Private Back Trail Tour of Petra starting from the Monastery

Discover Petra’s Enchanting Back Trails: A Full-Day Private Tour from Amman

A private back trail tour of Petra, starting from the Monastery, offers a fresh perspective on one of the world’s most iconic archaeological sites. This carefully crafted journey is designed for travelers who want more than the typical rush through Petra’s highlights — it promises a blend of classic sights, hidden gems, and authentic exploration.

With knowledgeable guides and flexible timing, this experience is perfect for those seeking a deeper connection to Jordan’s most famous treasure.

What we love about this tour: First, the personalized attention that comes with a private guide ensures you’re not just another face lost in a crowd. Second, the unique itinerary that begins from the back of Petra offers breathtaking views and a more relaxed, immersive experience. However, it’s worth noting that the full day of walking and exploration demands a good pair of shoes and a sense of adventure.

This tour suits curious travelers eager to truly “walk the trail less traveled” and get a more intimate glimpse of Petra’s marvels.

Key Points

• Private, Guided Experience: Personalized attention from an expert guide makes for a richer visit.
• Unique Starting Point: Begins from Little Petra and the back of Petra, offering new perspectives and fewer crowds.
• Comprehensive Itinerary: Visits include the Monastery, Byzantine Church, Royal Tombs, Theater, Treasury, and Siq.
• Flexible Pace: Ample time for exploration, photos, and relaxation, with optional free time at the museum.
• Comfort & Convenience: Hotel pickup/drop-off, climate-controlled vehicle, Wi-Fi onboard.
• Value for Money: At around $293 per person, the private experience offers a tailored, in-depth visit not available on standard tours.

Exploring Petra: A Complete Breakdown of the Experience

Starting the Day – From Amman to Petra’s Back End

Your day begins early, with pickup from your Amman hotel. This is perfect for maximizing your time at Petra, as the drive takes about three hours south. The journey itself is comfortable thanks to the air-conditioning and the attentive driver-guide, who also serves as your guide throughout the day. We appreciate how this setup simplifies logistics, letting you focus on the sights rather than navigation or transport arrangements.

This tour’s distinctive feature is its back-end approach — starting from Little Petra and the less-traveled northern trail. This approach means you avoid the main crowds that gather at the Treasury and main entrance, giving you a more relaxed, intimate experience. The drive and early departure help you arrive before larger tour groups and the midday heat.

Visiting the Royal Tombs & Little Petra

The first stop takes you through the Royal Tombs area, a collection of monumental structures carved into sandstone cliffs. You’ll walk from Little Petra (Beida)—a smaller, equally fascinating site—through Siq Albarid, the narrow mountain pass that leads into Petra. This back route provides the advantage of spectacular panoramic views over the valley and even a glimpse into nearby Palestine, according to some reviews.

Walking up to the Monastery, you’ll enjoy a breath-taking vista of Petra’s landscape — an excellent photo opportunity and a chance to appreciate the scale of Nabatean engineering. The descent leads you past the Byzantine Church, Qasr el Bint, and Wadi Farasa, where stone colors and cave carvings showcase Petra’s artistic diversity.

This section lasts around three hours, packed with sights like the Lion Fountain, Roman Soldiers Tomb, the Garden Triclinium, and the 3,000-seat Theater. The reviews note the tour’s balanced pace — enough time to soak in the history without feeling rushed. As one reviewer said, “The itinerary was perfectly balanced, combining must-see landmarks with hidden gems.”

The Iconic Treasury — El-Khazneh

Next comes the highlight of any Petra visit: the Treasury, or El-Khazneh. This rose-pink marvel, originally built to house treasures, is a photographer’s dream. We loved the way the guide explained its purpose and construction, adding layers to the visual awe. You’ll have plenty of time here to take photos and appreciate the craftsmanship that has fascinated visitors for centuries.

The tour doesn’t just stop at the front; you’ll also explore the narrow Siq, a 1.2-kilometer canyon that is both a literal and symbolic gateway to the city. Walking through the Siq, you can imagine what it was like for ancient traders to pass through this tight, winding canyon, protected by towering walls of sandstone.

