From Sharm El Sheikh: Day Tour to Petra by Ferry

Exploring Petra from Sharm El Sheikh by Ferry: A Practical and Authentic Guide

Traveling from Egypt’s Sharm El Sheikh to Jordan’s legendary Petra is an adventure many travelers dream about. This day trip offers a chance to see one of the world’s most breathtaking archaeological sites without needing an extended stay in Jordan. While the journey is long, the experience promises stunning views, intriguing history, and the convenience of an all-inclusive package.

We love that this tour includes a ferry ride, offering a scenic crossing from Egypt to Jordan, and the opportunity to learn about the history of the Nabataeans with knowledgeable guides. The full-day itinerary packs in the major highlights of Petra, including the iconic Al Khazneh, Roman Theater, and royal tombs. Plus, the organized transportation and guides help streamline what could otherwise be a complex trip.

However, a key consideration is the length of the day — it’s a demanding journey, especially with early departures and late returns. The ride from Sharm El Sheikh to the border is tiring, and some travelers have noted challenges with transportation quality and delays. That said, for history lovers and those craving a genuine experience of Petra’s marvels, this tour offers more than just a quick visit — it’s a full immersion.

This tour is best suited for active travelers comfortable with long days, those eager to see Petra without a multi-day commitment, and anyone looking for a good-value way to visit one of the New Seven Wonders of the World.

Key Points

• All-Inclusive Convenience: Transportation, ferry tickets, entrance fees, a guided tour, and lunch are included.
• Unique Scenic Travel: The ferry ride from Aqaba to Taba provides a memorable crossing, adding a maritime touch to the journey.
• Expert Guides: Well-rated guides like Mohamed or others are praised for their knowledge and hospitality.
• Long but Worthwhile: Expect a 26-hour day with early pick-up and late return, but many find Petra’s sights worth the effort.
• Authentic Experience: Visiting Petra with a local guide enriches the visit, providing insights beyond the guidebook.
• Mixed Reviews on Comfort: While some travelers mention discomfort and delays, others emphasize the overall organization and value.

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The Itinerary: What to Expect on This Long Day

Early Morning Pickup and Border Crossing

The day begins with a hotel pickup from Sharm El Sheikh in a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle. Expect to leave just before midnight, so it’s wise to prepare for a long night ahead. The first leg involves traveling to the Taba border, where you’ll be met and assisted through customs. This process can be straightforward, especially if you provide a copy of your passport 48 hours in advance — a requirement noted by the operator.

Traveling to the border is part of the adventure, and you’ll likely feel the effects of a long drive. One reviewer mentions, “The distance from Sharm is a lot, and you can really feel the journey.” The transport is generally well-rated for comfort, and the scenic views along the way help pass the time.

Crossing into Jordan and Ferry Ride

Once in Jordan, your group will head to Aqaba, Jordan’s port city. Here, you’ll board a ferry that sails directly to the port of Taba in Egypt, offering a brief but enjoyable sea crossing. The ferry is included in the price, and many travelers find this part of the trip relaxing and scenic.

One reviewer noted, “The ferry ride delivers a new perspective of the Red Sea, adding a maritime charm to the trip.” It also breaks up the long transit, providing a brief respite before the next leg.

Journey to Petra

Upon arrival in Aqaba, your guide will lead you on the approximately 3-hour drive to Petra. During this segment, you’ll get glimpses of Jordan’s landscape, and the guides often share helpful historical tidbits.

While some reviews mention delays — like a three-hour delay started at night — others praise the professionalism of the guides and drivers. It’s worth noting that the driver could drive a bit more cautiously, and some travelers advise bringing snacks or water to stay comfortable during the journey.

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Exploring Petra: The Heart of the Day

Once at Petra, your guide will lead a 3-hour guided tour. You’ll explore the main highlights: the Al Khazneh (the Treasury), the Roman Theater, the Royal Tombs, and the Roman colonnaded street. Guests have the option to walk or ride a camel to the Siq, the narrow canyon leading into the city, making the experience more engaging.

We loved the way guides like Mohamed bring Petra’s stories alive, sharing insights that turn a photoshoot into an enriching experience. Expect to see breathtaking carvings, ancient structures, and perhaps even catch the subtle color changes in the rock formations.

Lunch and Additional Sightseeing

After the main tour, you’ll enjoy a lunch at a local restaurant, providing a chance to sample Jordanian cuisine. Some travelers advise caution with food choices, as one review warns against eating certain vegetables due to health concerns. It’s smart to confirm the restaurant’s hygiene standards and prices beforehand — some guests have found drinks and snacks to be expensive and not clearly marked.

