Petra Holidays & Petra Tours
Best time to be there
March to May and September to November are best times to be in the country, but Jordan's Mediterranean climate is pleasant all year round. Lightweight clothes are advised between May and September. Warmer clothes are necessary for winter and cool summer evenings. Rainwear is needed from November to April. It has been known to snow as far south as Petra.
Fly to
Amman (British Midland International - daily, Royal Jordanian - daily)
flying time
5 hours direct
time difference
GMT +2 hours
Visas
Required - obtainable in advance or on arrival
Health Requirements
No mandatory vaccinations
Itineraries
Classic Jordan
Highlights - visit downtown Amman;Put on your walking shoes for a trek through the ‘Rose-Red City’ of Petra;Enjoy an optional balloon flight or camel ride... Read more ...
Jordan in Depth
Jordan in Depth highlights * Dana Wildlife Reserve * Desert castles * Tombs and temples of Petra Read more ...
Highlights of Egypt with Jordan
Highlights of Egypt with Jordan highlights * Classical sites of Egypt * Crusing the Nile * The Rose Red city of Petra Read more ...
to speak to a consultant
Undoubtedly the highlight of any Jordan travel is the 'Rose red City' of Petra. Although much has been written about Petra, nothing really prepares you for this amazing place. It has to be seen to be believed.
Often described as the eighth wonder of the ancient world and now a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Petra is the legacy of the Nabataeans, an industrious Arab people who settled in Jordan more than 2,000 years ago. From here the Nabateans dominated the trade routes of ancient Arabia, levying tolls and sheltering caravans laden with Indian spice and silks, African ivory and animal hides.
The kingdom endured for centuries and became widely admired for its refined culture, beautiful architecture and ingenious complex of dams and water channels. By the 16th century, however, Petra was completely lost to the western world and remained so for 300 years until it was rediscovered by the Swiss explorer Johann Burckhardt in 1812.
Today the 'Rose-Red City' is accessed on foot through a narrow fissure in the mountains known as the Siq. The walk is well worth the effort though, as you will see the Treasury, Royal Tombs, Theatre and Roman City with an additional climb (if energy and time allows) up some 1,200 steps to the Monastery.
Rather than just show you the site providing dates and facts, Abercrombie & Kent's guides will offer real insight into Petra and the region. Take for example Sufyan Twassi who knows every hidden secret of Petra - born into a leading Bedouin tribe in Petra and a graduate of the Arabian Tradition and Bedouin Culture, he is the perfect guide to explain the inner workings of Jordan's tribal community.
Jordan holidays with Abercrombie & Kent will take you to the heart of this fascinating country. If you would like to include a tour of Petra in your Jordan holiday or Petra holiday, please talk to one of our experts.
If you are interested in a group tour to Jordan, please click here to see our Jordan group tours page.
Suggested Petra Accommodation
Marriott Petra
The Marriott Petra Hotel is situated on a steep sloping site overlooking the dramatic and picturesque Petra valley. The hotel is a short five minutes drive from the Visitor Centre...
Movenpick Nabatean Castle Petra
Grand in style this property is located on a hillside only 10 minutes from the entrance to the Petra site. The hotel offers 90 rooms decorated in light natural colours with a high ceiling and small balcony.
Movenpick Resort Petra
With its prime location a stone’s throw from the entrance to the historic city of Petra, the Mövenpick Resort Petra is a perfect retreat from a day’s exploration. Recently refurbished, it is decorated...
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Guest Testimonial
We very much appreciated the champagne to celebrate A&K's anniversary. Our guide Omar & driver Basil were both absolutely excellent throughout. Many thanks for making our trip to Jordan so enjoyable and for all the hard work that ensured our holiday ran so smoothly! 
- LJ, London
World Travel Awards
World Travel Awards
World's Leading Luxury Tour Operator 2011
A&K Philanthropy
Madrasati ('My School')
Is an innovative grassroots project to rehabilitate schools and improve their learning environment; we have adopted Balquees School in Amman.
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