Optional Museum Visit & Free Time

If time permits, you can visit the Petra Museum, which provides additional context about the site’s history, architecture, and the Nabateans’ ingenuity. This optional stop allows for a deeper understanding of what you’re seeing, which many visitors find rewarding.

Return via the Siq & End of the Day

As your day winds down, you’ll retrace your steps through the Siq, ending at the main visitor’s center. The final walk often leaves travelers with a sense of awe and fulfillment, having experienced Petra from a perspective few tour groups enjoy. The entire visit lasts about 12 to 13 hours, giving you a full day of exploration, photo ops, and leisure.

Logistics & Practical Details

This private tour, costing around $293.33 per person, provides excellent value when you consider the personalized service, transport, and guided expertise included. The price covers hotel pickup and drop-off, a private climate-controlled vehicle, Wi-Fi onboard, and a local English-speaking guide. For many, this means a stress-free day with no worries about transportation or navigating the site alone.

The tour includes all entrance fees to Petra, provided you opt for the standard ticket option, making it simpler to budget your day. Horse riding before the Siq is also available, adding a traditional touch to your visit.

Remember to wear comfortable shoes, as walking is substantial, and bring a sunhat and sunscreen. The tour operates starting at 7:00 am, which helps beat the heat and crowds — a smart tip from seasoned travelers.

Additional considerations

If you hold a Jordan Pass, make sure to inform the tour operator so that entrance fees can be reimbursed or included. If you prefer a different language besides English, requests can be accommodated, though availability may vary.

What Reviewers Say

One traveler summed it up: “There was enough variety to keep things exciting, with ample time for relaxation and exploration at our own pace.” Another appreciated the route’s less crowded nature, noting, “Le sentier nord menant de la route au site du ‘Monastère’ évite de traverser le site principal de Pétra. Une vue magnifique sur la vallée et la Palestine.”

These comments highlight the value of choosing a private, tailored experience that balances guided insights with personal discovery. It’s a tour that respects your pace and curiosity, offering a deeper connection to Petra’s grandeur.

The Sum Up: Who Will Love This Tour?

This private back trail tour is an ideal pick for travelers who want a comprehensive yet relaxed Petra experience. If you’re eager to avoid the crowds, explore lesser-known paths, and have a knowledgeable guide personalize your day, this tour fits perfectly. It’s excellent for those interested in photography, history, and authentic encounters with Jordan’s crown jewel.

While it requires a full day — including plenty of walking and some physical effort — the rewards are substantial. You’ll leave with a deeper appreciation of Petra’s engineering marvels, artistic carvings, and the ingenuity of the Nabatean people. The comfort of private transport and a dedicated guide makes this experience smooth and memorable.

It’s a superb choice for anyone seeking a more intimate, insightful journey into one of the world’s most extraordinary archaeological sites.

FAQ

What is the starting time for the tour?
The tour begins at 7:00 am, allowing you to make the most of the cooler morning hours and avoid crowds.

Does the tour include transportation?
Yes, it includes hotel pickup and drop-off, with a private climate-controlled vehicle suited to your group size.

Are entrance fees included?
Typically, the tour covers all entrance fees to Petra if you select the standard ticket option or mention your Jordan Pass.

Can I customize the tour?
Since it’s a private experience, your guide can tailor the pace and focus areas, including optional visits like the Petra Museum.

Is there Wi-Fi during the trip?
Yes, Wi-Fi is available onboard the vehicle, helpful for sharing photos or quick updates.

What should I bring?
Comfortable walking shoes, sun protection (hat, sunscreen), and water are recommended. Dress appropriately for a full day on your feet.

Is this suitable for travelers with mobility issues?
It depends, as walking and some uneven terrain are involved. Contact the operator beforehand for specific accessibility concerns.

Can I book this tour for a different language?
English is standard, but other languages may be available upon request, subject to availability.

This private back trail tour of Petra offers a meaningful way to discover Jordan’s most famous site, blending comfort, authenticity, and expert insight. Whether it’s your first visit or a return trip, it promises a more personal and less crowded adventure, perfect for making lasting memories of the Red Rose City.