Wadi Musa: The Gateway Town to Petra, Jordan Famous Rose-Red City
A Brief History of Wadi Musa
Wadi Musa is a small town located in southwestern Jordan, about 150 km south of the capital Amman. It has a population of around 20,000 people and acts as the main entrance point for visiting the ancient Nabataean city of Petra, carved into the sandstone rock and dating back to around 300 BC.
The name “Wadi Musa” literally translates to “Valley of Moses” in Arabic. According to local Bedouin tradition, Moses struck a rock with his staff here and water came pouring out to quench the thirst of the Israelites during their Exodus. While there is no archaeological evidence to support this, the story highlights the strategic importance of the area as an oasis in an otherwise arid desert landscape.
The town began to develop in the late 19th century as a stopover for travelers on their way to Petra. In the early 20th century, the opening of the Sharif Hussein bin Ali Road provided the first proper access route. Wadi Musa then grew rapidly as a service center for tourism to Petra during the mid-20th century. Today its economy remains heavily dependent on visitors exploring the ancient city.
Things to See and Do in Wadi Musa
While most people only spend a short time in Wadi Musa before heading to Petra, there are a few attractions worth checking out:
- Ain Musa Spring – Located on the outskirts of town, this natural spring is where Moses allegedly struck the rock with his staff. It provides a peaceful oasis for picnics or relaxing.
- Wadi Musa Museum – Learn about the history and culture of the area through artifacts and exhibits on local Bedouin tribes at this small but informative museum.
- Siq Trail – Take a short hike along the first section of the path into Petra to get a taste of the unique scenery and geology before the main site.
- Local Markets – Browse for souvenirs, snacks and handicrafts at the roadside stalls near the entrance to Petra. Look for traditional Bedouin items like spices, coffee and woven goods.
- Cafes – Enjoy mint tea and snacks at one of the open-air cafes while taking in views of the surrounding desert and mountains.
With most attractions centered around Petra itself, an afternoon is sufficient time spent in Wadi Musa. Use it as your launch pad for exploring the spectacular rose-red city carved into the sandstone cliffs.
FAQs about Visiting Wadi Musa
- How do I get to Wadi Musa from Amman?
The most convenient way is to take a private or group transfer arranged through your hotel or tour company in Amman. Buses also run regularly between the capital’s bus station and Wadi Musa, taking around 3 hours.
- When is the best time to visit Wadi Musa?
Spring (March-May) and autumn (September-November) have mild weather that is ideal for exploring Petra. Summer months (June-August) get very hot, while winter can see occasional rain. Early morning and late afternoon are generally coolest times to visit the main sites.
- Where can I find information about tours to Petra from Wadi Musa?
Every hotel, restaurant and shop front in town doubles as a tour agency selling packages to Petra. Recommended operators with good reputations include Jordan Travel Bureau and Petra Moon Tourism Services who offer guided walking tours and vehicle transfers.
- Is Wadi Musa safe for travelers?
Yes, the town and surrounding area is generally very safe for visitors. As in any destination, take normal precautions like not leaving valuables unattended and avoiding deserted areas late at night. Violent crime is extremely rare.
- What is the best way to get around Wadi Musa itself?
The town is small enough to easily explore on foot. Some attractions like Ain Musa Spring require a taxi (around 10 JOD each way) but most sites are within walking distance of hotels and the Petra entrance. Buses also run between Wadi Musa and nearby shrines if needed.
- How can I experience more of the Bedouin culture in Wadi Musa?
Ask your hotel to arrange a visit to a local Bedouin family to learn about their traditions or try making bread in a traditional underground oven. Many also offer overnight desert camping and star-gazing experiences. Look for authentic handicrafts at the roadside markets too.
- What is Wadi Musa known for?
Wadi Musa is a town located in southwestern Jordan, about 350 km south of the capital Amman. It is most famous as the home of Petra, the ancient Nabataean city carved into the rose-red rock faces of the surrounding mountains. Petra is considered one of the new Seven Wonders of the World and one of Jordan’s top tourist attractions, drawing visitors from around the globe to marvel at its elaborate temples, tombs and structures.
In addition to being the main entrance to the archaeological site of Petra, Wadi Musa has grown into a tourist hub, with many hotels, restaurants and shops catering to travelers. The town is also a popular base for exploring other nearby attractions like Little Petra, Siq Al-Barid (Cold Canyon) and Ad-Deir Monastery. The landscape of towering sandstone cliffs and canyons in vibrant red and orange hues is spectacular to explore.
- Where in Jordan did Moses strike the rock?
According to Biblical accounts, after wandering in the desert for 40 years following the Exodus from Egypt, Moses led the Israelites to an area in what is now southern Jordan called Wadi Musa. Here, at a place called Hajar Mousa (Rock of Moses), Moses struck a rock with his staff and water began flowing from it to quench the thirst of the Israelites.
Some scholars believe this rock may have been located in Wadi Musa, near the entrance to Petra. A large rock outcropping in the area called Jabal Haroun, or Mount Aaron, is traditionally associated with this biblical event. Today, a shrine called Moses’ Spring sits below the rock and water still flows year-round, lending credence to the biblical story.
- How big is Wadi Musa?
Wadi Musa has an area of about 160 square kilometers. It stretches along both sides of the narrow Siq valley that leads to the ancient city of Petra. The town has a population of around 33,000 residents according to the last census.
While Wadi Musa has grown considerably with the tourism industry, much of the surrounding area is rugged, desert landscape. Soaring sandstone cliffs and canyons dominate the scenery. To the north and east, Wadi Musa is bounded by desert plains. To the south and west rise the steep mountains of Jebel Haroun and Jebel Al-Madbah, through which the Siq valley carves a path to Petra.
- Where to sleep in Wadi Musa?
There are many accommodation options available in Wadi Musa, ranging from budget hostels and hotels to luxury resorts, so travelers have plenty of choices. Some top recommendations for places to sleep in Wadi Musa include:
- – Mövenpick Resort Petra – A luxurious 5-star resort located right outside Petra with beautiful views.
- – Crowne Plaza Petra – Modern 4-star hotel with an outdoor pool and spa. Close to Petra’s entrance.
- – Old Village Hotel – Charming boutique hotel in a traditional stone building with a terrace and restaurant.
- – Petra Guest House – Family-run budget hotel with basic but clean rooms near the town center.
- – Petra Moon Hotel – Newly built hotel with panoramic views of the canyons and Petra. Affordable rates.
During peak seasons, it’s best to book accommodations well in advance since options can fill up quickly. Most hotels and resorts are clustered near the entrance to Petra.
- Where is the best place to watch the sunset in Wadi Musa?
One of the most spectacular places to watch the sunset in Wadi Musa is from Jabal Haroun (Mount Aaron), also known as the “Mount of Moses”. Located about 3 km northwest of the Petra site, this cliff-top vantage point offers breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding landscape bathed in the warm glow of the setting sun.
Other excellent sunset viewing spots include:
- Al-Beidha (The Little Petra) – A miniature version of Petra with stunning rock formations.
- – Siq Al-Barid (Cold Canyon) – A narrow, winding canyon with towering cliffs.
- – Jebel Khazali – An isolated mountain peak outside of town with 360-degree vistas.
For the best photo opportunities, head to these viewpoints about 30 minutes before sunset to stake out a place. Bring a blanket or chair as it can get crowded. The fiery desert skies put on a truly magnificent show after a day of exploring Petra
