1-Day Local Family Adventure in Petra: Outdoor Activities Guide

Petra, Jordan

1 days

Al Khazneh - Building of the Treasury
Ancient Monastery
Gate overlooking the stone formations
Treasury facade
Al Khazneh - Building of the Treasury

About Petra, Jordan

Experience the timeless allure of Petra, Jordan, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the New Seven Wonders of the World. This ancient city, carved into vibrant red, white, pink, and sandstone cliffs, offers a mesmerizing journey back in time. Explore the iconic Treasury, the Monastery, and the Royal Tombs, showcasing the intricate craftsmanship of the Nabateans. Wander through the Siq, a narrow gorge leading to the city, and marvel at the stunning natural beauty. Petra also offers a vibrant Bedouin culture, captivating folklore, and traditional music. At night, witness Petra illuminated by thousands of candles, creating an enchanting atmosphere. Petra, an archaeological and historical marvel, promises an unforgettable journey into the past.

1-Day Itinerary

Day 1

A Day Exploring the Ancient City of Petra

Morning

Start your day with a visit to the Petra Visitor Center. Here, you can learn about the history and significance of Petra, and prepare for your journey through the ancient city. The center offers a variety of guided tours, or you can choose to explore on your own. Remember to wear comfortable shoes and bring plenty of water.

Lunch

Enjoy a picnic lunch in the shade of the towering sandstone cliffs. There are several designated picnic areas throughout Petra, offering stunning views of the surrounding landscape. Be sure to pack a lunch that is easy to carry and won't spoil in the heat.

Afternoon

After lunch, continue your exploration of Petra. Visit the iconic Treasury, The Monastery, and The Royal Tombs. Each of these sites offers a unique glimpse into the past, and the intricate carvings and architecture are truly awe-inspiring.

Dinner

As the sun begins to set, make your way back to the entrance of Petra for dinner. There are several dining options available, offering a variety of local and international cuisine. Enjoy a relaxing meal as you reflect on the day's adventures.

Evening

End your day with a visit to Petra by Night. This magical experience includes a candlelit walk through the Siq to The Treasury. The soft glow of the candles against the sandstone cliffs creates a truly unforgettable atmosphere.

Attractions in Itinerary (5)

Petra Visitor Center

1
Petra Visitor Center

The Petra Visitor Center is the starting point for your exploration of the ancient city. It offers a wealth of information about the history and archaeology of Petra, as well as maps and guides to help you navigate the site.

Attractions
Cultural Experiences
The Monastery

2
The Monastery

Also known as Ad Deir, this is a monumental building carved out of rock in the ancient city of Petra.

Attractions
Monuments
Cultural Experiences
The Royal Tombs

3
The Royal Tombs

The Royal Tombs are a series of impressive tombs carved into the rock face of Petra. They are believed to have been the burial sites of some of the most important figures in the Nabatean kingdom.

Attractions
Monuments
Cultural Experiences
Petra by Night

4
Petra by Night

A magical tour of Petra where visitors can experience the city illuminated by over 1,500 candles.

Attractions
Tours
Cultural Experiences
The Treasury

5
The Treasury

Also known as Al-Khazneh, this is Petra's most famous and elaborate ruin, carved out of a sandstone rock face.

Attractions
Monuments
Landmarks

Local Food and Drinks (12)

Mansaf

Mansaf

A traditional Jordanian dish made of lamb cooked in a sauce of fermented dried yogurt and served with rice. It is considered the national dish of Jordan and a must-try for tourists visiting Petra.

Zarb

Zarb

A Bedouin style barbecue, where meat and vegetables are slow-cooked in an underground sand oven. This unique cooking method gives the food a distinct flavor that is popular among locals and tourists in Petra.

Maqluba

Maqluba

A traditional Jordanian dish that includes meat, rice, and fried vegetables placed in a pot, which is then flipped upside down when served, hence the name maqluba, which translates literally as 'upside-down'.

Mutabbal

Mutabbal

A popular appetizer in Jordan, made from eggplant mashed and mixed with various seasonings. It's a common part of the Jordanian mezze and a must-try for food lovers in Petra.

