Traveling to Jordan and looking to maximize your day? This full-day private tour to Petra and Wadi Rum from either Amman or the Dead Sea promises an immersive experience packed with iconic sights and local culture. With a solid 5.0 rating from 18 reviews, it’s clear many travelers find this tour offers excellent value and memorable moments.
What we love about this trip? First, the personalized service with private transportation and an English-speaking driver—no crowded buses here. Second, the careful balancing of ancient marvels and natural beauty, from the carved city of Petra to the desert landscapes of Wadi Rum. Third, the flexibility and thoughtful touches like bottled water, WiFi, and the inclusion of a 4×4 Jeep safari for Wadi Rum.
A potential consideration? The long drive—around three hours each way—means you’ll spend quite a bit of time on the road, so it’s best suited for those with good stamina and patience for travel. This tour is ideal for travelers who want a comprehensive, hassle-free day seeing Jordan’s top highlights without the effort of planning each detail. Perfect if you’re short on time but want to experience the essence of Jordan.
Key Points
- All-inclusive comfort: Private, air-conditioned vehicle, WiFi, bottled water, and a flexible itinerary.
- Cultural and natural highlights: Visit Petra’s Treasury and Wadi Rum’s stunning desert landscapes.
- Expert local drivers: Many travelers praise guides like Safwat, Imad, and Ramzi for their friendliness and knowledge.
- Value for money: For $190 per person, this tour packs in visits to two major UNESCO sites plus a desert safari.
- Long but rewarding day: Expect 12-14 hours covering extensive ground with a balance of sightseeing and authentic desert experiences.
- Limited walking: The tour includes options like a buggy or 4×4 rides, making it accessible even if walking is challenging.
The Complete Experience: What to Expect
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Pickup and Journey from Your Hotel or Dead Sea
The tour kicks off with a punctual pickup from your hotel in either Amman or the Dead Sea region. This private setup ensures a smooth start and avoids the crowds typical of group tours. As you settle into the comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle, your driver—many of whom are praised for their friendliness and helpfulness—will explain the plan for the day. Expect a drive of approximately three hours to Petra, which gives you plenty of time to relax, enjoy the scenery, and get some insider tips from your driver.
Exploring Petra: The Rose-Red City
Once at Petra, you’ll have around 4 hours to explore. The highlight is definitely walking through the narrow Siq to emerge before the Treasury—the iconic façade that feels almost surreal in person. Reviewers often mention how impressive Petra is, describing it as more breathtaking than visuals can convey.
You can expect some walking since the site is vast, but many reviews suggest paying extra for a buggy or horse ride to see more in less time. A few travelers, like one who called their guide “friendly and knowledgeable,” appreciated the personal attention, which made navigating Petra easier.
While the entrance fee isn’t included, the experience of wandering through ancient carved structures, tombs, and temples makes the ticket price worthwhile. Many mention that the sheer scale of Petra and its intricate carvings is enough to leave you in awe. As one reviewer said, “Petra is incredible, more amazing than I ever imagined.”
Wadi Rum: The Desert’s Majestic Canvas
Following Petra, the tour continues to Wadi Rum, approximately a 2-hour drive away. Described as a living testament to desert landscapes, Wadi Rum isn’t just about seeing the stunning scenery—it’s about experiencing the culture. Many travelers rave about engaging with Bedouin tribes, who have looked after this land for generations. One reviewer mentioned how their guide helped them connect with the local culture, adding depth to the experience.
The highlight here is the jeep 4×4 safari, typically lasting 2 hours. The rugged rides over sand dunes and through narrow canyons are often highlighted as a “magical” part of the trip, with some reviewers mentioning that the landscape feels otherworldly, almost like being on another planet. Watching the sunset over the dunes is a common favorite, with vibrant colors transforming the landscape into a painter’s palette.
Ending at the Dead Sea or Returning to Your Hotel
After soaking in the desert views and possibly taking a few photos of the sunset, the tour concludes with the drive back to your starting point—either your hotel in Amman or the Dead Sea. The return journey takes about three hours, giving you time to relax or review your photos. Many reviewers express satisfaction that the tour included a comfortable ride back, often complemented by helpful drivers who ensured everyone rested and refreshed.
The Value and Practical Aspects
For $190 per person, this tour offers genuine value, especially considering the inclusion of private transport, WiFi, bottled water, and the Jeep safari. Although the Petra entrance fee isn’t included, the cost allows you to avoid the hassle of planning transportation and navigation yourself. The small group size or private setup ensures a flexible, personalized experience, which many travelers find enhances the visit.
The tour’s length—about 12 to 14 hours—means it’s a full day commitment. But many reviews highlight that the experience is well worth the time, with several mentioning how their guides made the long day feel effortless.
The driver’s role cannot be overstated—several reviews highlight the importance of a friendly, knowledgeable driver who treats guests like family. Whether it’s Safwat’s warmth, Imad’s attentiveness, or Ramzi’s hospitable nature, travelers often describe their guides as a highlight of the trip.
Authentic Insights from Travelers
Many travelers emphasize the importance of choosing a guide like Safwat, who went above and beyond—”treating us like family” and providing amazing driving. Others appreciated the flexibility, like a guest who needed a later pickup and found their driver accommodating. The 4×4 safari in Wadi Rum is frequently described as “magical,” with a sense of awe at the vast, untouched desert landscape.
One reviewer noted Petra’s walking challenges but appreciated the option to pay extra for a buggy, making the experience accessible for all. Another found the sunset at Wadi Rum to be a “visual spectacle,” perfectly capped the day’s adventure.
Who Will Love This Tour?
This experience suits travelers who want a comprehensive, guided day without the stress of self-planning. It’s perfect for those with limited time in Jordan but eager to see iconic sites like Petra and Wadi Rum. The private aspect makes it ideal for families, couples, or small groups seeking a more intimate, flexible journey. If you’re comfortable with a long day of travel and want authentic, well-reviewed service, this tour could be your best choice.
FAQs
Is this tour suitable for all fitness levels?
The tour involves some walking around Petra’s extensive site, but options like buggies or horses are available for those who prefer less walking. The Wadi Rum jeep safari is mostly seated.
What is included in the price?
The tour includes private transportation, an English-speaking driver, WiFi on board, bottled water, and a 2-hour jeep safari in Wadi Rum. Petra’s entrance fee and Wadi Rum’s entrance fees are not included.
How long is the total driving time?
The drive from Dead Sea or Amman to Petra takes about 3 hours each way, so be prepared for a long but scenic trip.
Can I customize the experience?
Since this is a private tour, your driver is generally flexible in making recommendations or adjusting your stops, though the core itinerary remains consistent.
What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes for walking, sun protection, water, and a camera. Optional extras like a hat or snacks might enhance your day.
Is lunch included?
Lunch is not included; travelers typically bring snacks or plan to buy food at Petra or Wadi Rum.
Final Thoughts
This full-day Petra and Wadi Rum tour strikes a good balance between convenience, cultural richness, and stunning scenery. The positive reviews highlight knowledgeable guides, smooth logistics, and unforgettable landscapes that truly make it worth the price. It’s an excellent choice if you’re after a hassle-free, authentic experience that captures the best of Jordan in a single day.
Perfect for travelers eager to see Jordan’s top sights without the stress of planning, and those who value personal attention from friendly, professional guides. With a mix of archaeological marvels and natural beauty, this tour offers a well-rounded taste of Jordan’s most famous treasures.