PETRA & WADI MUSA
Petra and its gateway town, Wadi Musa, form the ancient heart of Jordan, a land steeped in Nabataean history and desert majesty. It is a fusion of breathtaking natural beauty and staggering architectural achievement, carved directly into rose-red cliffs.
This unique destination is one of the New Seven Wonders of the World. It offers an immersive journey through millennia of history, from the awe-inspiring Siq canyon to the iconic Treasury, set against the dramatic landscape of the Jordanian desert.
Most Popular Attractions
The Siq & Main Trail (The Rose-Red City Core)
The Siq: The main entrance to Petra, a magical, narrow gorge (about $1.2 \text{ km}$ long) whose towering walls lead dramatically to the Treasury.
The Treasury (Al-Khazneh): Petra’s most iconic and magnificent facade, believed to be the mausoleum of a Nabataean king.
The Obelisk Tomb & Bab as-Siq Triclinium: An impressive first monument encountered, showcasing Nabataean funerary architecture.
The Outer Siq (Street of Façades): A stretch of gorge featuring over 40 tombs carved into the southern cliff face, with elaborate fronts.
The Theatre: A massive Nabataean structure carved into the side of the mountain, capable of holding up to 8,500 spectators.
The Royal Tombs: A cluster of massive, richly decorated tombs, including the Urn Tomb, Silk Tomb, Corinthian Tomb, and Palace Tomb.
The Colonnaded Street: The main commercial thoroughfare of ancient Petra, with the ruins of shops and public buildings.
The Great Temple: One of the largest buildings in Petra, a monumental complex believed to have been a place of worship or a royal audience hall.
Qasr al-Bint: One of the few free-standing structures in Petra, likely a main temple dedicated to a deity.
The Church (Petra Church): Located near the Great Temple, featuring beautiful Byzantine-era mosaics.
Monasteries & High Trails (Hiking Attractions)
The Monastery (Ad Deir): Petra’s second most famous monument, reached by climbing over 800 steps, offering spectacular views.
High Place of Sacrifice: A challenging hike to a mountaintop altar used for religious ceremonies, offering incredible views over the site.
The Lion Triclinium: A smaller, lesser-known tomb located on the trail to the High Place of Sacrifice, guarded by two carved lions.
Little Petra (Siq al-Barid): A smaller Nabataean site nearby, serving as a suburb and stopover for camel caravans.
Al-Khubtha Trail (Treasury Viewpoint): A challenging path leading to a viewpoint directly above and across from the Treasury.
Museums & Modern Sites (Wadi Musa & Area)
Petra Museum: A modern museum in Wadi Musa dedicated to displaying the archaeological history of Petra and the Nabataeans.
Petra Archaeological Park Visitor Centre: The main entry point, providing tickets, information, and a central meeting point.
Wadi Musa: The modern town and gateway to Petra, offering hotels, restaurants, and souvenir shops.
Petra by Night: A unique, ticketed evening experience where the Siq and Treasury are illuminated by hundreds of candles.
Mousa’s Spring (Ain Mousa): A natural spring in Wadi Musa believed by some to be the location where Moses struck the rock.
Taybet Zaman Village: A restored 19th-century village converted into a heritage hotel (outside Wadi Musa).
Wadi Araba Desert: The vast desert landscape surrounding Petra, offering opportunities for desert safaris and jeep tours.
Activities & Experiences
Hike the Siq and Treasury (Al-Khazneh): The essential experience. Walk through the Siq (main canyon entrance) for the dramatic first view of the iconic Treasury.
Climb to the Monastery (Ad Deir): A strenuous but highly rewarding hike of around 800 steps. The Monastery is even larger than the Treasury and offers stunning panoramic views.
Walk the Petra by Night Experience: Witness the Siq and the Treasury illuminated by hundreds of candles, a truly magical and unforgettable experience (usually offered three nights a week).
Hike to the High Place of Sacrifice: A challenging trail offering magnificent views over the ancient city, the surrounding mountains, and a glimpse into Nabataean religious practices.
Explore the Royal Tombs: Discover the impressive facades of the Urn, Silk, Corinthian, and Palace Tombs, showcasing the wealth and artistry of the Nabataean elite.