Falafel

Falafel

A deep-fried ball or patty made from ground chickpeas, fava beans, or both. It's a common street food in Petra and a favorite among locals and tourists.

Shawarma

Shawarma

A popular street food in Petra, made by roasting meat on a spit and then slicing it thin. It's usually served in a pita with tahini sauce, vegetables, and sometimes French fries.

Hummus

Hummus

A creamy dip made from mashed chickpeas, tahini, olive oil, lemon juice, and garlic. It's a staple in Jordanian cuisine and a must-try for tourists in Petra.

Tabbouleh

Tabbouleh

A healthy and refreshing salad made from tomatoes, finely chopped parsley, mint, bulgur, and onion, and seasoned with olive oil, lemon juice, and salt. It's a popular dish in Petra and a great choice for vegetarians.

Knafeh

Knafeh

A traditional Middle Eastern dessert made with thin noodle-like pastry, or alternatively fine semolina dough, soaked in sweet, sugar-based syrup, and typically layered with cheese. It's a popular sweet treat in Petra.

Arabic Coffee

Arabic Coffee

A traditional drink in Petra, made by boiling finely ground coffee beans in a pot. It's usually served in small cups and often accompanied by dates.

Mint Tea

A refreshing drink made from green tea and fresh mint leaves. It's a popular beverage in Petra and often served to guests as a sign of hospitality.

Arak

A traditional Middle Eastern spirit made from grapes and flavored with anise. It's a popular drink in Petra and often enjoyed with mezze.

Best time to visit

The best time to visit Petra, Jordan is during the spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) months. During these periods, the weather is pleasantly warm with temperatures ranging from 18°C to 25°C, making it ideal for exploring the archaeological sites. The summer months (June to August) can be extremely hot, and the winter (December to February) can sometimes be quite cold, especially at night. Therefore, spring and autumn are the most comfortable and popular times to visit.

National holidays

Here you can find the national calendar of all public holidays for the year. These dates are subject to change as official changes are announced, so check back regularly for updates.

DateDayHoliday Name

January 1

Mon

New Year's Day

April 10

Wed

Eid al-Fitr

April 11

Thu

Eid al-Fitr holiday

April 12

Fri

Eid al-Fitr holiday

April 13

Sat

Eid al-Fitr holiday

May 1

Wed

Labour Day

May 25

Sat

Independence Day

June 15

Sat

Arafah

June 16

Sun

Eid al-Adha

June 17

Mon

Eid al-Adha holiday

June 18

Tue

Eid al-Adha holiday

June 19

Wed

Eid al-Adha holiday

July 7

Sun

Muharram/New Year

September 15

Sun

Prophet's Birthday

December 25

Wed

Christmas Day

Please note that during national and public holidays, opening hours for establishments, museums, etc. may vary. Don't forget to check in advance!

How to get around

International travelers usually fly into Queen Alia International Airport in Amman, Jordan's capital. From there, it's about a 3-hour drive to Petra.

Renting a car from Amman or Aqaba airports is a convenient option for those who prefer to drive themselves. The roads in Jordan are generally in good condition and well signposted.

Taxis are readily available from the airport and major cities. It's advisable to agree on a fare before starting your journey. Some taxis offer a day trip to Petra, waiting for you while you explore the site.

JETT buses operate a daily service from Amman to Petra. The journey takes around 4 hours. There's also a local bus service from Aqaba to Petra.

Ridesharing services like Uber and Careem operate in Jordan, including routes to Petra. However, they may not be as readily available in more remote areas.

Once in Petra, you can choose to explore the site on foot, or hire a horse or camel. These are available at the entrance and can take you to the start of the Siq, or further into the site.

Horse-drawn carriages are also available for hire at the entrance of Petra. They can take you through the Siq and up to the Treasury.

Walking is the most common way to explore Petra. The site is vast, so be prepared for a lot of walking. Comfortable shoes are a must.

Guided tours are available and can be a great way to learn more about the history and significance of the site. Tours can be arranged in advance or hired at the visitor center.