Return Journey and Ferry Back

Post-lunch, you’ll head back to Aqaba to catch the ferry returning to Taba. The return trip is often a mirror of the outbound crossing, offering more scenic views. Once in Taba, you’ll be transferred back to Sharm El Sheikh, arriving around midnight. Some travelers mention that the return drive can be tiring, especially after a long day, but the overall organization tends to be smooth.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out

The Ferry Ride Experience

Traveling by ferry from Aqaba to Taba is a distinctly enjoyable aspect of this tour. It’s not just transportation; it’s a chance to see the Red Sea from a different vantage point. The crossing typically lasts a short while but provides a calming break during the long day.

Guided Insights and Local Knowledge

The guide’s role is vital. Reviews highlight guides like Mohamed for their friendly approach and detailed explanations. Their storytelling makes the ruins come alive, especially for visitors with limited prior knowledge of Nabataean history.

Authentic, Full-Day Petra Experience

Many travelers appreciate the comprehensive nature of this trip. Instead of rushing, you get about three hours in Petra with a guide, which is enough to see the main sights without feeling overwhelmed. This helps justify the trip’s cost, especially when compared to private guides or multi-day tours.

Value for Money

At $300, this tour presents a practical way to visit Petra without the hassle of multi-day travel or expensive private tours. It includes all essentials: transportation, ferry, entrance fees, lunch, and guide. While some found the journey demanding, most agree that the sights and experiences justify the price.

Challenges and Considerations

The Long Hours

The most common critique is the length of the day. Departing just before midnight and returning around midnight means you’ll spend approximately 26 hours on the move. While many recommend it for the experience, travelers needing rest or with limited stamina might find it exhausting.

Transportation and Delays

Several reviews mention delays or less-than-ideal transport conditions. For example, a traveler noted, “The trip lasted 26 hours, and on the Jordanian side, the bus was used and a bit worn out.” It’s wise to prepare for potential delays and bring snacks or entertainment.

Food and Shopping at Stops

Lunch is included but may not be the best meal of your trip. Some reviews warn about overpriced drinks and unpredictable quality at the restaurants en route, so consider bringing extra water or snacks.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This tour suits adventurous travelers who want to tick off Petra without a multi-day commitment. If you’re comfortable with long travel days and are keen on guided sightseeing, this option offers excellent value. It’s particularly appealing for those eager to experience Petra’s grandeur without the expense of private guides or extended stays.

It’s not ideal if you prefer a relaxed pace or have mobility concerns, as the day is physically demanding. However, for history buffs, picture lovers, and those craving a taste of Jordan’s most famous site, this trip delivers a memorable, well-organized adventure.

The Sum Up

This day tour from Sharm El Sheikh to Petra by ferry provides a practical, cost-effective way to experience one of the world’s most impressive archaeological sites. The mix of scenic ferry crossings, guided insights, and the chance to walk through history makes it a compelling choice for those wanting a full-day adventure. Although the journey is lengthy and can be tiring, many travelers find the sights and the overall organization make it worthwhile.

If you’re someone who values authentic experiences, expert guides, and iconic sights, this trip offers good value for money. It’s best suited for those with some travel stamina and a strong interest in history and archaeology. For the bold and curious, it’s a trip that promises memorable sights and stories — making the long hours worth every minute.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children or elderly travelers?
While most travelers find the tour rewarding, the long hours and physical activity involved in walking or riding a camel might be challenging for very young children or elderly guests. It’s best to assess personal stamina before booking.

What should I bring on the tour?
Bring your passport (and a copy, as required), comfortable shoes for walking, and some snacks and water for the journey. Don’t forget sun protection like hats and sunscreen, especially for the Petra exploration.

Are the guides knowledgeable?
Yes, reviews consistently mention guides like Mohamed as both friendly and informative, helping bring Petra’s history to life with engaging stories.

How long do we spend at Petra?
You’ll have approximately 3 hours with a guide to explore Petra’s main sights. This is enough to see the highlights without rushing, but not for a full wandering experience.

What is included in the price?
The $300 fee covers hotel pickup/drop-off, transportation, ferry tickets, Petra entrance fees, a guided tour, lunch, and the required Jordanian visa.

Can I customize the itinerary?
The tour is fixed in its schedule, and options for customization are limited. However, you can discuss additional needs or interests with the guide on the day.

What if the ferry is canceled or delayed?
In case of ferry issues, you might be transferred via the Arava border, which could impact timing. The operator emphasizes flexibility and will do their best to accommodate.

Is the journey safe?
Yes, most reviews describe the transportation as generally safe and well-organized, though some mention the driver’s aggressive style. It’s advisable to stay alert and follow guide instructions.

How does the tour handle time management?
Despite some delays noted in reviews, the tour aims to maximize sightseeing time once in Petra. Early departure and late return are standard, so plan accordingly for rest and energy.

This detailed review aims to give you a clear picture of what to expect from the Sharm El Sheikh to Petra ferry tour. Whether you’re an archaeology enthusiast or simply seeking a memorable trip to a bucket-list site, this experience offers a balanced mix of scenic travel, expert guidance, and iconic sights — with all the practical info you need to decide if it’s right for you.

You can check availability for your dates here: