From Eilat: Petra & Wadi Rum 2-day Tour

Travelers looking for a seamless way to explore two of Jordan’s most iconic sites—Petra and Wadi Rum—will find this 2-day tour from Eilat offers a well-rounded experience. It combines expert-guided sightseeing, free time for personal exploration, and overnight stays in authentic settings, all at a reasonable price point.

What makes this tour stand out? First, you get a knowledgeable English-speaking guide leading you through Petra’s stunning ruins. Second, the overnight in Wadi Mousa promises an authentic taste of Jordanian hospitality and a chance to experience the area without the rush. Lastly, the convenient transfers across borders remove much of the logistical stress.

That said, a potential consideration is the border crossing—it’s straightforward but involves a bit of paperwork and waiting, especially for those unfamiliar with international border procedures. This tour is perfect for travelers who value guided insights, meaningful time at each site, and an easy-to-book package that handles transportation and accommodation.

It’s a great choice for history buffs, adventure seekers, or anyone wanting a taste of Jordan’s spectacular landscape without the hassle of planning every detail. Now, let’s explore what this tour really offers.

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Key Points

Expert Guide: You’ll be accompanied by an English-speaking guide who provides insightful commentary and historical context.
Balanced Itinerary: The tour offers a combination of guided and free time, allowing for personal exploration.
Authentic Experience: Staying overnight in Wadi Mousa gives a genuine feel of Jordanian hospitality.
Convenient Transportation: Transfers are included, making border crossings and travel between sites stress-free.
Value for Money: At $351, the package includes guided tours, accommodations, meals, and border transfers—good value considering the logistics.
Limited Flexibility: Extra activities or additional visits aren’t included, so plan your expectations accordingly.

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An In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience

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The Itinerary Breakdown

The tour kicks off early in the morning with hotel pickup from Eilat at 8:30 AM, which sets a convenient tone. The drive across the border begins around 9:00 AM, with a simple transfer from your Eilat hotel to the Jordanian border. This part of the journey is straightforward but involves some paperwork—passport and visa fees are separate, so be prepared with cash and necessary documents.

Once across, the 2-hour drive to Petra begins. Expect the scenery to shift from desert plains to the awe-inspiring rose-red cliffs of Petra. Around 11:00 AM, the guided tour commences inside Petra, lasting approximately 3 hours. Your guide will take you through the highlights, including the famous Treasury, the Roman Theatre, temples, tombs, caves, and possibly lesser-known sites that many travelers miss when exploring independently.

The Treasury, carved out of sandstone, is truly the star of the show. It’s no exaggeration to say that standing before it feels like stepping into a film scene—only real. The guide will share tales of how the Nabateans built this city over 2000 years ago and engineered water systems that helped it flourish. You’ll learn how Petra was a thriving hub on ancient trade routes, and how its decline came after an earthquake in 363 A.D..

Following the guided visit, you’ll enjoy a local lunch at a restaurant—a great chance to try authentic Jordanian cuisine like mansaf or mezze. Post-lunch, you’ll have some free time to explore Petra at your own pace, maybe revisit the Treasury or wander through the Siq’s narrow canyon.

By late afternoon, around 5:00 PM, you check into your 3-star hotel in Wadi Mousa, the town at Petra’s doorstep. The evening is free for you to relax or explore the local markets and streets, which are filled with shops, cafes, and a lively atmosphere.

The Second Day: Wadi Rum & Return

After breakfast at the hotel, you’ll have some free time—perhaps to take in the scenery or browse local shops—before leaving Petra around 4:30 PM to head towards Aqaba. The drive is scenic, with shifting desert and mountain views, perfect for snapping some photos.

By 7:00 PM, you’ll cross back into Israel via border control, completing your Jordanian adventure. This schedule allows you to enjoy the sites without feeling rushed, though it’s worth noting that the day is quite packed.

What to Expect at Petra

The entry through the Siq (a narrow canyon) is one of the most iconic moments—walking through this winding gorge feels like entering another world. Expect to be captivated by the towering sandstone walls, with sunlight dancing through the cracks, leading you directly to the Treasury.

The Treasury’s facade is mesmerizing, especially when lit by the afternoon sun. Beyond that, the site offers numerous other treasures—temples, tombs, and an ancient Roman theatre—spread over a vast area. Your guide will point out interesting details, from Nabatean water channels to carved statues.

