Cooking outside in little Petra between the Mountains.

Cooking outside in Little Petra between the Mountains offers a unique chance to enjoy Jordanian cuisine in a setting that feels both traditional and personal. This tour is not just about eating; it’s about participating in the cooking process amid breathtaking mountain scenery, under the open sky, and away from the bustle of tourist-heavy sites.

If you’re looking for an activity that combines cultural insight, authentic food, and a touch of adventure, this is worth considering.

Two standout features make this experience especially appealing: First, the opportunity to cook Bedouin-style food with your own hands, guided by knowledgeable hosts who share stories and traditions. Second, the setting — outdoors, around a fire, beneath the stars — offers a genuinely relaxed and immersive atmosphere.

On the flip side, weather can be unpredictable; wind or rain might shorten your stay outdoors, but hosts are accommodating.

This experience suits travelers who love authentic, hands-on cultural activities and are comfortable in simple, natural environments.

This experience made our article of What Are The Best Tours & Things To Do In Petra? Our Top 16 Picks.

Key Points

• Authentic Bedouin-style cooking in a scenic mountain setting
• Learn about traditional and modern Jordanian culinary techniques
• Experience dining under the stars with no electricity or modern distractions
• Guides are friendly, knowledgeable, and eager to share local stories
• Weather can impact the outdoor experience — check the forecast before booking
• Ideal for curious food lovers and those seeking a cultural connection

An Authentic Food Experience in Little Petra

This tour offers more than just a meal; it’s an interactive journey into Jordanian cuisine set amid the dramatic mountains of Little Petra. The experience begins with your hosts inviting you to a spot outside a cave between the mountains, where a fire is already crackling. You’ll start by sharing a warm cup of traditional tea, a gesture that immediately creates a welcoming atmosphere. Then, the real fun begins as you and your hosts prepare the evening’s dinner together.

What makes this tour stand out is the opportunity to learn about how Bedouin food is cooked, both historically and today. Expect your hosts to explain the different methods, ingredients, and cooking techniques that give Jordanian food its distinctive flavor. Whether it’s grilling meats, preparing flatbreads, or slow-cooking stews, you’ll get a hands-on experience that’s both educational and delicious.

Once the meal is ready, you’ll sit around the fire and enjoy the warm, healthy, and fresh food that you’ve helped prepare. It’s a feast that feels both intimate and authentic. After eating, many guests love to linger under the open sky, sipping more tea and gazing at the stars and moon, with the mountains providing a stunning backdrop.

The Itinerary: What to Expect

The tour typically lasts about five hours, making it an excellent choice for an evening activity. It operates from 5:00 PM to 10:00 PM, aligning well with sunset and night sky views. The pickup is usually offered, which adds to the comfort, especially if arranging transportation on your own in the Petra area feels daunting.

You’ll meet your hosts, Hesham and Fiona, in a convenient location near Little Petra. From there, the journey begins with a short transfer to the outdoor cooking site. Once there, the focus shifts to cultural storytelling and cooking demonstrations. You will be shown how Bedouin foods are traditionally prepared, providing insight into local customs and culinary evolution.

The outdoor setup is simple — no electricity, just a fire, the stars, and good company. The outdoor setting means you’ll be in fresh mountain air, surrounded by the sounds of nature and the mountains’ silence. It’s a peaceful, almost meditative environment, perfect for disconnecting from daily routines.

Once the cooking is underway, you’ll have time to relax, enjoy more tea, and learn from your guides about the history and meaning of the dishes. The meal itself is a highlight — fresh, flavorful, and made before your eyes.

The Reviews: Authenticity and Hospitality

Guests consistently praise the warm hospitality and expert guidance of the hosts. One reviewer mentioned that despite poor weather, Hesham and Fiona went above and beyond by inviting her to their home for tea and snacks, showing their genuine friendliness. This anecdote highlights how flexible and caring the hosts are.

Another guest raved about the well-managed experience, from pickup to drop-off, and appreciated Jimmy, their guide, for his friendliness and knowledge. The consensus is that this tour provides an informative and memorable evening that’s more than just a meal — it’s a cultural exchange.

The only caveat noted by some is that weather can impact the outdoor experience. Wind and rain might cut the evening short, but hosts seem committed to making it up to guests when possible.

Practical Details and Value

At $50 per person, this tour offers good value for an immersive cultural activity. The price includes guidance, ingredients, and the experience of cooking and dining outdoors. It’s especially appealing for those who want an authentic, hands-on activity rather than a passive dinner in a restaurant.

The tour is suitable for most travelers, with a maximum group size of 35, ensuring a friendly, intimate setting. The activity is booked well in advance (about 22 days on average), which speaks to its popularity. Since it’s offered daily, you can plan around your Petra itinerary easily.

Transportation is included in most cases, simplifying logistics. The duration of about five hours allows ample time to enjoy the scenery, food, and starry sky without feeling rushed.

Who Should Consider This Experience?

This tour is perfect for adventurous food lovers eager to learn about Bedouin cooking traditions firsthand. It’s ideal for travelers who enjoy outdoor experiences and cultural exchanges and don’t mind simple surroundings. It offers a chance to connect directly with local hosts, gain insight into traditional Jordanian cuisine, and enjoy a peaceful evening under the stars.

If you’re visiting Petra and looking for a meaningful, memorable activity beyond typical sightseeing, this is a charming choice. It’s especially suited to those who appreciate local stories, good company, and delicious, healthy food prepared with care.

The Sum Up

For travelers eager to experience Jordan beyond the usual tourist spots, this outdoor cooking tour in Little Petra offers a genuinely authentic, relaxed, and engaging activity. It’s a wonderful way to connect with local traditions, learn new culinary skills, and enjoy a memorable evening in an extraordinary setting. The guides and hosts make it special with their warmth and expertise, and the outdoor environment — under the night sky — creates a sense of peaceful adventure.

While weather can be unpredictable, the overall experience is highly rated for its delicious food, friendly guides, and cultural authenticity. It’s best suited for those who value hands-on experiences and are open to simple, natural surroundings. If that sounds like your idea of travel magic, this tour could be a highlight of your Jordan trip.

FAQ

Is transportation included?
Most likely, yes. The tour offers pickup, making it easier to reach the outdoor site without worrying about arrangements.

How long does the tour last?
It lasts about 5 hours, typically from 5:00 PM to 10:00 PM, giving plenty of time for cooking, eating, and star-gazing.

Is it suitable for all ages?
Generally, yes. Most travelers can participate, but it’s best for those comfortable with outdoor environments and simple settings.

What should I wear?
Dress comfortably for the outdoors. Layers are advisable since mountain evenings can be cooler, especially under open skies.

Can I participate if I don’t know how to cook?
Absolutely. The hosts are there to guide you step-by-step, making it accessible even for beginners.

What makes this experience special compared to a regular dinner?
You get to participate in the cooking process, learn about local traditions, and enjoy dining under the stars, creating lasting memories.

Is the experience weather-dependent?
Yes. Poor weather like wind or rain may cause a cancellation or limit outdoor time. Check the forecast before booking.

What do reviews say?
Guests praise the delicious food, hospitable hosts, and beautiful setting, with some mentioning the guides’ friendly nature and the memorable experience despite weather challenges.