Petra and Wadi Rum 2 day tour from Eilat

If you’re considering a trip from Eilat to Jordan to see Petra and Wadi Rum, you’re looking at an adventure packed with history, jaw-dropping landscapes, and cultural insights. This two-day tour offers a convenient way to tick off some of the Middle East’s most iconic sights without the hassle of planning every detail yourself.

We like this tour for its comfort and all-inclusive approach—it covers transportation, entry fees, and meals, making it easier to focus on soaking in the sights. The scenic drive through mountain roads and desert routes, along with the guided tour of Petra, help you understand the context of these ancient marvels. On the flip side, some reviews point out less-than-ideal guides and long border crossing times, so it’s worth weighing whether this style suits your travel preferences.

This tour is best suited for travelers who enjoy a structured, organized experience with a focus on seeing major highlights, and who are comfortable with a fair amount of time on the road and in group settings. If you’re eager for a hassle-free Jordanian adventure that covers the must-sees, this one might just be right for you.

Comfortable transportation with air conditioning makes long drives manageable
All-inclusive pricing covers entry fees, meals, and some activities, offering good value
Guided tours provide context and help maximize your limited time at Petra and Wadi Rum
Border crossing can add a wait time—patience is part of the package
Mixed reviews highlight some concerns about guides and planning, so set your expectations accordingly
Stunning scenery at Wadi Rum and the famous facade of Petra are unforgettable highlights

This tour begins early from Eilat, with pickups from hotels, so you won’t need to worry about logistics. The first day involves heading toward Arava Border, where border control and customs may take up to an hour. This delay is common in border crossings between Israel and Jordan and can be a bit of an unplanned pause, but the tour staff generally manage this smoothly.

Once through, you’ll arrive in Aqaba, Jordan’s port city, for a brief city tour and free time to explore the local markets or grab a bite. This part of the day is a good chance to acclimate to the Jordanian vibe before heading into Wadi Rum. The landscape here is striking—a stark contrast to the Israeli coastline, with rugged mountains and open desert vistas.

After check-in at a Bedouin camp in Wadi Rum, you’ll have some free time to relax or wander around. But the real treat starts with the sunset Jeep tour—a highlight that many travelers rave about. Wadi Rum’s dramatic rock formations and vast horizons are truly spectacular, and the Jeep ride offers a close-up view of its iconic terrain. The included buffet dinner is a simple, satisfying meal that feeds you after a day on the road.

Overnight stays at the Bedouin camp are typically in shared tents with communal bathrooms, which might appeal to those interested in authentic camping or a bit of adventure. The option to upgrade to a chalet with an ensuite bathroom is available, adding a touch of comfort for those who prefer it—something to consider if you’re not keen on shared facilities.

The morning begins with breakfast, followed by a scenic drive through the “desert way”, a comfortable highway that skirts the mountains. The journey itself offers beautiful mountain scenery and a sense of anticipation for the main event: visiting Petra.

Arriving around 9:30 am, you’ll join a guided tour of this UNESCO World Heritage site, including its most famous features. The guide will likely highlight the Treasury (Al-Khazneh), the Siq (a narrow canyon leading into Petra), and other notable landmarks. The tour’s duration is about 7 hours, which provides a solid overview, but also leaves some free time at the site for personal exploration.

The reviews reveal mixed feelings about the guide’s focus—some felt the guide talked extensively about religious and political themes, overshadowing the historical context. One reviewer commented, “Ridiculous guide in Jordan, so biased politically and religiously! He talked all and all about Muslim ideology and nobody could stop him, not too much about history of the places visited!” So, if you prefer a strictly historical or archaeological perspective, this might be a point of concern.

After finishing at Petra, you’ll head back to the border, aiming to arrive around 7 pm. The return journey is another long drive, but it’s broken up with scenic views along the way. The tour concludes with your return to Eilat, crossing back into Israel with assistance from your guide.

The tour runs most days, with bookings typically made around 47 days in advance, indicating steady interest. The price of $339 per person includes all entry fees, meals, and transportation, which simplifies budgeting. For travelers, the value lies partly in avoiding the logistical hassle of border crossings and multiple bookings.

The small group size—maximum 25 travelers—ensures a more intimate experience, but also means you’ll be traveling with a diverse set of fellow explorers. The air-conditioned vehicle makes the long drives more comfortable, especially during hot seasons.

However, the border crossing can be a sticking point. Expect to spend up to an hour in queues, and if delays happen, they can extend longer. Patience is essential, as this is outside the tour operator’s control.

The accommodation in Wadi Rum—simple tents with shared bathrooms—is authentic and functional, though not luxurious. If you’re used to more comfort, the chalet upgrade might be worth considering.

This tour is perfect for travelers who want a convenient, guided experience that covers big-ticket highlights with minimal fuss. If you’re fascinated by ancient civilizations and spectacular landscapes, you’ll find plenty to enjoy here. It’s also suited for those who don’t mind long drives and shared facilities.

That said, if you’re sensitive to guide bias or prefer a more independent or in-depth focus on history and culture, you might find some aspects less satisfying. The mixed reviews about guide conduct and planning suggest that expectations should be set accordingly. Also, those looking for luxury accommodations or a more leisurely pace might want to consider alternative options.

This 2-day Petra and Wadi Rum tour offers a solid introduction to some of Jordan’s most impressive sights, with the perks of organized logistics and all-inclusive pricing. The scenery, especially at Wadi Rum, is truly memorable, and the tour makes it feasible to see these sites without the stress of planning every detail.

While some reviewers express concerns about guide bias and border crossing times, many appreciate the convenience and value of the experience. It’s a good fit for travelers who are adventurous, flexible, and eager to see two of the Middle East’s most iconic locations in a short timeframe.

In the end, this tour delivers authentic sights, stunning vistas, and a taste of Bedouin hospitality—all packed into an accessible package for those ready to explore Jordan from Eilat.

Is this tour suitable for solo travelers?
Yes, the group size is limited to 25 people, making it a manageable and social experience for solo travelers.

Are meals included in the price?
Yes, the tour includes dinner in Wadi Rum and breakfast on the second day, simplifying your planning.

How long is the border crossing?
Border control and customs may take up to an hour, so patience is recommended during this part of the journey.

What type of accommodation do I stay in overnight?
You’ll stay at a Bedouin camp in Wadi Rum, in shared tents with communal bathrooms. Upgrades to chalets with private bathrooms are available.

What’s the best time to book this tour?
Bookings are typically made about 47 days in advance, so early planning helps ensure availability, especially during peak seasons.

Can I expect a detailed historical narration during the tour?
Guides will provide some commentary, but reviews suggest that some may focus on political or religious themes rather than pure history, so be prepared for a variety of perspectives.

This rundown should help you decide if this Petra and Wadi Rum tour from Eilat fits your travel style. Whether you’re after stunning vistas, cultural insights, or just a hassle-free adventure, it’s an experience that offers plenty—just keep expectations realistic about guides and border delays.