Exploring the Ancient City of Petra from Eilat in One Day
Travelers seeking a taste of history, stunning scenery, and a bit of adventure often look to a day trip from Eilat to Petra. Although a quick jaunt, this tour offers a chance to see one of the world’s most iconic archaeological sites without the hassle of planning logistics alone. It’s perfect for those who value comfort, guided insights, and a well-rounded experience that also includes a visit to the seaside city of Aqaba.
Three things we really like about this tour? The seamless border crossing, the well-organized itinerary, and the opportunity to see both Petra and Aqaba in a single day. Plus, the option to enter Petra on foot or with a horse adds a nice touch of flexibility. One potential consideration is that the tour does not include border and visa fees, which come to about $130 per person, so budget accordingly. This kind of trip suits travelers who want a hassle-free, guided experience with a comfortable ride, especially if they’re keen to tick off Petra from their bucket list without staying overnight.
Key Points
- Convenient full-day itinerary combining Petra and Aqaba
- Comfortable transport with air-conditioning and a smooth border process
- Guided tour with professional insights into Petra’s history
- Includes a buffet lunch and a visit to the seaside city of Aqaba
- Flexibility to explore Petra on foot or on horseback
- Clear pricing with transparent details on additional fees
What to Expect on Your Petra Day Trip from Eilat
This tour is designed to maximize your time and minimize your hassle. Starting early at 7:00am, you’ll be picked up from your hotel and driven comfortably in an air-conditioned vehicle. The journey begins with a scenic drive through the Jordanian desert, passing Wadi Rum’s towering rock formations—a landscape straight out of a movie, famously associated with Lawrence of Arabia. Traveling through this rugged terrain sets an adventurous tone for the day.
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Crossing the Border and Arrival in Petra
One of the tour’s highlights is the border crossing. The process is generally straightforward, but it involves paying border and visa fees, totaling around $130 per person. The tour provider helps streamline this process, but be ready for some paperwork and a bit of waiting. Once in Jordan, the view of the desert landscape and Wadi Rum’s distant mountains feels like an open invitation to explore the Middle East’s natural beauty.
Entering Petra through the Siq
The journey into Petra begins with the famous Siq, a narrow, winding canyon that’s about 1.2 km long. Walking through it, you’ll understand why the sight of the Treasury at the end always leaves visitors breathless. As the towering red-rose cliffs narrow overhead, the anticipation builds, culminating in that stunning reveal of the Treasury façade—a stone masterpiece carved into the hillside.
Reviewer insight: “Everyone who visits Petra mentions the Siq—it’s a walk that builds excitement, and the moment the Treasury appears, it’s like seeing a movie scene come to life,” notes a guest’s review.
Exploring Petra’s Inner Treasures
Your guide will lead you into the heart of the ancient city, which is essentially a giant open-air museum carved into the mountains. You’ll pass countless tombs and monuments, each with its own story and distinctive architecture. The tour includes approximately six hours in Petra, allowing ample time to admire the rock-cut facades, take photos, or even explore a bit on your own.
Flexible Entrance Options
One of the tour’s thoughtful features is the option to enter Petra on foot or on a horse. This can be particularly appreciated if you want to avoid the physical strain of walking. The horse ride is a traditional way to experience the initial approach, but walking remains a popular choice for many visitors wanting to connect more deeply with the site.
Lunch and Rest Breaks
After hours of exploration, a buffet lunch is included, served at a local restaurant. The meal offers a welcome break and a chance to refuel with authentic Middle Eastern cuisine, giving you energy for the rest of the day.
Visit to Aqaba
The tour also includes a guided visit to Aqaba, Jordan’s seaside city. Here, you can enjoy some time by the waters, perhaps stroll along the promenade or snap photos of the Red Sea’s vibrant waters. It’s a lovely way to balance the ancient history with modern relaxation.
Transport, Group Size, and Practical Details
The tour accommodates up to 40 travelers, making it a comfortable group size to ensure personalized attention without feeling crowded. The transportation is air-conditioned, which is crucial considering the Jordanian desert climate—expect warm temperatures, especially in summer.
Start time at 7:00am means your day begins early, but that’s part of how you fit so much into one trip. The experience begins with hotel pickup, so confirm your accommodation details when booking. The round trip includes drop-off at your hotel, adding to the overall convenience.
Pricing and Additional Costs
The listed price of $245 per person covers the guided tour, transportation, and lunch. However, be aware of additional costs such as border and visa fees ($130), which you’ll pay on the day. This means the total trip could be closer to around $375, so budgeting for these extras is wise.
Reviews and Authentic Insights
The overall rating is a perfect 5 out of 5 based on two reviews, both confirming the value and quality of the experience. One reviewer, Marcin_O, highlighted that “Petra is beautiful and worth seeing,” emphasizing the tour’s good preparation and organization.
From the insights available, it’s clear that travelers appreciate the stunning views, the guided background, and the well-managed logistics. Knowing that most guests find the trip “very good” and worth the price confirms its reliability.
Who Should Consider This Tour?
This trip is ideal for travelers who want an all-in-one experience without the stress of planning. It suits those with limited time in Eilat but eager to see Petra’s highlights, especially if they prefer guided tours for historical context. It also appeals to visitors seeking a comfortable, hassle-free way to cross borders and explore Middle Eastern landmarks.
If you’re a history buff, a photo enthusiast, or simply someone who loves seeing remarkable landscapes, this tour offers good value. Be prepared for a long day—early start, lots of walking (or horse riding), and the need to handle border procedures.
The Sum Up: Is It Worth It?
In the end, this Petra day trip from Eilat offers a practical way to check off one of the most iconic sites in the world. The combination of professional guides, comfortable transportation, and the chance to see both Petra and Aqaba makes it a well-rounded package. It’s especially suited for travelers who value organized logistics and authentic experiences over a DIY approach.
While the additional border and visa fees mean the total cost is higher, many find that the stunning views, expert guidance, and the convenience justify the price. If you’re after a straightforward, memorable day exploring ancient wonders without the fuss, this trip hits the spot.
FAQ
Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour offers hotel pickup and drop-off, making it easy to start and end your day comfortably.
How long does the border crossing take?
Border crossing times can vary, but the tour provider helps streamline the process. Expect some wait time but manageable with the guided support.
What are my options for entering Petra?
You can enter on foot or choose to ride a horse for part of the approach, offering flexibility based on your preference or energy level.
Does the tour include all entrance fees?
The tour price includes admission to Petra, but border and visa fees of about $130 per person are paid separately on the day.
How much time do I get in Petra?
You’ll have approximately six hours for exploring Petra, enough to see the main highlights and take photos.
Is Aqaba worth a visit?
Absolutely. The guided visit to Aqaba allows you to enjoy some seaside relaxation and see a lively city along the Red Sea.
What should I bring?
Bring comfortable shoes, sun protection, a hat, water, and some cash for optional extras or souvenirs. A camera is a must for capturing the sights.
This full-day trip from Eilat packs in history, natural beauty, and cultural encounters into one memorable adventure. With thoughtful logistics and authentic experiences, it’s a reliable choice for those eager to see Petra without the fuss of planning an overnight stay.