From Jerusalem: Full-Day Tour to Petra with Lunch

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Introduction

This full-day tour from Jerusalem to Petra promises a memorable journey into the heart of Jordan’s most famous archaeological site. While we haven’t personally taken this tour, reviews suggest it’s a solid option for those eager to see Petra without the hassle of organizing transport and guides themselves.

What we love about this experience is the convenience of border crossing assistance, the expert guidance provided throughout, and the opportunity to see Petra’s iconic Treasury and tombs in a single day.

However, some travelers have noted that long travel times and the need for strict punctuality can be challenging. This tour is best suited for travelers who are comfortable with early mornings, long bus rides, and a busy schedule. It’s a good fit if you’re looking for a guided, hassle-free way to visit Petra and aren’t concerned about spending around 23 hours on the move.

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Key Points

Convenient border crossing with assistance, making international travel smoother
Guided experience enhances understanding of Petra’s history and significance
Comfortable transportation in an air-conditioned bus for the long drive
All-inclusive with entrance fees and lunch, providing good value
Long day with around 12 hours away from Jerusalem, suitable for the adventurous
Mixed reviews highlight solid guides and stunning sights, but some logistical hiccups

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The Itinerary Breakdown

Starting Early at Jerusalem

The tour kicks off at 3:00 AM from the David Citadel Hotel—an early start, but necessary to maximize your day. The reason for such a pre-dawn departure is to arrive at Petra before the crowds and to make the most of your limited time there. The journey begins with a comfortable, spacious, air-conditioned bus, which is crucial given the approximately 2.5-hour drive through varied landscapes.

Scenic Drive to the Jordan Border

As the bus rolls south, you’ll enjoy changing views—see the Arahav Valley, the Red Sea, and Eilat’s Riviera. Many reviewers appreciate this part for providing a sense of the region’s geography and beauty. Crossing the border is a key part of the experience, involving customs and passport checks that can take up to an hour. The tour offers border crossing assistance, which is a big plus for many travelers who’ve faced delays or confusion in their own independent trips.

Journey to Petra

Once in Jordan, the drive continues through a landscape that mixes desert plains with rugged cliffs—an anticipation builder for what’s ahead. The total drive from the border to Petra is around 2.5 hours, giving ample time for the guide to brief you on what to expect and for you to enjoy the scenery.

Exploring Petra

Arriving at the Lost City

Your first glimpse of Petra is the Siq—a winding, narrow gorge that leads to the famous Treasury. Walking through this natural cleft is about 1 kilometer and offers stunning views of towering red cliffs. Several reviews mention the sense of awe upon seeing the Treasury emerge from the narrow canyon; it’s a moment that’s hard to match.

Highlights at Petra

Once at the Treasury, your guide will point out the intricate carvings and columns, and encourage picture-taking. The “Djinn Blocks,” where you can make a wish by touching the stone, add an extra layer of fun and folklore to your visit.

Beyond the Treasury, the tour typically includes stops at the Royal Tombs and Petra Theater. These sites reveal the grandeur of the ancient Nabataean civilization, with their elaborate facades and well-preserved structures. Because of time constraints, you’ll only explore the highlights, but many find this sufficient to grasp Petra’s scale and importance.

Guided Insights

A local guide, often praised for knowledgeability, helps make sense of what you’re seeing. One reviewer mentioned their guide Karim, who made the full-day experience memorable with engaging commentary. Guides help you appreciate the craftsmanship and history that might otherwise be lost on casual observation, especially given the size of the site.

The Lunch Experience

A key part of the tour is the included lunch, served at an authentic local restaurant. Reviewers mention that the meal is “yummy,” offering a chance to rest and fuel up before heading back. It’s a good way to experience local cuisine without the hassle of finding a restaurant amid the ruins.

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Returning to Jerusalem

After exploring Petra, the journey back begins with a scenic drive and border crossing assistance. You can expect to reach Jerusalem late in the evening, with many reviews noting the long day but also the satisfaction of ticking off such an iconic site in a single trip.

