Petra day tour from Aqaba: the shortest drive, 8 hours, $289 with entry included
The facts: 8 hours, guided tour of the highlights
This is the shortest day on the site. Hotel pickup in Aqaba (specific hotels listed on the booking confirmation), drive north past Wadi Rum, enter Petra via the Visitor Center, walk or ride a horse through the Siq to the Treasury, guided tour of the highlights, short Wadi Rum stop on the way back, and possibly a quick tour of Aqaba itself if time allows. Max group size 25. Includes transport, live English guide, snack box, and the Petra entrance fee ($70, the 50 JOD rate for accommodated visitors). Drinks, insurance and gratuities are not included. This is a new tour: there are no reviews on GetYourGuide yet. I am recommending it based on the itinerary, the bundled entry fee, and the fact that it saves you the Amman-Aqaba drive if you are already in the south.
Who is this tour for?
Visitors who are already in Aqaba or nearby. If you are based in Amman, the Amman tours ($73–$93, 5 hours at Petra) are cheaper and give you longer on site. If you are in Eilat or another Israeli city, the Eilat tour ($390) is faster (you cross the border at Arava instead of driving the long way south). The Aqaba tour shines for people staying in the south who want to maximise remaining holiday time on a Petra visit.
The Aqaba Special Economic Zone and visas
Aqaba sits in the Aqaba Special Economic Zone (ASEZ). Enter through Aqaba (airport, port, or the Wadi Araba land border from Eilat) and the visa is free for up to 30 days. You must exit through the same ASEZ port of entry and stay a minimum of two nights. If you are flying into Aqaba airport or crossing from Eilat, this is an excellent deal. Ask your tour operator if they can assist with the ASEZ rules at booking.
Still deciding?
Compare all eight Petra tours by departure city. The two-day Petra, Wadi Rum and Dead Sea tour from Amman is also popular and gives you more time.
Can’t make these dates?
Browse more available Petra day tours and find one that fits your schedule — all with instant confirmation and free cancellation.
Frequently asked questions
How long is the drive from Aqaba to Petra?
About 3 hours north past Wadi Rum to the Visitor Center. The full tour is 8 hours door to door, including the visit and a short Wadi Rum stop on the return. This is the shortest day on this site.
Is the entry ticket included?
Yes. The $289 price includes the Petra entrance fee ($70, the 50 JOD rate for accommodated visitors). Drinks and gratuities are extra.
Is there a guide?
Yes, a live English-speaking guide is included. The tour covers the highlights: the Siq, the Treasury, and main walking trails.
Is this tour bookable if I am not already in Aqaba?
Technically yes, but it only makes sense if you are already in Aqaba or nearby. If you are based in Amman, the Amman tours ($73–$93) are cheaper. From Eilat, the Eilat tour ($390) is faster.
No reviews yet — should I book this tour?
It is brand new on GetYourGuide. The itinerary is sound: 8 hours, guide included, entry bundled. If you are in Aqaba, I would book it based on the facts. Once reviews appear they will be linked here.