While we strive for accuracy in our "How to get around" section, the information may not always be up-to-date or 100% accurate; we highly recommend cross-checking with local resources before your travel.

Important information

Currencyد.ا JOD

Time zoneUTC+2

Driving sideRight

Emergency phoneAmbulance: 191; Fire: 193; Police: 192

Drinking waterYes, but some opt for bottled water

Power sockets

Power socket type CPower socket type DPower socket type F

Voltage230 V

Things to know about Petra, Jordan as a first time visitor

1

Petra, Jordan is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the New Seven Wonders of the World.

2

The official currency in Jordan is the Jordanian Dinar (JOD). Credit cards are accepted in most places, but it's a good idea to carry some cash for smaller vendors.

3

The official language is Arabic, but English is widely spoken in tourist areas.

4

Petra is located in a desert region, so it can get very hot during the day. Temperatures can reach up to 100°F (38°C) in the summer.

5

Despite the heat during the day, it can get quite cold at night, especially in the winter. Temperatures can drop to 32°F (0°C), so pack accordingly.

6

It's recommended to wear comfortable shoes as you will be doing a lot of walking and hiking.

7

Dress modestly to respect the local culture. Women should avoid wearing short skirts or revealing tops.

8

Stay hydrated. It's important to drink plenty of water, especially during the hot summer months.

9

The site of Petra is vast, so it's recommended to plan at least two days to fully explore it.

10

The entrance fee to Petra is quite high, especially for single-day visitors. Consider purchasing a Jordan Pass before your trip, which includes the entrance fee and visa fee.

11

Petra opens from 6 am to 6 pm in the summer and 6 am to 4 pm in the winter. Try to arrive early to avoid the crowds.

12

There are no restaurants or cafes inside Petra, so consider packing a lunch.

13

Be aware of the high altitude. Petra is over 800 meters above sea level, which can cause altitude sickness in some people.

14

Beware of scams. Some locals may offer guided tours or souvenirs at inflated prices.

15

Respect the site. Do not climb on the monuments or take any stones as souvenirs.

16

There are no ATMs inside Petra, so make sure to withdraw enough cash before you enter.

17

Public restrooms are available at the visitor center and a few other locations within Petra.

18

If you're planning to stay overnight, there are several hotels in the nearby town of Wadi Musa.

19

Petra is a popular destination, so it's recommended to book your accommodation and tours in advance.

20

Lastly, don't forget to bring your camera. Petra is known for its stunning architecture and breathtaking views.

Basic Arabic to know as a first time visitor

English phrase

Native phrase

Pronunciation

When to use it

Hello

مرحبا

Marhaba

Greeting someone

Goodbye

وداعا

Wadaeaan

Leaving or saying goodbye to someone

Please

من فضلك

Min fadlak

Asking for something

Thank you

شكرا

Shukran

Showing appreciation

Yes

نعم

Naam

Agreeing or confirming

No

لا

La

Disagreeing or denying

Excuse me

عفوا

Afuwan

Getting attention or apologizing

I'm sorry

أنا آسف

Ana asef

Apologizing

Do you speak English?

هل تتكلم الإنجليزية؟

Hal tatakallam al'injliziya?

Trying to find someone who speaks English

I don't understand

أنا لا أفهم

Ana la afham

When you don't understand what was said

Where is the bathroom?

أين الحمام؟

Ayna alhammam?

When you need to find a restroom

How much does this cost?

بكم هذا؟

Bikam hadha?

When you want to know the price of something

I need a doctor

أحتاج إلى طبيب

Ahtaj ila tabib

In case of a medical emergency

Can you help me?

هل يمكنك مساعدتي؟

Hal yumkinuk musaeadati?

