Spot the best hotels near Petra

Petra is an ancient city carved directly into pink sandstone cliffs, offering a glimpse into a world from thousands of years ago. Walking through the narrow canyon known as the Siq, which runs for 1 mile, feels like a true desert adventure. As a UNESCO World Heritage Site, it showcases incredible craftsmanship where massive tombs and temples emerge straight from the rock face. You will love wandering through the dust and history of this massive archaeological park to discover its hidden secrets.

Petra offers a unique experience, tucked away in a desert canyon. It is worth preparing for a fair amount of walking, as the site spans a vast area with many hidden corners to explore.

Planning your visit to the rose city

The main trail from the entrance to the far end is roughly 2 miles one way, though you can easily walk over 6 miles if you explore the side paths. You should check the official landmark site for up-to-date information regarding opening hours, seasonal schedules, and ticket availability. An entry fee applies for all visitors, and you will need to show your passport at the Visitor Centre to purchase your pass.

While many areas are sandy or rocky, the main path through the canyon is relatively flat. Licensed guides are available for 2-hour or 4-hour tours starting from the main gate. For those with limited mobility, electric club cars operate between the entrance and the Treasury, covering a distance of about 1 mile. It is best to arrive early in the morning when temperatures are cooler, especially during the summer months.

Exploring the desert architecture

Your journey begins through the Siq, a narrow gorge stretching for 1 mile with walls reaching up to 80 m high. At the end of this passage, the facade of Al-Khazneh, also known as the Treasury, appears through the narrow opening. This structure stands nearly 40 m tall and features intricate carvings that have survived for centuries.

Further into the site, you will find the High Place of Sacrifice, which requires a climb of about 800 steps. Another major highlight is the Monastery, or Ad Deir, reached by a path involving another 800 steps and offering views across the valley. The Royal Tombs are also visible from the main path, showcasing massive facades cut into the rock face that change colour as the sun moves.

A legacy carved in stone

This site was the capital of the Nabataean Kingdom, established as a major trading hub for incense and spices. It is recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage Site and was later influenced by Roman rule, which added features like the Colonnaded Street and a large Theatre carved into the hillside.

The city was hidden from the Western world for centuries until a Swiss explorer rediscovered it in the 1800s. Its unique water management system, consisting of terracotta pipes and dams, allowed a large population to thrive in the middle of the arid desert. You can still see parts of these ancient channels along the walls of the Siq as you walk through.

Finding your way around Petra is easy, and you will find plenty of options to stay around the site. Reaching this historic location is straightforward whether you are arriving from the capital or the coast.

Best areas to base yourself

Most travellers choose to stay in Wadi Musa, the town located right at the doorstep of the archaeological park. You can find everything from hotels featuring a heated pool and 24-hour reception to cosy, budget-friendly guesthouses. For a more local feel, look for boutique stays on the hillside that offer views over the valley. If you are travelling with family, staying near the entrance is ideal as it keeps you within a 500 m stroll of the main gate. Staying further up the hill in the town centre gives you better access to local eateries, often just a 15-min walking distance from the main hub.

Getting to the site

You can catch a daily bus from Amman which takes about 3 hours to cover the 143 miles journey to the desert. If you are coming from the south, the trip from Aqaba is roughly 78 miles and usually takes around 2 hours by car or public transport. Taxis are also a popular choice from Queen Alia International Airport for a direct and comfortable trip to your accommodation.

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