Petra 2 Day Tour from Tel Aviv + FREE Authentic Lunch

Traveling from Israel to Jordan to experience Petra is a bucket-list adventure that many travelers dream about. This 2-day guided tour offers a well-organized, immersive way to see this ancient Nabatean marvel without the hassle of planning every detail yourself. While it’s a whirlwind experience, it balances comfort, cultural insight, and awe-inspiring sights to deliver a memorable journey.

What we love about this tour is the professional guidance that helps unravel Petra’s mysteries, the comfortable transportation that takes you across borders smoothly, and the authentic local lunch that gives a taste of Jordanian hospitality. A potential consideration is the long travel times—border crossings and bus rides mean some days are quite packed. But if you’re someone who wants a rich, guided experience with minimal fuss, this tour is ideal.

It’s best suited for history enthusiasts, photo lovers, and adventurers eager for a comprehensive look at Petra with all logistics handled for you.

Key Points

Convenient two-day format allowing a thorough exploration.
Includes border crossing assistance for hassle-free travel into Jordan.
Overnight stay in Petra provides time to soak in the sights without rushing.
Guided tours by local experts help deepen understanding of the site’s significance.
Authentic Jordanian lunch included for a taste of local cuisine.
Optional “Petra By Night” activity available at extra cost, adding a magical glow to the experience.

An In-Depth Look at the Petra 2-Day Tour

Starting Point and Early Morning Departure

The adventure kicks off very early—around 2:00 am—to maximize your time and minimize travel fatigue. The journey begins in Tel Aviv, with a bus ride that’s thoughtfully designed to be comfortable thanks to advanced, air-conditioned vehicles. The early start is necessary because the trip involves crossing the border into Jordan and then driving toward Petra, which takes about 8 hours total including border formalities.

Border Crossing Experience

Crossing from Israel into Jordan involves a border control process that can take up to an hour. You’ll benefit from border crossing assistance, which makes this part smoother, especially if you’re unfamiliar with the procedure. Travelers should remember to bring their passport and any necessary visas — and be prepared to pay $125 cash at the Jordanian border for visa fees unless you already hold a valid visa or stamp, in which case the fee drops to $65.

Day 1: Arrival and Exploring Wadi Musa

Once in Jordan, the journey continues to Wadi Musa, the gateway to Petra. Your first glimpse of the city and the surrounding desert landscape is likely to be striking, especially if you’re traveling from the lush coast of Israel. The arrival marks the beginning of your exploration of this 2,300-year-old city carved into red cliffs.

You’ll have the option to explore Petra on foot or on horseback, depending on your energy levels and preferences. As you traverse the Siq, a narrow, winding gorge, you’ll start feeling the anticipation build. The Petra Treasury is the first major monument you’ll see—its intricate façade is as stunning in person as in photos. One reviewer describes walking through Petra as “mind-blowing”, emphasizing how the grandeur is tangible even for seasoned travelers.

Additional sites on Day 1 include the Obelisk Tomb, Ancient Theatre, and the colonnaded street lined with shrines, each offering a glimpse into Petra’s past grandeur. The day’s pace allows enough time to appreciate the craftsmanship and mystery of each monument without feeling overwhelmed.

Day 2: Full Immersion and Iconic Sights

The second day is dedicated to delving deeper into Petra. After a hearty breakfast, you’re encouraged to explore at your own pace, with guided insights from your local expert. The Petra Monastery (Al Dayr) is a highlight—this massive structure on a hilltop rewards those willing to hike up with sweeping views and a sense of achievement.

Other notable attractions include the Great Temple with its grand columns, the Byzantine Church, and the Qasr Al Bint Temple, rumored to be a palace for a biblical princess. The Urn Tomb adds to the sense of mystery, and the Bedouin Market offers souvenirs and a chance to mingle with local vendors.

Many reviewers cite knowledgeable guides as a major plus—they provide context and stories that bring Petra’s stones to life. One reviewer notes that the guides “are experts,” making the history accessible and engaging, which adds significant value, especially for first-time visitors.

