Private Petra and Little Petra Round-Trip Transfers from Amman

A Complete Guide to the Private Petra and Little Petra Round-Trip from Amman

Traveling through Jordan offers a chance to witness some of the most iconic archaeological sites in the world, but fitting them into a busy schedule can be a challenge. This private, day-long trip from Amman to Petra and Little Petra hits all the highlights without feeling rushed or overpacked. We’ve gathered insights from travelers who’ve experienced this journey firsthand to help you decide if it’s the right fit for your adventure.

What we love about this tour? First, it offers flexibility — you can explore independently or hire local guides at each site, tailoring the day to your interests. Second, the comfort of private, air-conditioned transportation makes the trip both pleasant and efficient, especially after long drives. Third, the value for money is evident when you consider the convenience of hotel pickup and drop-off, plus the time saved on logistics. That said, a potential consideration is that entrance fees at Petra and Little Petra are not included, so you’ll need to budget accordingly.

This tour suits travelers who want a comprehensive Petra experience but have limited time, and who enjoy the freedom to explore at their own pace without being part of a large group.

Key Points

• Private, flexible itinerary allows for independent exploration or guided tours at Petra and Little Petra.
• Comfortable transportation in a modern, air-conditioned vehicle with hotel pickup and drop-off.
• Around 4 hours at Petra offers enough time for key highlights like the Treasury, Siq, and Monastery.
• Two hours at Little Petra lets you explore the ancient caravan stop at your own pace.
• Entrance fees are separate, so budget for them unless you have a Jordan Pass.
• Reviews praise the professionalism and helpfulness of the driver and guides, making the experience smooth and enjoyable.

The Journey Begins: From Amman to Petra

The tour kicks off early, with pickup at your Amman hotel around 7 am. The drive to Petra takes approximately three hours via the scenic desert highway, giving you time to soak in Jordan’s rugged landscapes. Travelers have noted the driver’s punctuality and professionalism, with one reviewer specifically mentioning that Qutaibah was not only on time but also offered useful tips for exploring Petra and Little Petra. It’s these small touches that make a big difference when you’re on a tight schedule.

You’ll have the chance to request a refreshment stop along the way—an appreciated detail after a long drive. As you travel, the landscape shifts from urban to rocky desert vistas, setting the scene for the ancient wonders ahead.

Visiting Little Petra: A Quiet Gem

Approximately three hours into the trip, your first stop is Little Petra, a smaller but equally captivating site. This valley was once a bustling caravan stop and features rock-cut dwellings and tombs similar to those in Petra, but on a more manageable scale.

Travelers who’ve explored Little Petra before say it’s a perfect introduction to Nabataean architecture, and an easier way to get a taste of Petra’s history without the crowds. You can choose to explore independently or hire a local guide (additional cost, roughly $71 USD). Many reviewers mention that walking through the entrance canyon reveals a landscape that makes you feel like you’ve stepped back in time.

One visitor noted, “The care from guides was beyond expectations. They really add dimension to the visit,” which shows the value of a knowledgeable guide, especially if you’re interested in the site’s history or architecture.

Inside Petra: The Crown Jewel

After about two hours at Little Petra, the journey continues to Petra itself. Once you arrive, you’ll have roughly four hours to explore one of the world’s most celebrated archaeological sites. You can choose to wander independently or hire a local guide (additional cost, around $71 USD).

Most visitors head straight through the iconic Siq, a winding canyon that leads directly to the Treasury (El Khazneh). This temple-like façade is one of the most photographed monuments in the world, and arriving there after walking through the narrow gorge feels almost cinematic. From here, the site unfolds into a sprawling complex with ancient theater, royal tombs, and various other ruins.

One reviewer shared that “the views and monuments are breathtaking — you really feel like you’re walking through history,” emphasizing how walking through Petra’s narrow canyon corridors and open plazas offers a tangible connection to the past.

Optional climbs or donkey rides to the Monastery are available at extra cost, offering a chance to see Petra’s largest monument from above. While the climb can be physically demanding, it’s well worth it for the panoramic views.

