From Tel Aviv: Full-Day Trip to Petra with Roundtrip Flights

A Complete Guide to the Full-Day Trip to Petra from Tel Aviv

Travelers seeking an unforgettable journey into the heart of Jordan can now explore the legendary city of Petra with a well-organized full-day tour departing from Tel Aviv. This experience, offered by booking-tours.com, combines convenient flights, expert guiding, and seamless border crossings to deliver an authentic and hassle-free adventure—perfect for those with limited time but big travel dreams.

What we love about this tour is how it simplifies logistics without sacrificing the richness of the experience. First, the round-trip flights from Tel Aviv’s Ben Gurion Airport to Ramon Airport near Eilat save hours of travel planning. Second, the VIP border crossing process minimizes delays, allowing you more time in Petra’s awe-inspiring surroundings. Third, the expert local guide adds valuable context, bringing the ruins alive with captivating stories and details. The only potential downside is the early start, which might not suit late risers or those wanting a more relaxed pace. But for adventure lovers eager to maximize their day, this trip hits the sweet spot. It’s best suited for travelers who appreciate a guided, all-inclusive experience that covers transportation, entry, and authentic local cuisine.

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Key Points

Effortless logistics with flights and VIP border crossings make the day smooth.
Expert guiding enhances understanding of Petra’s history and architecture.
Authentic Jordanian cuisine adds a flavorful local touch to your experience.
Stunning landscapes and panoramic desert vistas are a highlight.
Optional horseback ride offers a fun, traditional way to explore Petra.
Convenient return to Ramon Airport and Tel Aviv ensures a stress-free trip.

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The Itinerary: What to Expect on Your Day Trip to Petra

This tour is designed for those who want a comprehensive yet manageable glimpse of Petra in a single day. From the moment your journey kicks off at Ramon Airport, every element is structured to maximize your time and enjoyment.

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Early Morning Departure and Flights

Your day begins bright and early. Upon arrival at Ramon International Airport near Eilat, your driver—who is friendly and professional—will meet you holding a sign with your name or the Booking Tours logo. The quick flight from Tel Aviv’s Ben Gurion Airport to Ramon Airport is a major convenience, cutting down on travel time and avoiding long drives. Travelers have praised how smoothly this leg of the trip runs, with reviews highlighting the efficiency of the flight arrangement.

Border Crossing: From Israel to Jordan

Once you land in Eilat, your driver will transfer you comfortably to the Arava border crossing. Here is where the details matter most. The tour includes border crossing assistance, which is especially helpful given the sometimes lengthy visa and customs procedures. The process is described as “effortless” by travelers, thanks to the knowledgeable staff who guide you through the formalities efficiently. It’s worth noting that travelers pay the Jordan visa fee of $75 upfront via a secure link, while border crossing fees are paid directly there ($65). This transparency helps you prepare financially, avoiding surprises.

Journey through the Desert to Petra

After crossing into Jordan, you’ll enjoy a scenic drive through spectacular desert landscapes and mountain views. This part of the trip offers a glimpse into Jordanian life with occasional Bedouin settlements, and the landscape itself is a compelling part of the experience. The drive takes about 1.5 to 2 hours, giving you time to relax and take photos of Wadi Rum’s striking terrain. Several reviewers have mentioned how the landscape alone is worth the journey, with one noting they loved the “breathtaking views” from the panoramic viewpoints.

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Exploring Petra with a Local Guide

Upon arrival, your official guide—an expert in Petra’s history and architecture—will lead you into the site. The walk begins at the Siqa narrow canyon, known as the Siq, which feels like stepping into a secret world of towering sandstone walls. From there, the iconic Treasury (Al-Khazneh) appears like a scene from a movie—truly as stunning in real life as in pictures.

Your guide will point out key features like the Street of Facades, royal tombs, and the Roman-style theater carved into rock. The guided tour typically lasts for around 3-4 hours, giving you enough time to absorb the sights, listen to fascinating stories, and take plenty of photos.

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Optional Horseback Ride at Petra’s Entrance

If you’re feeling adventurous, you can opt for a short horseback ride—an authentic way to experience Petra’s atmosphere. The ride covers approximately 200 meters and is a fun diversion that many travelers find charming. Tipping your handler ($2-$5) is customary, and it adds a dash of local flavor to your visit.

A Taste of Jordanian Hospitality

No trip to Jordan would be complete without sampling traditional cuisine. The tour includes a delicious Jordanian buffet lunch at a local restaurant, offering flavorful dishes that showcase the country’s culinary richness. Reviewers have enjoyed the authentic flavors, noting that the meal is a highlight of the day. It’s a chance to relax, reflect, and savor the hospitality that Jordan is renowned for.

