Hey there, Petra should absolutely be on your bucket list if you’re thinking about visiting Jordan. It’s an amazing location with stunning scenery and historic ruins. We’ll look at some of the best activities in Petra in this guide, such trekking the Petra Monastery Trail and riding a camel through the tight gorges. We’ll also visit the Treasury and the Monastery, two must-see locations in Petra that both have elaborate carvings and sculptures. We’ll also share a unique advice that not many people are aware of: visiting Petra at night. So get ready to discover Petra and make priceless memories!
Outdoor activities
Petra offers a wealth of outdoor adventures for visitors to explore. From hiking to camel riding, there are plenty of ways to experience the rugged terrain and ancient wonders of this historic site. In this section, we'll explore two of the most popular outdoor activities in Petra.
Hiking
Petra’s rugged terrain is a hiker’s dream! With miles of trails to explore, you’ll find yourself immersed in stunning landscapes and ancient history. The Petra Monastery Trail is one of the most popular hikes, and it’s not hard to see why. The steep climb is totally worth it once you reach the Monastery, one of Petra’s most breathtaking sights. It’ll take you around 1.5 hours to complete the trail, but you’ll be rewarded with incredible views along the way. From ancient tombs to stunning vistas, there are plenty of opportunities to capture the perfect photo. Another amazing hike is the Al Khubtha Trail, which leads you to the High Place of Sacrifice, another must-see in Petra.
Camel Riding
Consider taking a camel ride through Petra if you want to experience the ancient city in a more leisurely manner. Petra offers camel rides, which are a fascinating opportunity to experience the ruins from a different angle. You’ll get a sense of time travel as you ride through the constricting canyons and past the soaring cliffs.
Must See Places
The renowned Treasury and Monastery must be seen on every trip to Petra. The Monastery provides breathtaking views of the surroundings while the Treasury is Petra's most well-known landmark. You must see each of these sites to fully appreciate Petra's historic beauty.
The Treasury
The Treasury in Petra is a must-see sight and is frequently the first place visitors stop. The Nabateans over 2,000 years ago built this intricately carved structure, displaying their amazing architectural prowess. The elaborate facade of the Treasury, which is literally carved into the rock face, is covered with magnificent carvings and sculptures that represent many ancient deities. It is a breath-taking illustration of the area’s fascinating past and a genuine feat of prehistoric engineering.
The Monastery
At Petra, the Monastery is unquestionably worthwhile to see! To get there, you’ll have to ascend a challenging trek, but it’s totally worthwhile. It is one of Petra’s largest buildings and dates back over 2,300 years. It is carved directly into the rock, just as the Treasury, and has elaborate carvings and sculptures. You’ll be rewarded with breathtaking views of the surroundings once you’ve reached the summit.
Unusual Tip
For those seeking adventure, consider is exploring Petra by night, where you'll experience the site illuminated by thousands of candles and the stars above.
Visit Petra by Night
While most visitors to Petra explore the ruins during the day, there’s also an opportunity to experience the ancient city at night. The Petra by Night tour is a unique experience that allows visitors to see the ruins in a different light. During the tour, the entire city is lit up by thousands of candles, creating a magical and mystical atmosphere. The tour begins at the entrance to Petra, and visitors are led through the Siq, the narrow canyon that leads to the Treasury. Along the way, visitors can enjoy traditional Bedouin music and storytelling, before arriving at the Treasury, which is bathed in a soft glow of candlelight. It’s a truly unforgettable experience that shouldn’t be missed.
Hidden Wonders
When visiting Petra, there are many unique and fascinating sights to discover beyond the well-known Treasury and Monastery. Two such places are the Djinn Blocks and the Snake Monument, both of which offer a glimpse into the mysterious and intriguing world of Petra's ancient past. Whether you're a history buff, an art lover, or simply seeking out some hidden gems, these two sites from Atlas Obscura should definitely be on your list of places to see.
The Djinn Blocks
The Djinn Blocks, an enigmatic collection of colossal stone blocks, can be found on Petra’s fringes. It’s believed that these blocks were once part of a grand structure that was never finished, leaving their true purpose shrouded in mystery. Some speculate that they were meant to serve as tombs or temples, while others think that ancient builders abandoned them, unable to transport them any further. Regardless of their intended use, the Djinn Blocks offer a fascinating and awe-inspiring sight that’s definitely worth exploring.
The Snake Monument
Nestled in the core of Petra, the Snake Monument captivates visitors with its ancient artistic charm. This intriguing sculpture portrays a massive snake entwined around a column, symbolizing both protection and fertility. Situated near the entrance of the Siq, the monument is thought to have been crafted in the 1st century CE. Its distinctive and captivating historical presence makes it an unmissable attraction.
Accommodation Suggestions
We've got you covered with a range of accommodation options to suit all budgets. From luxury at the Movenpick Resort Petra to backpacker-friendly options like the Valentine Inn, you'll find the perfect place to rest and recharge after a day of exploring Petra.
Luxury:
The Movenpick Resort Petra is a luxurious hotel located just a few minutes’ walk from the entrance to Petra. The hotel features spacious rooms with modern amenities, as well as an outdoor pool, a fitness center, and a spa. Guests can also enjoy a variety of dining options, including a buffet restaurant and a rooftop bar with stunning views of Petra.
Mid-range:
The Petra Guest House Hotel is a comfortable and affordable option located just steps away from the entrance to Petra. The hotel features clean and spacious rooms with modern amenities, as well as a restaurant serving local and international cuisine. Guests can also enjoy a rooftop terrace with stunning views of Petra, as well as free Wi-Fi throughout the hotel.
Budget:
For those on a budget, the Seven Wonders Bedouin Camp is a great option. This rustic and charming camp is located just a short drive from Petra, and features traditional Bedouin-style tents with comfortable beds and shared bathroom facilities. Guests can also enjoy traditional Bedouin meals and nightly entertainment around a campfire.
Backpacker:
The Valentine Inn is a popular choice for backpackers and budget travelers. This simple and affordable hostel is located just a few minutes’ walk from the entrance to Petra, and offers dormitory-style rooms with shared bathroom facilities. The hostel also features a communal kitchen and lounge area, as well as free Wi-Fi throughout the property.
Petra is an incredible destination that offers visitors a unique opportunity to explore one of the world’s most impressive historical sites. Whether you’re interested in hiking, camel riding, or simply soaking up the atmosphere of this ancient city, there’s something for everyone in Petra.Â