Visit Little Petra (Siq al-Barid): A smaller Nabataean site just north of Wadi Musa. It’s an essential stop to see frescoes and complex carvings before entering the main city.
Wander the Colonnaded Street: Explore the heart of the ancient city, seeing the ruins of the Nymphaeum, the Great Temple, and the Byzantine Church with its mosaics.
Take a Bedouin Cooking Class: Learn to prepare traditional Jordanian dishes like mansaf (lamb and rice) or maqluba (upside-down rice dish) from local Bedouin families in Wadi Musa.
Hike the Al-Khubtha Trail: A moderate climb that takes you above the Royal Tombs, offering the famous “selfie spot” view looking down onto the Treasury.
Discover the Petra Archaeological Museum and Nabataean Museum: Located within the site, these museums provide essential context, displaying artifacts and detailing the history of the ancient city.
Relax in a Turkish Bath (Hammam): After a long day of hiking, enjoy a traditional and relaxing hammam experience in Wadi Musa.
Local Tips & Transport
Walking is Mandatory: Petra is a massive, walking-only site. Be prepared for long distances (over 10-15 km in a day) and varied terrain. Comfortable, sturdy hiking shoes are essential.
Local Taxis/Private Drivers: Taxis are the primary way to get around Wadi Musa and to the Petra Visitor Center. Fixed-rate taxis or private drivers are recommended for excursions to Little Petra.
Horse, Donkey, and Camel Rides: These are offered by locals inside the Petra site. Note that the horses are for the initial entry only (included in the ticket price, tips expected), while donkeys and camels are for longer/hilly routes (negotiate the price beforehand). Use caution and judgment regarding the animals’ welfare.
From Amman/Airport: The JETT bus service is the most comfortable and reliable direct option from Amman to Wadi Musa. Private transfers are faster but more expensive. There is also the local public bus, which is the cheapest option but runs infrequently.
Car Rental: Renting a car offers great flexibility to explore the King’s Highway and other sites in Jordan, but it is not necessary once you are in Wadi Musa, as the Petra site is pedestrian-only.
Stay Hydrated and Pace Yourself: The desert heat can be intense, even in the shoulder seasons. Always carry plenty of water, use sun protection (hat and sunscreen), and start your day early to beat the midday sun.
The Jordan Pass: If you are visiting multiple sites in Jordan and staying for at least three nights, purchase the Jordan Pass. It includes your visa fee (if eligible) and entry to Petra and many other attractions, saving you significant money.
Petra Tickets: A single-day ticket is rarely enough to see the whole site. Consider a two-day ticket to comfortably cover the main trails (Treasury, Monastery, High Place of Sacrifice) without feeling rushed.
Bargaining: A polite form of bargaining is expected when purchasing souvenirs or negotiating transport prices (except for official fixed-rate taxis). Do so with a smile and good humor.
Respectful Dress Code: While Jordan is relatively liberal, dressing modestly (covering knees and shoulders) is recommended in public areas, especially outside the main tourist centers, as a sign of respect for local culture.
Bedouin Hospitality: The locals within the Petra site are Bedouins who have lived in the area for generations. They are often friendly and inviting. Accepting a cup of sweet tea is a common courtesy.
Hidden Gems:
- The View from the Treasury: Instead of immediately taking a photo from the ground, take the short, marked side trail (often guarded by locals who offer tea) to see the Treasury from a magnificent elevated viewpoint.
- The Garden Triclinium and Roman Soldier’s Tomb: Found along the Wadi Farasa trail, these lesser-visited but beautifully preserved facades are a quiet detour away from the crowds.
- Al-Madras Trail: A challenging, lesser-known, and ancient entry point into Petra, offering solitude and stunning views for serious hikers.
- Dinner in a Local Home: Look for opportunities in Wadi Musa to have dinner with a local family instead of only eating in tourist restaurants for a truly authentic culinary experience.
Top Restaurants
Al Qantarah Restaurant [$15-$25] – A popular spot near the Petra entrance known for its commitment to authentic, traditional Jordanian cuisine, including mansaf and mixed grill, and offering a great value buffet.
