Half-Day Private Indiana Jones Petra Back Road Trial Tour

If you’re heading to Jordan and want an adventure that combines history, scenery, and a touch of the legendary Indiana Jones vibe, this Half-Day Private Indiana Jones Petra Back Road Trial Tour might just be your perfect match. This experience offers a unique way to see Petra’s lesser-known paths, explore iconic sites, and enjoy breathtaking vistas — all while riding horses through ancient trails.

What we really appreciate about this tour is the blend of authentic exploration and personalized attention. It’s clear that the guides prioritize safety and comfort, making it suitable even for those who aren’t seasoned riders. Plus, the opportunity to see Petra from above and visit Little Petra’s tranquil caves makes it stand out from typical walking tours.

One thing to keep in mind is that the cost of the Petra entrance ticket isn’t included**, so budget accordingly. Also, because the tour involves some walking, a moderate level of fitness is recommended. This tour is best suited for travelers seeking a mix of adventure, history, and unique views — especially those who love a good story or want a more intimate Petra experience than the usual crowds.

Key Points

• Unique route through Little Petra offers quiet, meditative moments and a glimpse into ancient village life.
• Horse riding inside Petra structures adds a thrilling, almost cinematic dimension to exploring the site.
• Stunning mountain vistas provide some of the best views in Jordan, especially near the Monastery.
• The tour is private, ensuring personalized service and flexibility.
• The duration of 5-6 hours makes it a manageable yet thorough experience.
• Cost includes bottled water, but Petra’s entrance fee (50 JD) is extra.

A Deep Dive into the Experience

Starting Point and Introduction at Petra Visitor Center

The tour begins early at the Petra Visitor Center. From there, you’ll venture into the mountains, heading toward Qararah Park, a highland spot that offers sweeping views of Petra’s rugged landscape. This initial part sets the tone — you’re about to explore a landscape that’s as dramatic as it is historically significant.

The journey continues along Dabdabah Road to reach the Petra Bubble Luxel Resort, a convenient waypoint where the group can gather before delving into Little Petra’s quiet relics. As you wander through caves and ancient villages, you’ll get a sense of everyday life in Petra’s past — a peaceful contrast to the bustling main site.

Travelers who have taken this route often describe it as peaceful and meditative. As one reviewer notes, “Little Petra is a peaceful place where the spirits merge with nature,” making it a perfect spot for reflection and appreciation of Jordan’s quiet beauty. This part of the adventure isn’t just sightseeing — it’s an experience that touches on the spiritual and cultural.

Note: Entrance to Little Petra is not included, so plan for that extra cost if you wish to explore more deeply.

The Monastery (Al Dayr): The Crown Jewel

After touring Little Petra, the focus shifts to Al Dayr, or the Monastery, which is arguably the highlight of the day. This massive, rock-carved structure is the second-largest site in Petra and has a history dating back over 2,000 years.

The climb involves about 800 steps, taking roughly 45 minutes, but don’t let that deter you. The view from the top makes every step worth it. Imagine standing in front of a giant sandstone façade that’s been carved by ancient Nabataeans, with a backdrop of Jordanian mountains and the West Bank — some of the most stunning vistas you’ll find in the country.

From the top, you’ll get a panoramic perspective of Petra’s sprawling landscape, something that many travelers find unforgettable. As one reviewer put it, “We saw the valley from above, something I could never hike up to see,” which emphasizes how this tour offers a perspective few others do.

Exploring Iconic Petra Sites

After descending the Monastery, the tour continues inside Petra itself. You’ll pass through key sights like The Girl’s Palace, a well-preserved religious temple that withstood earthquakes over centuries. Its location at the end of Colonnade Street is a scenic highlight, offering a glimpse of Petra’s architectural and spiritual diversity.

Next, you’ll visit the Royal Tombs, carved out of rose-red sandstone, which showcase the advanced craftsmanship of the Nabataeans. These tombs, dating back approximately 2,300 years, are a testament to Petra’s importance as a necropolis.

The Byzantine Church, from the fifth century, adds another layer of history and is a reminder of Petra’s continual significance through different eras. One reviewer describes this part as “a chance to see the ruins without the crowds,” thanks to the private nature of the tour.

