Day trip to Petra by ferry from Sharm el Sheikh

Introduction

If you’re considering a day trip to Petra from Sharm el Sheikh, you’ll find that this tour offers an exciting way to see one of the world’s most iconic archaeological sites without the hassle of an overnight stay. The experience is packed with highlights: a scenic ferry ride, a guided tour through the famous rock-cut Treasury, and the chance to explore Jordan’s vibrant city of Aqaba—making it perfect for adventurous travelers eager to tick off this UNESCO World Heritage site.

What we love most is how well-organized the trip appears, with thoughtful touches like included lunch and all entrance fees covered, making it a surprisingly smooth adventure. Plus, the guided tour promises expert insights, enriching your understanding of Petra’s history and architecture. On the flip side, the long hours involved—roughly 22 to 24 hours round trip—are definitely something to consider, especially if you prefer more relaxed travel.

This tour suits those who crave authentic experiences, are comfortable with long travel days, and want to see Petra with the reassurance of a guided group. If you’re after a once-in-a-lifetime adventure that combines sea, land, and history, this trip could be just right.

Key Points

• Impressive organization ensures a smooth, hassle-free journey, even for first-timers.
• Knowledgeable guides enrich the experience with engaging and informative commentary.
• The scenic ferry ride adds a distinctive touch, combining travel with sightseeing.
• Expect a long day with significant travel time, but the highlights make it worthwhile.
• The tour offers excellent value considering transportation, entrance fees, and lunch included.
• Participants praise the safety, punctuality, and professionalism of the crew.

Overview of the Experience

This tour is designed as a full-day adventure that begins early with hotel pickup around 1:00 am, setting the stage for a long but rewarding journey. The core of the experience is a ferry crossing from Taba to Aqaba, Jordan—a relaxing 40-minute boat ride that offers views of the Red Sea and a refreshing start to the day. It’s a chance to leave behind Egypt’s shores temporarily and step into Jordan’s history-rich landscape.

Once in Aqaba, a professional guide welcomes you and takes you on the approximately two-hour drive to Petra. This drive isn’t just about transportation; it’s an opportunity to get briefed on what you’ll see and hear some fascinating background. As you approach Petra, you’ll enter through the Siq, a winding gorge that leads directly to the Treasury—a sight that consistently leaves visitors speechless.

The guided tour inside Petra typically covers the Treasury, Roman Theater, Royal Tombs, and Qasr al-Bint, providing a solid overview of the site’s highlights. Many reviews mention the guides’ knowledgeability and humor, transforming what could be a long, tiring walk into an engaging experience.

After exploring Petra, you’ll enjoy a buffet lunch in a charming restaurant—another included perk. Post-lunch, there’s a brief free time in Aqaba for some shopping or relaxation, offering a bit of a breather before heading back. The return involves the same ferry crossing and a drive back to your hotel, completing a round trip that, while lengthy, is packed with memorable moments.

Detailed Breakdown of the Itinerary

Starting from Sharm el Sheikh

The day begins very early, with pickup at 1:00 am, which might seem extreme but is necessary to maximize your time in Petra. The early start means you’ll be on the road or ferry before most travelers have even had breakfast. Prepare for a long day—most travelers report total travel times of around 22 hours.

Crossing the Red Sea by Ferry

The ferry ride from Taba to Aqaba is approximately 40 minutes and offers a gentle, scenic interval. It’s a refreshing change from sitting on buses and provides a unique perspective of the Red Sea. Reviews frequently highlight the ferry as a lovely part of the journey, breaking up the bus travel and offering picturesque views.

Drive to Petra

Once in Aqaba, the journey to Petra takes around two hours. The road winds through Jordanian landscapes, giving travelers a glimpse of the local scenery. The guides often share interesting facts about Jordanian culture and Petra’s history, making the journey educational as well as scenic.

Arrival at Petra and Guided Tour

The highlight is, of course, exploring Petra. Your guide will lead you through the Siq, revealing the famous Treasury, carved directly into the rock face. From there, you’ll visit the Roman Theater, Royal Tombs, and the Qasr al-Bint, providing a rundown in about 3.5 hours of touring.

