Petra Back-Road Trail and Hike

If you’re considering a visit to Petra, the legendary rose-red city in southern Jordan, this Back-Road Trail and Hike promises a different way to experience its awe-inspiring sights. Unlike the usual tourist routes, this tour takes you off the beaten path—literally—through a scenic hike into Petra’s less crowded but equally stunning corners.

It’s a full-day adventure that combines natural beauty, archaeological wonders, and engaging guides, perfect for travelers craving a more intimate look at this UNESCO World Heritage site.

What we love about this experience is its combination of hiking and cultural exploration, offering vistas and landmarks that many visitors miss.

The walk through Little Petra sets a charming tone, and the journey culminates in a visit to the Monastery, one of Petra’s most iconic monuments, all while walking through mountains and ancient canyon paths. Plus, the guided nature and archaeological commentary enrich the experience, making it both informative and inspiring.

One consideration is the physical demand—this tour involves a hike with some steep sections and uneven terrain, so it’s best suited for travelers with a moderate level of fitness. Also, since the group is small (up to six people), it offers a more personalized experience, but it’s important to be prepared for a day that involves walking and some elevation.

This tour is ideal for those who want a more authentic and active Petra experience, especially if you’re interested in hiking, photography, archaeological sites, or simply avoiding the crowds. It’s perfect for adventure-minded travelers or anyone looking to see Petra from a different angle.

Key Points

• Balanced mix of hiking and cultural sites in Petra and Little Petra
• Small group size (up to 6) for personalized attention
• Includes major sites like the Monastery and Treasury, with a scenic route
• Value for money considering the depth of exploration and guided insights
• Moderate physical activity required—good for active travelers
• Flexible start with pickup or meet-up options in Little Petra

A Detailed Look at the Petra Back-Road Trail and Hike

Starting Point: From Little Petra to the Main City

This tour begins with pickup or a meeting point at Little Petra, a charming site often referred to as Siq al-Barid (“cold canyon”). The short but beautiful trail into Little Petra takes you through a narrow canyon with towering walls, where you’ll spot ancient rock-cut temples and painted houses. The site itself is a smaller, quieter version of Petra, offering an intimate first taste of Nabataean artistry.

One of the highlights is the Neolithic Village of Beidha, which dates back to the early hunter-gatherer days—an extraordinary chance to walk through one of Jordan’s oldest settlements. This adds an archaeological dimension to the tour, showing how the area has been a hub of human activity for thousands of years.

The Hiking Route: Marvelous Mountain Scenery & Ancient Villages

From Little Petra, the trail leads into a series of marvelous scenes—heaven for anyone who loves rugged landscapes and stunning vistas. The hike takes you along rocky paths, mountain ridges, and through canyons, offering spectacular views of Wadi Araba and the West Bank mountains. It’s a route that showcases the natural beauty of this desert landscape while passing through sites that feel untouched by time.

Travelers who have done this hike mention its “magnificent landscapes” and the unique experience of exploring Petra’s back door, away from the crowds. As one reviewer put it, “A great guide takes you through the magnificent landscapes and provides a more private way to enjoy Petra’s sights.”

The Old Village and Shamasah Canyon

A noteworthy stop is the ancient village ruins, which were once home to communities living in this region many thousands of years ago. Accessed through the dramatic Siq Ghorab, the canyon feels like stepping into history—narrow, winding, and full of stories. This part of the route gives travelers a sense of how people once lived, farmed, and built in the harsh desert environment.

The Monastery (Al Dayr)

The Monastery, or Al Dayr, is one of the most breathtaking sights in Petra—and the highlight for many. Despite its name, it’s actually a massive tomb carved into the rock, measuring about 47 meters wide and 48.3 meters high. Built in the third century BCE, it resembles the Treasury but on a colossal scale.

Reaching it involves ascending over 800 steps along a route that begins at the Basin Restaurant—an ancient, carved path that feels like walking through history. Once there, you’ll enjoy sweeping views and the chance to appreciate the impeccable Nabataean craftsmanship. The crosses carved into the inside walls suggest it was later transformed into a church during Byzantine times, adding a fascinating layer of history.