The Horse Ride: An Adventure in Itself

What makes this tour particularly memorable — and unique — is the horse riding experience through Petra’s structures and mountains. It’s a chance to channel your inner Indiana Jones, feeling like you’re uncovering lost secrets from above ground.

Participants often praise the guides, like Mohammad, as being “knowledgeable, caring, and expert horsemen.” Horses are well cared for, calm, and easy to ride, which is good news for those wary of riding.

The ride is not only fun, but it also offers a different vantage point — from above the canyon, over rock formations, and past hidden sites. Several reviews emphasize how this view is unlike any other, with one saying, “We saw the valley from above — all the canyon and beyond — something I could never hike up to see.” For travelers who love a mix of adventure and scenery, this part of the tour hits the mark.

Final Stops and Reflection

As the tour winds down, you’ll revisit some of Petra’s iconic sights such as the Theatre and the Royal Tombs. The pace allows for close-up exploration and plenty of photo opportunities.

Throughout the day, the guide keeps the experience engaging, balancing narration with free time. Bottled water is included, keeping travelers hydrated as they navigate the rocky terrain and horse rides.

What’s the Value?

At $165 per person, this tour offers a well-rounded Petra adventure, combining private guiding, horseback riding, and scenic vistas. Remember, the entrance fee of 50 JD (roughly $70 USD) is not included, so total costs will be higher. Still, for the personalized experience and the chance to see Petra from an uncommon perspective, many travelers find it worth the extra expense.

The private nature means no large groups pushing ahead — you move at your own pace and ask questions freely. The tour duration of about 5 to 6 hours makes it ideal for a half-day, leaving plenty of time to relax afterward or explore more on your own.

Reviews highlight the expertise and friendliness of guides like Mohammad, as well as the stunning views. One reviewer even called it “a blast,” and described it as “a little outside your everyday tourist” experience, perfect for those wanting a deeper connection with Petra.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This experience is perfect for travelers who crave a more intimate Petra experience away from the crowds. It’s also ideal for adventurers who enjoy horseback riding and want to see Petra from a different angle. If you love spectacular views, nature, and history, and don’t mind moderate physical activity, you’ll find this tour very rewarding.

It’s also well-suited for those interested in a spiritual or meditative connection with the landscape, thanks to the quiet moments at Little Petra and the scenic climb to the Monastery. Families with older children or teenagers who are comfortable with walking and riding will also enjoy this outing.

The Sum Up

The Half-Day Private Indiana Jones Petra Back Road Trial Tour offers a distinctive way to experience Jordan’s most famous site. It blends active exploration, breathtaking scenery, and the thrill of horseback riding in a well-organized, intimate setting. The tour’s highlights—like visiting Little Petra, riding to the Monastery, and viewing Petra from above—are sure to make a lasting impression.

If you’re looking for a private, scenic adventure that combines history, nature, and a bit of fun, this tour is a great choice. It’s especially perfect for those who want a personalized experience, value authentic moments, and are ready to enjoy Petra in a way few others do.

FAQ

Is the Petra ticket included in the price?
No, the Petra entrance fee of 50 JD is not included, so you’ll need to purchase that separately.

How long does the horse riding last?
The tour includes several riding segments, but specific duration details aren’t provided. It’s part of a 5-6 hour overall experience.

Is this tour suitable for children or people with limited mobility?
It requires a moderate level of physical fitness. The climb to the Monastery involves about 800 steps, so consider this when booking.

What should I bring with me?
Bring water (though bottled water is provided), sunscreen, a hat, and comfortable shoes. Dress appropriately for warm weather and rocky terrain.

Are the guides knowledgeable?
Reviews mention guides like Mohammad as being well-informed and caring, adding value to the experience.

Can I customize the tour?
Since it’s a private tour, it offers some flexibility in pacing and focus, ideal for personal interests.

What’s the best time to do this tour?
Start time is 8:00 am, but check weather conditions, as the experience is weather-dependent and canceled if conditions are poor.

This unique Petra tour provides a fantastic way to see the site from new angles, enjoy some horseback adventure, and soak in stunning vistas, all with a personal touch. It is perfect for those eager to explore beyond the typical routes and seek an authentic, memorable journey through Jordan’s rock-hewn wonder.