Tel Aviv: Petra & Wadi Rum 2-Day Tour with Bedouin Camp Stay

Exploring the ancient wonders of Jordan without the hassle of planning a complicated trip sounds tempting, right? This 2-day Petra & Wadi Rum tour from Tel Aviv promises a mix of iconic history and breathtaking desert landscapes, topped with a night in a traditional Bedouin camp. While the experience offers plenty of memorable moments, it’s not without a few organizational hiccups. Whether you’re a history buff, adventure seeker, or cultural enthusiast, this trip could be a wonderful way to see some of Jordan’s most famous sights with guided ease.

What makes this tour stand out? First, the skip-the-line tickets to Petra mean you’ll spend less time waiting and more time exploring its stunning rock-carved facades. Second, the jeep tour of Wadi Rum offers a fantastic way to see the desert’s rugged beauty without exhausting hikes. Third, the overnight stay in a Bedouin camp provides an authentic atmosphere that’s hard to replicate elsewhere. However, a potential downside is that some reviews highlight organizational issues, especially related to airport pickups and camp amenities. Still, for those eager to see Petra and experience the desert in just two days, it’s a compelling option.

This experience is best suited for travelers who want a guided, all-in-one adventure that balances sightseeing with culture. If you enjoy history, outdoor exploration, and overnight desert stays, this tour can offer genuine value. Just keep in mind that you’ll need to be comfortable with early starts and some logistical coordination.

Key Points

• Convenient itinerary including flights, transportation, and guided tours, offering good value for a packed 2-day trip
• Visit Petra’s highlights, including the Treasury, Roman Theater, and ancient tombs, with skip-the-line entry
• Experience Wadi Rum’s spectacular landscapes with a 4×4 jeep tour, revealing the desert’s natural beauty and Bedouin culture
• Overnight in a Bedouin camp, providing an authentic desert experience and a chance to relax under the stars
• Some organizational issues have been noted, especially regarding airport pickups and camp facilities
• Ideal for those with limited time wanting a guided introduction to Jordan’s key attractions

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Itinerary Breakdown

Day 1: From Tel Aviv to Petra

A very early start kicks off with a 6:30 a.m. flight from Ben Gurion airport, which is quite a convenient way to maximize your time. The tour team will pick you up from Eilat’s Ramon Airport around 7:40 a.m., before crossing the border into Jordan. The drive to Petra, with air-conditioned comfort, makes the journey manageable, and the entire process from pickup to reaching Petra’s visitor center tends to run smoothly in most cases.

Once at Petra, your guide will take you through the famous Siq, the narrow canyon leading into the city’s most iconic site — the Treasury. This façade is truly breathtaking, especially when you realize it was carved out of solid rock over 2,000 years ago by the Nabateans. The guided walk will include landmarks like the Roman Theater and the tombs, with plenty of stories about Nabatean craftsmanship and their water management systems. The highlight? Learning about how Petra was a bustling trade hub before its decline after an earthquake in 363 A.D.

After approximately three hours of sightseeing, you’ll break for lunch at a local restaurant, where the emphasis is often on traditional Jordanian dishes. Many reviews mention that the food at the camp was tasty, with travelers appreciating the chance to sample authentic flavors, although some noted the camp’s facilities could be worn down or basic.

Day 2: Wadi Rum Adventure

After breakfast in the Bedouin camp, the adventure ramps up with a jeep tour across the Wadi Rum desert. Expect about two hours exploring a landscape of dramatic red cliffs, arches, and open plains that have served as the backdrop for countless films, including Lawrence of Arabia. The jeep ride is not just about sightseeing; it’s a cultural insight into the Bedouin way of life, with guides sharing stories about their traditions and survival skills.

Many travelers who’ve taken this tour rave about the views, describing Wadi Rum as “spectacular” and “breathtaking.” You’ll visit key spots that showcase the desert’s rugged beauty, and the tour is curated to give you a real sense of the area’s vastness and serenity. The desert’s silence, combined with the ever-changing light at dawn or dusk, offers a truly memorable experience.

Following the jeep adventure, you’ll head back to the border, crossing into Israel, with an estimated return to Eilat around 3:30 p.m. This timing allows for some sightseeing or relaxation before your evening flights.

What’s Included & What’s Not

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Included:

• Flights between Tel Aviv and Eilat
• Transportation with air conditioning
• Eilat Airport pickup and drop-off
• Guided tour in English
• Lunch and breakfast
• Overnight stay in a Bedouin camp

Not Included:

• Transfer from Tel Aviv airport to Eilat
• Border tax & visa fee ($140)
• Dinner (which you might want to arrange on your own)

The overall value here hinges on the convenience of guided logistics and the combo of Petra plus Wadi Rum, especially given the skip-the-line access and included flights. However, travelers should budget for the border fee and dinner separately.

