From Amman: Petra Full-Day Private or Group Tour review
What the tour is like
You get picked up at your Amman hotel or the airport at an agreed time. The drive south on the Desert Highway is 235 km via the 3-hour route; the driver stops for coffee and water on the way. You arrive at the visitor centre around late morning, buy your ticket (50 JOD if you’ve slept in Jordan, 90 JOD if not), and head into the Siq. The 1.2 km gorge takes 20 minutes to walk, and then you’re at the Treasury. Most people spend the full 5 hours exploring the main trail — the Street of Facades, the Royal Tombs, and if you have time, the 800-step Monastery climb. On the return drive, the driver often stops again for food or rest. You’re back in Amman by late evening.
What works
- 4.9 stars and 414 reviews — the most-booked tour on the site
- 5 hours at Petra is enough for the Treasury, main trail, and the Monastery if you’re fit
- Driver is professional and knowledgeable; stops for coffee, water, and lunch
- You can hire a local guide at the visitor centre if you want deeper context
- You have control over the pace — stay longer or move faster as you choose
- $93 is a fair price for a full day with a skilled driver
Worth knowing
- The ticket is usually an add-on (50–90 JOD depending on your visa status)
- Guide at the site costs extra if you want one
- Lunch is typically on your own unless part of a group option
- Not suitable for people with mobility issues despite what the booking page says
- Early pickup times mean an early morning from Amman
Book a local guide at the Petra visitor centre for 20–30 JOD. The difference is real: Faith from the US praised her driver for stopping for coffee and explaining Jordanian culture on the drive; Roberto said his driver made them feel like family. The Siq light is better at 9am than noon. Wear good shoes, bring sunscreen, and pack water — the Treasury sits in direct sun most of the day. If you want to include Wadi Rum or the Dead Sea, book the 2-day tour instead.
Who it’s for
Anyone starting in Amman with a full day to spend. Solo travellers, couples, families. Budget-conscious visitors who don’t mind managing the add-ons. If you want a guaranteed on-site guide and meals included, the value option bundles lunch and carriage rides. If you want more time and Wadi Rum, see the 2-day tour. For a private vehicle with total control, check if the private option is available on this listing.
Other tours to consider
Lowest priceFrom Amman: Full-Day Private or Group Tour to Petra
Best reviewedAmman: Petra, Wadi Rum, and Dead Sea 2-Day Tour
Frequently asked questions
Is $93 from Amman a good price?
Yes. 4.9 from 414 reviews shows most people think it’s fair. You get 11 hours of driving, a skilled driver, and 5 hours at Petra. Add the 50 JOD ticket and you’re at about $73 + $13 = $86 total. The value tour at $73 includes lunch, so pick based on whether you want meals bundled.
Do I need to buy the ticket myself?
Usually yes. Most tours don’t bundle it, so you pay 50 JOD (about $13) at the visitor centre. Some group dates bundle it; check at booking. If you’ve only just arrived in Jordan and haven’t slept there yet, you pay 90 JOD instead.
How much time is 5 hours really?
Enough to walk the Siq, see the Treasury, explore the Street of Facades and Royal Tombs, and attempt the Monastery. You need to be fit for the 800-step climb. Khaja from the UK noted that 5 hours is tight for Petra but fair for the price; the 2-day tour gives you a full day without rushing.
Is a guide worth it?
Yes, if you want the context. Eren from the UAE praised the driver's knowledge of Nabataean history and Jordanian culture. A local guide at Petra (20–30 JOD) adds real depth. The driver can help you find one at the visitor centre.