2-Day Petra Tour from Jerusalem

Traveling from Jerusalem to the famed Rose City of Petra is a journey many dream of, and this 2-day guided tour offers a well-structured way to see one of the New7Wonders of the World without overloading your schedule. While it involves some long hours on the road and border crossings, what you get in awe-inspiring sights, cultural experience, and local flavor makes it a compelling option.

We particularly like how this tour balances guided sightseeing with authentic Bedouin camp stays and includes all meals, making it a fairly hassle-free way to experience Jordan’s treasures. A second standout: the knowledgeable guides who bring the history and local culture alive.

A potential consideration? The border crossings can be lengthy and sometimes stressful, especially if you’re not prepared for the cash requirements or customs procedures.

This tour is best suited for travelers craving a comprehensive, immersive experience of Petra and Jordan’s highlights, especially those who are comfortable with a bit of travel fatigue and want a mix of archaeological wonder, local culture, and natural beauty.

Key Points

• Authentic Bedouin camping experience with included meals
• Expert guides who enhance understanding of Jordan’s sites
• Long but scenic travel days with ample border crossing time
• Good value, considering all meals, accommodation, and transportation included
• Suitable for travelers with moderate physical fitness
• A busy itinerary packed with history, scenery, and cultural stops

The Journey Begins: From Jerusalem to Jordan

This tour kicks off early, with a 7:30 am meeting at the Abraham Jerusalem Hostel. From there, you’ll board an air-conditioned vehicle for the longer stretch of your adventure. The first hurdle is crossing the border at the King Hussein Bridge, a process that many reviews mention can be time-consuming. Expect to exchange cash (preferably Jordanian Dinar) at this point, as border taxes are payable in cash—196 ILS in Israel and 50 JOD in Jordan.

Once across, you’ll immediately notice a shift in scenery. The landscape turns more arid and dramatic, setting the stage for Mount Nebo, a site of biblical significance offering sweeping views of the Jordan River valley. It’s a brief stop—just an hour—yet enough for some stunning photos and to grasp the historical importance of this viewpoint, as many travelers mention it as a touching highlight.

Next up, a visit to Madaba to see the ancient mosaic map of Jerusalem in the Greek Orthodox Church of St. George. This mosaic has drawn many visitors for centuries, and as one reviewer notes, it’s a “beautiful glimpse into the past.” It’s a perfect example of how the tour combines archaeological interest with a very tangible sense of history.

Exploring Wadi Musa and the Bedouin Camp

After a scenic drive, you’ll arrive in Wadi Musa, the gateway town to Petra. From here, the journey culminates at your unique overnight stay—a Bedouin-style camp. Many reviewers rave about the experience, describing it as “magical” and “peaceful.” It’s not a modern hotel, but rather a chance to sleep under the stars in a setting that offers a taste of desert life.

The camp includes basic amenities—clean, communal bathrooms, and the chance to enjoy a traditional Bedouin dinner around a campfire. Some mention that there’s no electricity or running water after midnight until early morning, so packing a flashlight and some wet wipes for bathroom visits is wise.

While the camp’s infrastructure might not be everyone’s cup of tea, the overall experience is often described as authentic and memorable, offering the chance to disconnect and enjoy the desert ambiance.

Day Two: The Wonder of Petra

The highlight of this tour is undoubtedly exploring Petra, the jewel of Jordan. The tour allows for about six hours to walk through the iconic site, with ample time to see the Siq, the Treasury (Al-Khazneh), Royal Tombs, and the Roman-style theater. As one review points out, Petra is “very impressive” and a “must-visit” destination that truly lives up to its reputation.

The walk from the entrance to the Treasury takes around 20-30 minutes along a narrow canyon, offering stunning views of sandstone formations. Many visitors find the sight of the Treasury rising into the sky for the first time to be a moment of genuine awe. Guides often provide informative commentary, helping you understand the significance of each section, which many reviews highlight as a major value.

Additional sights include the Royal Tombs and the ancient theater—each revealing different facets of the Nabataean civilization and their rock-carved city. Remember, walking around Petra requires moderate physical effort; comfortable shoes are essential, and expect some uphill sections.

Border Crossings and Return to Jerusalem

After a full day exploring Petra, you’ll retrace your steps to the border at Wadi Musa, crossing back into Israel via the King Hussein/Allenby Bridge. This process can be slow and sometimes unpredictable, with some reviewers mentioning “grilled” customs checks or delays. It’s advisable to carry extra Jordanian Dinar for exit fees and be prepared for some waiting, especially if the border is busy.

