From Eilat: Petra Guided Full-Day Trip with Lunch

Travelers planning to visit Petra from Eilat often look for a tour that balances comfort, expert guidance, and authentic experiences. This full-day guided trip offers just that, taking you through one of the world’s most iconic archaeological sites with ease and insight. We’ve examined what makes this tour stand out—and where it might fall short—to help you decide if it’s the right fit for your Jordan adventure.

What we love about this experience:
Firstly, the guaranteed departure and hotel pickups make logistics stress-free. Secondly, the expert, knowledgeable Jordanian guide ensures you get context-rich stories and tips, enhancing your visit. Lastly, the comfortable, air-conditioned transport and included lunch mean you won’t be left hungry or exhausted halfway through.

A potential consideration is the border crossing, which can take some time and involve cash payments—something worth planning for. This tour suits travelers who want a comprehensive, guided experience without the hassle of solo planning or long logistics, especially those short on time but eager to see Petra’s highlights.

Key Points

• All-in-One Convenience: Hotel pick-up, transportation, guided tour, and lunch included make this a hassle-free option.
• Expert Guidance: A licensed Jordanian guide provides insightful storytelling and cultural context.
• Prime Location & Views: The route offers stunning desert scenery and iconic Petra sights.
• Time-Managed: 8-9 hours from start to finish, ideal for a full but manageable day trip.
• Border & Visa Tips: Be prepared for border procedures and cash payments, with some reviews highlighting delays.
• Limited Time at Petra: One-day tours mean you’ll see just the highlights; a second day is recommended for full exploration.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Detailed Look at the Petra Tour from Eilat

The Planning and Logistics

Starting from Eilat, the entire experience is designed for simplicity: hotel pick-up and drop-off are included, so no need to worry about finding meeting points or navigating public transport. The journey to Petra involves about 2.5 hours in a modern, air-conditioned vehicle. This gives you plenty of comfort on the road, with views of the desert landscape zipping past—perfect for snapping some quick photos or just relaxing.

You’ll cross the border at the Arava crossing, where a representative assists with visa formalities and customs. Be aware that this stage can take up to an hour, so patience is key. The border process involves paying $125 in cash for the visa fee (or $65 if you already have a visa or visa stamp), so packing the exact amount in USD, EUR, or NIS can save time and hassle.

The Guide and Group Experience

Once in Jordan, you’ll meet your licensed guide—most reviews mention guides like Kareem, who go above and beyond with hospitality and storytelling. One reviewer raved about Kareem’s surprises and friendly demeanor, which can turn a good tour into a memorable one. The guides are knowledgeable about Nabataean history and can tell stories that bring Petra to life, making the ruins more than just pretty pictures.

Group sizes vary, but most participants seem satisfied with the structure. Some reviews reveal frustrations with organizational hiccups—such as late pickups or crowded buses—highlighting that this experience, while excellent, isn’t perfect. One traveler mentioned waiting two hours at the Jordanian border and dealing with a crowded bus with uncomfortable seating, which emphasizes the importance of patience during border crossings.

Exploring Petra’s Highlights

After arriving, your guide will lead you through the most famous parts of Petra, beginning with the Siq gorge—the narrow, winding canyon that sets the stage for the Treasury. This section is often the highlight: the moment you see the Treasury (Al-Khazneh) carved into red sandstone cliffs is breathtaking, especially with the morning light.

Expect a 3-4 hour exploration, during which your guide will point out notable sites like the Obelisk Tomb, the Royal Tombs, and the Nabataean Theater. Travelers who are quick to plan know that this isn’t enough time to see everything, but it covers the essential sights and offers a taste of Petra’s grandeur. Some reviews express a desire for more, as Petra’s vastness warrants multiple days, but for most, this is a satisfying glimpse.

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The Return and Scenic Views

After soaking in the ancient city, you’ll retrace your steps back to Eilat, passing through more stunning wilderness scenery. This part of the trip is a good chance to reflect on what you’ve seen and snapped some final photos.

Lunch and Cultural Flavor

The included lunch in a local restaurant adds a delicious, authentic touch to the tour. It’s an opportunity to enjoy Jordanian cuisine and unwind after walking through Petra’s rugged terrain. Many travelers appreciate this added value, especially as it relieves the need to find food independently in a foreign country.

Analyzing the Price and Value

At $215 per person, this tour offers a well-rounded experience that combines convenience, guided insight, and culture. When you consider the cost of transportation, guide fees, entrance tickets, border formalities, and lunch, this price is competitive.

However, some reviews mention total costs reaching around $400 for the day—including border fees and visas—highlighting that additional expenses are part of the adventure. For travelers short on time, this guided trip is a time-efficient way to see Petra without the hassle of planning each detail.

Who Would Love This Tour?

This experience is ideal for travelers who want a guided, organized day trip with minimal hassle. It’s suited for those who value comfort, expert narration, and the convenience of hotel transfers. If you’re a first-timer to Petra or Jordan in general, this tour offers a solid overview without the risk of getting lost or overwhelmed.

It’s also perfect for travelers who prefer a set schedule—not too long, not too rushed—and are comfortable with a bit of border crossing bureaucracy. Those looking for a more intense, comprehensive exploration might consider a second day, but for many, this trip hits the sweet spot.

Final Thoughts

This guided full-day trip from Eilat to Petra offers a balanced combination of comfort, expert guidance, and iconic sights. The included hotel transfers and lunch make it an easy choice for travelers who prioritize convenience, while the knowledgeable guide enhances the experience with meaningful stories and insights.

While border crossing delays and limited time at Petra are important considerations, most travelers find the trip to be worth the investment for the chance to walk through the ancient city with an expert by their side. It’s well-suited for first-time visitors, history buffs, or anyone wanting a worry-free way to experience Petra.

If you’re after an authentic, memorable day that combines stunning scenery with cultural discovery—this tour might just be your best bet for a smooth Jordanian adventure.

FAQ

Do I need a visa to join this tour?
Yes, most travelers will need a visa, which costs $125 unless you already have a valid visa or visa stamp, in which case the fee drops to $65. The tour includes assistance at the border to handle visa formalities.

How long is the border crossing?
Border procedures can take up to an hour, including customs and visa checks, so plan accordingly and arrive prepared with the right cash.

What should I bring on the day?
Bring your passport, cash in USD/EU/NIS for border fees, and adhere to the dress code—avoid shorts, short skirts, or sleeveless shirts as these are not allowed.

Is this tour suitable for children or pregnant women?
This tour isn’t recommended for children under 2, pregnant women, or wheelchair users due to the physical activity and logistical considerations.

What’s the main highlight of Petra on this tour?
Most travelers agree that passing through the Siq to see the Treasury is unforgettable. The guide will also point out other significant sites like the Royal Tombs and the Nabataean Theater.

Can I explore Petra at my own pace?
No, this is a guided tour with a set schedule. If you want to explore more thoroughly, consider a second day or a longer, self-guided visit.

What is included in the tour price?
Transport in an air-conditioned vehicle, a licensed Jordanian guide, entrance fees to Petra, and lunch at a local restaurant.

To sum it up, this Eilat-to-Petra tour offers great value for those wanting a curated experience with expert guidance and comfort. It’s perfect for first-timers or anyone short on time but eager to see Petra’s most famous sights. With reliable logistics, scenic routes, and authentic touches, it’s a memorable way to add Jordan’s crown jewel to your trip.

You can check availability for your dates here: