Full-Day Private Round-Trip Transfers to Petra from Amman

Introduction

Taking a trip to Petra from Amman is a highlight for many visitors exploring Jordan, and this private round-trip transfer offers a smooth, flexible way to see the iconic rock city. While we haven’t personally taken this exact tour, countless reviews, along with the detailed itinerary and features, suggest it’s a reliable and enjoyable way to tick Petra off your bucket list.

What we love about this experience is the personal chauffeur service that eliminates the hassles of shared buses or public transport, the ample free time to explore at your own pace, and the option to hire a local guide for deeper insights. Plus, the air-conditioned vehicle and the convenience of hotel pickup and drop-off make it perfect for travelers short on time or seeking comfort on a long day.

One thing to consider is that entrance fees and optional guide services are not included in the price, so you’ll need to budget for those separately. This tour is ideal if you value privacy, flexibility, and a straightforward way to explore Jordan’s most famous archaeological site. It suits travelers who want to make the most of their day without the stress of planning every detail.

Key Points

• Private, air-conditioned transfer ensures comfort and flexibility.
• Self-guided exploration allows you to customize your Petra experience.
• Optional local guides and donkey rides add depth and fun but come with extra costs.
• Ample time at Petra (around 6 hours) provides opportunities for sightseeing, photos, and personal discoveries.
• Convenient hotel pickup and drop-off save time and energy.
• Reviews praise knowledgeable drivers and smooth, punctual service, enhancing the overall experience.

The Experience: What To Expect

Hassle-Free Transportation from Amman

The day begins with a hotel pickup in Amman, where your driver, speaking English, will greet you and help set the tone for a comfortable journey. The drive to Petra takes approximately 3 hours, mostly along Jordan’s scenic desert highway — a good chance to catch up on sleep or ask your driver questions about Jordan’s history, culture, or local tips. Reviewers consistently praise the new, comfortable vehicles and friendly drivers like Mohammed and Nidal, who are often described as punctual, helpful, and engaging.

A refreshment stop en route is often included, giving you a chance to stretch your legs and grab a snack or drink before arriving at Petra’s entrance. One reviewer noted that their driver even surprised them with a visit to the smallest hotel in Jordan, which added a quirky touch to the trip.

Arrival at Petra and Entrance

Once you reach Petra, you’ll leave your driver at the gate. You then have the choice to explore independently or hire a local guide (additional cost). Many visitors appreciate the flexibility here — some prefer wandering at their own pace, soaking in the views and snapping photos, while others opt for guided insights into Petra’s history and architecture.

The entry ticket, which you purchase separately, allows access to the entire site. While the tour price doesn’t include this, the benefit is that you control your spending and schedule, avoiding group constraints.

Walking through the Siq and the Treasury

The most iconic part of Petra is the Siq, a narrow, winding canyon that leads to the Treasury (Al Khazneh) — the photo op everyone dreams of. The rose-colored rock formations light up beautifully under the sun, and many reviewers mention how stunning this moment is, especially when they first catch sight of the Treasury’s facades.

From here, you can explore the theater, royal tombs, and other monuments at your own pace. Some travelers appreciated that the 6-hour window gave enough time to see the highlights without feeling rushed, with one reviewer noting their driver’s helpful tips and guidance on where to go.

Climbing or Riding to Monastery or High Place of Sacrifice

For those feeling energetic, the tour offers the option to climb the steps or ride a donkey (additional costs) up to the Monastery, Petra’s largest monument, which stands majestically at the end of a narrow valley. The views from the Monastery are spectacular, and many reviewers have remarked that the extra effort is well worth it, especially if you arrive early to avoid the crowds.

Similarly, some travelers enjoy the High Place of Sacrifice, a clifftop site with panoramic vistas. Reviewers who took this route describe it as a “bird’s-eye view” of the expansive city, perfect for photos and appreciating Petra’s scale.

Free Time and Exploration

The tour provides ample free time to wander, sit down for a meal, or take photos. Several reviewers highlighted how flexible this is — you can explore the ancient city on your own or relax in one of the shaded areas with a drink. One commenter shared that they appreciated having “time to see Petra without feeling hurried,” which is valuable given the site’s size and beauty.

