From Eilat, Jerusalem, Tel Aviv: Petra & Wadi Rum 3-Day Tour

Introducing the Petra & Wadi Rum 3-Day Tour

If you’re considering a trip to Jordan that combines iconic sights with a touch of adventure, this 3-day tour covering Petra and Wadi Rum is worth a close look. It’s a well-rounded option that balances guided exploration with free time, making it perfect for those who want to see the highlights without feeling rushed.

What draws many people to this trip are the stunning desert landscapes of Wadi Rum, the chance to stay overnight under the stars in a Bedouin camp, and an in-depth guided tour of Petra’s ancient ruins. Plus, the inclusion of a jeep safari adds an extra thrill.

On the flip side, some travelers note the border crossing process can be slow and a bit complex, especially if you’re new to international border crossings. Also, while the accommodations are generally good, the night in Wadi Rum is more comfortable than truly rustic.

This tour suits travelers who value both guided insights and free time, and who are eager to explore Jordan’s most famous sights with a bit of local flavor thrown in. If you’re comfortable with early mornings, long bus rides, and paying border fees, this could be a great fit.

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Key Points

Comprehensive Experience: Combines Petra’s vast ruins with Wadi Rum’s desert landscapes and Bedouin culture.
Guided and Free Exploration: Fully guided tours in Petra with a full free day for personal discovery.
Authentic Bedouin Stay: Sleep under the stars in Wadi Rum with traditional food.
Excellent Value: For $399, you get transport, accommodations, activities, and entrance fees.
Border & Visa Fees: Expect around $125 in cash for border crossing and visa fees paid on-site.
Expert Guides: Multiple reviewers mentioned knowledgeable guides who enhance the experience.

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The Itinerary Breakdown

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Day 1: Cross into Jordan and Journey to Wadi Rum

Starting from Jerusalem, Tel Aviv, or Eilat, your adventure kicks off with a border crossing into Jordan. Depending on your pickup location, you’ll meet your guide and begin the scenic drive towards Aqaba, Jordan’s southern port city. Here, you’ll have a brief stop to relax and stretch your legs before heading into the desert.

The drive from Aqaba to Wadi Rum introduces you to Jordan’s dramatic landscape—think towering sandstone formations and sweeping red dunes. Once you arrive at the Bedouin camp, the real magic begins. You can settle into your nomadic-style tent or more comfortable accommodation, then venture out on a jeep safari just as the sun begins to set.

This safari isn’t just a touristy ride; it’s a chance to see the raw beauty of the desert, with knowledgeable Bedouin guides sharing stories and points of interest along the way. The evening concludes with a traditional Jordanian dinner around the campfire, offering an authentic taste of local hospitality.

Day 2: Discover Petra with Guided Insights

Waking up in Wadi Rum, you’ll enjoy a hearty breakfast with views of the desert. Then it’s time to hit the road for Petra, one of the New Seven Wonders of the World. Arriving in Petra, your guide takes charge, giving you context and stories about this ancient Nabatean city.

Most visitors agree that the guided tour is well worth it. It covers the key highlights, such as the Treasury (Al Khazneh), the Siq (the narrow canyon leading to the Treasury), and other major monuments. According to reviews, guides like Nizar bring historical details to life while keeping the tour lively and engaging.

After the guided tour, you get a full free day in Petra. This is your time to explore at your own pace—hiking up to the Monastery, wandering through lesser-visited ruins, or revisiting favorite spots. Reviewers love the extra day, noting that it gives ample opportunity to soak in the site’s grandeur without feeling rushed. Some also took optional activities like hiking or exploring Little Petra.

You’ll spend the night in a comfortable 3-star hotel in Petra, allowing for rest before another day of exploration.

Day 3: Additional Petra Exploration and Return

The morning begins with breakfast and a chance to revisit Petra or explore new areas. Several reviewers mention that having this extra day makes a big difference, especially if you want to hike to the Monastery or discover lesser-known parts of the site.

Later, the journey back begins. You’ll leave Petra and head towards Wadi Rum for a final encounter with the desert. After some time exploring and possibly opting for optional camel rides or hot air balloon rides, you’ll be driven back to the border.

The return crossing can be the most time-consuming part. Reviewers note that border procedures may take some hours and are best prepared for delays. The guide and support staff do their best to streamline this process, but patience is key.

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What’s Included & What to Budget for

The tour package covers most essentials: pickup and drop-off, transportation, entrance fees, meals, and overnight accommodations. The Bedouin camp experience and the hotel stay in Petra provide a mix of authentic adventure and comfort. The jeep safari in Wadi Rum adds a memorable touch to your desert experience.

However, travelers should be aware of additional costs. The border crossing fees are around $65, and the visa fee is about $60 if not pre-arranged—these are paid in cash on-site. Meals outside of the included dinner and breakfast are extra, as are optional activities like hot air balloon rides or camel treks.

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Value Assessment

At $399 per person, the tour offers solid value considering the scope of what’s included. Guided tours in Petra, a jeep safari, overnight in a Bedouin camp, and a hotel stay are significant expenses if booked separately. The extra free day allows for more personal exploration—something many reviewers appreciated.

Accommodation & Comfort

The Bedouin camp experience is a highlight for many, offering a chance to sleep under the stars or in a comfortable tent structure. Some reviewers, like Udo, mentioned that the night in the “tent” was more of a fixed structure covered like a tent, which might not satisfy those expecting rustic camping. The overnight hotel in Petra is generally praised for exceeding expectations.

Authenticity and Guide Insights

Guides like Nizar and Ahmed are frequently highlighted for their knowledge, friendliness, and willingness to go the extra mile. Nancy described her guide as “top notch,” and Udo appreciated the “extra mile” the guide took in organizing private tours and showing additional sites like Little Petra. These insights show the value of having an engaged, informative guide, especially when navigating complex sites and border crossings.

Border Crossing Experience

Several reviews describe the border crossing as somewhat slow, taking a few hours due to the process and multiple handovers. Assistance from personnel on both sides makes it smoother, but travelers should be prepared for delays and carry enough cash for fees.

Practical Tips & Recommendations

Bring your passport, as it’s required for border crossing.
Pack comfortable shoes suitable for walking through ruins and desert terrain.
Wear a sun hat, sunblock, and sunglasses, especially during outdoor activities.
Carry cash (USD or Jordanian Dinar) for border fees, tips, and optional extras.
Modest clothing is suggested—no short skirts or revealing tops—and headscarves aren’t necessary.
Arrive at your pickup location 15 minutes early to avoid missing the bus.
During Ramadan, the itinerary may change due to earlier border closures, so plan accordingly.
If you’re not keen on early mornings and long bus rides, this tour might be a bit intense, but most find the experience worth it.

Final Thoughts: Who Will Love This Tour?

This 3-day experience is perfect for travelers wanting a balanced mix of guided discovery and free exploration. It’s particularly well-suited to those who value authentic Bedouin experiences, are comfortable with border crossings, and are eager to see Jordan’s top sights without the hassle of planning every detail themselves.

You’ll love the stunning desert vistas, the chance to explore Petra at your pace, and the stories shared by knowledgeable guides. The overnight stay in Wadi Rum offers a genuinely memorable night under the stars, adding to the trip’s charm.

While it’s not the most rustic camping experience, the accommodations and organization are generally praised, making it a reliable choice. If you’re after a well-priced, immersive Jordan adventure that covers the must-see sites and offers authentic touches, this tour fits the bill.

FAQ

What is included in the tour?
It includes pickup and drop-off, transportation, entrance fees, overnight stay at a Bedouin camp, hotel in Petra, meals, jeep safari, and bottled water.

How much are the border crossing and visa fees?
Border fees are around $65, and visa fees are approximately $60 if not pre-arranged. These are paid in cash on-site.

Is the night in Wadi Rum camping authentic?
The night is spent in a Bedouin-style camp, but some reviewers mention that it’s a more structured, comfortable tent rather than a basic tent camping experience.

Can I explore Petra on my own?
Yes, the second day is a full free day in Petra, allowing you to revisit sites or hike to the Monastery at your own pace.

What should I bring?
Bring your passport, comfortable walking shoes, sun protection, cash for fees and tips, and modest clothing.

Are there optional activities?
Yes, options like hot air balloon rides and camel rides are available, usually booked separately.

Is this tour suitable for people with mobility issues?
No, it is not recommended for those with mobility impairments due to the physical nature of site exploration and transportation.

To sum it up, this Jordan 3-day tour offers a fantastic way to see the country’s best-known sights with knowledgeable guides, comfortable accommodations, and plenty of authentic experiences. It’s ideal for travelers who want a well-organized trip that balances guided tours with personal freedom, especially those eager to sleep under the stars and explore at a relaxed pace.