From Aqaba: Private Day Tour to Petra

Traveling from the Red Sea’s Aqaba to the ancient city of Petra is a classic Jordanian adventure, and this private day tour makes it both accessible and enjoyable. If you’re after a hassle-free way to see the jaw-dropping Petra, this tour offers a lot of value for a full day of exploration.

What’s particularly appealing is the combination of professional guiding, comfortable transport, and a flexible schedule that lets you soak in the sights at your own pace. Plus, the inclusion of key archaeological sites such as the Treasury, Roman theater, and Royal Tombs makes it a comprehensive experience for those short on time.

However, it’s worth noting that the tour involves quite a bit of walking, including a climb of 970 steps if you want to visit the Monastery. If walking long distances or stairs aren’t your forte, this may be a consideration.

This tour suits travelers who want to experience Petra comfortably, with knowledgeable guides and all logistics handled, especially those with a day free from other commitments. It’s ideal for history buffs, photo enthusiasts, and anyone eager to tick off this world-famous UNESCO site in a single day.

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Key Points

Convenient private transfer from Aqaba ensures a smooth start and end to your day.
Expert guides enrich your understanding of Petra’s history and significance.
Flexibility to explore Petra independently after the guided portion.
Includes lunch and entrance fees, making it a good value for a full-day experience.
Limited to a 2-hour guide during the guided portion, with free time afterward.
Walking and stairs are inevitable, so comfortable shoes are a must.

You can check availability for your dates here:

What Makes This Tour Stand Out

This private day trip from Aqaba to Petra is designed for travelers who want a streamlined, insightful visit to one of the world’s most famous archaeological sites. The entire experience is crafted to maximize your time, comfort, and understanding of Petra’s treasures.

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Seamless Transportation & Pickup

Starting with a hotel or port pickup in Aqaba, the journey to Petra is by private air-conditioned vehicle. This means no waiting around, no group huddles—just you, your driver, and the scenic drive through Jordan’s desert landscape. Reviewers often highlight the professionalism of the drivers, with their friendly guidance making the journey pleasant. For instance, William appreciated his driver “Haroun,” describing him as “very friendly, competent, and full of Jordanian insights.”

The ease of door-to-door service is a significant perk, especially if you’re traveling with luggage or have limited mobility. If you’re on a cruise and booked a port transfer, this tour can be tailored to include pick-up from the Aqaba cruise port, adding extra convenience.

Guided Tour & Free Exploration

Once at Petra, a local English-speaking guide accompanies you for roughly two hours. This guided segment covers key highlights like the Treasury (Khazneh), the Street of Facades, the Royal Tombs, and the Roman theater. The guiding is praised for being fluent and engaging, with visitors noting the guide’s knowledge enhances their appreciation of Petra’s history.

After the guided tour, you’re free to wander at your own pace. This flexibility is invaluable—you can revisit favorite spots or explore less-visited areas like Little Petra or the Qasr El-Bint, which the tour includes with a one-hour stop.

The Iconic Petra Experience

The journey through the Siq, a narrow canyon that leads you to Petra’s most iconic monument, is a highlight. Walking through this winding gorge, framed by towering cliffs, builds anticipation for the Treasury, which truly leaves visitors in awe. The reveal of this carved façade, shimmering in the desert sun, often makes the early morning walk worth it.

Beyond the Treasury, other impressive sights await—the Royal Tombs, the Roman theater, and the Qasr El-Bint. The tour’s itinerary also includes Little Petra, a smaller, less crowded site with a similar Nabataean feel, giving you a broader sense of the area’s archaeological richness.

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Walking & Climbing Considerations

A key point to keep in mind is the walking involved. The tour involves walking through the canyon, as well as climbing 970 stairs if you choose to visit the Monastery, a major highlight for many. As one reviewer pointed out, “you climb by your own both ways 970 stairs,” so good footwear and some stamina are advisable. If stairs or long walks are challenging, you might prefer to stay in the main Petra basin.

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Dining & Refreshments

Lunchtime is included in the tour, with a visit to a local restaurant. While the tour covers the cost of the meal, water and beverages during lunch are not included. Reviewers have noted that the lunch offers decent value and local flavor, giving you the chance to enjoy Jordanian cuisine in a relaxed setting.

Additional Stops & Experiences

The tour wraps up with a visit to Little Petra for about an hour, giving you a chance to see a different facet of Nabataean life. This lesser-known site offers great photo opportunities and a quieter atmosphere compared to the main archaeological park.

Overall Value & Pricing

At $155 per person, this tour balances cost with a comprehensive experience. It covers entrance fees, transfers, a guide, and lunch—all essentials for a hassle-free day. When considering the convenience and depth of the experience, it’s quite competitive, especially for solo travelers or those who prefer guided insights over wandering alone.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This private tour is best suited for travelers who want to maximize their Petra experience without the hassle of organizing logistics themselves. It’s ideal if you prefer comfort, guided context, and a flexible schedule. History buffs, photographers, and those with limited time will appreciate how much can be covered in one day.

If you’re someone who prefers to explore independently or avoid walking long distances, you might find the stairs and extensive walking a bit challenging. But overall, it’s a well-rounded option for those eager to tick Petra off their bucket list comfortably and efficiently.

Final Thoughts

The combination of private transport, expert guiding, and free time makes this day trip from Aqaba a compelling choice for many travelers. The reviews highlight how the knowledgeable guides, like Mr. Ali and Haroun, add a personal touch, making the whole journey more engaging and memorable.

You’ll love the chance to walk through the Siq and gaze upon the Treasury, knowing that the logistical details are taken care of. The included lunch and Little Petra visit provide additional value, rounding out a full-day exploration.

While the walking and stairs require some planning, the overall experience is worth it for those wanting a comprehensive, guided visit to Petra. It’s especially suited for travelers who enjoy a mix of guided insights and personal discovery, all wrapped in a comfortable, well-organized package.

FAQ

Is transportation included?
Yes, all transfers are by private air-conditioned vehicle with an English-speaking driver, ensuring a smooth journey.

Can I choose to explore Petra on my own after the guided part?
Absolutely. After the guided portion, you have free time to explore additional areas of Petra independently.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, a hat, and your passport or ID are essentials. Bring clothes suitable for the weather and enough water for the day.

Can I visit the Monastery?
Yes, but be aware that reaching the Monastery involves climbing 970 stairs on your own, so plan accordingly.

Are lunch and entrance fees included?
Yes, the tour covers lunch and entrance fees to Petra archaeological sites, making it easy to budget your day.

What if I am arriving by cruise or have limited mobility?
The tour can include pickup from Aqaba cruise port or airport, but walking and stairs are unavoidable if you want to visit certain parts like the Monastery.

Is this tour suitable for families or groups?
Most definitely. The private nature makes it flexible and comfortable for families, but consider the walking involved if traveling with young children or elderly.

This private day tour from Aqaba makes discovering Petra straightforward, comfortable, and insightful, perfect for those who want to see the highlights without sacrificing convenience or depth.