From Eilat: Petra Ancient City Tour and Buffet Lunch

If you’re planning a trip that includes crossing borders, exploring one of the world’s most iconic archaeological sites, and enjoying local Jordanian cuisine, this day trip from Eilat to Petra might just fit the bill.

While we haven’t personally been on this exact tour, the detailed reviews and itinerary paint a compelling picture of what you can expect—if you’re ready for a full day of sightseeing, history, and a bit of travel logistics.

Two things we particularly like are the comprehensive guided experience that walks you through Petra’s most famous sights and the included buffet lunch, offering a taste of Jordanian flavors right at the site. The border crossing can be a logistical hurdle for some, so it’s worth considering whether you’re comfortable with the paperwork and timing involved.

This tour is best suited for travelers eager to see Petra as a day-trip destination, especially those with limited time in the region. It’s ideal for history enthusiasts, culture seekers, or anyone curious about this mysterious rock city. If you prefer a more leisurely pace or overnight stays, you might want to consider other options, but for an accessible, guided experience, this tour offers solid value.

Key Points

• Convenient transportation from Eilat with border crossing assistance
• Insightful guides who share stories and historical details
• Scenic drive through Jordan’s desert landscape, including Wadi Rum views
• All-inclusive price covers entrance fees and buffet lunch
• Time-efficient way to visit Petra in a single day
• Some logistical considerations with border paperwork and timing

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Petra Day Trip from Eilat

This tour offers a neat package for visitors in Eilat who want to see Petra without the hassle of planning every detail themselves. The experience kicks off with pickup at your hotel or accommodation, which simplifies what can otherwise be a complicated day of travel. From there, you’ll drive across the border into Jordan, an aspect that many travelers find manageable thanks to the included border crossing assistance—just remember, you’ll need your passport and a scanned copy of your data page to streamline the process.

Border Crossing and Transportation

The border crossing might be the most logistically challenging part for some. One reviewer highlighted the value of having a taxi driver handle the paperwork and border formalities, which can save time and reduce stress. Expect a long drive—about 2¾ hours each way, so comfortable seating and some entertainment or reading material are recommended. The scenic route includes crossing towering mountains and Wadi Rum, with a notable stop at the Valley of Moses—an area of biblical significance and natural beauty.

Entering Petra: From Siq to Treasury

Once in Petra, you’ll enter through the famous Siq canyon, a narrow, winding path that heightens anticipation. As you walk this natural gorge, you’ll soon reach the Treasury (Al Khazneh)—the iconic façade that has become synonymous with Petra. If you’ve seen pictures of Petra, it’s almost impossible not to be struck by its grandeur in person.

Your guide will lead you along the Street of Facades and past the Petra Theater, sharing stories about the site’s history and the civilizations that built and inhabited it. We appreciate that the guide’s commentary is in English, making the history accessible, though some reviews note that explanations can be quite minimal and repetitive. Still, the overall historical value and the chance to see this one of the world’s most incredible archaeological sites are well worth it.

The Highlights of Petra

Beyond the Treasury, you’ll get views of rock-cut monuments, the Obelisk Tomb, Silica Quarries, and Jinn blocks. The huge stone dam illustrates the engineering prowess of ancient inhabitants who sought to protect the city from floods—a practical aspect of Petra’s infrastructure that often goes unnoticed. Walking through the site, you’ll have opportunities for photos, absorbing the atmosphere of a place that’s been inhabited for centuries.

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The Buffet Lunch Experience

Midway through, the tour includes a buffet lunch at a local restaurant, which is an appreciated feature. Travelers have noted that the food is plentiful, flavorful, and offers a good taste of Jordanian cuisine. One traveler specifically mentioned that the buffet was very good, and the free supplies of bottled water (0.5L on the bus and 1.5L at the restaurant) make a big difference on a hot day.

Timing and Duration

The entire experience, from pickup to return, lasts roughly 11-12 hours. The early start—departing around 7:45 am—and late return—around 7 pm—mean you’ll need to be prepared for a long day. This is a typical itinerary for a day trip, and it’s best suited for those who don’t mind a busy schedule.

Reviews and Authentic Feedback

Feedback from previous travelers highlights professional guides and good value for money. One traveler praised the impeccable organization and the attention of the guide and driver. Several reviews, like Nina’s, appreciated the friendly service, seamless border crossing, and quite good buffet.

However, some mention the long drive as a downside, with about 2¾ hours each way. One reviewer suggested that overnight tours might offer a more relaxed experience, especially for those coming from Tel Aviv or Bethlehem, who face very early departure times.

What’s Not Included

Guests should be aware that border crossing taxes and Jordan visa fees ($130 per person) are not included and must be paid on the day. Also, travel insurance isn’t included, so consider whether your existing coverage suffices.

Practical Tips

• Bring your passport and a scanned copy for border crossing.
• Dress appropriately for the weather—comfortable, light clothing for hot days, and sturdy shoes for walking.
• Wear comfortable walking shoes—the terrain can be uneven and requires some walking.
• If you have mobility issues, this tour might not be suitable, as there is considerable walking and uneven surfaces.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This trip works well if you want to see Petra efficiently without organizing transportation or guides yourself. It’s ideal for history buffs, day-trippers, or anyone wanting to combine a scenic drive with cultural exploration. If you’re comfortable with long drives, border procedures, and a packed schedule, you’ll find this a very worthwhile experience.

However, if you prefer a more leisurely pace, more time at Petra, or staying overnight near the site, other options may suit you better.

The Sum Up

This guided day trip from Eilat to Petra offers a solid value for those eager to witness one of the world’s most incredible archaeological sites. The professional guides, scenic drive, and delicious buffet lunch combine to make what is essentially a well-rounded, no-fuss experience. The logistical support, particularly around border crossing, can make a significant difference for travelers unfamiliar with such procedures.

While the long travel time and the busy schedule won’t suit everyone, it remains a practical choice for travelers short on time or those who want an expert-led visit. The inclusion of entrance fees and lunch help keep the costs transparent, and the reviews indicate that most visitors leave satisfied with what they’ve seen and experienced.

This tour is best for adventure-minded travelers who want the highlights of Petra without the hassle of planning every detail, and those who feel comfortable with a full day of travel and sightseeing.

FAQ

Do I need a visa to join this tour?
Yes, you’ll need a Jordan entry visa, which you pay for on the day of the tour, currently at around $130 per person. Check your passport requirements beforehand.

Is border crossing complicated?
Border crossing is facilitated by the tour provider, and you’ll need to provide a scanned copy of your passport data page for a smoother process. Having your paperwork ready helps avoid delays.

What should I bring?
Bring your passport, comfortable walking shoes, weather-appropriate clothing, and enough water for the day. The tour provides some bottled water, but it’s good to carry extra.

How long is the drive?
The round-trip drive is approximately 5½ hours total, with around 2¾ hours each way. Expect scenic views of mountains and desert landscapes.

Is the tour suitable for children or mobility-impaired travelers?
It’s not suitable for those with mobility challenges, as there’s a good deal of walking on uneven terrain. Children over a certain age might enjoy the experience, but check with the provider if unsure.

What is included in the price?
The cost covers transportation, border crossing assistance, an English-speaking guide, entrance fees to Petra, and lunch.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, cancellations are accepted up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Would I recommend this tour?
Yes, if you want a guided, all-in-one Petra experience with good value, scenic drives, and local cuisine, this tour delivers. Just be prepared for a full, long day and the border crossing process.

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