From Eilat: Petra & Wadi Rum 2-Day Tour

An In-Depth Look at the Eilat to Petra & Wadi Rum 2-Day Tour

Travelers seeking a blend of history, adventure, and breathtaking scenery will find this 2-day tour from Eilat to Jordan’s iconic sites a compelling option. While it might seem like a whirlwind trip, it offers a well-rounded glimpse into two of Jordan’s most celebrated destinations—Petra and Wadi Rum—without breaking the bank.

What we love most about this tour is how it balances guided sightseeing with free time and authentic local experiences. The Jeep safari in Wadi Rum is a highlight, offering a chance to see the desert’s stunning landscape up close. The visit to Petra’s famous Treasury and Siq is truly awe-inspiring, and overnighting in a Bedouin-style camp adds a touch of local flavor.

One potential consideration? The tour involves border crossings, so travelers should be prepared for some paperwork and fees, plus the need for cash payments at the border. This might not suit everyone, especially those uncomfortable with border formalities or tight schedules.

Ideal for history buffs, adventure lovers, and those craving a quick but meaningful taste of Jordan, this tour offers excellent value and unforgettable moments in just two days.

Key Points

• Two full days of exploring Jordan’s top sites—Petra and Wadi Rum—paired with seamless transportation.
• Authentic Bedouin experience with overnight stay in a glamping campsite in Wadi Rum.
• Includes entry fees and guided tours, making it a hassle-free experience.
• Jeep safari in Wadi Rum led by a local Bedouin guide, highlighting the desert’s natural beauty.
• Border crossing fees and visas are separate costs, payable in cash.
• Flexible free time in Aqaba and Petra to explore on your own.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Introduction: What’s So Special About This Tour?

We’re looking at a tour that promises a packed two days, filled with some of Jordan’s most photographed sights and rugged wilderness. What really makes this experience appealing? First, the value for money is clear—at $399 per person, it covers transport, entry fees, a guided tour, and even an overnight in a Bedouin camp. Second, the blend of cultural exploration and adventure ensures you’re not just looking at photos but actively experiencing the landscape, especially during the Jeep safari. Lastly, the tour’s structure allows for some free time, so you can soak in the atmosphere of Aqaba or explore Petra independently, adding a personal touch.

That said, the schedule is tight, and border crossings can add a layer of complexity. If you’re not comfortable navigating border procedures or paying extra visa and border fees, this might require some extra planning on your part.

This tour is perfect for travelers who want a comprehensive yet manageable snapshot of Jordan’s highlights, especially if they’re basing themselves in Eilat and want a guided experience without the hassle of organizing logistics themselves.

How the Itinerary Breaks Down

Day 1: From Eilat to Wadi Rum via Aqaba

The adventure begins early, with pickup from your Eilat hotel. After a short drive through the border, you’ll arrive in Aqaba, Jordan’s port city. Here, you have some free time—many travelers appreciate wandering the markets, grabbing a coffee, or simply taking a leisurely lunch. It’s a relaxed way to start, giving you a taste of Jordanian culture before heading into the desert.

Next, the journey continues toward Wadi Rum. Along the way, you’ll catch a glimpse of Mt Haroun, home to Aaron’s Tomb—an important historic site—and enjoy the scenic drive through the vast, rugged landscape. Upon arrival, check into your Bedouin-style campsite, which offers a rustic but comfortable overnight experience.

In the late afternoon, the tour kicks into high gear with a Jeep Safari led by a local Bedouin guide. This is where you’ll really see Wadi Rum’s surreal landscapes—towering rock formations, narrow canyons, and vast sandy plains—perfect for photography and marveling at nature’s artistry. Many reviews highlight how engaging and knowledgeable the guides are, sharing stories and insights about the desert’s geology and culture.

Day 2: Exploring Petra, then heading back

Wake up early to breakfast under the desert sky—an experience that’s both peaceful and invigorating. Then, it’s off to Petra, with a scenic drive that offers views of Mt Haroun once more. When you arrive, you’ll meet your local guide for a comprehensive tour of the “Rose City”—exploring highlights such as the Obelisk Tomb, the Siq (the narrow canyon leading to the Treasury), and the Treasury itself, one of the most iconic facades in the world.

After the guided tour, you have free time to explore further—perhaps hike up to the Monastery or wander the ancient streets at your own pace. A local restaurant provides a well-earned lunch, giving you a chance to sample Jordanian cuisine.

Late afternoon, you’ll start the journey back to the border, where border assistance is included to ensure a smooth crossing. The return drive ends at your original meeting point, leaving you with memories of an extraordinary two days.

