Day Tour to Petra from Aqaba

Exploring the Day Tour to Petra from Aqaba: An Honest Look

If you’re thinking about making a day trip from Aqaba to Petra, you’re not alone. This tour, offered by Tourist Israel, promises a hassle-free way to see one of the world’s most iconic archaeological sites in just one day. While it doesn’t claim to be a perfect experience, it offers a solid opportunity to tick Petra off your bucket list without the need to stay overnight.

We love that this trip includes door-to-door transfers, making it easier to relax and focus on the sights. The guided tour ensures you get a decent overview of Petra’s highlights, and the scenic view of Wadi Rum on the return adds an extra layer of adventure. Plus, the snack box and water are thoughtful touches for a full day on the move.

However, a potential drawback is the limited time in Petra, roughly 3-4 hours, which might leave some visitors craving more detail. The coach quality and lunch options have also been points of disappointment for some, indicating that this will suit travelers who prioritize convenience over gourmet dining or luxury transport.

This tour tends to work best for those eager to see Petra without fuss, especially if you’re staying in Aqaba and looking for a straightforward, guided experience. Now, let’s dig into the nitty-gritty of what you can expect along the way.

Key Points

• Convenience: Pickups and drop-offs at your hotel make this hassle-free.
• Duration: Around 8 hours, with about 5-6 hours at Petra itself.
• Highlights: Key sites like the Siq, Treasury, Royal Tombs, and theater.
• Extras: Optional short horse rides and scenic Wadi Rum views.
• Limitations: Shorter time in Petra and basic lunch options.
• Group Size: Usually up to 25, keeping things intimate but lively.

Detailed Breakdown of the Tour Experience

Starting Point and Timing

The tour kicks off at 10:00 am in Aqaba, with hotel pickup arranged for most travelers. If you prefer to organize your own transport, it’s worth noting that the tour includes door-to-door transfers, which is a real plus. The group size generally caps at 25, helping to keep the guide’s attention on your group, rather than a crowded bus.

The Journey to Petra

The drive north from Aqaba is about 2-3 hours through the Jordanian Desert. This part of the trip is surprisingly scenic, with views of the rugged, sun-baked landscape. As you approach Petra, the anticipation builds, especially once you see the towering cliffs and narrow canyon of the Siq.

Entrance and Guided Tour at Petra

Once inside Petra, your guide will lead you through the primary sites. Expect about 3-4 hours exploring the famous Siq, the narrow gorge that dramatically opens up to the stunning Treasury. This is the highlight that many travelers have on their bucket list, and it’s as breathtaking in person as the photos suggest.

You’ll also visit the Royal Tombs and the Roman Theater, which reveal the scale and sophistication of this ancient city. The guide provides context, but some reviews mention the tour’s pace can feel rushed, especially if there are delays at border crossings — which are not uncommon.

A notable point from some travelers, like Stephen, is that the guide’s delivery could be more engaging. While informative, it might lack the energy needed to keep everyone fully invested during the long walk. Also, some missed opportunities include not being told about the visitor center and museum, which could have added extra depth to the experience.

Optional Horse Ride

A short horse ride is available, and while it’s optional, it offers a fun way to see more of the site without tiring out. Keep in mind that some travelers enjoy this for the novelty, but it’s not included in the base price.

Scenic Return via Wadi Rum

On the way back to Aqaba, the tour makes a photo stop at Wadi Rum, a stunning desert landscape famous for its dramatic rock formations and cinematic history. This is a great chance for photos and to stretch your legs after a busy morning.

Reviewers have appreciated this scenic overlook, as it provides a different kind of awe compared to Petra’s grandeur.

The Return Journey

Departure from Petra is scheduled for 16:30, giving you around 5-6 hours at the site. The drive back takes roughly 2-3 hours, with a scenic route through the desert. You’ll be dropped off at a central location in Aqaba — perfect for those heading directly to dinner or their hotel.

What Travelers Say: Authentic Insights

The reviews paint a realistic picture of this tour. One reviewer highlighted Petra’s spectacular nature but found the start messy due to a 30-minute wait at the border, which can be frustrating. The guide, while informative, was described as “OK but not very lively,” missing opportunities to create a more engaging atmosphere.

Regarding transport, some mention that the coach is quite worn, which might affect comfort on the roughly 2-3 hour drive each way. The lunch box saw mixed reviews, with some finding it “poor and not worth the bother,” consisting mainly of fresh fruit and stodgy bread. Bringing your own snacks might be wise if you prefer more substantial or varied options.

On the positives, many mention the stunning views and the value for money considering the convenience of door-to-door service and guided access. The scenic Wadi Rum stop also adds a memorable touch to the day.

Analyzing the Value

At $209 per person, this tour offers a reasonable price for a guided day trip to Petra, especially considering the admission fee is included. The convenience of hotel pickup, expert guide, and round-trip transfers saves travelers the hassle of organizing their own transport.

However, the shorter duration at Petra and the basic meal might leave some feeling they didn’t get as much value as hoped, especially if they’re keen on exploring more in-depth. If you’re after a quick, efficient way to see Petra’s highlights with minimal fuss, this tour delivers fairly well.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This trip suits travelers who want a straightforward, guided approach to Petra without the hassle of planning transport or navigating borders alone. It’s ideal if you’re staying in Aqaba and have a full day to spare, and you’re okay with a fast-paced visit rather than in-depth exploration.

If you’re a first-timer or looking for convenience and scenic stops, this tour hits the mark. Be prepared for basic amenities and a shorter visit—it’s about seeing the highlights, not immersing yourself fully.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

For those who value easy logistics and want to check Petra off their list, this tour is a solid option. The door-to-door service removes much of the typical stress involved in visiting Petra independently, and the scenic drive with Wadi Rum views adds a worthwhile bonus to the experience.

However, if you’re seeking more in-depth exploration or luxury comforts, you may find this tour’s pace and amenities somewhat lacking. It’s a good introductory experience for first-time visitors or those with limited time.

To sum it up, this tour represents good value for convenience and iconic sights, but be mindful of its shorter duration and basic amenities. It’s best suited for travelers who prioritize simplicity and efficiency over luxury or extended exploration.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the drive from Aqaba to Petra?
The journey typically takes about 2-3 hours through the Jordanian Desert, offering scenic views along the way.

What is included in the tour price?
The $209 fee covers hotel pickup and drop-off, entrance fees to Petra, a snack box, bottle of water, and the guided tour of key Petra sites.

Can I customize the tour?
Not significantly; the schedule is fixed, but optional activities like a short horse ride are available for an extra fee.

Is the tour suitable for all travelers?
Yes, most travelers can participate, but be aware that the shorter duration at Petra might not suit those wanting an exhaustive exploration.

What language is the guide?
The tour is conducted in English, with availability of other language guides (Spanish, Russian, German, Italian, Polish, French) for an extra fee of $170.

What should I bring for the day?
Besides the provided snack box and water, bringing comfortable shoes, sun protection, and personal snacks is recommended, especially since some reviews mention the lunch isn’t very substantial.

How flexible is the schedule?
Based on reviews, the tour operates on a strict schedule, especially with border crossing delays, which can shorten your time in Petra.

What if I want a longer visit?
You might consider other tours or overnight options, as this day trip offers a limited window—check if extended tours are available.

In essence, this tour offers a hassle-free way to experience Petra’s highlights with scenic stops and guided insights, perfect for those valuing convenience over in-depth exploration.