Scenic Stops and Photo Opportunities

On the drive back, you’ll stop at panoramic viewpoints overlooking Wadi Rum’s vast desert, capturing photographs that will stay with you long after the trip ends. These moments of quiet awe at the landscape are some of the most memorable parts of the journey.

Return Journey and Flight to Tel Aviv

After a full day of exploration, your driver will escort you back to the Jordan-Israel border, where the process to exit Jordan is straightforward thanks to prior assistance. Once across, you’ll be driven to Ramon Airport for your return flight to Tel Aviv. Many travelers appreciate the short, comfortable 20-minute ride back, allowing for a quick unwind before catching your evening flight. The trip concludes with you landing back at Ben Gurion Airport, enriched by a day of discovery in one of the world’s most captivating ancient sites.

What the Tour Offers in Detail

Convenience and Time Efficiency

The major value of this tour is how it condenses a visit to Petra—which can easily take multiple days—into just one. The round-trip flights from Tel Aviv and the VIP border crossing are designed to shave off hours of potential hassle, making the experience perfect for those on a tight schedule. As one reviewer stated, “Everything went as planned and it is an outstanding experience,” highlighting how well-organized the logistics are.

Guided Expertise

Having a local guide is invaluable. They provide historical context that brings the ruins to life, making your visit much more meaningful. Knowing the stories behind the Treasury and the other monuments transforms what might be just beautiful rocks into stories of ancient civilizations.

Authentic Local Flavors

The included buffet lunch offers a taste of Jordanian cuisine, with reviewers mentioning how flavorful and generous the meal is. It’s a welcome break in the middle of a busy day, and a chance to connect with local culture through food.

Scenic and Cultural Highlights

The landscapes you’ll see—desert vistas, mountain ranges, and Wadi Rum viewpoints—are just as much a part of the journey as Petra itself. These stops provide fantastic photo opportunities and a deeper appreciation of Jordan’s natural beauty.

Cost and Value

Priced at $389 per person, this tour offers a comprehensive package that combines flights, border crossings, guides, and food. While the upfront cost might seem high, the convenience and speed are hard to match, especially considering the included elements and expert guidance. Travelers have called it a “worthwhile” investment, especially given how much is covered in one day.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This experience is ideal for history enthusiasts eager to see Petra’s wonders without multiple overnight stays. It suits adventurous travelers who don’t mind early mornings and are comfortable with guided group tours. Families or solo travelers looking for a hassle-free way to visit Petra will find the logistics and organization very appealing.

However, if you’re someone who prefers a relaxed pace or wants to explore Petra at your own rhythm, this might feel a bit rushed. Also, since the trip involves flights and border crossings, travelers should be comfortable with international travel procedures and paying visa and border fees upfront.

The Sum Up: Is It Worth It?

For travelers who want to experience Petra without the hassle of organizing flights or border crossings, this tour provides excellent value and convenience. The combination of quick flights, expert guides, and well-planned logistics means you get to focus on soaking in the sights rather than worrying about the details. Plus, the inclusion of authentic Jordanian food adds a genuine cultural touch that many travelers appreciate.

While the early start may not suit everyone, the overall experience delivers a full day of awe-inspiring scenery, captivating history, and delicious cuisine—all in a tightly packed, thoroughly enjoyable package. It’s perfect for those short on time but big on curiosity and adventure.

If you’re craving an easy, guided introduction to Petra with reliable logistics, this tour is hard to beat.

FAQ

Do I need a visa for Jordan?
Yes, you need a Jordanian visa, which is arranged by us for $75 per person. You’ll pay this upfront via a secure link before your trip.

Are flights included?
Yes, round-trip flights from Tel Aviv’s Ben Gurion Airport to Ramon Airport near Eilat are included, making the journey quick and straightforward.

What about border crossing fees?
You’ll pay the border crossing fee of $65 per person directly to our representative at the border, while visa fees are paid beforehand.

How long is the drive from Ramon Airport to Petra?
The drive takes about 1.5 to 2 hours through striking desert landscapes, giving you plenty of opportunities for photos along the route.

Is the tour suitable for families?
Yes, it’s suitable for families and solo travelers who enjoy guided tours and don’t mind an early start, but keep in mind the pace is full and may be rushed for some.

What’s included in the tour?
The package includes flights, border crossing assistance, transportation, entrance to Petra, a local guide, an optional horseback ride, and a buffet lunch.

Can I explore Petra on my own?
While the guided tour covers the main highlights, after the guide’s visit you can explore Petra at your own pace if time permits.

What should I bring?
Bring your passport, comfortable shoes, sunglasses, sun hat, camera, and cash for personal expenses and tips.

Is there a refund policy?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility if your plans change.

This full-day trip to Petra offers a fantastic way to see one of the world’s most iconic archaeological sites with ease and comfort. Whether for your first visit or a return trip, it promises a memorable adventure packed into just one day.