Petra and Wadi Rum 2 day tour from Jerusalem

Discover the Petra and Wadi Rum 2-Day Tour from Jerusalem

If you’re dreaming of visiting Jordan’s iconic landmarks without the hassle of planning every detail yourself, this guided two-day tour from Jerusalem offers a practical way to see Petra, Wadi Rum, and Aqaba efficiently. While it’s a long journey—starting at 3 am—many travelers find that the experience is well worth the early start, especially with knowledgeable guides and included meals.

What we like most about this tour is how it covers two of Jordan’s most famous sights with all the essentials sorted—admission tickets, comfortable transport, and some interesting extras like a Jeep safari and Bedouin-style camping. Plus, the fact that you sleep in a tented camp or upgrade to a chalet makes it a surprisingly immersive experience. However, keep in mind that border crossing times can be unpredictable, and some travelers have reported delays or organizational hiccups. Still, this tour is best suited for those who want a comprehensive Jordan experience with minimal fuss.

Key Points

• Convenience: All-in-one package covering transportation, admission, and some meals.
• Authentic experience: Stay overnight in Bedouin-style tents or chalets, enhancing the adventure.
• Well-organized guides: Many reviewers praise the guides’ knowledge and efficiency.
• Long travel days: Expect early starts and a fair amount of time on the road.
• Value for money: The price includes significant highlights, making it a solid deal.
• Border crossing: Be prepared for potential delays and carry cash for border fees and visas.

An Overview of the Itinerary

This tour is quite the marathon, but each leg offers something special. It’s designed for travelers eager to maximize their time seeing Jordan’s highlights without the hassle of logistical planning.

Early Morning Start & Border Crossing

The journey kicks off at 3:00 am in Jerusalem, with a transfer to the Arava Border crossing. This early start is necessary because the tour aims to make the most of the limited time available. The Israeli desert scenery while traveling to Eilat is surprisingly beautiful, with stark, open landscapes that set the tone for an adventure.

Border crossing can take up to an hour, and some reviews mention it as a point where delays happen. One reviewer noted that the process can be “slow,” so it’s wise to stay patient and carry cash for border fees and visas, which aren’t included in the price.

Day 1: Wadi Rum & Aqaba

After crossing into Jordan, the first stop is Aqaba, where you’re given some free time. This city offers a chance to explore the bustling markets and enjoy a local lunch, which many find a real highlight. One traveler mentioned that the city tour provided a good overview and a taste of Jordanian life.

Midday, you’re transferred to Wadi Rum, where you check into a Bedouin camp. Here, many appreciate the cultural authenticity of staying in traditional tents and experiencing Bedouin hospitality. Some options include upgrading to a chalet with an ensuite bathroom, which adds more comfort but at a higher cost.

In the late afternoon, you’ll take a Jeep safari through the stunning Wadi Rum desert. Reviewers consistently praise the knowledgeable guides—one called their guide “Visar,” who was “great,” making the ride both fun and informative. Expect to see iconic rock formations, sweeping sand dunes, and perhaps even cliffs that inspired movies like The Martian.

Dinner is a buffet included in the tour, often described as satisfying and hearty. Sleeping in the desert environment offers both tranquility and photo opportunities of the star-studded sky, which many find memorable.

Day 2: Petra

The second day begins with a breakfast at the camp, followed by a scenic drive along the “desert way” highway to Petra. The route itself is a highlight, with travelers commenting on the breathtaking mountain views along the way.

Arriving at Petra around 9:30 am, the guided tour begins. This UNESCO World Heritage site is truly awe-inspiring. One reviewer shared that the guide made the highlights come alive, and the walk through the Siq leading to the Treasury was “impressive,” especially with the early morning light.

You’ll have free time in Petra until noon to explore further or take photos at your own pace. Afterward, you’ll begin the journey back to the border, aiming to reach Israeli territory around 7 pm. Some travelers noted that the long day is exhausting but totally worth it, especially given the unforgettable sights.

Return Journey

The trip back involves crossing the border with assistance, which many reviewers find smooth, but delays are always a possibility. The tour ends with drop-offs either in Eilat or Tel Aviv, depending on your preference.

What’s Included and What’s Not

This tour provides value through inclusions like all admission tickets, transportation, and meals. The meals—breakfast, lunch, and dinner—are considered decent and filling, adding to the overall convenience. The tented accommodation in Wadi Rum is a highlight, offering an authentic Bedouin experience, though an upgrade to a chalet is available for those seeking more comfort.

However, there are costs to consider that aren’t included, like the border fee and visa fee, which must be paid in cash. One reviewer mentioned a “poorly organized” camp reservation — so, it’s worth double-checking your booking details before travel.

Transportation & Group Size

Traveling in an air-conditioned vehicle, the group is limited to about 25 travelers, making the experience intimate enough to ask questions but still social. Some comment on the long driving hours, but the scenic routes help pass the time.

Authentic Experiences and Practical Insights

One of the tour’s greatest strengths is how it balances guided sightseeing with moments of free exploration. The guides’ knowledge seems to resonate well with travelers—many mention their enthusiasm and professionalism. For example, a guest said, “Visar was a great guide, thank you,” highlighting how a good guide can enhance the experience.

Staying overnight in Bedouin tents in Wadi Rum is a highlight—sleeping under a canopy of stars and feeling immersed in nature. Some reviews note that the tents are simple but authentic, making it a memorable part of the trip. Upgrading to a chalet provides a more comfortable sleep but may diminish the rustic charm.

What about the value? At $399 per person, including most meals and entries, this tour offers a comprehensive package that would be hard to replicate independently without extra planning and expense. It’s especially appealing for those who prefer an all-in-one experience with reliable transport and guided commentary.

Handling the Early Start and Long Days

Waking up at 3 am might be tough, but some reviewers say it’s a small price to pay for the unforgettable sights. The days are packed, with early mornings and late evenings, so travelers should come prepared for fatigue but also excitement.

Potential Drawbacks

Some common concerns include border delays and organizational hiccups—like misreservations in camp bookings. A few reviewers found the border crossing stressful or slow, and one mentioned a guide being “grosero” (rude). These are factors to keep in mind, especially if you’re sensitive to delays or prefer a more relaxed pace.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This tour is ideal for adventurous travelers eager to see Jordan’s top highlights in a short time. It suits those comfortable with early mornings and long travel days and who enjoy a mix of guided tours and culture. If you’re interested in authentic Bedouin hospitality and don’t mind basic camping, this experience will resonate strongly.

It’s also a good choice for budget-conscious travelers wanting to cover the essentials without the hassle of individual planning. However, if comfort or flexible pacing are your priorities, you might want to consider other options or upgrading accommodations.

Final Thoughts

This Petra and Wadi Rum 2-day tour from Jerusalem offers a comprehensive, value-packed introduction to some of Jordan’s most stunning sights. The combination of guided exploration, cultural authenticity, and the chance to sleep in the desert makes it an adventure worth considering.

While early mornings, border crossings, and long hours on the road are unavoidable, many travelers find that the breathtaking landscapes and iconic monuments more than compensate. Plus, the knowledgeable guides and included meals take a lot of stress out of the experience, making it accessible even for first-timers.

This tour is best suited for adventurers craving a taste of Jordan’s highlights with minimal planning and those who appreciate a mix of culture and scenic beauty. It’s a memorable way to connect with Jordan’s desert landscapes and ancient cities in just two days.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for first-time visitors to Jordan?
Yes, it’s designed to cover the main highlights efficiently, with guided tours and organized transfers, making it ideal for those new to the region.

What time does the tour start?
The tour departs from Jerusalem at 3:00 am, so be prepared for an early start.

How long is the border crossing?
Border control can take up to an hour, depending on the day and traffic, so patience is key.

Are meals included?
Yes, breakfast, lunch, and dinner are included. The dinners are buffet style, and reviews say they are hearty and satisfying.

Can I upgrade my accommodation in Wadi Rum?
Yes, for an additional cost, you can sleep in a chalet with an ensuite bathroom instead of the tented camp.

What should I bring?
Bring comfortable clothing, sturdy shoes for walking and jeep tours, cash for border fees and visas, and a camera for the stunning scenery.

Is transport comfortable?
Yes, the journey is in an air-conditioned vehicle, suitable for long drives and scenic routes.

Will I have free time at Petra?
You’ll have some free time after the guided tour to explore independently or take additional photos.

Is the tour suitable for solo travelers?
Absolutely. The group size is limited to about 25 travelers, making it friendly for solo adventurers.

What happens if the weather is bad?
The tour is dependent on good weather. If canceled due to poor conditions, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

This detailed review aims to give you a clear picture of what to expect from the Petra and Wadi Rum 2-day tour from Jerusalem. With careful planning and realistic expectations, it could be an adventure that creates lifelong memories of Jordan’s remarkable landscapes.