2-Day Petra Tour From Jerusalem

Exploring the ancient Nabataean city of Petra, a New7Wonder of the World, is an unforgettable experience. This 2-day guided tour from Jerusalem promises to immerse travelers in the rich history and captivating landscapes of Jordan. From the mosaics of Madaba to the awe-inspiring Treasury in Petra, each step of the journey unveils a new layer of this remarkable destination. Whether you’re a history buff, a nature enthusiast, or simply seeking an adventure, this tour offers a comprehensive experience that will leave you…

Key Points

• A 2-day guided tour from Jerusalem that explores the ancient city of Petra, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the New7Wonders of the World.
• Includes visits to other places of interest in Jordan, such as Mount Nebo, Madaba, and Shobak Castle.
• Offers an overnight stay in a Bedouin-style campsite, providing a unique cultural experience.
• Provides a custom-made travel app for an enhanced tour experience.
• Requires a moderate level of physical fitness and is not wheelchair accessible.

Tour Overview

This 2-day guided tour from Jerusalem to Petra, one of the New7Wonders of the World, provides visitors with the opportunity to explore the 2,000-year-old rose-red city and its key sights, as well as visit other places of interest in Jordan.

Travelers will stay overnight in a Bedouin-style campsite, seeing the local culture.

The tour includes breakfast, lunch, and dinner, as well as an air-conditioned vehicle, guided tours, and entrance fees.

Visitors can use a custom-made travel app to enhance their experience.

With a moderate physical fitness level required, this tour offers an unforgettable adventure.

Inclusions and Exclusions

In a 2-day Petra tour from Jerusalem, the package includes breakfast, lunch (2), and dinner, as well as a guided tour, an air-conditioned vehicle, and entrance fees.

Travelers will also receive accommodation in a Bedouin-style campsite and access to a custom-made travel app.

However, the tour excludes Israeli border taxes (196 ILS) and Jordanian border taxes (50 JOD, payable in cash). Personal travel insurance and gratuities are also not included in the tour price.

The tour isn’t wheelchair accessible but does have infant seats available. Travelers should have a moderate level of physical fitness, as the itinerary involves some walking and exploration.

Day 1 Itinerary

The tour begins in Jerusalem, where travelers cross the King Hussein Bridge into Jordan and make their way to the historic Mount Nebo, the presumed burial site of the prophet Moses.

From there, the group visits the city of Madaba, known for its Byzantine-era mosaics, including the famous 6th-century mosaic map of the Holy Land.

The tour then explores the medieval Shobak Castle, also known as Montreal, a Crusader fortress with impressive ruins.

Afterwards, they head to Wadi Musa, the town adjacent to the ancient city of Petra, where they’ll spend the night in a cozy Bedouin-style campsite.

• Explore the historic Mount Nebo
• Discover the mosaics of Madaba
• Tour the medieval Shobak Castle
• Travel to the town of Wadi Musa
• Overnight in a Bedouin-style campsite

Madaba and Mount Nebo

After crossing the King Hussein Bridge into Jordan, the tour heads to the historic Mount Nebo, the presumed burial site of the prophet Moses. This ancient mountain offers stunning views of the Jordan Valley and the Dead Sea, and it holds deep religious significance for both Christians and Muslims.

Next, the group visits Madaba, a city famous for its well-preserved Byzantine-era mosaics. The highlight is the 6th-century mosaic map of the Holy Land, one of the oldest surviving cartographic depictions of the region. Travelers can also explore the Greek Orthodox Church of St. George, which houses the remarkable mosaic map.

Location	Significance	Duration
Mount Nebo	Presumed burial site of Moses	1 hour
Madaba	Byzantine-era mosaics, including the mosaic map	1.5 hours
Shobak Castle	Crusader castle from the 12th century	45 minutes

Shobak Castle and Wadi Musa

Leaving the medieval Shobak Castle, the tour proceeds to the nearby town of Wadi Musa, the gateway to the ancient city of Petra.

This bustling town serves as the starting point for the exploration of the breathtaking Petra. Visitors can look forward to:

• Glimpsing the iconic Treasury building, one of Petra’s most famous landmarks
• Hiking through the iconic Siq, a narrow gorge that leads to the heart of the ancient city
• Admiring the intricate rock-cut architecture and tombs that showcase the Nabataean civilization’s architectural prowess

Exploring the varied terrain, from towering cliffs to hidden valleys, that make Petra a true wonder of the ancient world.

