How to Visit Petra from Israel

Petra, the breathtaking archaeological wonder in Jordan, is one of the most sought-after destinations for travelers visiting Israel. Known as the “Rose City,” Petra is famous for its rock-cut architecture and historical significance. If you’re looking to explore this UNESCO World Heritage Site, there are several ways to travel from Israel, including organized tours and independent travel. Below, we’ll guide you through the best options for visiting Petra from Israel.

Best Way To Visit Petra from Israel – Join a Tour!

If you’re dreaming of a journey back in time, Petra is the perfect place to explore. The best way to experience this ancient marvel is with an organized tour. Not only will you have hassle-free travel, but you’ll also gain insights from knowledgeable guides who bring Petra’s history to life. Instead of worrying about logistics, border crossings, and finding transport, a guided tour ensures you make the most of your visit without the stress.

Why Visit Petra?

Petra isn’t just a historical site; it’s an adventure. Walking through the Siq, the narrow canyon that leads into the city, builds anticipation before revealing the breathtaking Al-Khazneh (The Treasury). The feeling of stepping into this hidden wonder is unforgettable. But Petra is more than just its iconic facade. From the stunning Royal Tombs to the panoramic views at the Monastery (Ad-Deir), every corner tells a story. Whether you’re fascinated by history, architecture, or nature, Petra offers an experience like no other.

Petra is an ancient city that dates back to around 300 BCE and served as the capital of the Nabataean Kingdom. It is renowned for its intricate rock-carved structures, including temples, tombs, and dwellings. The city’s most famous landmark, Al-Khazneh (The Treasury), is an awe-inspiring structure carved directly into the pink sandstone cliffs. Petra also offers stunning hiking trails, including the challenging trek to the Monastery (Ad-Deir), which provides breathtaking views over the region.

Tours to Petra from Israel

One of the easiest and most convenient ways to visit Petra from Israel is by booking an organized tour. Gray Line Israel offers various tour packages that include transportation, guided experiences, and entry fees. Depending on your schedule and location, you can choose from multiple departure points in Israel.

Tours to Petra from Jerusalem

If you’re staying in Jerusalem, you can join a tour to Petra from Jerusalem, which typically includes transportation to the Jordanian border, visa assistance, and a guided tour of Petra. These tours usually start early in the morning and return the following day, offering a comprehensive experience of Petra’s stunning sites such as the Treasury, the Monastery, and the Siq.

Tours to Petra from Tel Aviv

For those based in Tel Aviv, tours to Petra from Tel Aviv provide an excellent opportunity to visit Jordan without the hassle of arranging independent transportation. These tours include hotel pickups, border crossings, and professional guides to help you make the most of your visit.

Tours to Petra from Eilat

Eilat, Israel’s southernmost city, is the closest Israeli city to Petra, making it the most convenient starting point for a visit. Tours to Petra from Eilat are available as both one-day and two-day excursions. The border crossing at Eilat (Wadi Araba Crossing) is the most commonly used entry point for travelers heading to Petra from Israel. Shorter travel times make Eilat the best option for those looking to explore Petra in a single day.

How to Visit Petra Independently

If you prefer traveling at your own pace, visiting Petra independently is definitely an option. However, it requires a bit more planning. You’ll need to arrange transport from Israel to Jordan, navigate the border crossing, and find a way to reach Petra from the border. While taxis and buses are available, they can be costly or time-consuming. If you’re an adventurous traveler who enjoys flexibility, going solo could be rewarding, but if you want a seamless experience, a tour is highly recommended.

For travelers who prefer flexibility, it is possible to visit Petra without an organized tour. Here’s what you need to know:

Border Crossings: The main border crossings for independent travelers are Wadi Araba (Eilat), Allenby Bridge (near Jerusalem), and Sheikh Hussein Bridge (near Beit She’an). Wadi Araba is the most convenient.
Visa Requirements: Travelers from many countries can obtain a visa at the border, but it’s essential to check visa regulations in advance.
Transportation in Jordan: Once in Jordan, you can take a taxi or hire a driver from the border to Petra. The drive from the Wadi Araba border to Petra takes around two hours.
Entrance Fees: Petra’s entrance fee for a one-day visit is approximately 50 Jordanian Dinars (JD) for visitors staying overnight in Jordan and 90 JD for those visiting as a day trip from Israel.
Recommended Travel Gear: Since visiting Petra involves extensive walking and hiking, it’s advisable to wear comfortable shoes, bring sunscreen, and carry plenty of water.

Best Time to Visit Petra

The best times to visit Petra are during the spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) when temperatures are mild, and the weather is comfortable for hiking and sightseeing. Summer months can be extremely hot, while winter may bring occasional rain.

Choosing the Best Way to Visit Petra

For convenience and ease: A guided tour to Petra from Israel is recommended, as it includes transportation, guides, and border assistance.
For flexibility: Independent travel allows for more control over your schedule but requires additional planning.
For those in a hurry: Tours to Petra from Eilat offer the shortest travel time and are ideal for a quick visit.

Multi-Day Tours Including Petra

For those looking to explore more of Jordan, Gray Line Israel offers several multi-day tours that include Petra as part of a broader itinerary:

Jordan Classic Tour from Israel: A 3-day journey covering Amman, Petra, Jerash, Mount Nebo, and Madaba.
Highlights of Israel & Jordan: A 10-night trip that explores Israel alongside a 3-day adventure in Jordan.
Bibleland Tour & Petra: A 7-night guided tour of Israel’s biblical sites, concluding with a day trip to Petra.
Heritage of the Holyland & Petra: A journey through Israel’s most significant spiritual locations, with a visit to Petra.

Additional Sites to Explore Near Petra

If you have extra time, consider visiting additional attractions near Petra:

Wadi Rum: A stunning desert landscape with red sand dunes, unique rock formations, and Bedouin camps offering camel rides and jeep tours.
Little Petra: A smaller, less crowded version of Petra featuring similar rock-carved facades.
Aqaba: A Red Sea resort city perfect for relaxing on the beach or enjoying snorkeling and diving adventures.

No matter which option you choose, visiting Petra is an unforgettable experience. Whether through a well-organized Gray Line Israel tour or by planning your own adventure, exploring this ancient wonder will surely be a highlight of your trip to the region.

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