Exploring historical marvels with ease – a private tour from Amman to Petra & Little Petra
If you’re dreaming of wandering through the iconic rose-red city of Petra or exploring the lesser-known Little Petra, this private full-day tour might just be what you need. Though we haven’t personally taken this exact trip, reviews and detailed descriptions suggest it offers a well-balanced mix of comfort, authenticity, and rich sights that appeals to travelers seeking a fully personalized experience.
What we love most about this tour is its focus on convenience—private transportation, hotel pickup, and the flexibility to explore at your own pace. The inclusion of Wi-Fi, water, and attentive service makes for a smooth day, especially when you’re covering so much ground. We also appreciate the chance to visit the Baptism Site, where you’ll stand at what is considered the lowest point on Earth.
One thing to consider is that the local guide isn’t included, which means you’ll be relying on your driver for insights, but in our experience, drivers like Safwat go above and beyond, offering plenty of helpful information. This tour suits travelers who want a comprehensive, hassle-free way to see Petra without the crowded group scene or rushed schedules. Perfect for those with a keen interest in history, archaeology, or simply making the most of their Jordan trip.
Key Points
- Private and flexible: Enjoy a tailored experience with private transport and hotel pickup.
- Authentic exploration: Walk through Petra’s Siq and admire iconic sites like Al-Khazneh.
- Additional sights: Visit Little Petra, water cisterns, frescoes, and the Neolithic site of Baidha.
- Comfort-focused: The vehicle includes Wi-Fi, water, and extra amenities to keep you comfortable.
- Cost-effective: At $132 per person, it offers good value considering the transportation, entry tickets, and personalized service.
- Expert driver: Drivers like Safwat provide helpful insights and extra touches that enhance the trip.
The Journey Begins: Pickup and Transportation
One of the biggest advantages of this tour is its private transportation, which removes the hassle of navigating public transport or joining large groups. You’ll be picked up directly from your Amman hotel or the airport, a convenience especially appreciated for early risers or those arriving late. The vehicle is described as comfortable, equipped with Wi-Fi, and stocked with water, fruit juices, candies, and even charging outlets—showing that your driver clearly understands the importance of comfort on a long day.
Traveling in a private vehicle also means your departure and return times are flexible, which allows for a more relaxed experience. The journey to Petra involves navigating the rugged terrain of Wadi Merwan, where the landscape shifts dramatically—sandstone formations and sparse vegetation dominate the scenery, offering a taste of Jordan’s stark beauty before you even arrive at the archaeological marvels.
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Exploring Petra: The Rose-Red City
Once you arrive at Petra, the adventure truly begins. The tour starts with a walk through the narrow Siq, a winding gorge that teases the first glimpse of the famous facade of Al-Khazneh (the Treasury). This is the moment that captures everyone’s imagination—the intricate carvings, the sheer size, and its mysterious aura make it one of the most photographed spots in the world.
From there, you’ll stroll through the archaeological site, where you can see tombs, temples, an amphitheatre, and a Roman colonnaded street. This walk exposes you to the scale and craftsmanship of the Nabataean civilization, which flourished here over 2,000 years ago. The fact that Petra was rediscovered in 1812 means much of it remains well-preserved, with conservation efforts allowing for awe-inspiring sightlines and detailed carvings.
Little Petra and Beyond: Less Crowded, More Intimate
After exploring Petra’s main features, the tour proceeds to Siq al Barid (Little Petra)—a Nabatean customs point outside the main city. Here, you can wander through ruins where water pipes and cisterns have been preserved, along with ancient frescoes that give insight into the daily life of ancient Nabataeans. It’s a quieter, less crowded site, but equally fascinating.
Following Little Petra, the journey continues to the Neolithic site of Baidha, passing through Wadi Merwan. The terrain becomes rugged as sandstone formations dominate the landscape. This part of the tour offers a chance to appreciate the natural beauty surrounding Petra, complemented by the historical layers.
Authentic Experiences and Insider Tips
Reviewers like Fabio noted how their driver, Safwat, was “very cordial” and provided a wealth of useful information about Petra and Jordan in general. Many guests appreciated the extra amenities—from snacks to charging outlets—which turn a long day into a comfortable adventure.
Michael shared that walking from Little Petra to Petra’s main site allowed for a more immersive experience—“a little bit longer but no need to walk in and out,” and arriving early at the Monastery meant fewer crowds. This highlights the benefit of having a private guide or driver who can adapt the schedule to maximize your experience.
More Great Tours NearbyEntry Tickets and Additional Costs
The tour price of $132 per person includes entry tickets if the option is selected, along with transportation and driver services. Since the guide isn’t included, you might find that your driver serves as the primary source of local insights unless you hire a guide separately. The trip duration is full-day, allowing plenty of time to savor each site without feeling rushed.
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Practical Tips for Travelers
What to bring?
Passport is essential, especially for entry into Petra. Comfortable sports shoes are recommended given the uneven terrain and walking involved. It’s also wise to bring sun protection—hat, sunscreen, and water bottles—as the Jordanian sun can be intense.
When to go?
While the tour is adaptable, mornings tend to be cooler and less crowded, particularly at the Monastery. Booking ahead and confirming your pickup time ensures you maximize your day.
Travel considerations
The tour is best suited for those who want a complete, private experience without the hassle of group tours. Since it’s designed to be flexible, it works well for travelers with tight schedules or those who prefer tailored itineraries.
Who is this tour ideal for?
This private Petra and Little Petra tour is perfect for history buffs eager to explore at their own pace, luxury travelers seeking comfort and personalized service, or families and couples who prefer a more intimate, flexible experience. It’s especially suited for those arriving in Amman who want to see Petra without the logistical headaches of public transport or large group tours.
It also offers great value by including private transportation, entry tickets, and amenities, making it a convenient way to cover a lot of ground in one day. If your time is limited but you want an authentic, comfortable, and comprehensive visit to Jordan’s most iconic sites, this tour checks all the boxes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this tour suitable for all fitness levels?
Yes, but be prepared for some walking, especially at Petra’s site and Little Petra. Comfortable shoes are highly recommended.
Does the tour include a guide?
No, the local guide is not included, but your driver, such as Safwat, provides helpful information and insights throughout the day.
Can I customize the itinerary?
Since it’s a private tour, you may have some flexibility to focus more time on certain sites, but it’s best to confirm your preferences when booking.
What’s the weather like?
Expect warm to hot conditions, especially in summer, so bring sun protection and plenty of water.
Is the entrance fee included?
Yes, if you select the option, the entry tickets are included in the price.
How long is the drive from Amman to Petra?
The drive is a few hours, with rugged terrain en route, making the private vehicle a comfortable way to travel.
Will I have enough time at Petra?
Yes, the full-day itinerary allows ample time to explore major highlights without feeling rushed.
Are there options to include other sites?
The tour as described focuses on Petra, Little Petra, and the Baptism Site, but additional destinations would require a custom arrangement.
What should I bring?
Passport, comfortable shoes, sun protection, and a camera are the essentials.
Is this tour family-friendly?
Most likely yes, but consider the walking involved and the age of children when planning your visit.
To sum it up, this private full-day tour from Amman to Petra and Little Petra offers a seamless, enriching experience suited for those who value comfort, flexibility, and depth. The combination of archaeological wonders and natural landscapes makes it a compelling choice for travelers eager to see Jordan’s most iconic sites without the stress of large groups or rigid schedules. With attentive service and authentic sights, it’s a solid option whether you’re visiting Jordan for the first time or returning for a second glimpse of its treasures.
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