Taking in the vibrant local culture and hospitality of the Bedouin people who call this region home.

Bedouin-Style Campsite

Nestled in the heart of Wadi Musa, the gateway to Petra, the Bedouin-style campsite offers travelers a unique opportunity to enjoy the rich cultural heritage of the region. Guests can expect to be welcomed by the warm hospitality of the local Bedouin hosts, who will gladly share their traditions and way of life. The campsite features a range of amenities, including cozy tents with comfortable bedding, a communal dining area, and traditional Bedouin cooking demonstrations. As the sun sets, visitors can gather around the campfire, sip on aromatic Jordanian tea, and gaze up at the breathtaking night sky, creating memories that will last a lifetime.

Amenity	Description
Tents	Cozy and comfortable with bedding
Dining Area	Communal area for meals
Cooking Demos	Traditional Bedouin cooking
Campfire	Gather and enjoy Jordanian tea
Night Sky	Breathtaking views

Day 2 Itinerary

The second day of the tour commences with an exploration of the ancient city of Petra, the legendary rose-red capital of the Nabataean civilization. Travelers depart from their Bedouin-style campsite in Wadi Musa and embark on a 6-hour journey to uncover the wonders of this UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Highlights of the day include:

• Navigating the Siq, a narrow, winding gorge that leads to the iconic Treasury
• Marveling at the impressive facade of the Treasury, one of Petra’s most renowned structures
• Visiting the Monastery, another architectural marvel carved into the sandstone cliffs
• Exploring the ancient city’s temples, tombs, and amphitheaters
• Learning about the Nabataean culture and their engineering feats

The tour then proceeds to the King Hussein Bridge Border Crossing, before returning to Jerusalem.

Petra Exploration

After departing their Bedouin-style campsite in Wadi Musa, travelers embark on a 6-hour journey to uncover the wonders of the ancient city of Petra, the legendary rose-red capital of the Nabataean civilization. Upon arrival, they’ll explore the Siq, a dramatic, narrow gorge that serves as the main entrance to Petra. Highlights of their exploration include:

Key Sights	Description
Treasury	The most famous monument, carved into rose-colored stone
Royal Tombs	An array of elaborate temple-tombs carved into the mountainside
High Place of Sacrifice	A religious ritual site with stunning mountain views

Travelers will have ample time to enjoy Petra’s timeless beauty and uncover the secrets of this New7Wonder of the World.

Frequently Asked Questions

How Much Time Is Spent Exploring Petra?

The tour spends approximately 6 hours exploring the ancient city of Petra. This allows visitors ample time to wander through the iconic rock-cut architecture, experience the rich history, and discover the key sights within this New7Wonders of the World destination.

Can Participants Bring Their Own Food to the Bedouin Camp?

Participants are welcome to bring their own food to the Bedouin camp, though meals are provided as part of the tour package. The camp offers a unique cultural experience, with traditional Bedouin hospitality and cuisine included in the tour.

Is There an Option to Purchase Additional Items During the Tour?

Yes, participants have the opportunity to purchase additional items during the tour. The tour includes meals, but travelers may wish to buy souvenirs, snacks or other items at the sites visited along the way.

What Is the Dress Code for Visiting Religious Sites?

When visiting religious sites, modest attire is typically expected. This usually means covering shoulders and knees, and avoiding overly revealing or disrespectful clothing. Checking specific site guidelines is recommended to ensure an appropriate dress code is followed.

Can Participants Take Photographs Inside Petra?

Visitors are generally allowed to take photographs inside Petra, though certain restrictions may apply. It’s best to consult with local guides or staff for specific guidelines on photography within the archaeological site.

Recap

This 2-day tour from Jerusalem to Petra offers travelers a comprehensive glimpse into Jordan’s rich history and culture.

Visitors will marvel at the ancient Nabataean city, a New7Wonder of the World, while also exploring the historic sites of Mount Nebo, Madaba, and Shobak Castle.

The overnight Bedouin-style campsite provides a unique opportunity to take in the local way of life.

It’s an unforgettable experience for anyone seeking to discover the wonders of Petra.