When you need assistance

Water

ماء

Maa

When you want to order water

Food

طعام

Taam

When you want to order food

Taxi

تاكسي

Taksi

When you need a taxi

Hotel

فندق

Fanduq

When you need to find a hotel

Airport

مطار

Matar

When you need to find the airport

Help

مساعدة

Musaeadah

When you need help

Packing List

  • Clothing

  • Lightweight clothing

  • Comfortable walking shoes

  • Hat for sun protection

  • Sunglasses

  • Light jacket or sweater for cooler temperatures

  • Toiletries

  • Sunscreen

  • Lip balm with SPF

  • Hand sanitizer

  • Travel-size toiletries (shampoo, conditioner, body wash)

  • Personal medication

  • Travel documents and essentials

  • Passport

  • Visa if required

  • Travel insurance documents

  • Hotel reservation confirmation

  • Local currency (Jordanian Dinar)

  • Electronics and gadgets

  • Smartphone

  • Portable charger

  • Camera

  • Headphones

  • Travel adapter for Jordan

  • Miscellaneous items

  • Reusable water bottle

  • Snacks

  • Guidebook or map of Petra

  • First aid kit

  • Backpack or daypack

Weather Conditions

When planning a trip to Petra, Jordan, it's important to consider the weather conditions to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable visit. Petra experiences a desert climate, with hot, dry summers and mild, wet winters. During the summer months (June to August), temperatures can reach up to 100°F (38°C), so it's advisable to wear light, breathable clothing, a hat, and plenty of sunscreens. It's also crucial to stay hydrated, so always carry a water bottle with you. The heat can be intense, especially in the middle of the day, so consider starting your exploration early in the morning or later in the afternoon when the sun is less harsh. In contrast, winter (December to February) in Petra can be quite cold, with temperatures dropping to around 32°F (0°C) at night. Daytime temperatures are usually around 60°F (15°C), so it's advisable to pack layers, including a warm jacket for the evenings. Rain is also more common during these months, so waterproof clothing and footwear would be beneficial. Spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) are considered the best times to visit Petra. The weather during these seasons is generally mild and pleasant, with temperatures ranging from 60°F (15°C) to 80°F (27°C). However, sudden sandstorms can occur, so it's always a good idea to check the local weather forecast regularly during your visit. Remember, the weather can change quickly in desert environments like Petra, so it's always a good idea to be prepared for a variety of conditions. Enjoy your visit to this incredible archaeological site!

MonthHi / Lo (°C)Weather Overview

January

15° / 4°

January is the coldest month in Petra, with temperatures ranging from 4°C to 15°C. It's a quiet time to visit, but pack warm clothing.

February

17° / 5°

February sees a slight increase in temperature, ranging from 5°C to 17°C. The weather is still cool, so warm clothing is recommended.

March

20° / 8°

In March, the weather starts to warm up with temperatures between 8°C and 20°C. It's a good time to visit as the tourist crowds are still minimal.

April

25° / 12°

April offers a comfortable climate for sightseeing, with temperatures ranging from 12°C to 25°C. The weather is pleasant, making it a popular time for tourists.

May

30° / 16°

May is the start of the hot season, with temperatures between 16°C and 30°C. Early morning and late evening visits are recommended to avoid the heat.

June

33° / 20°

June is quite hot in Petra, with temperatures ranging from 20°C to 33°C. It's advisable to stay hydrated and avoid long exposure to the sun.

July

35° / 22°

July is the hottest month in Petra, with temperatures between 22°C and 35°C. Tourists should plan their visit early in the morning or late in the evening.

August

35° / 22°

August continues the heat wave with temperatures from 22°C to 35°C. It's important to wear sun protection and stay hydrated.

September

32° / 19°

September sees a slight decrease in temperature, ranging from 19°C to 32°C. The weather is still hot, so precautions against the sun are necessary.

October

28° / 15°

October offers a relief from the summer heat, with temperatures between 15°C and 28°C. It's one of the best times to visit Petra.

November

22° / 10°

November is a pleasant month to visit Petra, with temperatures ranging from 10°C to 22°C. The weather is cool and comfortable for sightseeing.

December

17° / 6°

December is a cool month in Petra, with temperatures between 6°C and 17°C. It's a quiet time to visit, but warm clothing is necessary.

Did you know?

Did you know that Petra, Jordan was named as one of the New 7 Wonders of the World in 2007?

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