Private Horse Riding Tour in Petra-tomb Haroun Trial

Exploring Petra on Horseback: A Unique and Authentic Journey

Our review focuses on a private Horse Riding Tour in Petra, specifically along the Haroun Trail, a route that balances adventure, comfort, and breathtaking views. For travelers who want to experience Petra beyond the usual foot traffic, this tour promises a chance to see the main sites while riding certified horses—an approach that many find not only practical but also memorable.

What we love about this experience are the convenience of riding through demanding terrain and the opportunity to see Petra’s highlights from a different perspective. The tour’s flexibility means you can cover a lot of ground without the fatigue of walking, and the personalized nature of the private tour enhances the overall experience. One potential drawback is that the admission tickets are not included, so you’ll need to budget for entry fees separately, which can add to the total cost.

This tour best suits travelers with moderate physical fitness who want an authentic, relaxing way to explore Petra’s iconic sites—ideal for those who might find long hikes challenging or simply prefer a more leisurely pace with a touch of adventure.

Key Points

• Unique horseback exploration allows you to see Petra without exhausting walks.
• Private tour format offers a personalized and comfortable experience.
• Guided by certified horses ensuring safety and quality.
• Includes key sites like Al-Siq, the Treasury, royal tombs, and the High Place of Sacrifice.
• Not including entrance tickets means planning ahead for entry fees.
• Sunset return provides a scenic end to a memorable day.

The Experience: A Detailed Look at the Tour

The adventure begins early, with a 6:00 am start at the Petra Visitor Center—ideal for avoiding the midday heat and crowds. After a brief meet-and-greet with your guide, you’ll hop onto your certified horse, ready for a 9-hour journey into one of the world’s most famous archaeological sites.

The First Stop: Al-Siq and the Great Treasury

Your ride commences through the Al-Siq, a stunning narrow canyon that acts as Petra’s main entrance. This marvelous gorge is the perfect gateway—imposing and mesmerizing. As you traverse this natural corridor, you’ll be immediately struck by the play of light and shadow, and the anticipation of what lies beyond.

Once out of the canyon, you’ll catch your first glimpse of the Treasury (Al-Khazneh)—a sight that stops most visitors in their tracks. Riding right up to this iconic façade offers a perspective impossible from the ground, allowing for amazing photo opportunities and a sense of being part of the scene. The tour notes that admission to Petra is not included, so you’ll need to purchase your ticket separately, which is common for such experiences.

The Heart of Petra from Your Horseback

After marveling at the Treasury, you’ll continue your ride to explore other well-known sites, all visible from horseback. Your guide will take you past the Royal Tombs, where the grandeur of ancient burials hints at Petra’s once-royal stature. Then it’s on to the High Place of Sacrifice, perched atop Jebel Madbah, where you might see the channels carved for ritual blood offerings—an evocative reminder of Petra’s spiritual significance.

The Theatre, Colonnaded Street, Qasr Al Bint, Great Temple, and Petra Church all come into view, revealing the city’s complex layout. These sites are spaced out enough to warrant a comfortable ride, and your guide’s insights will help you understand their importance.

The Haroun Trail and Mount Haroun

One of the highlights—and a bit of a challenge—is the ride up to Mount Haroun, the mountain where Prophet Haroun’s tomb is located. The uneven terrain and rugged landscape make it difficult to reach by horse, but the effort is rewarded with panoramic views and a sense of connection to Petra’s spiritual roots.

Wrapping Up at Sunset

The tour concludes as you return the same way, gradually making your way back to the Petra Visitor Center around sunset. This timing offers a beautiful end to your day, with the soft glow illuminating the carved facades and deepening shadows.

Authenticity, Comfort, and Value

Many previous guests describe this tour as “unforgettable”, emphasizing the personalized attention and stunning scenery. One reviewer highlights that the guide, Mohammed, took extra care to review the itinerary and show the route, which enhanced their confidence and anticipation.

Riding a certified horse through Petra’s terrain makes this tour stand out because it reduces physical strain while still offering extensive access to the archaeological site. It’s a particularly good choice for travelers who want to cover more ground than walking allows but still enjoy an immersive experience.

Regarding value, at $190 per person, the tour is a bit of an investment, but considering the full-day experience, personalized service, and the unique perspective it offers, many find it well worth the price. Remember, admission tickets are not included, so the total cost depends on your entry fee, which varies.

Practical Tips for Travelers

• Timing: Starting at 6:00 am helps beat the crowds and the midday heat.
• Physical Fitness: Moderate fitness is recommended, especially if you plan to visit Mount Haroun.
• Booking: As the tour is private, it’s tailored for your group—be sure to book well in advance, especially during peak seasons.
• What to Bring: Comfortable walking shoes for the end of the ride, sunscreen, water, and a camera for capturing those extraordinary moments.
• Weather: The tour is weather-dependent; poor weather may lead to rescheduling or refund.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This horseback tour is perfect for travelers looking for a relaxed yet adventurous way to explore Petra. It appeals to those who want to avoid long hikes but still see the iconic sites, and it offers an intimate setting compared to larger group excursions. History buffs, spiritual travelers, or anyone seeking a photogenic, memorable experience will particularly enjoy this.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

This private horseback tour in Petra offers a distinctive way to experience one of the world’s most captivating archaeological sites. It combines ease and adventure—you get to see the main highlights like the Treasury, royal tombs, and sacred sites—all from the comfort of a certified horse. Plus, the personal guide adds valuable context and safety.

While it requires a little additional planning for entrance tickets and is best suited for those with moderate physical fitness, the overall experience is highly praised by previous travelers for its stunning views and personal touch. If you’re looking for a unique, authentic way to explore Petra, this tour fits the bill nicely.

FAQs

• What time does the tour start?
  The tour begins at 6:00 am, allowing you to beat the crowds and enjoy cooler temperatures.

• Are the horses safe and certified?
  Yes, the horses used in this tour are certified, ensuring safety and quality throughout your ride.

• Is this a private tour?
  Absolutely. This is a private experience, so only your group will participate, which means more personalized attention.

• Do I need to bring my own tickets?
  No, tickets for Petra are not included, so you’ll need to purchase your entry separately.

• How long is the riding portion?
  The entire tour lasts about 9 hours, with most of the time spent riding and visiting key sites.

• Can I visit Mount Haroun?
  Yes, but note that reaching Prophet Haroun’s tomb by horse can be challenging due to the rugged terrain.

• Is this suitable for children or those with mobility issues?
  It’s best for travelers with moderate fitness levels. Very young children or those with mobility concerns might find the terrain or riding challenging.

• What should I bring?
  Comfortable shoes for walking at the end, sunscreen, water, and a camera are recommended.

• What if the weather is bad?
  The experience is weather-dependent. Poor weather may lead to a reschedule or full refund.

• How much does this tour cost?
  The price is $190.00 per person, excluding admission tickets. Consider the convenience and uniqueness when evaluating the cost.

Final Words

For those wanting an authentic, memorable way to explore Petra, especially if long walks aren’t ideal, this horseback tour strikes a good balance between comfort and discovery. It’s a chance to see the highlights from a fresh perspective, with knowledgeable guides ensuring you get the most out of your time. The stunning vistas, combined with the thrill of riding a well-cared-for horse, make this a journey to remember—particularly suited for those craving a more relaxed, yet adventurous Petra experience.