2 Days Tour to Petra, Wadi Rum and Dead Sea from Amman

Planning a quick trip to Jordan and want to see its most iconic sights? This 2-day tour from Amman to Petra, Wadi Rum, and the Dead Sea offers a compelling way to experience these highlights without needing a long stay. Whether you’re short on time or simply want to maximize your Jordanian adventure, this tour packs in a lot.

It’s designed for travelers who appreciate well-organized logistics, authentic sights, and some memorable moments—like watching a sunset over the desert or floating effortlessly in the Dead Sea.

What makes this tour especially appealing is the combination of ancient ruins, rugged desert landscapes, and therapeutic waters. We particularly like how it’s tailored for small groups—up to three people—making it more intimate and flexible than large bus tours. The inclusion of a knowledgeable driver and the convenience of hotel pick-up and drop-off keeps things simple.

However, be aware that some entrance fees, like those to Petra and Wadi Rum, are not included, so you may want to budget extra.

This tour suits travelers who are eager to see Jordan’s top sights efficiently, and who don’t mind some early mornings and long drives.

Key Points

• All-in-one experience: Visit Petra, Wadi Rum, and the Dead Sea in just two days.
• Authentic sights: Walk through Petra’s Siq and see the Khazneh, plus explore Wadi Rum’s iconic mountains and cliffs.
• Memorable moments: Enjoy sunrise and sunset views that add a touch of magic to your trip.
• Relaxation and fun: Float in the mineral-rich waters of the Dead Sea, known for its therapeutic properties.
• Comfort and convenience: Travel in a climate-controlled vehicle with bottled water, hotel transfers, and an experienced driver.
• Great for short stays: Ideal for travelers with limited time who want to see the highlights without rushing.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the 2-Day Jordan Tour

Starting Point: Amman and Early Departure

The journey begins with hotel pickup in Amman. The modern, air-conditioned vehicle ensures comfort during the drive southward, approximately 225 kilometers to Petra. We appreciate how the driver acts as both navigator and local guide, making the trip smooth. The early start means you’ll be on the road before most travelers, giving you a head start on beating crowds at Petra.

Day 1: Petra and Little Petra

Exploring Petra: Jordan’s Most Famous Wonder

Once you arrive at Petra, it’s like stepping into an open-air museum carved into rose-colored rock. The walk along the narrow Siq—a deep, winding gorge—sets the tone for the grandeur awaiting. As you emerge, the Khazneh (Treasury) greets you as one of the most iconic facades in the world. We loved the way visitors often take a moment to absorb its details—this is Petra’s crown jewel.

Your guide will point out other sites, such as the The Monastery and Altar of Sacrifice. While some reviewers mention that entrance fees are not included, they stress that the experience at Petra is worth the extra cost. Expect to spend several hours wandering among tombs, temples, and water channels. The combination of history, architecture, and the surrounding desert landscape makes it a truly memorable site.

Little Petra: A Quieter Alternative

Depending on your schedule, you might also visit Little Petra—a smaller, less crowded site nearby that offers similar Nabatean rock-cut architecture without the throngs. Travelers find it a quieter way to enjoy the ancient carvings, and many appreciate the chance to see a different side of Petra’s story.

Transition to Wadi Rum: A Desert of Martian Proportions

In the afternoon, the journey continues to Wadi Rum, famous for its towering sandstone cliffs and rippled sands. This landscape gained fame from movies like Lawrence of Arabia and The Martian. The drive itself offers impressive views of rugged mountains and desert scenery.

Wadi Rum: More Than a Desert

Here, you’ll experience the “Valley of the Moon”, a landscape that looks otherworldly and provides excellent photo opportunities. Many reviews rave about the off-road adventures, which often involve traveling in 4×4 vehicles through narrow canyons and over dunes. Spending the night in Wadi Rum (if your tour includes it) allows you to witness a spectacular sunset and possibly enjoy a traditional Bedouin dinner under the stars.

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Day 2: Dead Sea – The World’s Lowest Point

Floating and Soaking in the Dead Sea

The next leg takes you to the Dead Sea, the lowest point on Earth’s surface at 420 meters below sea level. The moment you arrive, the change is striking—the calm, shimmering water beckons you to float effortlessly. Many visitors find this sensation both relaxing and oddly amusing.

