Petra in Jordan photo by Spencer Davis via Unsplash
in ,

A Guide to Petra: One of New Seven Wonders of the World

Visiting Petra in Jordan: Everything you need to know

The Ultimate first-timer’s travel guide to Petra, Jordan

Petra is an ancient and archaeological city in Jordan’s mountainous deserts. Having been out of the radar of Western civilization since the 14th century, the city resurfaced in the early 19th century.

Petra in Jordan
Petra in Jordan

About Petra

It is believed that Petra was first inhabited as early as 9,000 BC and is considered to have been constructed in the 4th century BC to serve as the capital of the Nabataean Kingdom. The area was suitable due to its proximity to the key trading routes.

The earliest record referencing the city of Petra was the 312 BC attack on the city by the Antigonus I, recorded by Greek historians.

Horse carriage near canyon in Petra photo by Spencer Davis via Unsplash
Horse carriage near the canyon in Petra photo by Spencer Davis via Unsplash

The Nabataeans (Arab nomads) were competent merchants with skills in agriculture, rainwater harvesting, and stone caving – probably explaining the city’s architectural acumen.

One of the most magnificent masterpieces of the Nabataeans is the celebrated Khazneh structure, which is thought to be Nabataean King Aretas IV’s mausoleum. The construction of Khazneh led to the significant growth of Petra during the 1st century AD, with the population peaking at 20,000 people.

Petra and the Nabataean Kingdom operated as a Roman Empire client state since the first century BC, eventually losing its independence to the Romans in 106 AD.

Under the Roman regime, Petra was annexed and changed its name from Nabataea to Petraea. The city’s influence as a sea trade route started to diminish due to the emergence of other trade routes. Also contributing to the city’s decline was the 363 earthquakes, which destroyed several city structures.

Traveling to Petra Jordan
Traveling to Petra Jordan

During the Byzantine Era, many structures were built, including several churches, but it was not enough to return the city’s lost glory.

The city’s rapid decline continued, and by the era of Islam, the majority of Petra was abandoned, with only a few nomads still living in parts of the city. The city got “lost” to the world until 1812, when it was discovered by Swiss explorer Johan Ludwig Burckhardt.

A Long Time Ago, In a Land Far Away…

This place gave rise to the saying, “old as dirt.”  Petra was established around 312 BC as the capital city of the Nabataeans, described in ancient times as a strong tribe of some 10,000 warriors, pre-eminent among the nomads of Arabia, disdaining agriculture, fixed houses, and the use of wine.  In addition to being warriors, the Nabataeans were nomadic shepherds who carried a profitable trade with the seaports in frankincense, myrrh, and spices from today’s Yemen, as well as a trade with Egypt in bitumen from the Dead Sea. Their arid country was their best safeguard, for the bottle-shaped cisterns for rain-water excavated in the rocky or clay-rich soil were carefully concealed from invaders.

Petra, Jordan
Petra, Jordan

A Hidden Mystery

Petra eventually became lost in the sands of time until 1812, when it was re-introduced to the Western world by Swiss explorer Johann Ludwig Burckhardt. At its peak, Petra’s population was about 30,000, an astonishing number made possible in this arid climate by clever engineering.  The ancient inhabitants of Petra carved channels through the solid rock, gathering winter rains into hundreds of vast cisterns for use in the dry summers, many of which are still in use today by the Bedouin people.  Not much is known about Nabataean culture today, except what can be gleaned from ancient examples of what would today be called graffiti—names and dates carved into the swooping rose-colored cliffs into which Petra’s majestic buildings are hewn.

New Seven Wonders of the World

In 1985, a small group of the Petra Bedouins was forcefully relocated from their dwellings in the cave by the Jordan Government to Umm Sayhoun before the UNESCO designation process.

Petra was designated on 6 December 1985 as a World Heritage Site, and in a popular poll conducted in 2007, Petra was named among the New Seven Wonders of the World.

Facade of Al Khazneh, Petra, Jordan
Facade of Al Khazneh, Petra, Jordan

How to get to Petra

Visitors flock to Jordan to see the fascinating ancient city of Petra, resulting in many tourist facilities being developed in the vicinity, including hotels, restaurants, horse rentals, and souvenir shops.

A visit to Petra can be conveniently fitted into your Jordan itinerary because, as a country, Jordan is tiny and dissected with smooth highways with English signage.

Petra Jordan Travel Guide photo by Spencer Davis via Unsplash
Petra Jordan Travel Guide photo by Spencer Davis via Unsplash

The best starting point is Amman, the capital city of Jordan; after flying into the city, Petra is located south of the country. If you have unlimited time, there are plenty of attractions on your way to Petra, such as the Madaba town, which is filled with ancient objects such as the mosaic map of the promised Holy Land. You will also come across historical Mount Nebo, Kerak Castle, and the baptismal place at Bethany.

But if you don’t have enough time, you can just go to Petra directly from Jordan’s major cities. If you flew into the Queen Alia International Airport in Amman, reaching Petra is about 3 3-hour drive. If you use public transportation – the cheapest option- visit the 7th Circle JETT bus terminal to catch the bust directly to Petra, charging a round trip of $28. Because currently, only one bus runs the route to Petra, you must be punctual and arrive at the bus terminal before 6:30 AM. If you arrive in Jordan via Aqaba airport, the trip to Petra will only take slightly over an hour by bus for $28 round trip.