Overnight in Petra

The tour’s inclusion of overnight accommodation next to Petra means you can enjoy the site after the day-trippers leave. This quiet time is perfect for snapping photos, soaking in the sunset, or simply relaxing. Some travelers mention that the Bedouin camp is amazing—an authentic experience that adds a layer of culture.

Final Day: Return Journey

After a leisurely breakfast, you’ll spend the day exploring at your leisure—hiking, shopping at the Bedouin market, or revisiting favorite spots. The 8-hour return trip takes you back through Eilat and into Israel, concluding with drop-off at your starting point. The journey is long but comfortable, thanks to the air-conditioned bus and organized logistics.

The Value of This Tour

When evaluating $379 per person, this tour offers a lot of value: transport, border assistance, guided commentary, overnight stay, and lunch are all included. The convenience of having everything arranged minimizes stress and maximizes your sightseeing time. Plus, the authentic lunch enhances the cultural experience—no need to worry about where to eat once you’re in Petra.

Reviewers reinforce this value, with one describing it as “a dream come true”. The guided approach is especially appreciated, as it transforms what could be a confusing or overwhelming experience into an educational journey.

What Makes It Stand Out?

• Efficient logistics: The early start and border crossing assistance save you from many typical travel headaches.
• Expert guides: Their insights turn stone carvings into stories, making history accessible.
• Authentic overnight stay: More time in Petra means better photos and less rushed sightseeing.
• Flexible exploration: With free time in Petra, you can customize your visit—hiking up to the Monastery or shopping at the Bedouin market.

Considerations

While the overall experience is fantastic, it’s worth noting the long travel hours and the need for early mornings. If you prefer relaxed trips with less transit or traveling at your own pace, this might not suit you. Also, the border crossing process requires patience and cash preparedness.

Who Would Enjoy This Tour?

This tour is well-suited for history buffs, photographers, and adventurers eager to visit Petra without the hassle of organizing transport or accommodation. It’s also ideal if you want a guided experience that enriches your understanding of Nabatean culture and architecture.

Travelers who appreciate authentic local meals and are comfortable with long days of travel will find this package very satisfying. It’s perfect for those who want to see the highlights with the benefit of expert narration, overnight in Petra, and the convenience of an organized trip.

Final Thoughts

This Petra 2-day tour from Tel Aviv offers a well-rounded, immersive experience packed with iconic sights, cultural insights, and logistical ease. The combination of guided tours, authentic lodging, and included meals makes it a value-rich option for travelers who prefer convenience without sacrificing depth.

While the schedule is tight and the days are long, the reward is access to one of the world’s most famous archaeological sites—a truly unforgettable adventure. If you’re looking for an educational, hassle-free way to visit Petra and enjoy Jordan’s hospitality, this tour is definitely worth considering.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
This tour is not suitable for children under the age of 2, mainly due to the long hours of travel and walking involved.

Do I need a visa for Jordan?
Yes, depending on your nationality, you might need a visa in advance. You will be required to pay $125 in cash at the border unless you already have a valid visa stamp, in which case the fee is reduced to $65.

What should I bring for this trip?
Bring your passport, cash for border fees, comfortable walking shoes, weather-appropriate clothing, and snacks for the journey. It’s also wise to have some USD or Dinars on hand for border expenses.

Are meals included?
Yes, you’ll enjoy a free authentic Jordanian lunch on the first day, and a breakfast on the second day is included as part of your overnight stay.

What’s the guide’s role during the tour?
A licensed, knowledgeable guide will lead you through Petra, providing historical context, answering questions, and enhancing your understanding of the site’s significance.

Can I explore Petra independently?
Yes, the second day offers free time to explore at your own pace, including hiking up to the Monastery or shopping at the Bedouin market.

To sum it up, this tour provides a fantastic opportunity to see and experience Petra with all the logistics taken care of. It’s especially suited for travelers who want an engaging, guided journey with the comfort of overnight accommodation, making it a great choice for those wanting to turn a bucket-list trip into an achievable adventure.