Many reviews emphasize the quality of the guides—described as knowledgeable, humorous, and attentive—which makes a significant difference when navigating such a vast site. Some travelers appreciated the option to rent a golf cart if walking is difficult, which adds comfort and helps cover more ground.

Lunch and Free Time

Lunch is an open buffet in a nice restaurant, often praised for its variety and quality. Afterward, in Aqaba, you receive about an hour of free time—ideal for souvenirs or a quick stroll before heading back.

Return Ferry and Transfer

The return involves the same ferry crossing back to Taba, followed by the drive to your hotel. The complete day is long, but many travelers feel the memorable experience outweighs the fatigue.

What Travelers Are Saying

Many reviews highlight the smooth organization and the professionalism of the guides. One traveler exclaimed, “This trip to Petra was absolutely flawless! Everything was so well-organized and smooth,” capturing the overall satisfaction. Several reviewers appreciated the value for money, noting that including transportation, entrance fees, and lunch made this a cost-effective way to visit Petra.

However, some mention the long hours—up to 25 hours including travel and sightseeing—which can be daunting. A few reviews indicate that the early start and long bus rides require preparation. Bringing snacks, water, and patience is often advised.

The guides’ expertise receives high praise. Comments like “the guides took excellent care of the group” and “very knowledgeable and humorous” show that the human side of the tour adds significantly to the experience.

While most reviews are glowing, a handful express frustration over long transit times or less attentive border security personnel. It’s worth noting that some travelers found the travel logistics challenging, but most agree that the spectacle of Petra outweighs these inconveniences.

Transportation, Price, and Value

At $337.31 per person, the tour offers solid value considering everything included: transportation, ferry crossings, entrance fees, and a generous lunch. Since the entire trip is managed for you, there’s little need to worry about organizing multiple tickets or navigating borders independently, saving you precious time and stress.

The air-conditioned vehicle ensures some comfort during the long drives, and the small group size—capped at 30 travelers—means you’re less likely to feel lost in a crowd. The early pickup and the full-day itinerary maximize your sightseeing but do require stamina.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This trip is best suited for adventurous travelers who don’t mind long hours and are eager to see Petra without the hassle of planning. It’s ideal for those looking for value and convenience, and for anyone wanting a guided experience that enriches their understanding of Petra’s history. However, if you prefer a slower pace or shorter days, this might not be the best fit.

The Sum Up

For those seeking a once-in-a-lifetime experience that combines sea travel, cultural exploration, and awe-inspiring scenery, this ferry day trip to Petra offers remarkable value. The tour’s efficient organization and the knowledgeable guides make the long hours feel worthwhile, transforming what could be a tiring day into an unforgettable adventure.

It’s especially well-suited for travelers comfortable with long travel days who want to make the most of their time without sacrificing quality. The included transport, meals, and entrance fees mean there are no hidden costs, and the scenic ferry ride adds a special touch to this Jordanian highlight.

If your goal is to see Petra with expert guidance, enjoy scenic crossings, and experience Jordan’s hospitality—all in one day—this trip delivers on those promises. Just pack your patience, bring snacks, and prepare for a journey that, even with its length, leaves you with memories to last a lifetime.

FAQ

Is pickup offered for this tour?
Yes, hotel pickup is included, starting around 1:00 am, to ensure you’re ready for the early departure.

How long does the entire trip take?
The trip lasts approximately 22 hours to a full day, including travel, ferry crossings, and sightseeing.

What’s included in the price?
The price covers all admissions, lunch, and air-conditioned transportation. The ferry ride is also included.

Are there any extra costs I should be aware of?
Soft drinks and any additional services not mentioned are not included. Also, if you choose extras like a golf cart or photos, those costs are separate.

Is this suitable for families or travelers with mobility issues?
Most reviews suggest it’s good for most travelers, especially if mobility is a concern, as options like golf carts are available. However, expect some walking and long bus rides.

What is the quality of the guides?
Reviews consistently praise the guides for their knowledge, humor, and attentiveness, which greatly enhances the experience.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the trip, with a full refund.

This comprehensive tour review should help you weigh whether a day trip to Petra from Sharm el Sheikh aligns with your travel style. It’s a long haul, but for many, the chance to see this legendary site makes every minute worth it.