Firsthand Insights & Notable Details

One reviewer shared that the camp was very good, with delicious food and friendly staff, describing the group as fun and courteous. Others appreciated the knowledgeable guides who explained Nabatean history and Bedouin life, making the sites more meaningful. But be aware—another traveler pointed out organizational issues, specifically a delayed airport pick-up that cost them extra money and some dissatisfaction with the camp’s condition. This highlights the importance of clear communication and patience.

The tour’s timing is tightly packed, which is great for maximizing sightseeing but may leave some travelers feeling rushed. The early flight from Tel Aviv is a plus for getting the most out of your day, although it requires an early wake-up. The drive through the border is straightforward for most, but some reviews note the need for patience during border crossings.

The jeep tour in Wadi Rum is frequently praised for its breathtaking vistas, and many say it’s the most memorable part of the trip. The landscape is otherworldly, with red sands, towering rock formations, and endless horizons that make you feel small but connected to nature. The Bedouin camp experience lends a sense of authenticity, with some travelers describing it as a peaceful night under the stars.

The Practicalities

Timing is critical. You’ll begin with a flight early in the morning, crossing into Jordan by vehicle, and spend approximately three hours in Petra. After lunch, the drive to Wadi Rum takes about two hours, followed by the jeep tour. The return trip crosses the border and arrives back in Eilat around 3:30 p.m., leaving you some free time before your flight.

Transport is air-conditioned, comfortable, and included in the package, making the long drives less tiring. Group sizes vary but tend to be manageable with guided support, and the guides are generally well-informed and fluent in English.

What to bring? Pack your passport, wear comfortable shoes suitable for walking over uneven surfaces, and bring a sun hat for the desert. If you’re not vaccinated, a PCR test 72 hours before departure is required, but vaccinated travelers are exempt from pre-departure testing.

Cost analysis: At $548 per person, the tour offers a comprehensive package including flights, guides, and overnight accommodation. For travelers short on time or seeking a hassle-free way to see Petra and Wadi Rum, this price delivers good value, though some may find it on the higher side considering the border fee and optional expenses.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This trip is perfect for time-strapped travelers who want a guided experience covering Jordan’s most iconic sites without the stress of planning every detail. It suits history buffs, adventure lovers, and culture seekers eager to combine sightseeing with authentic desert life. If you’re comfortable with early mornings, long drives, and some organizational hiccups, you’ll find this tour rewarding.

However, those looking for a more luxury or independent experience might prefer extending their stay or exploring other options. For families with children, the mix of cultural sites and outdoor adventures could work well, but beware of the early start and physical activity involved.

The Sum Up

This 2-day Petra & Wadi Rum tour from Tel Aviv offers a compelling way to see Jordan’s highlights with guided ease. The combination of ancient architecture, desert landscapes, and Bedouin hospitality delivers a memorable experience, especially with the jump-start provided by included flights and skip-the-line tickets. While some travelers report organizational issues, the overall value lies in the seamless itinerary and authentic sights you’ll encounter.

It’s an ideal choice for those seeking a compact, guided adventure that balances history, scenery, and culture. You’ll return home with stunning photos, stories of desert nights, and a deeper appreciation for Jordan’s treasures—all in just two days.

FAQ

Do I need a visa to join this tour?
Visa requirements depend on your nationality. The tour fee includes the border crossing, but ensure your visa or entry permits are in order before traveling.

Is the tour suitable for people with limited mobility?
While the tour involves walking and some uneven terrain, the main sites like Petra’s Treasury are accessible, but be prepared for some walking and possibly uneven paths.

What does the Bedouin camp stay include?
You’ll sleep in a Bedouin-style tent, in an environment that offers an authentic desert experience. Some reviews note the camp’s facilities may be worn but generally comfortable.

Are meals provided?
Yes, breakfast and lunch are included, with the option to purchase dinner separately. Many travelers mention the food was tasty and authentic.

How long is the drive from Tel Aviv to Petra?
The journey begins with a flight from Tel Aviv to Eilat, then a drive to Petra through the border, which is manageable thanks to air-conditioned transportation.

What should I pack for this trip?
Bring your passport, comfortable shoes, sun hat, and sunscreen. If you’re not vaccinated, remember your PCR test results.

Is the tour guided in English?
Yes, guides speak English and are knowledgeable about the sites and local customs.

Can I book this tour last minute?
Yes, with flexible booking and a cancellation policy allowing changes up to 24 hours in advance, last-minute plans are possible.

How much does the border fee cost?
The border tax and visa fee are approximately $140, which is not included in the tour price.

What’s the best time of year to go?
While not specified, Jordan’s climate is generally best in spring and fall for milder weather, making sightseeing more comfortable.

This 2-day tour combines the best of Jordan’s history and natural beauty, tailored to fit into a busy schedule. It’s an adventure packed with unforgettable sights, authentic cultural moments, and just enough organization to keep things flowing smoothly. Just remember, a few hiccups may occur, but the memories you’ll bring back will be well worth it.

You can check availability for your dates here: