slower pace or deep historical exploration.

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Key Points

Efficient Itinerary: Combines Petra, Wadi Rum, and Dead Sea highlights in two days.
Authentic Experience: Overnight stay in Bedouin tents inside Wadi Rum.
Professional Service: Knowledgeable, friendly drivers and guides receive high praise.
Flexible Options: Choice of tent style, with private bathrooms and air-conditioning.
All-Inclusive Value: Meals, overnight stay, and transfers included, with some site entry fees paid on-site.
Long Drives: Expect several hours of travel, with recommended rest stops.

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The Itinerary and What Makes It Special

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Day 1: From Amman to Petra and Wadi Rum

The journey begins with a roughly 3-hour drive from Amman to Petra, Jordan’s crown jewel and a UNESCO World Heritage site. Don’t expect just a drive—this is where you’ll get a sense of the landscape changing from urban to rugged desert terrain, setting the scene for the adventures ahead. Once at Petra, your guide will help highlight the must-see spots—though you’ll have some free time to explore independently, walking through the historic Siq or marveling at the Treasury.

Reviewers consistently mention the quality of guides, like Zac, who was praised for his helpfulness and explanations. This personal touch makes a significant difference when navigating sprawling sites like Petra, where a knowledgeable guide can help you appreciate hidden details and history. Petra’s vastness means that you’ll be doing a fair amount of walking, so comfortable shoes are essential, and options like golf carts or donkeys are available but optional.

After Petra, the tour continues with a 2-hour drive to Wadi Rum, a place that captures the imagination with its towering red dunes and dramatic rock formations. The landscape here is a highlight, with many reviewers noting the stunning views and magnetic sense of adventure. Upon arrival, you’ll settle into your Bedouin camp, choosing between a Deluxe tent with a private bathroom, air-conditioning, and heater, or a Classic tent with shared amenities. The camp experience, praised for its comfort (including good bathroom facilities and even WiFi in some cases), offers an immersive taste of Bedouin life.

Day 2: Wadi Rum Desert and Dead Sea

The second day kicks off with a 2-hour Jeep tour of the desert, guided by Bedouin drivers who share stories about the landscape and culture. The desert scenery in Wadi Rum is a visual feast — think soaring cliffs, sweeping dunes, and ancient petroglyphs. Reviewers mention the friendly guides and the breathtaking vistas, making this a highlight for many.

After exploring the desert, the tour moves to the Dead Sea, about a 4-hour drive away. Here, you’ll have the chance to float effortlessly in one of the world’s saltiest bodies of water, an experience like no other. The tour typically takes you to the Holiday Inn, where you can enjoy access to the beach and facilities, paying an additional fee of around $40 to the driver. While some reviewers found the Dead Sea visit less memorable than Petra or Wadi Rum, the opportunity to relax and experience the famous buoyancy is undeniable.

Finally, the journey wraps up with a roughly 1-hour drive back to Amman, completing this whirlwind tour of Jordan’s highlights.

Transportation and Logistics: Making It Work

Traveling with a modern, air-conditioned vehicle and an English-speaking driver means comfort during long drives. The tour involves approximately 3 hours from Amman to Petra, 2 hours from Petra to Wadi Rum, 4 hours to the Dead Sea, and an additional hour returning to Amman, with rest stops along the way. This totals around 10-11 hours of travel over two days, which some might find tiring but ensures you maximize sightseeing.

Group sizes are private, which offers a more personalized experience, and the flexibility of picking different tent styles adds a touch of luxury or simplicity based on your preference. All pickups and drop-offs are included, and reviews highlight how smoothly the logistics run, with many travelers praising the helpfulness of the drivers and staff.

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What You Need to Know:

Entry fees for Petra ($70) and Wadi Rum ($7) are paid on-site.
Meals are included in the overnight camp stay, but additional costs apply for Dead Sea access and lunch.
The tour operates rain or shine, so come prepared for weather variations.
Rest stops are frequent, making the long drives manageable.

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The Campsite Experience: Authentic and Comfortable

Overnighting in Wadi Rum is a major perk, offering a chance to experience the desert’s magic after daytime visitors leave. Reviewers consistently mention the cleanliness and comfort of the tents, especially the Deluxe option with private bathrooms and climate control. Many also appreciated the delicious dinners and hearty breakfasts, which give you energy for the next day’s adventures.

The camp environment allows for a peaceful night under the stars, with some mention of limited WiFi, so prepare for a digital detox—and enjoy the serenity. The Bedouin hosts are friendly and eager to share their culture, making the stay more than just a night of sleeping; it’s an immersion into desert life.

The Dead Sea: A Unique Opportunity

The Dead Sea’s inclusion in this tour is a major draw, and reviewers highlight the chance to float effortlessly and cover yourself in mineral-rich mud. While the visit is somewhat brief, it provides a relaxing counterpoint to the active days. If you’re planning to extend your stay, purchasing a Jordan Pass can be worthwhile, especially if you plan more visits.

What to Expect:

Access to the Dead Sea at the Holiday Inn
An opportunity to float and mud-sling
An optional lunch (additional cost)
Stunning desert scenery en route

Final Thoughts: Is This Tour for You?

This Jordan 2-day tour offers an excellent way to see the key highlights without the stress of independent travel logistics. It’s ideal for first-time visitors who want a structured, guided experience that covers the must-see sites efficiently. The inclusion of an overnight in a comfortable Bedouin camp makes it more engaging and authentic, especially for those wanting a taste of Bedouin hospitality.

The long driving hours are a consideration; if you’re not keen on hours spent in a vehicle, this might feel a bit rushed. But for travelers eager to see Petra, Wadi Rum, and float in the Dead Sea with minimal hassle, this tour packs substantial value into two days.

The reviews consistently praise the expert guides and stunning landscapes, making it clear this experience can be quite memorable. It’s a solid choice for those who prioritize well-organized logistics, personalized service, and culture.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
No, it’s not recommended for people with limited mobility due to the amount of walking and long drives involved.

How much does the entry to Petra cost?
Entry fees for Petra are around $70, payable on-site, which is not included in the tour price.

What kind of tent options are available?
There are two tent styles: Deluxe tents with private bathrooms, air-conditioning, and heaters, and Classic tents with shared bathrooms and no climate control.

Are meals included?
Dinner and breakfast at the camp are included. Additional costs may apply for Dead Sea access and lunch.

How long is the drive from Amman to Petra?
Approximately 3 hours, making it a significant part of the journey but also allowing for scenic views and rest stops.

Can I customize this tour?
Since it’s a pre-organized tour, customization is limited. However, you can choose your tent style and opt for additional activities on-site.

Is it easy to get back to Amman after the tour?
Yes, the return trip is included, with a roughly 1-hour drive from the Dead Sea to Amman.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, warm clothing, sunglasses, sun hat, towel, sunscreen, and your passport or ID.

Is there WiFi available?
Most camps in Wadi Rum do not offer WiFi, so prepare for a disconnect.

What if I want to extend my stay in Jordan?
Purchasing a Jordan Pass can save money on future site visits if you plan to stay longer.

To sum it up, this tour offers a practical, well-organized way to see Jordan’s top sights in just two days. It’s perfect for travelers who want convenience, authentic experiences, and a taste of Bedouin hospitality, all at a price that reflects excellent value. With knowledgeable guides and stunning scenery, it’s an adventure that can leave lasting memories — even if the long drives require a bit of patience.