Flexibility and Personal Exploration

What makes this tour stand out is the freedom it offers. You can explore at your own pace, stopping for photos, resting, or hiring guides as you wish. Many reviews highlight the attentive and professional driver, who remains available throughout the day to assist or recommend stops.

Timing is flexible — if you want to spend more time at specific sites or take a shorter walk, you can communicate this to your driver. The return trip to Amman is straightforward, with the driver waiting at Petra’s entrance to bring you back after your adventures.

Practical Aspects: What’s Included and What’s Not

For $135 USD per person, this tour offers considerable value. The price covers hotel pickup and drop-off, modern air-conditioned transportation, and bottled water—a small but appreciated detail. Entrance fees, which are not included, vary depending on whether you have a Jordan Pass or not; roughly $71 USD per person is standard for entry to Petra.

The optional guide services for both Little Petra and Petra add to the cost but can enrich your understanding of the sites if you’re interested in the stories behind the ruins. One review praised the driver’s tips, noting how helpful they were for navigating the site and making the most of their visit.

What’s The Verdict?

This private tour is a well-balanced option for travelers who want the convenience of door-to-door transport combined with the flexibility to explore Petra and Little Petra at their own pace. The air-conditioned vehicle, knowledgeable driver, and the option to hire guides on-site make it a practical choice for those with limited time or prefer a more personalized experience.

The main consideration is the separate cost for entrance fees and guides, so budget accordingly. Plus, while the driver ensures comfort and punctuality, travelers who seek a fully guided experience might prefer to arrange a guide beforehand or opt for a more comprehensive tour package.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

• Travelers with limited time in Jordan who want to see Petra efficiently.
• Individuals who prefer exploring independently but appreciate a private transfer.
• Those with moderate physical fitness who are comfortable walking and climbing.
• Visitors seeking a customizable experience without the pressure of group tours.
• Anyone looking for a reliable, hassle-free way to visit Petra from Amman.

The Sum Up

This private round-trip transfer from Amman to Petra and Little Petra offers a seamless blend of comfort, flexibility, and value. It’s perfect for those who want to maximize their time without the constraints of a large group or rigid schedule. The journey allows you to enjoy Jordan’s stunning desert landscapes, visit two significant Nabataean sites, and decide exactly how much time to spend at each location.

The reviews highlight the professionalism of the driver and the quality of the experience, with many travelers appreciating the chance to explore independently while having reliable transportation. If you’re after a stress-free way to see Petra and Little Petra, this tour provides a smart, enjoyable solution.

Ideal for independent explorers, history buffs, or those new to Jordan who want a straightforward way to visit the country’s most famous archaeological sites without fuss.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup and drop-off included?
Yes, the tour includes pickup and drop-off from your Amman hotel, making logistics simple and stress-free.

How long is the drive from Amman to Petra?
The journey takes about three hours via a scenic desert highway.

Can I explore Petra and Little Petra on my own?
Absolutely. The tour offers time for self-guided exploration, but guides are available for hire at an additional cost.

Are entrance fees included?
No, entrance fees are paid separately, unless you have a Jordan Pass. Expect to pay around $71 USD per site.

What’s the best way to see Petra?
You can walk through the Siq to the Treasury and explore on foot, with optional climbs or donkey rides to the Monastery at extra cost.

Is this tour suitable for all fitness levels?
It’s suitable for most travelers with moderate fitness, as walking and some climbing are involved.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, sun protection, water, and your camera. Guidebooks or maps are optional but helpful.

Can I hire a guide at Petra?
Yes, guides are available at an extra cost, and many find them to enhance their understanding of the site.

What is the tour duration?
Approximately 12 hours, including travel, exploration, and return to Amman.

Is this tour customizable?
While the itinerary is set, you can communicate your preferences to the driver, especially regarding timing and stops.

This tour offers an excellent way to enjoy Jordan’s most famous sights comfortably and flexibly—perfect for travelers who want a personal touch while covering all the highlights.