Exploring Petra’s Major Archaeological Sites

After the hike to the Monastery, the tour takes you through Petra’s main archaeological highlights:

• Qasr al-Bint: An impressive ancient temple complex
• The Street of Facades: lined with tombs and temples, easy to explore and photograph
• Royal Tombs: a series of ornate mausoleums on the slope of Jabal al-Khubtha, including the famous Urn Tomb and Palace Tomb
• The Treasury: the iconic façade that many associate with Petra, known locally as Al Khazna. While its original purpose remains a mystery, it’s famous for its intricate carvings and towering height—about 40 meters.

The tour also includes the Nymphaeum, a grand fountain, and the Byzantine Church, a 6th or 8th-century ruin that showcases Petra’s later Christian history. These sites, covered in detailed carvings and relics, add depth to the visit, illustrating Petra’s evolution over centuries.

Practical Details: Duration, Group Size, and Cost

The entire tour lasts roughly 8 to 9 hours, including walking, sightseeing, and some rest breaks. Group size is limited to 6 travelers, which means you’ll get more personalized insights from your guide and a quieter experience away from large crowds.

At $380 per group, the price might seem steep for some, but considering the comprehensive itinerary, guided commentary, and access to major sites, many travelers find it a valuable investment—especially as it covers admission to several key sites.

What Travelers Say: The Good and the Not-So-Good

Positive reviews highlight the knowledgeable guides and stunning views as the tour’s major strengths. One reviewer praised the hike as a refreshing way to see Petra “from a different angle,” while another appreciated the quiet charm of Little Petra away from the crowds.

However, one reviewer expressed disappointment, feeling the tour didn’t meet expectations—possibly due to misaligned expectations or the level of guidance received. So, it’s worth noting that a good guide makes all the difference.

The Sum Up: Who Is This Tour Best For?

This Petra Back-Road Trail and Hike is a fantastic choice for active travelers who want more than just a quick walk through Petra’s main sights. It’s particularly well-suited for those interested in hiking, archaeology, and off-the-beaten-path experiences. If you enjoy walking through rugged landscapes, exploring ancient ruins, and having a small-group setting, this tour offers a satisfying blend of adventure and cultural discovery.

The value lies in the guided insights, scenic routes, and access to lesser-visited sites that most travelers miss. It’s also a chance to see Petra at a more relaxed pace, with plenty of opportunities to take photos, ask questions, and truly enjoy the landscape.

Keep in mind the physical requirements—the tour involves some steep climbs and uneven terrain—so it’s best for those with moderate fitness. Also, the small group size ensures a more personalized experience, but be prepared for a full day of activity.

This hike provides a more authentic, intimate Petra experience, ideal for adventurous travelers eager to explore the ancient city’s natural and archaeological treasures.

FAQ

Is transportation provided?
Yes, the tour includes pickup and meets at Little Petra, making logistics easier for you.

What is the group size?
The maximum group size is 6 travelers, which helps keep the experience intimate and personalized.

How long does the entire tour last?
Expect around 8 to 9 hours, including travel, sightseeing, and walking.

Are admission tickets included?
Yes, admission to sites like Little Petra, the Monastery, Qasr al-Bint, and others is included.

Is this tour suitable for all fitness levels?
It requires moderate physical activity. Travelers should be comfortable with some steep climbs and uneven terrain.

What should I bring?
Comfortable hiking shoes, water, sun protection, and a camera are recommended.

Can the tour be canceled?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

What if the weather is bad?
If canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Are the guides knowledgeable?
Based on reviews, guides are well-informed and engaging, enhancing the experience with historical and archaeological insights.

Is this experience good value?
Considering the full-day itinerary, guided access to major sites, and small group setting, many find it worth the cost for a richer Petra adventure.

In essence, this tour is a great way to see Petra’s highlights while enjoying the natural beauty and archaeological surprises along the way. It’s best suited for those with a spirit of adventure and a desire to see Petra from a different perspective—one that combines hiking, history, and stunning scenery.