Private Petra day tours: your own driver, your own schedule
Private vehicle: what you get
A private-vehicle option means you hire your own driver (not a group guide), travel in your own car or van, and choose your own schedule. You decide when to stop for tea, water, or photos. You are not held to a group timetable. The driver handles logistics, knows the route, can recommend stops, and stays with you the whole day. You still pay for the Petra entry ticket at the gate (unless your tour option includes it). You arrange your own guide at the Petra Visitor Centre if you want one.
Private options from Amman
The flagship Amman tour ($93) and the budget Amman tour ($73) both offer private-vehicle options at booking. Same destination, same 5 hours at Petra, same 3-hour drive each way. The difference is group vs private. Private costs more because you are hiring your own transport; ask at booking for the exact private-vehicle rate. Both tours include hotel or airport pickup in Amman and the return drop-off.
Private option: the two-day tour
The two-day Petra, Wadi Rum and Dead Sea tour ($249) offers a private-vehicle option for small groups. Day 1: Amman to Petra, the Siq and highlights at your own pace, then Wadi Rum by 4WD jeep and a night in a Bedouin camp. Day 2: Wadi Rum jeep tour, Dead Sea float, back to Amman. Private means your own driver, your own 4WD jeep, no sharing the group schedule. Entry fees ($70 Petra, $10 Wadi Rum) and the Dead Sea resort ($40 cash to the driver) are not included; check what applies to your booking.
Who books private tours
Families who want to travel at their own pace. Friends on holiday who want to stay together. People with children, people with mobility considerations, or anyone who finds group tours stressful. If you have a group of 4–6, private is often cheaper per person than the group rate.
Private tours are bookable 3–7 days ahead. Specify your hotel and preferred pickup time. Confirm the driver speaks English. The driver will help you hire an on-site guide if you want one; this is an extra cost at the Visitor Centre.
Still deciding?
Compare all eight Petra tours including both Amman options. Read the Amman day tour page or the two-day option.
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
What does 'private' mean?
Your own vehicle and driver (not a group guide), your own schedule (not a group timetable), and stops of your choosing. You leave when you want, stop for photos or tea when you want, and are not waiting for other passengers.
Which tours have a private option?
The two Amman day tours ($73 and $93) and the two-day Petra and Wadi Rum tour ($249). All include hotel or airport pickup and a driver who speaks English. Ask at booking for the exact private-vehicle rate.
Does private cost more than group?
Yes, usually. You are hiring your own vehicle and driver instead of sharing the cost with other passengers. For a group of 4–6 people, private is sometimes cheaper per person than the group option.
What is not included in a private tour?
The Petra entry ticket (50 JOD, usually $70) is not included in most bookings — you pay at the gate. A guide at the Visitor Centre (recommended for first-timers) costs extra. Lunch is sometimes included; check your confirmation.
Can I book a private tour last-minute?
Not usually. Private tours require confirmation of your hotel and preferred time. Book 3–7 days ahead. Free cancellation is available on most tours if plans change.