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What’s Included & What’s Not

Included in the Price

Transport in a spacious, air-conditioned bus
Fully licensed, knowledgeable tour guide
Border crossing assistance
Entrance fees to Petra
Lunch at a local restaurant

Not Included

Pickup from your hotel (you’ll need to arrange your own transport to the meeting point)
Visa fees ($125 cash at the border, or $65 if you hold a valid visa or are exempt)
Beverages and breakfast
Personal expenses and souvenirs

The price of $299 per person is quite reasonable considering the all-in package, especially given the cost and hassle of organizing border crossing and transport independently. However, some reviews mention that the overall value hinges on the guide’s quality and the logistical smoothness.

The Travel Experience: Pros and Cons

Pros

Efficient logistics: The tour takes care of the border crossing and guiding, saving you time and potential stress.
Expert guides: Many reviewers praise guides for their knowledge and ability to enhance the experience.
Stunning sights: Petra’s Treasury, tombs, and theater are truly breathtaking, making the long drive worth it.
Value for money: Including entrance fees and lunch makes this a good deal for a full-day adventure.

Cons

Long day: With a 3 AM start and late return, this tour demands stamina and patience.
Border delays: Customs and border control can take up to an hour, and delays at the Jordanian side can extend travel time.
Mixed reviews on organization: A few travelers, including those who experienced logistical issues like lost glasses or uncomfortable transport, felt the experience was disorganized or not up to expectations.
Limited time at Petra: Due to the day’s length, you only get a few hours at the site, which may leave some wishing for more.

Real Traveler Insights

One reviewer highlights the guides’ friendliness and knowledge, which made the experience more engaging. Another mentions being “ripped off” at a souvenir stop—something to be aware of when dealing with vendors. The early start was tough, but many agreed that it was the best way to beat crowds and maximize sightseeing.

From a practical standpoint, travelers should prepare for a strict schedule. Arriving on time at the pickup point, carrying passport and cash for border fees, and being patient during border crossings are all vital. The recommended departure time of 3:00 AM means you’ll need to go to bed early the night before!

Who Should Consider This Tour?

If you’re eager to visit Petra but don’t want the hassle of planning transport and guides yourself, this tour offers a convenient package. It’s ideal for those comfortable with long days and early mornings, and who value guided insights and a hassle-free border crossing. However, if you prefer a more relaxed pace or more time at the site, you might want to consider alternative options or a multi-day tour.

The Sum Up

This full-day Jerusalem to Petra tour strikes a balance between convenience and adventure. It’s especially suited for travelers who want to see the world-famous Nabataean city without the stress of logistics, and who are okay with a long day filled with bus rides and sightseeing. The inclusion of expert guides, entrance fees, and lunch provides good value, making it a practical choice for most.

While some logistical hiccups and the limited time at Petra may be drawbacks, the experience of seeing the Treasury and the Royal Tombs in just one day remains a compelling reason to choose this tour. The scenic drive, border crossing assistance, and guided commentary combine to create a memorable journey—one that’s worth considering if you’re up for an adventure and eager to tick off one of the world’s most stunning archaeological sites.

FAQ

Is the departure time fixed?
Yes, the tour departs at 3:00 AM from the David Citadel Hotel, so punctuality is essential to ensure you don’t miss the trip.

What should I bring?
A valid passport is required, along with some cash (around $125 USD/EU/NIS) for border fees. Arriving 15 minutes early is recommended.

How long does the border crossing take?
Border control and customs can take up to an hour, so patience is key.

Are the guides knowledgeable?
Yes, many reviews mention guides like Karim who provide engaging and insightful commentary throughout the day.

Is lunch included?
Yes, the tour includes a meal at an authentic local restaurant, which travelers report as tasty and filling.

What about the time at Petra?
You’ll have a few hours to explore highlights like the Treasury, Royal Tombs, and Petra Theater. It’s enough to get a good sense of the site, but not a full exploration.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Probably not ideal for children under 2 years, pregnant women, or wheelchair users due to the long day and walking involved.

What if I get lost or have a problem during the trip?
The tour offers border crossing assistance, but some travelers experienced organizational issues, so it’s wise to stay attentive and keep contact details handy.

How does the scenery look during the drive?
Expect to see the Arahav Valley, Red Sea, and Eilat’s Riviera—views that add to the anticipation of reaching Petra.

Can I do this tour independently?
Yes, but it would be much more complicated to arrange border crossings, guides, and transport on your own. This tour simplifies the process significantly.

This Jerusalem to Petra tour offers a practical, guided way to experience one of the world’s most iconic archaeological sites—ideal for travelers prioritizing convenience and expert insights in a single-day adventure.