Petra 1-Day Tour from Jerusalem with FREE Authentic Lunch

Traveling from Jerusalem to Petra in a single day is no small feat, but with this guided tour offered by Bein Harim Ltd, it’s an achievable and rewarding adventure. While many tours promise a quick visit, this one emphasizes comfort, convenience, and authenticity—delivering an experience that feels both organized and genuinely immersive. From the moment we looked into it, what caught our attention were the seamless border crossing assistance, the inclusion of a traditional local lunch, and the chance to upgrade your experience by riding on horseback into Petra.

The tour’s highlights—such as door-to-door transportation, detailed guides, and a well-paced itinerary—make this option stand out for those wanting a comprehensive snapshot of Jordan’s jewel, Petra. However, it’s a long day, with early starts and a hefty 22-hour schedule, so it’s best suited for travelers who are comfortable with early mornings and full days on the move. If you’re craving a hassle-free, well-organized trip that balances history, culture, and scenic views, this tour hits many of the right notes.

Three things we really like:

• The door-to-door private transport takes the hassle out of logistics.
• The border crossing assistance saves time and reduces stress—crucial in a day trip.
• The authentic local lunch offers a taste of Jordanian cuisine in a relaxed setting.

One possible consideration:

• The tour is quite packed, so expect a full day with limited downtime.

This experience is perfect for history buffs, first-timers, or anyone eager to see Petra without the overnight commitment or complicated planning. It’s especially ideal for those who value guided insights and want a straightforward, well-organized itinerary.

Key Points

• All-inclusive experience with transport, guide, entry fees, and lunch.
• Ideal for travelers seeking comfort and convenience in a single day.
• Early start with a 3:15 am pickup from Jerusalem.
• Border crossing assistance streamlines what can be a time-consuming process.
• Optional horseback entry adds a fun, historical touch.
• Visit Petra’s main sights like the Treasury, Royal Tombs, and Theater.
• Includes a panoramic tour of Aqaba, if time permits.
• Cost-effective for a full-day guided tour—giving you a comprehensive snapshot of Petra.

A Deep Dive into the Petra Day Trip

Starting early from Jerusalem

The experience begins with a pre-dawn pickup at the David Citadel Hotel in Jerusalem around 3:15 am. This early start is necessary to make the most of the day, especially considering the long drive ahead. The group is transported by a spacious, air-conditioned bus that provides comfort on the approximately 2.5-hour journey to the border crossing at Eilat, Israel. The tour’s small group size (max 40 travelers) ensures a more intimate atmosphere, and the guide is there to keep everyone informed and engaged.

Border crossing and border assistance

One of the standout features is the border crossing assistance. Unlike some DIY options, this service helps navigate customs and control procedures, which can otherwise be time-consuming and confusing. Based on reviews, this added support significantly speeds up the process, with the border control and customs check potentially taking up to an hour. Travelers are advised to have their passport details ready and be prepared to pay around $125 in cash for visa fees if needed, or $65 if they already possess the necessary visa.

The drive through diverse landscapes

Once across the border, the scenery shifts from Israel’s urban areas to the rugged beauty of southern Jordan. The bus ride continues through striking desert landscapes, giving passengers a chance to appreciate the stark, windswept beauty that surrounds the ancient city of Petra. This transition is part of what makes this day trip special: experiencing two countries in one day, with minimal hassle.

Exploring Petra’s Archaeological Marvels

Arriving at Petra, the group enters the Petra Archaeological Park, where the real magic begins. The guide provides an in-depth orientation, explaining the significance of the site and its fascinating history. Many reviewers highlight the knowledgeable guides—Mercedes_C, for example, mentioned how their guide was “very cordial,” providing clear explanations and answering all questions.

The iconic Siq, a winding, colorful gorge, is the first jaw-dropping sight. As you walk through it, you’re surrounded by towering cliffs polished smooth by centuries of erosion. The moment you see the Treasury (Al-Khazneh) carved into the rose-red cliffs, it’s hard not to be awestruck.

Visitors can take time to photograph the Obelisk Tomb, the Royal Tombs, and the Petra Theater—each a testament to the city’s architectural ingenuity. The guide often points out interesting details, such as the Djinn Blocks, where you can make a wish by touching the stone, adding a fun, interactive element to the visit.

Optional horseback riding & exploring further

For an extra fee, travelers can opt to ride on horseback into Petra, replicating the traditional approach taken by merchants thousands of years ago. This upgrade adds a fun, authentic touch to the experience and is appreciated by those wanting a more immersive visit. Many reviews, like Salvatore_S’s, praise the guide Daniel, noting how he maximized their time—“Daniel made it work great,” including their stop at the Dead Sea.

Lunch and the local vibe

The tour includes a free traditional Jordanian lunch at a local restaurant. This is a significant highlight, allowing travelers to enjoy authentic cuisine without the hassle of planning. The meal is often described as hearty and flavorful, providing a nice break during the busy day. The inclusion of lunch is a smart move, adding value and a taste of Jordanian hospitality.

Scenic return, with optional Aqaba tour

After several hours exploring Petra, the group heads back towards Israel. The return trip offers more desert vistas and the opportunity to relax and reflect on the day. If time permits, there is an additional panoramic tour of Aqaba—Jordan’s stunning seaside city—adding a splash of coastal scenery to the adventure.

What Sets This Tour Apart?

The seamless logistics make this trip stand out. The door-to-door transport and border assistance mean less time worrying about directions and paperwork. This is especially valuable for first-time visitors or those unfamiliar with border crossings in the region.

The value for money is notable, considering the inclusion of transport, guide, entry fees, and lunch. For around $299, it offers a comprehensive experience that would be complicated and more expensive to DIY, especially factoring in border assistance and the convenience of a guided tour.

On top of that, reviews emphasize the knowledge and friendliness of the guides—a crucial factor in making the day enjoyable and informative. Many travelers speak highly of their guides’ attentiveness and clarity, which helps demystify the history and significance of Petra’s ruins.

Practical Tips for Your Petra Day Trip

• Be prepared for early mornings and long hours on the bus. Pack snacks, water, and maybe a light jacket for the cooler early hours.
• Wear comfortable shoes—the terrain inside Petra involves plenty of walking.
• Bring cash in USD/EU/NIS for the border visa fee, and be ready for a potentially slow border crossing process.
• Dress appropriately for the weather; layers are best in winter, and hats or sunscreen are essential in summer.
• Book in advance—the tour is popular and often booked 102 days ahead on average.
• Consider the horseback upgrade if you’re interested in a more historic experience; it’s a fun extra but not mandatory.

Is This Tour Right for You?

This trip is perfect if you want a stress-free, guided experience with all logistics handled. It’s well-suited for those with limited time but eager to see Petra’s highlights, including its most iconic sites. The inclusion of border crossing help and lunch adds a lot of value, especially compared to independent day trips.

Travelers who enjoy learning from knowledgeable guides and want to avoid the hassle of navigating borders and transportation will find this tour highly appealing. However, keep in mind the duration—if you prefer relaxed, leisurely days, this might be a bit intense.

In summary, this Petra day trip offers a well-organized, comprehensive, and authentic experience, balancing stunning sights with practical convenience.

FAQs

How early does the tour start?
The tour departs at 3:15 am from the David Citadel Hotel in Jerusalem, so be ready for an early morning pickup.

Is border crossing assistance included?
Yes, the tour provides hands-on border crossing support, which helps streamline the process, saving you time and potential stress.

What is the cost of the visa fee?
You should be prepared to pay approximately $125 in cash for visa issuance if required, or $65 if you already have a visa stamp. Have the exact amount ready.

Is lunch included?
Yes, a traditional local lunch is included free of charge, giving you a taste of Jordanian cuisine during the day.

Can I upgrade the experience with horseback riding?
Yes, for an additional fee, you can ride on horseback into Petra, adding a historic and fun element to your visit.

How long is the drive back from Petra?
The return journey is around 8 hours, allowing for scenic views and some rest before arriving back in Jerusalem.

What should I wear?
Comfortable walking shoes are a must; dress in layers in case of temperature changes, and bring sun protection in summer.

Is this tour suitable for children?
This tour is not recommended for children under 2 years old due to the long day and early start.

What happens if I cancel?
You can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours before the tour for a full refund.

Final Thoughts

For travelers eager to tick off one of the world’s most iconic archaeological sites without the fuss of planning each detail, this tour offers real value. The combination of guided insight, convenient logistics, and authentic touches like lunch makes it a compelling choice. While it demands a full day and early wake-up call, the payoff—seeing Petra’s spectacular rock-cut architecture—is well worth the effort.

If you’re traveling from Jerusalem and want a curated, hassle-free experience that combines history, scenery, and local culture, this Petra day trip is a smart pick. It’s best for those who value guided expertise and seamless logistics over a leisurely, unstructured day. With plenty of positive reviews praising the knowledgeable guides and overall value, it’s clear this tour makes a memorable trip to Jordan accessible and enjoyable.