How to Explore Petra: Tips for Visiting Jordan’s Lost City

Jafar ahmad Abdul
1 day ago
5 min read

One of the most well-known archaeological marvels of the world is Petra, the ancient Nabataean city, carved out of rose-red sandstone cliffs. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is hidden in the canyons of the desert of southern Jordan, and it is a place that will attract the attention of history lovers, adrenaline junkies, and culture enthusiasts. Known also as the Lost City, Petra provides a magical experience into the history of a lost civilization, with the huge facades, tombs, temples and paths that exemplify the magnificence of a lost world.

Petra is a must-see destination to those who are visiting Jordan on their tour. If you are making a trip to Jordan, as a visitor or as a planner based in the Gulf, including Oman, then you need to ensure that you have the right Jordan Visa, the best time to visit and the logistics of the site to ensure that you get the best out of your visit. This guide provides insights, historical background, and insider tips that will make you understand how Petra can be explored like a local.

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1. Petra: Preliminary Knowledge of its History

Once a very active trading center and capital of the Nabataean Kingdom in the 4th century BC, Petra was a very prosperous place. The Western world did not know about it until 1812 when it was rediscovered by Swiss explorer Johann Ludwig Burckhardt. Nowadays Petra is included in the New Seven Wonders of the World, and it is regarded as the jewel of the Jordan Holiday Package. Al-Khazneh (The Treasury) is the most popular attraction of the city and it appears in many photographs and movies such as Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade. However, beyond the Treasury is an extensive system of tombs, temples, a Roman-style amphitheater and an ancient monastery that will take several hours, or even days to explore.

2. The Jordan Visa

It is important that you have the right Jordan travel visa before you start your trip. Most countries have travelers who can get a visa on arrival or online. Nevertheless, this procedure can be different based on your nationality.

Dubai Visa to Oman Citizens

The holders of Omani passports have a relatively easy access to Jordan. Oman Citizens can obtain Jordan Visa on arrival at most entry points in the country including Queen Alia International Airport in Amman. Nevertheless, it is always prudent to visit government websites or consult a trusted travel agent like Go Kite Travel to find out the latest entry requirements and documents. As a foreigner, it is easy to apply online using the Jordan eVisa portal and the process takes a short time once the application is successful.

3. When is the Best Time to Visit Petra

The best time to visit Petra is in spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November). These seasons have good weather, and the daytime temperatures are comfortable to have long walks and hikes. June to August is quite hot and one may not be able to explore the site very well in the afternoon. Winter (December to February) is cooler and though Petra is open all year round, sometimes there can be rain and cold winds which can spoil your visit.

4. The way to Petra

Petra in Wadi Musa is about 230 km away to Amman. A majority of tourists start their Jordan Tour in the capital and a taxi, a tourist bus or a private car travels to Petra. The journey is approximately 3-4 hours and it goes through beautiful desert scenery. Instead, domestic flights to King Hussein International Airport in Aqaba can be taken, which is a faster way to go, and only a 2-hour ride to Petra will be necessary. When you make your booking with Jordan Holiday Packages, the transfers and guided tours of Petra are usually included, which makes the logistics of traveling much easier and comfortable.

5. What to See in Petra

The Siq: This is a narrow and winding gorge which is the dramatic entrance to Petra. A visit to the Treasury is a treat because of the excitement created when one is walking through the Siq and the Treasury is gradually revealed.
The Treasury (Al-Khazneh): This is the most photographed monument in Petra and was cut out of the face of a single rock and is almost 40 meters high.
Street of Facades: A row of grandiose tombs and old houses hewn in the rocks.
The Royal Tombs: A group of huge tombs that are presumed to have been the residence of Nabataean kings, and nobles.
The Monastery (Ad-Deir): A monumental building, which is similar in style to the Treasury but even bigger. There is a steep climb of about 800 steps to the Monastery that is worth the effort.
The High Place of Sacrifice: An old altar, which provides one of the most magnificent panorama views of Petra.

6. Advice on Visiting Petra

Come Early: Get there at the first gates open (usually at 6 AM) to avoid the rush and the heat of the day.
Wear Comfortable Footwear: Petra is a lot of walking and climbing so you need good shoes.
Drink lots of water: Take lots of water, more so when you visit during the warmer months.
Get a Guide: Local guides share interesting anecdotes and history that will enhance the experience.

7. Hotels in Petra

Wadi Musa has budget hostels to luxury hotels. Most Jordan Tour packages have an overnight stay close to Petra, so you could take it easy and explore the place. Movienpick resort Petra, Petra Moon Hotel, and Petra Guest House are some of the popular ones.

8. Petra and Other Jordan Destinations

Petra is a major attraction but there is a lot more to Jordan. Some of the most common places you can add to your Jordan Holiday Packages include:

Wadi Rum: The red sand dune and rocks desert that looks like Mars.
Dead Sea: Float in the salty water and get a spa treatment.
Amman: Visit Roman ruins, local souks, and street food.
Jerash: The Greco-Roman city is one of the best preserved in the world.

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Conclusion

Petra is not only a sightseeing destination, it is an experience of one of the most beautiful ancient cities in the world. A bit of planning, the correct Jordan travel visa, and some expert advice and you can open the door to the magic of Petra and explore all the cultural and natural treasures of Jordan. This city that was once lost will give you memories that will last a lifetime whether you are booking individual travel or even going with the tailored Jordan Holiday Packages.

The Jordan Visa process is easy and friendly, as is Oman Visa to all citizens and visitors of the world over- just one more factor that makes this the best time to visit Petra. Book your Jordan Tour now and be a part of the beauty that is Petra.