From Eilat: Petra 2-Day Tour with Local Guide and B&B Stays

Traveling from Eilat to the legendary city of Petra is a classic bucket-list item for many adventurers exploring the Middle East. This 2-day guided tour promises a seamless, well-organized experience, with the chance to see one of the world’s most iconic archaeological sites without the hassle of planning every detail yourself. It’s an opportunity to combine the stunning landscape of Jordan with the comforts of a cozy bed and breakfast, all while enjoying the expertise of a local guide.

What really caught our eye about this tour? First, the guaranteed departure offers peace of mind — no last-minute worries about whether the trip will run. Second, the fully guided experience means you’ll get insightful commentary on the history and culture of Petra, rather than just wandering aimlessly. Third, the comfortable, air-conditioned transport ensures you’re well-rested for the adventures ahead. The only thing to consider is the border crossing process, which can take up to an hour — a small trade-off for the incredible sights awaiting you.

Designed for travelers seeking a balance between guided convenience and authentic exploration, this tour suits those with a sense of adventure, an interest in history, or simply those wanting to make the most of their Jordanian excursion without the hassle of logistics.

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Key Points

Convenient and guaranteed departure ensures a smooth planning process.
Expert local guides enrich your understanding of Petra’s history and culture.
Comfortable transport makes the journey across borders and through the desert enjoyable.
Flexible free time allows you to explore Petra at your own pace.
Authentic local meals and cozy B&B stays enhance the cultural experience.
All-inclusive pricing offers good value, but border fees are paid separately.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Review of the Petra 2-Day Tour from Eilat

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The Journey Begins: From Eilat to Jordan

When you book this tour, the adventure starts with a pickup from Eilat, from where you’ll board a modern, air-conditioned vehicle. Traveling in style and comfort is a definite plus — the vehicle is described as advanced, which helps keep the long drive relaxed. The border crossing into Jordan is the first quick checkpoint, with a process that might take up to an hour. This is fairly typical for crossings in the region, so packing patience and your passport is a must. For many travelers, the smoothness of this process depends largely on the guide’s organization and experience, which this tour seems to handle well.

Crossing into a Historic Landscape

Once through customs, the scenery shifts dramatically — the desert landscape turns into the stunning cliffs and canyons of the Petra region. The guide, a licensed Jordanian professional, provides commentary en route, setting the scene for the wonders ahead. We noticed that reviewers frequently praised guides for their knowledge and ability to weave stories into the sightseeing, which really enhances the experience.

Exploring Petra: The Main Attraction

Your first day in Petra is a whirlwind of awe. The highlight, of course, is the Petra Treasury, famously carved into the rose-red cliffs. Standing in front of it, you can’t help but feel a thrill — it’s even more impressive in real life than in photos. Beyond the Treasury, the tour includes visits to the Royal Tombs, Petra Theater, and the Qasr Al-Bint temple. These sites offer an insight into the Nabatean civilization, their engineering, and their artistry.

The guide will point out details that most casual visitors might overlook, such as the significance of the tomb facades or the craft behind the intricate carvings. Their familiarity with the site’s history makes the narrative engaging, and many reviews mention how guides “brought Petra alive” with stories and context.

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Free Time to Wander and Capture Moments

A significant advantage of this tour is the free time allotted. You’re encouraged to explore at your own pace, which means you can linger at favorite spots or take a break at a local Bedouin market for some souvenirs or refreshments. Reviewers who have taken this tour often mention how this flexibility makes the experience more personal and memorable.

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Overnight in a Cozy, Authentic Hotel

Staying overnight in a hotel that maintains its traditional Middle Eastern charm is another highlight. The accommodations offer a balance of comfort and authenticity, with many reviewers saying they appreciated the “local flavor” of the lodging. This restful night prepares you for the next day’s activities, which include more hiking and exploring.

The Second Day: More Petra & Local Flavors

Day two is packed with activity. You’ll visit the Petra Monastery, an imposing structure carved into the mountainside, accessible by a scenic hike. The panoramic views from the top are worth every step. The tour also includes visits to Ad Deyr, where you can enjoy sweeping vistas and a sense of remote adventure.

Alongside the archaeological sites, you’ll have the chance to sample local cuisine at a recommended restaurant, adding flavor to your culture. Many travelers appreciate the balance of guided visits and free exploration, ensuring you get enough time to enjoy the site without feeling rushed.

Practical Details and Value

The tour is priced at $290 per person, which, when you consider meals, accommodation, entrance fees, and guided expertise, offers good value. No hidden costs are mentioned, but you should be prepared to pay $125 in border fees (or $65 if you have a valid visa or visa waiver), payable in cash at the border. This is an important detail — having the exact amount ready can save time and frustration.

Transport is included, and the group sizes tend to be manageable, allowing for a more intimate experience. The tour is in English and Spanish, broadening accessibility for international travelers.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is perfect for travelers who want a guided, stress-free way to see Petra while enjoying some local charm and authentic meals. It’s ideal for those who value comfort, historical insight, and flexibility during their sightseeing. However, it’s not suitable for children under 2, pregnant travelers, or those with mobility issues, given the walking involved.

Final Thoughts

This 2-day Petra tour from Eilat offers a compelling mix of convenience, cultural depth, and comfort. The guided nature ensures you won’t miss key highlights, and the overnight stay allows deeper exploration beyond just a day trip.

Travelers who love learning from passionate guides, soaking in stunning desert vistas, and exploring at their own pace will find this trip particularly rewarding. It strikes a good balance between organized sightseeing and personal discovery, making it a smart choice for first-time visitors and seasoned travelers alike.

While the border crossing can add some waiting time, most reviewers agree that the experience itself more than compensates for this minor inconvenience. The well-organized itinerary, authentic accommodation, and expert guidance make this tour stand out as a valuable investment in visiting one of the world’s most stunning archaeological sites.

FAQ

Do I need a visa to join this tour?
Yes, you’ll need a valid passport and may need a visa depending on your nationality. You’ll pay $125 in cash at the border unless you have a valid visa or visa waiver, in which case the fee is $65.

How long does the border crossing take?
Border control and customs may take up to an hour, so plan accordingly. The guide helps streamline the process as much as possible.

Is transportation provided?
Yes, the tour includes transport in a modern, air-conditioned vehicle, making the journey comfortable and smooth.

What is included in the price?
Your fee covers guided tours, entrance fees to Petra, overnight accommodation with breakfast, and a meal at a local restaurant on the first day.

Are meals included?
Only the first-day lunch is included; additional meals and beverages are at your own expense.

Is this tour suitable for children?
It’s not recommended for children under 2 years old, mainly because of the walking involved and border crossing procedures.

Can I customize the itinerary?
The tour is pre-planned, but you’re free to explore Petra more during your free time at your own pace.

What should I bring?
Bring your passport, comfortable walking shoes, sun protection, and cash for border fees and personal expenses.

How experienced are the guides?
The local guides are licensed and highly knowledgeable, often praised for their storytelling and historical insights.

What is the best time to take this tour?
While specific dates aren’t mentioned, cooler months tend to be more comfortable for exploring Petra’s extensive site.

This Petra tour from Eilat strikes a tempting balance of guided expertise, culture, and authentic experiences, making it an excellent choice for those wanting to see this famous city with ease and comfort.

You can check availability for your dates here: