Petra, Wadi Rum & Aqaba: 2-Day Tour from Jerusalem

Exploring Petra, Wadi Rum & Aqaba: 2-Day Tour from Jerusalem — An Authentic Desert Adventure

Taking a 2-day trip from Jerusalem to explore the wonders of Jordan has become a popular way for travelers to combine history, natural beauty, and unique Bedouin culture in one seamless experience. This particular tour offers a well-rounded journey through some of the Middle East’s most iconic sights, all while traveling comfortably in an air-conditioned bus with knowledgeable guides.

What we really love about this experience is how it balances breathtaking landscapes like Wadi Rum with the awe-inspiring archaeological marvel of Petra, plus a splash of beachside relaxation in Aqaba. The inclusion of full guiding, border crossing assistance, and overnight glamping makes the trip feel both well-organized and immersive. However, the tight schedule might mean less time in Petra than some travelers would like.

This tour suits those eager to see the highlights of southern Jordan without the hassle of planning every detail themselves — perfect for first-timers or travelers with limited time. Be prepared for long days but expect incredible scenery, authentic Bedouin hospitality, and a cost that packs a lot of value into just two days.

Key Points

• Comfortable Transport: Travel in an advanced, air-conditioned bus comfort is a big plus for long-distance travel.
• Authentic Bedouin Experience: Overnight glamping in a Bedouin camp offers a genuine taste of desert life.
• Expert Guides & Assistance: Fully guided with border crossing help makes the experience smooth and informative.
• Stunning Landscapes & Historic Sites: Wadi Rum’s otherworldly desert and Petra’s carved city are unforgettable sights.
• Balanced Itinerary: Carefully planned to include key highlights, though some may wish for more time at specific locations.
• Value for Money: Covering transport, accommodation, guides, entrance fees, and meals—all at $399 — this is a well-priced option for a two-day adventure.

A Deep Dive into the Journey

Starting Point & First Day: Aqaba, Wadi Rum & the Border Crossing

The tour kicks off super early from the David Citadel Hotel in Jerusalem at 3:15 am — a surprisingly civilized hour considering the scope of the trip. You’ll board a spacious, air-conditioned bus, which is a relief after a late night or early morning packing. From there, the journey involves crossing from Israel into Jordan at Eilat, and border crossing assistance is included, easing what can often be a stressful part of international travel. Expect customs procedures to take around an hour, so packing patience (and some snacks) is wise.

Once across into Jordan, the first stop is in Aqaba, a lively port city famous for its coral reefs and beaches. Here, you’ll have a few hours to explore, enjoy beach activities like snorkeling or boating, or simply relax at a private beach with amenities like a pool and Jacuzzi — all optional and at your own expense. Reviewers note that the Mamluk Castle offers stunning panoramic views spanning four countries, making it a perfect photo op.

The highlight of the day is a Jeep safari through Wadi Rum, known as the “Valley of the Moon.” The vast, sculpted desert landscape feels like stepping onto another planet, and you’ll see formations like the Seven Pillars of Wisdom. One reviewer mentioned that the Jeep tour included camel rides and explored fascinating geology, which added a fun, interactive element to the visit. End the day with a mesmerizing sunset over the dunes — a moment many travelers find utterly unforgettable.

Night of Glamping in Bedouin Style

Instead of a hotel, you’ll spend the night in a Bedouin-style campsite. The glamping tents are private, equipped with bathrooms, WiFi, and climate control, offering a comfortable yet authentic desert experience. Some even upgrade to futuristic “Martian Bubble Tents” for a more out-of-this-world stay. Reviewers praise the care put into the accommodation, noting the chance to relax in a cozy tent after a day of adventure.

Second Day: Exploring Petra & Return Journey

After breakfast, the journey continues south along the desert highway, with scenic views setting the tone for the day. Upon arrival in Petra, you’ll have around six hours to explore this UNESCO World Heritage site. The highlight is walking through the Siq, a narrow gorge that reveals the famous Treasury carved into red rock — a sight that truly lives up to the hype.

Other must-sees include the Obelisk Tomb, Petra Theater, and the decorated shrines along the ancient street. A reviewer reflected that guides provided comprehensive information about Petra beforehand, helping to enrich the experience without feeling rushed. Some wished for more time to absorb the atmosphere, which speaks to the allure of this sprawling archaeological marvel.

The tour’s inclusion of entrance fees means you only need to focus on soaking in the scenery, taking photos, and learning about Nabataean history from your guide.

Returning via Eilat and Final Stretch

After your Petra exploration, the bus departs for the return trip, offering more desert vistas along the way. You’ll arrive back in Eilat for a brief stop before heading through the border back into Israel. The journey wraps up in Jerusalem late evening, making it a long but rewarding day.

What’s Included & What’s Not

The tour covers a lot for the price: transport in a modern bus, a professional guide, border crossing assistance, entrance to Petra, overnight glamping, and most meals. You’ll enjoy breakfast, lunch, and dinner across the two days, with the first night’s dinner included and breakfast plus lunch on day two.

However, some extras are at your expense—beverages, personal transport from your hotel to the meeting point, and optional beach activities in Aqaba. It’s worth noting that travelers need to carry cash (~$125 USD/EU/NIS) for Jordanian border fees unless they have a valid visa or visa stamp, which reduces the fee to about $65.

Considerations for Travelers

Because the schedule is tight, some may find the limited time in Petra a drawback. The reviews indicate that while guides facilitate border crossings smoothly, the short stay might leave some wishing for extra hours in the ancient city. Also, the tour operates in English, but other languages are available at an additional cost.

Why This Tour Is a Great Choice

This tour is a fantastic way to experience three very different aspects of Jordan — coast, desert, and history — without the hassle of independent planning. The inclusion of authentic Bedouin glamping makes it stand out from typical bus excursions, offering a taste of desert hospitality in comfort.

Travelers who value well-organized trips, knowledgeable guides, and scenic landscapes will find this offering a very good deal. The opportunity to cross borders easily, plus the convenience of all logistics handled for you, makes it suitable even for first-timers.

It’s especially ideal for those with limited time who want an overview of Jordan’s most iconic sights, but it’s best to keep expectations realistic regarding the amount of time spent at each location.

Final Thoughts: Is This Tour for You?

If you’re someone who loves a balance of adventure, culture, and comfort, this 2-day tour offers a compelling package. It’s perfect for travelers eager to glimpse Petra’s splendor and experience the rugged beauty of Wadi Rum without the stress of logistics or a hefty price tag. For those who want to dig deeper into each site and spend more time exploring, this could feel a bit rushed, but the highlights are undeniably spectacular.

The included amenities, guided support, and authentic Bedouin hospitality create a memorable journey that’s both fun and educational. It’s a practical choice for those seeking a well-rounded, value-packed adventure — especially if you’re short on time but big on curiosity.

FAQs

How early do I need to arrive at the meeting point?
It’s recommended to arrive 15 minutes before the 3:15 am departure to ensure you’re ready for the early start and border crossing assistance.

What should I bring for the trip?
Bring your passport, cash for border fees, comfortable walking shoes, sunscreen, hat, and a swimsuit if you plan to enjoy Aqaba’s beach activities.

Are meals included?
Yes, breakfast, lunch, and dinner are included on the tour, with the first night’s dinner, plus breakfast and lunch on day two. Beverages are not included.

How long is the border crossing?
Border control and customs can take up to an hour, so patience and a bit of flexibility are necessary.

Can I upgrade the accommodation?
Yes, some reviews mention the possibility of upgrading to a futuristic Martian Bubble Tent for a more unique overnight experience.

Is the tour suitable for children?
It’s not recommended for children under 2, and the entire schedule involves long days with substantial travel, so consider your children’s stamina.

In short, this Petra, Wadi Rum & Aqaba tour offers a wonderfully balanced snapshot of Jordan’s natural beauty and ancient marvels, wrapped up in a comfortable, guided package. Perfect for curious travelers who want to maximize highlights in a short time, all while enjoying warm Bedouin hospitality and stunning vistas.