From Tel Aviv: Petra 2-Day Tour

Exploring Jordan’s treasures on a 2-day tour from Tel Aviv offers an exciting way to experience one of the world’s most iconic sites—Petra—without the hassle of planning logistics yourself. This guided package captures the essence of Jordan’s hospitality, history, and landscapes, making it a compelling choice for travelers craving an authentic adventure.

What really makes this tour shine are the knowledgeable guides who bring the sites to life, the overnight Bedouin camp experience that adds a touch of local flavor, and the chance to taste traditional Jordanian food. However, a notable consideration is the border crossing, which can introduce delays—something to keep in mind if you’re on a tight schedule.

Perfect for those who love culture, impressive scenery, and a well-organized itinerary, this tour suits travelers eager for a mix of sightseeing and authentic local encounters. If you’re looking for a balance of guided exploration and free time to explore on your own, this package offers just that.

Key Points

• Authentic Bedouin experience with overnight camping and traditional hospitality
• Expert guides providing detailed insights into Petra and Jordanian culture
• Convenient transportation covering border crossings, scenic drives, and site visits
• Ample free time to explore Petra’s main attractions and lesser-known corners
• Delicious local cuisine included, with opportunities to taste Jordanian dishes
• Border crossing info is transparent, with manageable costs and helpful guidance

You can check availability for your dates here:

Journey from Tel Aviv to Petra: The Route and Logistics

This tour begins in Tel Aviv, with full transportation included, making the logistics smoother than trying to organize it independently. The journey involves crossing at the King Hussein / Allenby border, which reviews describe as manageable, especially with guides handling the process smoothly. Reviewers like Kristian appreciated the overall operation, noting that while delays can happen—particularly at the Israeli side—they are predictable and well-managed.

Once across the border, the scenic drive through the Judean desert sets the tone for the journey ahead. The landscape offers a stark beauty, with expansive desert views giving you a real sense of being in a different world. The tour then stops at Madaba, renowned for its ancient mosaics, and Mount Nebo, where you’ll get panoramic views of Jordan’s landscape. From here, the trip continues towards the Bedouin camp near Petra, the highlight of the first day.

The Bedouin Camp Experience: A Night Under the Stars

Staying in a Bedouin camp adds a memorable touch to this tour. According to several reviews, the camp is comfortable and well-maintained, providing a genuine taste of Bedouin hospitality. Guests can enjoy an Arab-style dinner, often praised for its authenticity and flavor, and settle into a cozy bed in a tent or lodge.

One of the best parts? Sitting beneath a clear desert sky, sipping Bedouin tea, and stargazing—an experience that’s surprisingly calming amid the adventure. The camp’s location also offers a peaceful retreat after a day of sightseeing, making it clear why many travelers consider this overnight stay a highlight.

Day Two: Unveiling Petra

The real star of the tour is, of course, Petra. The UNESCO World Heritage site has been called a “wonder of the world” for good reason. Entering through the narrow Siq, the anticipation builds as you approach the iconic Treasury, carved into rose-red cliffs. Guides like Mahdi and Ali keep the history engaging, sharing insights into how Petra was built by the Nabataeans in the early 1st century and how it remained hidden for centuries.

Walking through Petra’s main attractions—such as the Amphitheater, Royal Tombs, and the Roman-style Cardo—gives you a sense of the scale and craftsmanship. Several reviewers mentioned they had plenty of free time to explore beyond the guide-led tour, which allows for personal favorites like climbing up to the Monastery or simply soaking in the views.

The optional activities, like hiking or riding a camel, are not included but are popular among travelers who want to maximize their Petra experience. Kristian suggested that taking a donkey or camel ride up the stairs can save time and energy, especially if you want to visit the Monastery without exhausting yourself.

Food, Tips, and Border Details

Meals are well-covered in this tour—lunches on both days and a dinner at the camp provide a taste of Jordanian cuisine, which many reviewers found excellent. Ashley praised the “delicious food and tapas,” while Ieva was happy with the variety and quality.

Border crossing costs are transparent but worth noting—both Israeli and Jordanian border taxes are payable in cash, so packing some Jordanian dinar and Israeli shekels in advance is advised. Some travelers, like Cristian, found that having Jordanian money made things easier and cheaper, though ATMs are available at the border.