Walking around Petra involves some uneven terrain, so comfortable shoes are essential. The entire site can be explored in multiple ways, but on this tour, you’ll get a structured 3-hour guided overview, which is enough to see highlights without feeling overwhelmed.

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Wadi Rum: The Desert of Dreams

While the tour doesn’t include a full-day jeep ride or camp in Wadi Rum, the drive into this surreal landscape is a highlight in itself. The vast, rocky desert landscape, with dramatic cliffs and endless horizons, is perfect for a quick photo stop or just soaking in the silence. Spending the night in Wadi Mousa allows you to experience some of Jordan’s desert magic without the expense or effort of a full overnight camp.

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The Logistics: Transportation, Timing, and Costs

The transfers are a major plus, making border crossing and site transitions smooth. The group size isn’t specified but is likely small to medium, providing a more personal experience. The total duration—around 2 days—is well-organized, with clear start and end times, which helps manage expectations and planning.

Cost-wise, $351 per person covers guided tours, meals, accommodation, and transfers. This is a fair deal considering the convenience and inclusions, but remember that border fees and visa costs are separate ($140) and not included in the tour price. Also, extra activities or optional visits aren’t part of this package.

The Experience: Pros and Cons

Pros:

Knowledgeable, English-speaking guides enhance understanding of the sites
The overnight stay offers a break from day-tripping and adds authenticity
Border crossing arrangements reduce logistical stress
Guided tour ensures you see key highlights efficiently
Lunch included gives a taste of local cuisine

Cons:

The tour schedule can be quite full, leaving little room for spontaneous exploration
Extra fees (border, visa, New Year’s surcharge) can add up
No dedicated activities in Wadi Rum, if you’re seeking a full desert adventure

Who Will Love This Tour?

This trip suits travelers who want a guided, worry-free experience with plenty of historical and cultural context. It’s ideal for those who prefer structured days over DIY exploration, and who want a taste of Petra’s grandeur alongside Jordan’s desert landscapes. It’s also good for first-timers or those short on time but eager to see the highlights.

Who Might Want More?

If you’re after an in-depth adventure or full desert camping experience, this tour might feel a bit rushed. Also, if you prefer to customize your visit or visit additional sites, a more flexible or private tour could suit you better.

FAQs

Is the border crossing included in the price?
No, border fees and visa costs are separate. The $140 fee covers visas, border fees, and assistance at the crossing.

What should I bring for this tour?
Bring your passport or ID card, sunglasses, sun hat, sunscreen, water, comfortable clothes, and cash for extra expenses.

Are there any restrictions on what I can bring?
Yes, pets, weapons, or sharp objects aren’t allowed at the sites or during border crossing.

How much time do we spend inside Petra?
The guided tour lasts approximately 3 hours, focusing on main highlights like the Treasury, temples, and the Roman theatre.

Is overnight accommodation included?
Yes, you stay overnight in a 3-star hotel in Wadi Mousa, based on double occupancy.

Can I explore Petra on my own?
Yes, after the guided tour, you have free time to revisit sites or explore nearby markets.

What is the best time to take this tour?
Spring and autumn are ideal for cooler weather, but the tour runs year-round—just be prepared for hot days in summer.

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

Does this tour include Wadi Rum activities?
No, it includes a drive through Wadi Rum, but not full-day jeep rides or camping.

Final Thoughts

This From Eilat: Petra & Wadi Rum 2-day Tour offers a practical and enriching way to see some of Jordan’s most treasured sights. With guided insights, smooth transport, and an authentic overnight experience, it’s a compelling choice for those wanting a well-organized adventure without the hassle of planning every detail.

While it’s not designed for extreme adventure or in-depth exploration, it delivers solid value and a memorable glimpse into Jordan’s ancient cities and desert landscapes. It’s best suited for travelers who appreciate guided storytelling, convenience, and a balanced schedule. If you’re eager to tick off Petra and Wadi Rum from your bucket list without the stress, this tour is worth considering.

In summary, this tour balances guided education with personal freedom, all while offering a taste of true Jordanian hospitality. It’s a reliable choice for curious travelers seeking a balanced, meaningful experience in a short timeframe.