Return Journey and Hotel Drop-Off

After a full day of sightseeing, your private driver will pick you up and return you to your Amman hotel, often with a break for refreshments or sightseeing en route. Many reviews echo that drivers are punctual and courteous, making the return trip smooth and relaxing.

Value and Practicality

Cost vs. Experience

Priced at $135 per person, this tour offers great value for travelers seeking comfort, flexibility, and personalized service. When you consider the cost of individual taxis, guide fees, and potential group tours, this private transfer makes sense financially, especially since it includes hotel pickup and drop-off.

The tour’s flexibility means you can spend as much or as little time exploring Petra as you wish, with the driver available for assistance or recommendations. Plus, the option to hire a local guide at the entrance can deepen your understanding — reviewers noted guides like Ahmed and Jafar as particularly helpful and knowledgeable.

Comfort and Convenience

Traveling in a modern, air-conditioned vehicle is a significant advantage, especially considering Jordan’s warm climate. The private nature of the tour means no crowded buses, and the hotel pickup means you won’t need to navigate unfamiliar public transport.

Pacing and Timing

The around 12-hour duration includes the drive, exploration time, and return trip, which is a full but manageable day. Some reviewers noted that the drive takes about three hours each way, but the comfort of the vehicle and the friendly drivers make this easier. If you’re someone who prefers a relaxed pace and wants to avoid rushing, this tour is well-suited.

Tips from Reviewers

• Arrive early at Petra to beat the crowds, especially if you plan to visit the Monastery.
• Bring bottled water and snacks, although some tours provide bottled water.
• Consider hiring a guide at the entrance for an in-depth experience.
• Be prepared for walking; moderate physical fitness is recommended.
• Optional donkey rides can add fun, but costs are extra.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This tour is ideal for solo travelers, couples, or small groups looking for a hassle-free, flexible day trip to Petra. It’s perfect if you want to maximize your time without worrying about transportation logistics, and if you’re comfortable exploring independently or with a guide purchased separately.

People who appreciate personalized service, comfort, and the option to customize their experience will find this package appealing. It’s also a good choice for travelers with limited time in Jordan who want to see Petra without the commitment of a multi-day tour.

The Sum Up

This private round-trip transfer to Petra from Amman offers a balance of comfort, flexibility, and authentic exploration. The ability to explore Petra at your own pace, combined with the convenience of hotel pickup and a professional driver, makes it a practical choice for many travelers.

The inclusion of optional guide services, donkey rides, and customizable timing ensures you can tailor the day to your preferences. While the cost doesn’t cover entrance fees or guides, the overall value — especially considering the vehicle quality, driver expertise, and convenience — makes this a compelling way to see Jordan’s most famous site.

Whether you’re a history buff, a photo enthusiast, or just looking to tick Petra off your list without stress, this tour aligns well with those seeking a personalized, comfortable, and memorable day.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for all physical fitness levels?
Yes, but note that moderate physical activity is involved. You’ll walk through Petra’s extensive site, and optional climbs or donkey rides require some stamina.

Are entrance fees to Petra included?
No, the tour price does not include Petra’s entrance fees, which you’ll need to purchase separately at the site.

Can I hire a guide at Petra?
Yes, you can hire a local guide at the entrance for an additional cost, which many reviewers recommend for a richer understanding of the site.

What is the duration of the drive from Amman to Petra?
The drive typically takes about 3 hours each way, depending on traffic and stops.

Is hotel pickup available in Amman?
Yes, the tour includes pickup from your Amman hotel, making the trip seamless and stress-free.

Can I customize my time at Petra?
You have approximately 6 hours of free time, allowing you to explore at your own pace or visit specific sites like the Monastery or High Place of Sacrifice.

Are donkey rides available to reach the Monastery?
Yes, donkey rides are an option, but they come with additional costs, and the ride involves some ascent and descent.

What should I bring for the day?
Bring bottled water, sunscreen, a hat, comfortable walking shoes, and perhaps a camera for the stunning views.

Is this tour suitable for solo travelers?
Absolutely. It’s a private transfer, so solo travelers will enjoy the personalized service and flexibility.

This full-day private transfer to Petra from Amman strikes a great balance between convenience, cost, and the opportunity to enjoy Jordan’s crown jewel at your own pace. Whether you want to roam freely or hire a guide for a deeper historical dive, it’s a flexible option that maximizes your time and comfort.