How To Get To Petra: The Ultimate Traveler's Guide

So, you've decided to tackle one of the New Seven Wonders of the World? That's fantastic! Petra, the mesmerizing Rose City hidden deep within the Jordanian desert, is an absolute bucket-list destination. But before you can stand in awe of the Treasury, you first need to figure out the logistics. The big question looming over every traveler's mind is: How To Get To Petra?

Getting to Petra requires a bit of planning, primarily because the site is located in the remote town of Wadi Musa, about 230 kilometers south of Jordan's capital, Amman. Don't worry, though. Whether you prefer the speed of a private driver, the savings of a bus, or the freedom of a rental car, we've broken down all your best transportation options right here.

First Things First: Where Exactly is Petra?

Petra is not located near any major international airport. It sits right next to the small, purpose-built town of Wadi Musa (Valley of Moses). This is where you will book your accommodation, find restaurants, and buy your entry tickets.

The main starting point for almost all travelers heading to Petra is Queen Alia International Airport (AMM) near Amman. If you are arriving from a neighboring country, you might also consider Eilat (Israel) or Aqaba (Jordan), which is closer but offers fewer international flights.

Knowing your starting location—most likely Amman—is crucial as it determines the most efficient way for you to answer the question, How To Get To Petra.

Your Main Options on How To Get To Petra

You essentially have three primary methods to cover the 230 km journey from Amman to Wadi Musa: public transportation (bus), private transfers (taxi/driver), or self-driving (rental car). Each option offers a different balance of cost, convenience, and travel time.

Option 1: Flying and Transferring (The quickest route)

While most travelers take the road, if time is extremely limited, you could consider flying domestically. Royal Jordanian operates flights between Amman (AMM) and King Hussein International Airport (AQJ) in Aqaba. Aqaba is about 130 km from Petra.

However, this option is rarely recommended as the total time spent traveling to/from airports, waiting, and then arranging a taxi from Aqaba often negates the benefit of the short flight. It's usually more expensive and arguably less straightforward than simply driving the whole way.

Option 2: Traveling from Amman by Road (The most common route)

The vast majority of visitors utilize the road connecting Amman and Wadi Musa. You have several choices here, depending on your budget and preference for flexibility.

By JETT Bus: Affordable and Comfortable

The JETT Bus service is your best bet for affordable and reliable public transportation. JETT is a modern, air-conditioned bus company that runs daily services between Amman's Abdali station and Wadi Musa/Petra.

Frequency: Usually one departure in the morning (around 6:30 AM/7:00 AM) and a return trip in the late afternoon.
Cost: Approximately 10–15 JOD (Jordanian Dinars) one way.
Duration: Around 3.5 to 4 hours, depending on traffic.

We strongly recommend booking your JETT bus tickets online in advance, especially during high season, as seats fill up quickly. This is the budget-friendly answer to How To Get To Petra.

Hiring a Private Taxi or Driver

For those traveling in a group or prioritizing comfort and speed, hiring a private taxi or pre-booked driver is an excellent choice. This provides door-to-door service and the flexibility to leave whenever you wish.

Expect to pay anywhere between 75 JOD and 100 JOD for a one-way trip, depending on your negotiation skills and where you book. You can often arrange this through your hotel in Amman or through reputable local tour companies. A private driver can usually complete the journey in about 3 hours.

Renting a Car in Jordan (Road Tripping!)

Renting a car is ideal if you plan on exploring more of Jordan, such as the Dead Sea, Aqaba, or Wadi Rum. Driving in Jordan is generally straightforward, and the main highway (Desert Highway) is well-maintained.

The drive takes about 3 hours, and navigation is simple: follow the signs south toward Ma'an/Aqaba. Wadi Musa has plenty of parking available, often provided by your hotel or a public lot near the visitor center.

Before you hit the road, keep these driving tips in mind:

**Insurance is Key:** Ensure you have comprehensive coverage.
**Stick to the Speed Limit:** Traffic police are present, especially near cities.
**Fuel Up:** Gas stations become less frequent as you head south from Amman.

Option 3: Day Trip Packages (For convenience seekers)

If you have limited time in Jordan and only need to see Petra, numerous tour operators in Amman, Aqaba, and even Israel offer guided day trips. These packages usually include round-trip transportation, entry fees, and sometimes a guide.

While very convenient, these trips are intense. It's a seven to eight-hour round trip just for the drive, leaving you with only a few hours to explore Petra itself. For a full experience, staying overnight in Wadi Musa is highly recommended.

Practical Tips Before You Go

Regardless of which method you choose for How To Get To Petra, a few essential tips will make your entire trip smoother and cheaper.

**The Jordan Pass:** This is non-negotiable for most tourists. The Jordan Pass waives your tourist visa fee (if staying 3+ nights) and includes entry to over 40 attractions, including Petra. It saves significant money.
**Timing Your Arrival:** Petra is best explored early in the morning when the sun hits the Treasury just right, and before the mass of day-trippers arrives. Aim to arrive in Wadi Musa the evening before your scheduled visit.
**Stay Close:** The Petra Visitor Center is located at the lower end of Wadi Musa. Book a hotel within walking distance if possible, as taxis within the small town can be pricey.
**Consider the King's Highway:** While the Desert Highway is faster, the King's Highway is the scenic route. It's slower (closer to 5-6 hours driving) but offers stunning views and historical stops like Madaba and Karak Castle.

Conclusion

Figuring out How To Get To Petra is perhaps the most daunting part of planning your trip, but as you can see, Jordan offers several reliable and well-worn paths to the ancient city. Whether you opt for the efficiency of the JETT bus, the personalized service of a private driver, or the freedom of a rental car, you are guaranteed a rewarding journey.

Remember that the adventure begins long before you pass through the Siq. Choose the transport option that best suits your budget and travel style, and prepare to be amazed by the incredible Nabataean architecture awaiting you in Wadi Musa. Happy travels!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) about Getting to Petra

What is the cheapest way to get to Petra from Amman?: The JETT Bus is the most affordable method. It typically costs around 10–15 JOD one-way and is comfortable and reliable. Be sure to book your ticket ahead of time.
Is it safe to drive a rental car to Petra?: Yes, driving a rental car is very safe. Jordanian roads, especially the Desert Highway (Route 15), are modern and well-signposted in English. Just be aware of potential speed traps and rougher terrain off the main highways.
How long does the journey from Amman to Petra take?: By car or private taxi, the journey takes approximately 3 to 3.5 hours via the Desert Highway. By JETT Bus, expect a travel time closer to 4 hours.
Can I visit Petra on a day trip from Amman?: While it is physically possible via a dedicated tour package or private driver, it is highly discouraged. A day trip means you will spend 6–8 hours driving and only have a limited amount of time (4–5 hours) to explore Petra, which requires an entire day or more to fully appreciate.
Do I need to buy tickets for Petra in advance?: It is highly recommended that you purchase the Jordan Pass prior to arriving in Jordan, as this covers your entry fee to Petra. If you do not have the pass, tickets can be bought at the Visitor Center in Wadi Musa on the day of your visit.

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