From Sharm ElSheikh: The Lost City (Petra) Day Tour by Ferry

Exploring Petra from Sharm El Sheikh: An In-Depth Review of the Day Tour by Ferry

Traveling from Sharm El Sheikh to the legendary city of Petra is an adventure packed with anticipation, stunning sights, and a good dose of travel logistics. We’ve looked into this day trip to help you decide if it’s worth the effort—and it is, if you’re eager to stand in front of one of the world’s most iconic archaeological sites without committing to an overnight stay.

What we love most about this tour is the seamless combination of transport modes—ferry, bus, and guided walks—making the journey feel like an adventure in itself. The expert guides are genuinely praised for their knowledge, and the views of Petra’s rose-colored facades are breathtaking. The main drawback? It’s a very long day—expect about 20 hours of travel and exploration.

That makes it best suited for the energetic traveler who’s comfortable with long hours on the road and eager to check off a bucket-list site in a single day.

This tour is ideal for those who want a taste of Jordan’s most famous site without the hassle of planning multi-day trips. If you’re short on time but craving an authentic experience, this could be your best bet. However, if you prefer a more leisurely pace or are traveling with small children, the long hours might be a challenge.

Key Points

• Convenient Transportation: Round-trip transfer, ferry crossing, and air-conditioned buses make the long journey more comfortable.
• Expert Guides: Knowledgeable guides add context and storytelling, enriching your understanding of Petra’s history.
• Stunning Sights: The highlight is undoubtedly Petra’s treasury, Roman theater, and king wall graves—all within walking distance from each other.

  Value for Money: Including ferry tickets, Jordan visa, entrance fees, and lunch, the $329 price offers a comprehensive experience.

• Long Duration: With a 20-hour day, travelers should be prepared for an early start and a full schedule.

  Mixed Group Sizes: Reviews mention large groups, mostly Russian-speaking, but guides aim to make everyone feel engaged and informed.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Itinerary: What You Can Expect

Early Pickup and Sinai to Taba

The day begins with hotel pickup in Sharm El Sheikh, often early morning, to travel through the Sinai Peninsula to the Egyptian border at Taba. Expect a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle and a chance to enjoy the changing scenery as the bus winds its way north. This part of the journey is smooth, with some stops for rest or snacks, and the driver and guides keep you informed about what’s ahead.

Crossing the Gulf of Aqaba by Ferry

Once at Taba, the adventure shifts to the ferry crossing. This is a highlight for many travelers, ferrying across the Gulf of Aqaba to Jordan’s port of Aqaba. The ferry ride offers views of the coastline and a different perspective on the region’s maritime environment. Ferry tickets are included, making this a stress-free part of the day—though expect the crossing to take some time, depending on the ferry schedule.

The Drive to Petra

After arriving in Aqaba, you’ll board an air-conditioned bus for the approximately 2-hour drive to Petra’s entrance. The journey itself is scenic, and the bus is usually well-equipped with rest stops along the way. The guides often share stories about Jordan’s history and the importance of Petra, building anticipation for what’s ahead.

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Exploring Petra’s Famous Sights

Once you arrive at Petra, the real magic begins. The UNESCO World Heritage Site was once “forgotten by the world for over 1,000 years,” and now it’s one of the New Seven Wonders of the World. As you walk through the narrow gorge, known as the Siq, the towering pink sandstone cliffs lead your gaze toward the treasury of Al Khazneh—one of the most iconic images in archaeology.

Your guide will point out the Roman Theater, dating from the 1st century AD, and the 13 graves along the King Wall. You’ll get a good overview of Petra’s layout, and depending on your pace and the guide’s schedule, there might even be time to explore on your own or take photos. The guides are praised for their knowledge, offering insights into the history, architecture, and significance of each landmark.

Lunch and Return Journey

Post-exploration, you’ll enjoy a well-earned lunch at a local restaurant, giving you a chance to sample Jordanian cuisine. After lunch, it’s time to head back, retracing your steps to Aqaba and catching the ferry back to Egypt. The return journey is long but is balanced out by the satisfaction of having seen this incredible site firsthand.

