Petra Travel Guide 2026 – The Complete Visitor’s Handbook
Petra is without question one of the world’s most extraordinary archaeological sites. The ancient Nabataean city carved into rose-red cliffs in southern Jordan has captivated explorers, historians, and travelers for centuries. This comprehensive 2026 guide will help you make the most of your Petra visit – from entry tickets to hidden trails and practical tips.
Petra Entry Fees and Tickets 2026
Petra admission fees for 2026:
- 1-day ticket: JOD 50 (~$70 USD)
- 2-day ticket: JOD 55 (~$78 USD)
- 3-day ticket: JOD 60 (~$85 USD)
The Jordan Pass offers the best value – it includes Petra entry (1, 2, or 3 days depending on the pass type) AND the Jordan visa fee waiver. Compare in our Jordan eVisa vs Jordan Pass guide. Ensure you have your Jordan eVisa or Jordan Pass sorted before departure from your home country.
Getting to Petra
From Amman
Petra is approximately 240km (3-hour drive) south of Amman via the Desert Highway or the scenic King’s Highway. Options include:
- Rental car: Most flexible, allows stops along the King’s Highway (Madaba, Mount Nebo, Kerak Castle)
- JETT bus: Air-conditioned express bus from Amman’s 7th Circle station to Wadi Musa. Daily service.
- Shared taxi/minibus: From Amman’s South Bus Station
- Guided tours: Day tours and multi-day tours widely available from Amman and Aqaba
From Aqaba
Aqaba is approximately 120km (2-hour drive) from Petra. Many travelers combine a Red Sea beach stay in Aqaba with a Petra day trip or overnight.
The Siq – Petra’s Dramatic Entrance
The Siq is a 1.2km narrow gorge that serves as the main entrance to Petra. Towering sandstone walls up to 80 meters high line the winding path, creating an increasingly dramatic approach to the Treasury. Walk slowly and look up – carved niches, ancient water channels, and votive sculptures line the walls.
The Top Sites Within Petra
The Treasury (Al-Khazneh)
The iconic 2,000-year-old façade carved directly into the cliff face is Petra’s most photographed monument. Arrive early (before 9am) for fewer crowds and better light. The interior is largely empty – the real spectacle is the exterior.
The Street of Facades and Royal Tombs
Beyond the Treasury, a wide valley opens revealing the Street of Facades – rows of carved tomb monuments. Climbing to the Royal Tombs viewpoint offers sweeping views of Petra’s central valley.
The Colonnaded Street and Great Temple
The heart of ancient Petra features a Roman-era colonnaded street, the Great Temple, the Temple of the Winged Lions, and the Nymphaeum. Significant archaeological excavation continues here.
The Monastery (Ad-Deir)
Petra’s largest monument rivals the Treasury in grandeur but requires 800 rock-cut steps to reach. Allow 1-1.5 hours for the climb. The effort is rewarded with spectacular views and typically fewer crowds. Start the climb before 10am.
Petra at Night – Petra by Night Show
Three times a week (Monday, Wednesday, Thursday), the Siq and Treasury are illuminated by thousands of candles for the Petra by Night show. Admission: JOD 17 (not included in Jordan Pass). Begins at 8:30pm, runs about 1.5 hours. Book in advance through your hotel or the Petra Visitor Center.
Practical Tips for Visiting Petra
- Start early: Gates open at 6am. Arriving early beats the crowds and the worst heat
- Wear comfortable shoes: You will walk 10-20km depending on trails chosen. Do NOT wear flip flops.
- Bring water: At least 2 liters per person. Water is available inside but expensive.
- Hire a local guide: Recommended for context and for finding hidden trails. Costs JOD 30-50 for a half day.
- Donkey and horse rides: Available inside Petra. Horse-drawn carriages run from Siq entrance to Treasury. Negotiate prices.
- Sun protection: Hat, sunscreen, and sunglasses are essential. Very little shade on main trails.
- Respect the site: Do not climb on monuments. No camping inside the site.
Where to Stay Near Petra
Stay in Wadi Musa, the town adjacent to Petra’s main entrance:
- Budget: Rocky Mountain Hotel, Valentine Inn (popular with backpackers)
- Mid-range: Petra Moon Hotel, Petra Guest House (closest to Petra entrance)
- Luxury: Movenpick Resort Petra, Petra Marriott Hotel
Book accommodation well in advance if traveling in spring (March-May) or during Jordanian holidays.
Best Time to Visit Petra
- Spring (March-May): Best weather (20-25°C), wildflowers blooming, comfortable for hiking. Peak tourist season – book early.
- Autumn (September-November): Similar to spring, fewer crowds
- Winter (December-February): Cold, possible rain and rare snow. Beautiful misty atmosphere. Off-season discounts.
- Summer (June-August): Very hot (35°C+). Start at 6am, finish by noon. Dramatically fewer crowds.
How much does it cost to enter Petra?
Petra entry in 2026 costs JOD 50 for a 1-day ticket, JOD 55 for 2 days, and JOD 60 for 3 days. The Jordan Pass includes Petra entry and represents better value for most tourists visiting Jordan.
How many days do you need in Petra?
Minimum 1 full day, but 2 days is strongly recommended. Day 1: Treasury, Royal Tombs, Colonnaded Street, and main valley. Day 2: Monastery hike, Little Petra (free, nearby), and any areas missed on Day 1.
Can I visit Petra as a day trip from Amman?
Technically yes (3-hour drive each way), but a day trip means only 4-5 hours inside Petra. It is much better to stay overnight in Wadi Musa for at least one night. The journey is also worth making more relaxed.
Is Petra safe to visit?
Yes. Petra is very safe for tourists. The site has organized security, marked trails, and a visitor center. Stay on established paths, be cautious on steep trails, and stay hydrated. Avoid unofficial guides who approach you outside the visitor center.
Can I take photos inside Petra?
Yes, photography is welcome throughout Petra. The Treasury, Monastery, and Royal Tombs are all photogenic. For best light at the Treasury, arrive early morning when sunlight illuminates the façade directly (before 10am).
Is Little Petra worth visiting?
Yes. Little Petra (Siq al-Barid) is a smaller carved canyon 8km north of Petra’s main entrance. It is free to enter and much less crowded. It features beautifully painted dining rooms inside carved chambers and takes about 1-2 hours to explore.