What This Tour Means for You

Value for Money: The $399 price tag covers guided tours, entry fees to Petra, Jeep safari, overnight accommodation, and border assistance. For such a comprehensive experience, it’s quite competitive, especially considering the inclusion of overnight in a Bedouin campsite.

Authentic Local Experiences: Staying in a Bedouin camp adds a genuine touch not always found in more commercialized tours. The guides are local Bedouins, sharing stories and cultural insights that enrich your understanding of the desert’s traditional lifestyle.

Convenience & Structure: Traveling through a reputable provider like Tourist Israel Tours means logistics are handled—border crossings, transportation, and bookings. This saves you precious time and stress, especially if you’re not familiar with the region.

Flexibility & Free Time: The tour thoughtfully includes free periods, allowing you to customize your experience—whether it’s shopping in Aqaba, relaxing in Petra, or hiking to lesser-known sites.

Adventure & Scenic Beauty: The highlight Jeep safari in Wadi Rum offers a thrilling way to see the desert’s vastness and unique rock formations. Many guests noted how engaging and insightful their guides were, making the experience more than just a scenic drive.

What Could Be Better?

A key consideration is the border crossing—fees are not included in the tour price and are paid separately in cash. For some, this might be a minor inconvenience, but it’s essential to come prepared with the right amounts and your passport.

Plus, the schedule is quite packed. If you prefer a more relaxed pace or want to spend extra time in Petra or Wadi Rum, this tour might feel rushed. It’s ideal for travelers who want a focused but rundown rather than an in-depth, multi-day exploration.

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The Practicalities: Transportation, Guides, and Accommodation

Transportation is by private bus, which many find comfortable and air-conditioned, making the long drives manageable. The guide is described as knowledgeable and friendly, often sharing interesting anecdotes about Jordanian culture and history. Some reviews note that the guides are flexible and willing to answer questions, enriching the experience.

Overnight stays in Wadi Rum are in a Bedouin campsite, which offers a rustic but authentic experience. Many guests appreciated the chance to sleep under the desert sky, while others mentioned the camp’s simple amenities—so pack accordingly if comfort is a priority.

Pricing at $399 per person gives good value considering all inclusions, but don’t forget the border fees ($65) and visa costs ($60, cash). These are standard for crossings and should be factored into your budget.

Final Thoughts: Who Will Love This Tour?

This 2-day experience is best suited for travelers who want to tick off two of Jordan’s most famous sites without dedicating weeks. It’s ideal for those on a tight schedule, seeking guided convenience, and eager for a mix of history, landscape, and adventure.

If you’re a history enthusiast eager to explore Petra at your own pace, or an adventure lover excited about desert Jeep safaris, this tour offers excellent value. The overnight in Wadi Rum adds that touch of authenticity and adventure that makes it memorable.

However, if you prefer a more leisurely pace with less border formalities, or if you want to spend more time in each location, consider extending your stay or choosing a different tour. This trip offers a well-balanced, immersive taste of Jordan’s highlights—an unforgettable journey packed into just two days.

FAQ

Are border crossing fees included in the tour price? No, border crossing fees of US$65 and visa fees of $60 are paid separately in cash at the border.

What do I need to bring? You should bring your passport, comfortable shoes, a hat, sunscreen, and swimwear if you plan to swim or cool off.

Is the overnight accommodation in Wadi Rum comfortable? Guests describe it as rustic but authentic, with a Bedouin camping experience that’s cozy and atmospheric, especially under the stars.

What’s the guide like? The tour guide and Bedouin guides are generally friendly, knowledgeable, and passionate about sharing their culture and landscape insights.

Can I explore Petra on my own? Yes, after the guided tour, you have free time to explore additional sites like the Monastery or wander at your own pace.

How long does the border crossing take? The tour includes border assistance, but actual crossing times can vary depending on the day and border traffic.

Is this tour suitable for all ages? It’s best for travelers who are comfortable with walking, long drives, and border procedures; families with older children often find it suitable.

What if I want to cancel? You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility if plans change.

Are meals included? Breakfast and dinner are included in the accommodation, and lunch is provided in Petra. Drinks and other meals are not included.

How much free time is there in Aqaba? Guests typically have an hour or so for relaxed exploration, shopping, or grabbing coffee before continuing the journey.

This comprehensive tour from Eilat offers an exciting, value-packed way to experience Jordan’s famed sights—perfect for travelers craving adventure, culture, and memorable landscapes in just two days.

You can check availability for your dates here: