Petra & Wadi Rum Overnight of Transportation& Baptism Site Visit

Exploring Jordan: A 2-Day Tour of Petra, Wadi Rum, and the Baptism Site

This two-day tour of Jordan promises an exciting mix of iconic sights, culture, and natural beauty. While we haven’t personally taken this exact journey, reviews and detailed descriptions give us a clear picture of what travelers can expect. It’s a well-rounded experience that combines the breathtaking ruins of Petra, the otherworldly landscapes of Wadi Rum, and a spiritual visit to the Baptism Site of Jesus Christ.

What we love about this tour is its value for money, the expert local guidance, and the chance to stay overnight in a Bedouin camp—an authentic touch that makes the trip memorable. The well-organized itinerary means you’ll see key highlights without feeling rushed, while the comfortable transport ensures you can relax and enjoy the views.

A possible consideration is that entry fees and guides at certain sites aren’t included—meaning you should budget a bit extra for those experiences and be prepared to explore independently at some stops. This trip is best suited for travelers who enjoy a mix of history, adventure, and cultural experiences, especially those comfortable with moderate physical activity and long days on the move.

Key Points

• All-in-one itinerary covering Petra, Wadi Rum, the Dead Sea, and the Baptism Site
• Professional English-speaking driver ensures informative and smooth transport
• Overnight Bedouin camp stay adds an authentic cultural touch
• Includes transportation, Wi-Fi, and pickup for convenience
• Entry fees and guides are extra, so plan your budget accordingly
• Suitable for groups of up to 7, making it intimate and flexible

The Journey Begins: From Amman to Petra

The adventure kicks off early morning with a pickup in Amman, setting the tone for a day packed with discovery. Traveling by air-conditioned vehicle with Wi-Fi means you can relax, check maps, or chat with your group during the roughly 3-hour drive south to Petra.

Petra’s significance as Jordan’s most treasured site cannot be overstated. Known as the “Rose City” due to its stunning reddish hue, Petra was once the thriving capital of the Nabataean Arabs. It’s one of the most recognizable archaeological wonders worldwide, and Smithsonian Magazine even highlighted it among the 28 places to visit before you die. The entrance through the famous Siq—a 1.2 km narrow fissure in the rock—leads you directly into Petra’s awe-inspiring core.

Walking Through the Siq and the Treasury

As you stroll through the Siq, your eyes will be drawn to the towering rock walls, which have weathered centuries of sandstorms and time. Several reviews note that the first sight of the Treasury (El-Khazneh), carved directly into the cliff face, is breathtaking—”hauntingly beautiful” and “photogenic” are common descriptions. This iconic façade was originally built to hold treasures, and it’s still one of the most photographed monuments in the world.

Expect about an hour exploring here, soaking in the intricate carvings and the atmosphere of this ancient gateway. Many visitors mention that walking through the Siq and reaching the Treasury feels like crossing into another world, with some opting to climb the nearby Monastery or the High Place of Sacrifice if time allows—though these are not included in the tour, they’re tempting options for the energetic.

Exploring Petra’s Other Marvels

After the landmark, your guide might lead you past the Roman Theatre or the Royal Tombs, illustrating how the Nabateans sculpted their city to withstand desert conditions. With about two hours allocated, you’ll get a solid overview of Petra’s grandeur. Several reviews emphasize how knowledgeable guides, like Shakur, enhance the experience—offering insights into the site’s history and hidden stories, making the visit more meaningful.

Wadi Rum: The Desert’s Otherworldly Landscape

Following Petra, the journey continues to Wadi Rum, a protected desert area famous for its towering cliffs, reddish sands, and surreal rock formations. While the tour mentions a 4×4 Jeep ride in Wadi Rum at your own expense, reviewers highlight that the site itself is a highlight, with many describing it as “a landscape that looks like a movie set.”

You’ll spend around two hours here, soaking in the views of towering mountains and sweeping valleys. Most travelers find this stop to be a peaceful yet awe-inspiring experience. The local Bedouin guides and vehicles add authenticity and local flavor, making for a memorable desert adventure.

The Dead Sea and the Baptism Site

Next, the tour takes you to the Dead Sea, a place like no other. Sitting over 1,300 feet below sea level, the Dead Sea’s extreme mineral content makes swimming a truly unique experience—you float effortlessly, and the mineral-rich mud is reputed for its therapeutic properties.

Travelers often mention the “salty, otherworldly sensation” of floating, with some noting it’s almost impossible to sink. The two-hour stay gives enough time to relax, enjoy the buoyancy, and even try some mud masking.

The final stop is Bethany Beyond the Jordan, believed to be the site of Jesus’ baptism. Visitors can walk along the riverbanks, explore the ruins of ancient churches, and see baptismal pools. Entry to the Baptism Site costs extra (around USD 21.13), and the tour notes that guides are not included, so you might want to hire one locally. Several reviews highlight how meaningful this site is, especially for those interested in religious history or seeking a spiritual connection.

Practical Details and What to Expect

The tour is organized by Retaj Jordan Tours and transportation, offering a private experience—you won’t be squeezed into a large group. The pickup at 7:00 am ensures you maximize your time, and the air-conditioned vehicle comes with Wi-Fi, keeping everyone comfortable and connected.

The cost of $180 per person is a fair investment considering the sites visited, the overnight Bedouin camp experience, and transport. However, keep in mind that entry fees to specific sites and local guides at the Baptism Site are extra, so budget accordingly.

Many reviewers praise the knowledge and friendliness of guides, with one noting that Ahmed made the experience unforgettable. Safety and attentiveness are also highlighted, especially for solo female travelers who felt secure with their driver, Shakur.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is ideal for adventurous travelers eager to see Jordan’s highlights without the hassle of organizing transport or accommodation. It’s perfect for those who value authentic cultural touches like the Bedouin camp overnight and appreciate guided insights into history and landscape.

It suits group travelers wanting a more intimate atmosphere, with small-group comfort and personalized service. However, those seeking a luxurious or fully guided experience at every site may need to supplement this tour with additional guides or options.

Final Thoughts

This two-day Jordan tour offers a compelling blend of history, natural beauty, and cultural authenticity. It covers essential sites like Petra and the Baptism Site, while also giving you a taste of the striking Wadi Rum desert and the therapeutic Dead Sea. With knowledgeable guides, comfortable transport, and an overnight stay in a Bedouin camp, it presents excellent value for those who want a well-rounded experience.

While some sites require additional fees or independent exploration, the core itinerary delivers a memorable glimpse into Jordan’s most iconic spots—perfect for history buffs, nature lovers, and spiritual seekers alike.

If you’re after a balanced, authentic, and hassle-free way to explore Jordan’s treasures, this tour ticks many boxes and could be a highlight of your trip.

FAQ

Is transportation included? Yes, the tour includes transport by air-conditioned vehicle with Wi-Fi, and pickup from your location in Amman.

Are guides included at each site? Guides are not included at the Baptism Site or certain other locations, so you might want to hire one locally if desired.

What’s the group size? The tour is designed for groups of up to 7 people, making it intimate and flexible.

How long is the drive from Amman to Petra? The drive takes approximately 3 hours, giving you time to relax and enjoy the scenery.

Are entry fees included? Entry fees to Petra and Wadi Rum are free, but fees for the Baptism Site are extra (around USD 21.13).

What should I wear? Comfortable walking shoes and sun protection are recommended, especially for exploring Petra and Wadi Rum.

Can I climb the Monastery or High Place of Sacrifice? These are not included in the tour, but are available if you have extra time and energy.

Is food provided? No, meals and beverages are not included, so plan to bring snacks or purchase at sites.

Is this tour suitable for solo travelers? Absolutely, many reviewers felt safe and well cared for with the driver, making it a good option for solo travelers seeking a guided experience.

This Jordan tour offers a thorough, immersive glimpse into the country’s highlights, blending history, adventure, and cultural authenticity—all in just two days.