Evening Return to Sharm El Sheikh

Expect to arrive back in Sharm El Sheikh late in the evening or even past midnight, depending on delays or stops along the way. Many reviews mention the full-day schedule and the importance of packing snacks, water, and comfortable clothes.

The Value of the Tour

For $329, this tour packs a lot into a single day. It covers transportation, ferry crossing, Jordanian visa, entrance fees, and lunch, which means fewer surprises on the day itself. While the long hours may seem daunting, many travelers find the experience worth every minute—especially those who see Petra for the first time.

The inclusion of guides helps translate the complex history into digestible stories, adding depth to your visit. Many reviews highlight guides like Mohammad and Aladdin as knowledgeable and friendly, making the long hours more engaging.

However, it’s important to acknowledge the long duration. Some travelers mentioned that they weren’t prepared for the 20-hour day, so packing well—comfortable shoes, water, and patience—is essential. Also, the large groups, sometimes with a language barrier (notably Russian-speaking groups), could affect the intimacy of the experience.

Practical Tips for a Smooth Trip

• Bring your passport or ID card—it’s needed for Jordan entry and visas.
• Dress comfortably and in layers; the day can start cool and get hot, especially in Jordan’s desert climate.
• Wear sturdy shoes—the terrain in Petra involves some walking over uneven surfaces.
• Pack water and snacks; while lunch is included, extra supplies keep you energized.
• Be prepared for a long day—early start, late return, and lots of travel, but it’s all worth it for the views.

Who Will Love This Tour?

If you’re a history buff eager to see one of the world’s greatest archaeological sites, this tour delivers. It’s perfect for those who don’t mind a lengthy day and want someone else to handle the logistics. Adventure seekers who enjoy crossing borders and experiencing multiple modes of transport will enjoy the ferry ride and bus journey.

On the other hand, if you prefer leisurely exploration or traveling with small, intimate groups, this might feel a bit overwhelming. The tour suits travelers with good stamina and a sense of adventure—ready to spend a full day immersed in one of the most stunning ancient cities in the world.

The Sum Up

This full-day Petra tour from Sharm El Sheikh offers an excellent way to see one of the planet’s most breathtaking archaeological sites without the need for multiple nights away. The combination of ferry crossing, guided tours, and the awe-inspiring views of Petra makes it a compelling choice for travelers short on time but big on adventure.

You’ll enjoy the convenience of all-inclusive pricing, knowledgeable guides, and the thrill of standing in front of the Treasury of Al Khazneh—a moment that makes the long journey totally worthwhile. The experience is ideal for those who love history, stunning scenery, and don’t mind a packed schedule.

While the day is intense, the memories and photographs will stay with you forever. This trip is a chance to say you’ve seen Petra, feel its scale, and appreciate its enduring beauty—all in just one extraordinary day.

FAQs

How long is the total tour day?
Expect around 20 hours from pickup in Sharm El Sheikh to return, including travel, ferry crossings, and exploration time.

What transportation is used during the tour?
Travel is in an air-conditioned vehicle, with ferry tickets included for crossing the Gulf of Aqaba, making the long journey comfortable.

Is a visa required for Jordan?
Yes, the tour includes the Jordan entry visa, simplifying border crossing and avoiding surprises at the border.

What should I wear and bring?
Wear comfortable shoes and clothes suitable for warm weather. Bring passport or ID, water, snacks, and a hat or sunglasses for sun protection.

Are guides available during the tour?
Yes, guided commentary is provided on-site by knowledgeable guides, enhancing your understanding of Petra’s history and architecture.

Can I explore Petra freely after the guided tour?
The tour includes key sights, but time for personal exploration may be limited. Check with your guide about additional free time if desired.

This full-day journey from Sharm El Sheikh to Petra offers a remarkable glimpse into one of the world’s most celebrated archaeological sites. It’s an adventure packed with history, stunning scenery, and a touch of travel thrill—perfect for travelers eager to add a truly iconic experience to their trip.

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