To access this magnificent historical city, you will purchase tickets at the visitor center at the entrance to Petra. A one-day ticket costs USD 70, while a two-day ticket costs $77.

Wadi Musa (Valley of Moses) is the gateway to Petra, sitting at the entrance to the historic city. You can walk into Petra or ride a horse (rent a horse at Wadi Musa).

Top Attractions in Petra

The list of attractions in Petra below will help you organize your itinerary and prioritize what to see and do.

Petra Treasury, Petra, Jordan photo by Andrea Leopardi via Unsplash
Petra Treasury, Petra, Jordan photo by Andrea Leopardi via Unsplash
  • Treasury – Also known as the Al-Khazneh, this towering and well-preserved monument depicts how skillful the Nabateans were in rock curving.
  • Siq – A channel between two soaring rock walls is also the main route to Petra.
  • Theater – Located near the Street of Facades, this Hellenic-styled theater has a capacity of 8,500 people and was built in the first century AD.
  • Colonnaded Street – Petra’s major drag.
  • Qasr al-Bint – Few of the only free-standing structures in Petra.
  • Royal Tombs – Collection of large decorative tombs.
  • Street of Facades – A row of over 40 tombs and other buildings lining up the cliff walls of Outer Siq.

Petra Travel Tips

Visitors are drawn to Petra to glimpse the Al-Khazneh, ingeniously caved into vibrant white, pink, red, and limestone cliff faces. Here are a few Petra tips.

  • Go early – Ensure you arrive at the entrance by 7 A.m. to beat the crowd and the soft morning light, reflecting the natural colors of the striking stone monuments. This magic can also be enjoyed during sunset. Another reason to get to Petra early is to avoid the heat, especially in the summer when the desert heats up during the afternoon.
  • Dress respectfully – Jordan’s population is Muslim, so avoid dressing inappropriately, wearing tight clothing, and covering your legs. Include sunglasses, a wide-brimmed hat, and comfortable, good-grip shoes in your packing.
  • Carry enough cash – You will need cash for virtually anything, starting with your ticket, tipping tour guides and animal handlers, and anything else you buy in Petra.
Petra in Jordan photo by Spencer Davis via Unsplash
Petra in Jordan photo by Spencer Davis via Unsplash

Although Petra has endured virtually everything during its time, its current threats come from unexpected sources: the tourists. The humidity from the massive crowd of tourists visiting can cause destruction to the dry limestone. The Treasury is believed to have receded by about 40mm in less than 10 years due to leaning, touching, or rubbing on the walls.

Souvenirs from Petra

Check out our complete list of recommended Hotels in Amman, Jordan, via Agoda, or you may also see available Airbnb properties in the city.

Petra, Jordan Travel and Tour Packages

Want more updates about new package tours and tourist attractions in Petra, Jordan, that you can add to your itinerary?

Frequently Asked Questions

How many days is enough for Petra Jordan?

In my opinion, spending two days in Petra is the perfect way to explore this breathtaking ancient city and world wonder. Start your journey through the Siq, the winding sandstone gorge, on day one and then take the back entrance on day two for a completely different experience. With two days to explore, you’ll have plenty of time to take in the beauty of Petra in all its glory.

Do I need a tour guide to visit Petra?

Exploring Petra without a guide is like taking a journey back in time without a map! With a historian to show you around, you can uncover the captivating history of this Unesco World Heritage site. From ancient monuments to mysterious tombs, you won’t want to miss a single detail of this incredible place. So, make sure to get a guide to make the most of your Petra experience!

How much does it cost to hire a guide in Petra?

If you’re looking to explore Petra in greater detail, why not consider booking a local tour guide? These knowledgeable guides can be requested and arranged at the Petra Visitor Center and will take you on a 2-3 hour journey of discovery. It’ll cost you 50 JD (around 70$), but it’s a small price to pay for an unforgettable experience.

What is the easiest way to visit Petra?

Joining a guided tour to Petra is the most convenient way to experience the ancient city’s wonders. With someone else taking care of the planning, you can relax and simply enjoy the day. Though more costly than other options, it’s worth it for the ease and comfort it provides.

Is it OK to wear shorts in Petra?

Yes but not short shorts! Set aside your everyday shoes and slip into something more suitable for hiking Petra! Even if you take the main, easiest trail, you’ll still need to be prepared for a bit of a trek. So, make sure you wear something that is comfortable and built for the outdoors.

Want more updates about other Places to Visit in Petra, Jordan? Like, Follow, and Subscribe to OutofTownBlog.com on FacebookTwitterInstagram, and Pinterest, and Team out Of Town on YouTube for more Jordan Travel Spots.
Also see:

Written by Team Out of Town

What do you think?

Comments

San Roque Parish Church. Image by Wikipedia

From balut, bonete and pasubo—things that make up the quaint religious town of Pateros

Gyeongbokgung Palace Travel Guide

Travel Guide: Gyeongbokgung Palace in Seoul, South Korea