Al Wadi Restaurant [$15-$25] – Located slightly uptown in Wadi Musa, this restaurant is highly-regarded for its traditional dishes like mansaf and chicken maklouba, served in a charming setting with stone walls.
Reem Baladi Restaurant [$15-$25] – Known for generous portions of traditional, affordable Jordanian food, with favorites including mixed grill, kofta, and aries (minced meat-stuffed pita bread).
My Mom’s Recipe Restaurant [$15-$25] – Offers a home-cooked feel with a modern twist on traditional Jordanian cuisine, serving buffets for lunch and dinner with a wide array of local dishes.
Palm Court Restaurant [$10-$20] – A no-nonsense eatery close to the Visitors Centre, loved for its Lebanese chicken, shawarma, and traditional Jordanian dishes at very reasonable prices.
Zawaya Restaurant [$15-$25] – A local restaurant serving tasty traditional Jordanian food like Muqlaba (upside-down rice dish), beef kebabs, and chicken sajieh, with generous portions and complimentary tea.
Oriental Restaurant [$15-$25] – Situated on the main street, this spot is a favorite for those craving juicy and scrumptious grills, specializing in various mashawi (grilled meats) and Middle Eastern cuisine.
Sandstone Restaurant [$15-$30] – Popular among locals and visitors alike, this restaurant offers excellent grills, fresh salads, and mezze in a comfortable setting, often with an outdoor terrace.
Three Steps Restaurant [$15-$30] – A large, two-floor restaurant popular for its Middle Eastern dishes and barbeque, offering an open kitchen and aiming for a comfortable, authentic dining experience.
Al-Arabi Restaurant [$10-$20] – Known for its authentic Middle Eastern cuisine, offering great flavor and affordable prices, making it a reliable spot for a quick and satisfying meal.
Rainbow Restaurant [$10-$20] – A casual spot offering a mix of authentic Jordanian cuisine alongside familiar fast food options, catering to different tastes and budgets.
Abu Elias Restaurant [$15-$25] – A smaller, local gem in Wadi Musa for authentic Jordanian cuisine, offering delicious, traditional dishes and known for warm hospitality.
Jordan Heart Restaurant [$15-$25] – A local favorite in Wadi Musa that provides a genuine taste of Jordanian flavors, focusing on traditional recipes and warm service.
Al-Mehbash Restaurant [$15-$25] – Known for its authentic Jordanian cooking, this restaurant offers a menu of local classics, often telling a story through its traditional dishes.
Petra Oriental Restaurant [$15-$25] – A great choice for traditional Middle Eastern cuisine, where the focus is on authentic flavors and a genuine local feel in Wadi Musa.
Old Street Cafe & Restaurant [$15-$25] – Offers a cozy atmosphere and a menu featuring authentic Jordanian flavors, making it a pleasant stop for a meal or a rest.
Petra Kitchen [$30-$50] – Less a traditional restaurant and more an immersive experience, visitors participate in a nightly cooking class with local chefs, learning to prepare and then dining on authentic Jordanian dishes like mansaf and maqlouba.
Bedouin Tent Dinner (Various Camps) [$30-$60] – Many local Bedouin camps near Petra/Wadi Musa offer a traditional dinner featuring Zarb, a Bedouin-style barbeque where meat (often lamb or chicken) and vegetables are slow-cooked in an underground oven. This is often a part of a larger cultural experience.
Cave Bar [$25-$45] – Located at the Petra Guest House Hotel, this is one of the few places near the Visitor Center serving alcohol. It’s a slightly more upscale spot literally carved into a Nabataean tomb, offering a truly unique atmosphere for drinks and Jordanian eats like mansaf.
Authentic Jordanian Cooking, Taste of Comfort With Family [$30-$50] – A private, home-cooked experience where a local family, such as Um Ayemen, welcomes guests to their home to learn and cook traditional dishes, offering a personal and intimate look into Jordanian culinary culture.
Come Home to Cook With Local Family Restaurant [$25-$45] – Offers the opportunity to not just eat, but to learn about and participate in cooking homemade Jordanian foods, providing a wonderful, intimate cultural exchange.
Red Cave Restaurant [$25-$40] – Conveniently located near the Petra Visitors Center, this restaurant offers both a buffet and an à la carte menu, with a focus on Bedouin heritage and a variety of local and international dishes.
Petra Magic Restaurant [$25-$40] – Offers a beautiful view of the mountains from its balcony, serving lunch and dinner buffets with a wide variety of entrees, including local dishes like Sajieh chicken and grilled meats.
Nabatean Restaurant [$30-$50] – Located within the Petra Park area, this restaurant is known for offering a culinary delight of authentic Jordanian cuisine amidst the ancient wonders, making it a great stop within the site.
High Castles Restaurant [$30-$50] – Offers some of the best views in Wadi Musa along with high-quality Jordanian cuisine, making it a great choice for a memorable dinner after a day of exploration.
Elan Restaurant [$30-$50] – Known for its authentic Jordanian cuisine, this restaurant blends flavor with tradition amidst stunning surroundings, often located within a reputable hotel.
Petra Night Restaurant [$25-$40] – Offers authentic Jordanian cuisine with the added bonus of stunning views from its location, providing a beautiful backdrop to your meal.
Top Cocktail Bars and Clubs
The Cave Bar: Found at the entrance to Petra inside the Petra Guest House Hotel, this bar offers a truly unique atmosphere as it is built directly into a 2,000-year-old Nabataean tomb. It’s a must-visit spot for its historical significance and a relaxed setting for cocktails and local beer.
Al Maqa’ad Bar: Located within the luxurious Mövenpick Resort Petra, which is right next to the Petra Visitor Center, this refined establishment features hand-carved wooden screens and rich fabrics, creating an unforgettable atmosphere for enjoying a selection of beverages and light snacks.
Aretas Bar & Lounge: This spot at the Petra Marriott Hotel, situated on a hilltop with a stunning panoramic view of the Petra mountain ranges outside Wadi Musa, is perfect for enjoying a chilled cocktail, fresh juice, or coffee while taking in the sunset.
Kilkenny Bar: A centrally located and popular pub in Wadi Musa, it’s a perfect retreat for travelers looking for a lively atmosphere, great drinks, and a place to share stories from their adventures.
Al Nadeem Bar & Terrace: Situated in the La Maison Hotel in Wadi Musa, this bar and terrace offers a great blend of relaxation and local flavors, often serving as a comfortable spot for an evening drink.
Al Matal Tent: Found at the Petra Marriott Hotel, this is a traditional Bedouin tent setting beneath the open skies and majestic mountains of Petra. While not strictly a bar, it’s a unique cultural spot to unwind with aromatic shisha and local flavors, including traditional alcoholic beverages.
Al Ghadeer Roof Garden: Offering stunning views and a serene dining and lounge atmosphere in Wadi Musa, this rooftop spot is known for its Middle Eastern cuisine but is also a pleasant place for a casual evening drink.
Al Multaqa Lobby Lounge: Located in the Mövenpick Resort Petra, this serene escape in Wadi Musa offers a tranquil setting for a quiet drink in an elegant, airy space.
Al Baraka Tea Room: Also located within the Mövenpick Resort Petra, this offers a more traditional setting, but serves as a warm place to wind down with non-alcoholic and potentially local specialties after a long day.
Irish Pub at Petra Palace Hotel: A smaller, cozy pub located inside the Petra Palace Hotel near the Petra Visitor Center. It offers an alternative, more familiar pub setting for a cold beer or drink.
The Experience – Petra: Located in Wadi Musa, this venue provides an opportunity to try local craft beer and wine in a cultural setting, perfect for travelers seeking authentic regional beverages.
BAHIA Rooftop & Restaurant: A popular spot in Wadi Musa where you can enjoy stunning views alongside your meal or drink. The rooftop setting provides a lovely vantage point in the evening.
Time Out: This café in Wadi Musa is more casual but offers a warm and friendly atmosphere for grabbing a drink and relaxing.
Palm Court Restaurant & Cafe: Found in Wadi Musa, this is a versatile spot that serves both food and drinks, offering a relaxed environment near the historic site.
Red Cave Restaurant: Located in Wadi Musa, this establishment offers a blend of traditional and modern dining and a cozy atmosphere for an evening beverage.