Once back in Israel, the tour concludes with a drop-off in Jerusalem around 9 pm. While the long day can be tiring, the memories of Petra’s grandeur and the chance to experience Jordan’s culture make it worthwhile.

Authentic Experiences and Practical Details

Throughout the tour, having knowledgeable guides makes a difference—they explain the significance of each site and answer your questions in real time. Many travelers praise guides like Mehdi and Abdullah for their friendliness, patience, and expertise. Their storytelling brings the sites alive, transforming a sightseeing trip into a meaningful experience.

The included meals are also a standout. Expect delicious food and tapas-style offerings that reflect local flavors, which reviewers note as a highlight of the tour. The campfire dinner, in particular, is described as a memorable moment—an opportunity to mingle and soak in the peaceful desert night.

Transportation is comfortable, with air-conditioned vehicles making the long drives more bearable. The group size, capped at 47 travelers, means you’ll enjoy a sense of camaraderie without feeling overwhelmed.

Analyzing the Value

For $420 per person, this tour packs a lot—border crossings, guided tours, meals, overnight in a camp, and transportation—all arranged for you. Many reviews mention that despite the long travel days, the experience is worth the price. The inclusion of all meals, plus the chance to sleep overnight in a Bedouin camp, adds a layer of authenticity that many travelers find enriching.

However, the border crossing and border taxes can be a source of stress if you’re unprepared for cash payments or unclear procedures. Some reviews recommend carrying extra Jordanian Dinar and being patient during customs checks. The tour’s value also hinges on your interest in archaeological sites and culture; if you’re eager to see Petra but prefer a more relaxed pace, this might be a perfect fit.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour?

This experience is ideal for history and culture enthusiasts who want to see Petra without spending days on the road or in expensive hotels. It suits those who are comfortable with moderate physical activity and long travel days. Adventure seekers who enjoy authentic experiences—like sleeping in a Bedouin camp—will find this especially appealing.

It’s also well-suited for travelers who appreciate guided commentary that brings the sites to life and are happy to share a communal camping experience. If you’re seeking a comprehensive, guided visit that takes the hassle out of border crossings and logistics, this tour offers reliable service and great value.

The Sum Up

This 2-day Petra tour from Jerusalem offers a well-rounded journey into Jordan’s most iconic sights, with the added thrill of staying overnight in a Bedouin camp. The guides are often praised for their knowledge and friendliness, and the included meals and comfortable transport make it a practical choice for those wanting a full experience without the hassle of planning every detail.

While border crossing procedures can be a bit lengthy and require some patience, the reward of standing in front of the Treasury and wandering through ancient rock-cut city makes it all worthwhile. It’s a fantastic option for history buffs, culture lovers, and those craving a taste of desert life in a limited time frame.

Overall, if you want to see Petra and explore some of Jordan’s other historical sites without the complications of traveling solo, this tour offers excellent value. Just be prepared for the long days, border formalities, and a bit of adventure along the way.

FAQ

How early do I need to arrive for the tour?
The tour starts at 7:30 am from the Abraham Jerusalem Hostel, so arriving a little earlier ensures you’re ready to go on time.

Are meals included?
Yes, this tour includes breakfast, lunch (two times), and dinner, plus a campfire Bedouin dinner. These meals are often praised for their taste and authenticity.

What should I bring for the Bedouin camp overnight?
Pack a flashlight, wet wipes, and warm clothes for the evening, as there is no electricity or running water after midnight. Comfortable shoes and sunscreen are also recommended.

Is the border crossing difficult?
Border crossings can be slow and sometimes unpredictable, with some travelers mentioning lengthy checks. Carry extra Jordanian Dinar for exit fees and be patient.

How long do I spend in Petra?
You’ll have about six hours to explore Petra, enough to see key sites like the Siq, Treasury, and Royal Tombs, but be prepared for some walking and uphill sections.

Is this tour suitable for children or those with limited mobility?
The tour involves moderate physical activity and some walking in Petra; travelers should have moderate fitness.

What’s the group size?
The maximum group size is 47 travelers, allowing for a more intimate group experience.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 3 days in advance for a full refund. Cancellations less than that are non-refundable.

Are there any restrictions for Israeli citizens?
Yes, Israeli passport holders are not eligible to participate, even with additional passports. Be sure to check your visa requirements for Jordan beforehand.

This tour offers a remarkable blend of adventure, history, and culture—perfect for those eager to see Petra in a manageable, guided package.