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The Guide Experience: Knowledge and Hospitality

Guests consistently praise the guides, describing them as friendly, knowledgeable, and engaging. Mehdi, in particular, received glowing reviews for his insights into both Jordanian and Israeli experiences, making the journey more meaningful. Kristian appreciated the clear communication via WhatsApp, which kept everyone informed and prepared for potential delays.

Reviews also mention that guides are good at managing group logistics, ensuring everyone gets enough time at each site, even with border delays. Their ability to weave stories and historical facts keeps the tour lively without making it feel rushed.

Transportation and Timing: Managing Expectations

The transportation during the trip is smooth, with comfortable buses and a well-planned schedule. The total duration from Tel Aviv to Petra and back spans roughly two days, including border crossings, sightseeing, and overnight stay. While most reviews note delays at the borders—particularly the Israeli side—these are considered part of the adventure, and guides do their best to keep everyone informed.

One aspect to keep in mind is the timing: this tour is quite full, and you’ll spend significant time on the road, so patience and flexibility are key virtues. The tour operates with a small group size, making the experience intimate and allowing for personalized attention.

Price and Value: Is It Worth It?

At $415 per person, this tour offers good value, considering the inclusions: transportation, guided tours, entrance fees, meals, and the overnight camp. The experience of visiting Petra with expert insights, combined with the overnight Bedouin stay, makes this a worthwhile investment for those wanting a comprehensive yet authentic trip.

Some reviewers appreciated the balance of guided time and free exploration, while others highlighted the value of the included meals and comfortable accommodation. If you compare this to booking separate transport, guides, and accommodation, it’s a convenient package that saves planning time and logistics headaches.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is ideal for travelers who enjoy culture, historical sites, and authentic local encounters. It suits those who appreciate guided tours but want the flexibility to explore on their own afterward. The overnight camp appeals to adventurous spirits looking for a genuine Bedouin experience.

Given the border crossing complexity, it’s best for travelers who are patient and flexible with timing. The tour is not suitable for individuals with mobility issues due to the walking involved at Petra and the camp.

FAQs

Do I need a visa to enter Jordan from Israel?
Most Western countries receive a travel visa at the border crossing, but residents of some countries need to apply in advance. Make sure your re-entry into Israel is also sorted if you plan to return there after the trip.

Is the border crossing difficult?
Border crossing involves border taxes payable in cash—196 ILS for Israel and 50 JOD for Jordan. Delays are common but manageable, especially with guides handling the process smoothly.

What should I pack for this trip?
Bring your passport, comfortable shoes for walking, and a sun hat. Since you’ll be camping overnight, packing light but including essentials like a water bottle and personal toiletries is wise.

Are the accommodations at the Bedouin camp good?
Yes, reviews describe the camp as comfortable, well-maintained, and offering hot showers. You’ll enjoy authentic Bedouin hospitality and a peaceful night under the stars.

Can I explore Petra on my own?
Absolutely. The guided tour provides a thorough introduction, but you’ll have free time afterward to visit sites like the Monastery or climb to vantage points at your pace.

What is the food like?
Meals are included and highly praised for their authenticity and flavor. Expect Jordanian dishes served in a friendly, communal setting, perfect after a long day of sightseeing.

Is this tour suitable for children or seniors?
It’s best suited for travelers without mobility impairments due to walking and hiking involved. Families with active children will enjoy the adventure, but those seeking a more relaxed pace might find it a bit intense.

Final Thoughts

This 2-day Petra tour from Tel Aviv offers an immersive experience combining history, culture, and adventure. The thoughtful inclusion of an overnight Bedouin camp, expert guides, and authentic cuisine adds layers of value, making the trip more than just a sightseeing excursion.

While border crossing delays can be a hiccup, the overall organization and the memorable sights outweigh these minor inconveniences. It’s ideal for those eager to explore the legendary city of Petra with the support of knowledgeable guides and a taste of Bedouin hospitality.

If you’re craving a blend of guided discovery and personal exploration in Jordan, this tour provides a well-rounded, authentic journey that’s worth considering. Just pack patience, your camera, and a sense of adventure!

You can check availability for your dates here: