Here you will find the top 10 activities to do when visiting Petra, carefully written.
History of Petra: Petra has an important history with many structures carved into the pink mountains, which is why it was classified as one of the Seven Wonders of the World. Some of the most significant sites include:
- Al Khazneh (The Treasury)
- The Monastery
- The Royal Tombs
Petra represents the Nabataean civilization, which lived there 2,000 years ago.
Nature Walks: You can enjoy a full day of walking through Petra, experiencing its natural beauty among the mountains, carved rocks, and desert trees. One of the most important trails is the Siq, a narrow path between two mountains that connects the Petra Visitor Center to Al Khazneh. The Siq is filled with carvings along the way. Walking in Petra can be tiring, but you will quickly recover as you discover more of its hidden treasures.
Animal Rides in Petra: Enjoy riding animals to explore Petra like the Bedouins who live there. You can find:
- Camels
- Donkeys
- Horses
It’s worth noting that your entrance ticket to Petra includes a free horse ride.
Rock Climbing: For climbing enthusiasts, Petra has plenty to offer. You can coordinate with local guides to find the best climbing spots. Climbing the pink mountains will give you joy and a panoramic view. One of the top spots for climbing is near Al Khazneh.
Safari Tours in Petra: Enjoy desert safari tours around Petra, done in traditional Bedouin style.
Relaxation in Petra: There are many peaceful spots where you can relax and admire the rock carvings. Whether it’s atop a mountain or in a local restaurant, the sights will transport you to the world of the Nabataeans, especially if you know the history behind each site.
Petra Balloon Ride: Fly above Petra for a panoramic view, allowing you to witness the greatness and vastness of the city. See also about Petra balloon
Little Petra: Visit Little Petra, located at Petra’s back entrance in the village of Beidha. It looks similar to Petra but on a smaller scale, with different rock formations and a milder climate, without the crowds. See also about Little Petra
Petra Museum: Don’t forget to visit the Petra Museum at the front of the Visitor Center. Inside, you’ll find sculptures and exhibits showcasing the Nabataean civilization and Petra’s history.
Petra by Night: Experience a different side of Petra at night. Walk to Al Khazneh by candlelight with soft music and storytelling. Relax between the glowing mountains under a sky full of stars. Petra by Night is available three times a week—Monday, Wednesday, and Thursday—starting at 8 p.m. There is a special ticket counter for the night tour, and the 2024 ticket price is 17 Jordanian dinars.