The mineral-rich mud of the Dead Sea is renowned for its supposed health benefits. You’ll have time to bathe in the mud and swim—a peculiar experience that’s both fun and therapeutic. The salt and mineral concentration means there are no fish, and the buoyancy is unlike any other body of water.

Viewing the Map and Changing Weather

As your driver stops to show you the map, it’s a good opportunity to get a sense of Jordan’s geography. The terrain shifts noticeably as you descend, and the weather may become warmer and sunnier. Watching the sun set over the sea is a highlight many reviewers recommend—it’s a picture-perfect moment.

Returning to Amman

After your time at the Dead Sea, you’ll head back to Amman, with the option to be dropped at your hotel or a location of your choice. The transfer is straightforward, and the drive often takes around an hour or more, depending on traffic.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The tour features hotel pickup and drop-off, a climate-controlled vehicle with bottled water, and an English-speaking driver who doubles as a guide. These elements contribute to a comfortable, hassle-free experience. However, entrance fees to Petra and Wadi Rum are not included, so it’s wise to bring some extra cash. Some reviews from travelers mention that guides are not included, but the driver’s local knowledge often fills that gap well.

Price and Value

At $631 for up to three people, the cost might seem high at first glance. But considering transportation, entry to Petra (which can be costly), and the convenience of a guided tour, it provides good value—especially for those short on time. The small-group format enhances the experience, making it more personalized.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour?

This tour is perfect for travelers who want to see Jordan’s highlights efficiently and are comfortable with early mornings and long drives. It’s ideal for those who value comfort and convenience without sacrificing authenticity. If you’re traveling with a partner or a small family, the intimate group size adds a special touch. However, those looking for in-depth guided tours inside each site might prefer to hire local guides separately.

The Sum Up

This 2-day tour offers a robust and well-organized way to experience Jordan’s most famous sights in a short period. It balances awe-inspiring history at Petra, otherworldly landscapes in Wadi Rum, and a uniquely relaxing experience at the Dead Sea. The inclusion of stops at sunrise and sunset adds a poetic element that makes the journey memorable.

While it doesn’t cover every aspect in-depth—like guided tours inside Petra or Wadi Rum—it compensates with convenience, comfort, and a taste of Jordan’s most compelling sights. If you’re eager to see a lot without the hassle of planning every detail, this tour is a solid choice.

It’s best suited for travelers who don’t mind a busy schedule, enjoy small-group travel, and want a snapshot of Jordan’s diverse wonders. For those wanting a more leisurely or guided experience, consider supplementing this tour with private guides or longer stays.

FAQs

Are entrance fees to Petra and Wadi Rum included?
No, the tour price does not include entry fees to Petra and Wadi Rum. You’ll need to buy tickets on site, so budget accordingly.

What kind of vehicle is used for transportation?
Travel is in a modern, climate-controlled vehicle with bottled water, ensuring comfort during the long drives between sites.

Can I see Petra and Wadi Rum in one day?
Yes, the tour is designed to cover both Petra and Wadi Rum in a single day, with enough time allocated at each site to appreciate their beauty.

Is hotel pickup available?
Yes, the tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off from Amman, making logistics simple.

How long is the drive from Amman to Petra?
It’s approximately 225 kilometers (about 2.5 to 3 hours), depending on traffic.

What should I bring to the Dead Sea?
Bring a towel, some water, and possibly a change of clothes. Wearing swimwear is ideal to enjoy floating and mud bathing.

Will I have time to relax at the Dead Sea?
Yes, the tour includes free time to swim, float, and enjoy the mineral mud.

Is this tour suitable for children or seniors?
Generally, yes, but consider the early start and long drives. Ensure everyone is comfortable with walking and sitting for extended periods.

This 2-day adventure is a practical, memorable way to see Jordan’s crown jewels. It packs history, scenery, and fun into a compact itinerary—perfect for those eager to tick off some of the country’s most iconic sights with minimal fuss.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby