Visiting the ancient rose-red city of Petra from the Aqaba port is an opportunity not to be missed. Operated by Jordan Horizon Tours, the Petra Shore Excursion offers a comprehensive experience that transports travelers back in time. With a knowledgeable guide, private transportation, and a delicious lunch, guests can explore the iconic landmarks of this UNESCO World Heritage Site, including the dramatic Siq and the awe-inspiring Treasury. Whether by horse-drawn carriage or camel, the journey through Petra promises an unforgettable adventure that will leave one wanting to uncover more about this remarkable destination.
Key Points
- Jordan Horizon Tours offers a Petra shore excursion from Aqaba Port, costing $320 per person and including transportation, entrance fees, lunch, and a guided tour.
- The tour lasts 2.5 hours for small groups and longer for larger groups, with moderate physical fitness required to explore Petra’s ancient city.
- Highlights of the tour include the iconic Siq, the famous Treasury, and various temples, tombs, and theaters showcasing the Nabataean civilization.
- Visitors can choose between a horse-drawn carriage or a camel ride to explore Petra, both of which are included in the tour cost.
- The tour includes an authentic Jordanian lunch at a local restaurant, providing an opportunity to experience the local cuisine and culture.
Tour Overview
According to the information provided, the Petra Shore Excursion is a private tour/activity operated by Jordan Horizon Tours, departing from the Aqaba Port.
The tour costs from $320.00 per person and is non-refundable. The tour includes meet and assist service at the port, private air-conditioned transportation, entrance to Petra, lunch at a local restaurant, an English-speaking guide, and various tips.
The tour duration is 2.5 hours for groups of 1-6 and the full trip duration for groups of 7 or more. Pickup and drop-off are at the King Hussein Street in Aqaba.
The tour requires a moderate physical fitness level and isn’t wheelchair accessible.
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Inclusions and Exclusions
The Petra Shore Excursion includes several key services and amenities.
Travelers can expect meet-and-assist service at the Aqaba Port, a private air-conditioned vehicle with an English-speaking driver, and entrance fees to the ancient city of Petra.
Lunch at a local restaurant is provided, as well as an English-speaking guide for the 2.5-hour tour (or the duration of the trip for groups of 7 or more).
Mineral water, a horse-drawn carriage or camel ride, and all necessary tips are also included.
However, travelers must pay for any beverages at the restaurant, travel insurance, and personal expenses not listed.
The tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, and infants must sit on laps.
Meeting and Pickup
The meeting point for the Petra Shore Excursion is King Hussein Street in Aqaba, Jordan.
The driver will be waiting at the cruise ship with a sign for easy recognition. From there, travelers will be transported in a private, air-conditioned vehicle with an English-speaking driver to the excursion site.
At the end of the tour, the activity will conclude back at the original meeting point on King Hussein Street.
The pickup and drop-off service ensures a seamless and convenient experience for guests exploring the ancient city of Petra from the Aqaba port.
Exploring the Rose-Red City
Upon arrival at the Petra site, visitors embark on a captivating journey through the ancient rose-red city. Traversing the iconic Siq, a narrow gorge with towering sandstone walls, they catch their first glimpse of the magnificent Treasury, Petra’s most famous monument. Exploring further, they discover an array of temples, tombs, and theaters that showcase the Nabataean civilization’s engineering prowess and artistic brilliance. The exploration continues as they navigate the city’s winding streets, marveling at the intricate architecture and vibrant colors that give Petra its distinctive character. This UNESCO World Heritage Site offers a spellbinding experience, transporting visitors back in time to the glory days of the Silk Road.
Feature | Description |
---|---|
Siq | Narrow, winding gorge leading to the city’s main entrance |
Treasury | Petra’s most iconic and well-preserved monument |
Architecture | Intricate, rose-red sandstone structures and temples |
History | Nabataean civilization that flourished along the Silk Road |
Horse-Drawn Carriage or Camel Ride
As visitors explore the ancient city of Petra, they can choose between two captivating modes of transportation – a horse-drawn carriage or a camel ride.
The horse-drawn carriage provides a leisurely and comfortable way to take in Petra’s stunning architecture and natural landscapes.
Alternatively, the camel ride offers a more authentic, immersive experience, allowing travelers to traverse the same paths as the ancient Nabataean people.
Both options provide a unique and memorable way to discover the wonders of Petra.
The tour includes the cost of either the carriage or camel ride, ensuring a seamless and hassle-free experience for all participants.
Dining Experience in Petra
Included in the Petra Shore Excursion is a lunch at a local restaurant, either Al Qantara Restaurant or My Mum Recipe Restaurant. Both options provide an authentic dining experience, allowing visitors to savor traditional Jordanian cuisine. The restaurants offer a variety of dishes, from hearty main courses to refreshing beverages.
Dish | Al Qantara Restaurant | My Mum Recipe Restaurant |
---|---|---|
Main Course | Mansaf (national dish of Jordan) | Mujadara (rice and lentils) |
Appetizer | Meze Platter (hummus, baba ghanoush, tabbouleh) | Fattoush Salad |
Dessert | Baklava | Um Ali (traditional baked pastry) |
The lunch break provides a welcomed respite during the tour, giving travelers a chance to refuel and enjoy the local culinary culture.
Duration and Physical Fitness
The Petra Shore Excursion is a comprehensive tour that requires a moderate level of physical fitness from participants.
The duration of the tour varies depending on the group size. For groups of 1-6 people, the guided portion in Petra lasts approximately 2.5 hours. For larger groups of 7 or more, the entire tour duration is extended to accommodate the needs of the larger party.
Visitors should be prepared for walking over uneven terrain and navigating steps. While the tour includes options for horse-drawn carriage or camel rides, a reasonable level of mobility is necessary to fully enjoy the experience.
Those with mobility concerns should consult with the tour operator prior to booking.
Customer Reviews and Ratings
Traveler feedback on the Petra Shore Excursion paints a generally positive picture, with the tour earning an overall rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars across 3 reviews.
Though the tour lacks any 5-star reviews, the majority of customers seem satisfied with their experience. Reviewers highlight the knowledgeable guide, comfortable transportation, and comprehensive inclusions as standout features.
However, a few note the moderate physical fitness required for the tour. The Petra Shore Excursion appears to offer a well-rounded sightseeing experience for cruise ship passengers, with the caveat that those with mobility concerns may find the activities challenging.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks?
Participants can bring their own food and drinks, but the tour includes lunch at a local restaurant. Outside food and beverages are generally allowed, though the tour provider encourages guests to enjoy the included meal during the excursion.
Are There Any Age Restrictions for the Tour?
The tour does not have any age restrictions. Infants can participate, sitting on laps, and infant seats are available. However, a moderate physical fitness level is required for the tour, so very young children or elderly may struggle.
What Is the Cancellation Policy for This Excursion?
The cancellation policy for this excursion is non-refundable – there are no refunds for cancellations. The tour is a private activity, so it’s important for customers to be aware of the strict cancellation terms before booking.
Can I Customize the Tour Itinerary?
The tour is a private excursion, so customers can’t customize the itinerary. However, the operator may be able to accommodate special requests or adjust the tour details to fit the group’s needs, subject to availability and additional fees.
Is There a Dress Code for the Tour?
There’s no strict dress code, but it’s recommended to wear comfortable, loose-fitting clothing and closed-toe shoes. Visitors should also avoid wearing revealing or overly casual attire out of respect for the site’s cultural and religious significance.
Recap
The Petra Shore Excursion from Aqaba Port offers an unparalleled opportunity to discover the ancient wonder of Petra. With private transportation, an expert guide, and a delectable lunch, the tour ensures a seamless and unforgettable experience. Guests can choose to explore the iconic sites on foot or opt for a thrilling horse-drawn carriage or camel ride, making this an adventure that caters to all. Exceptional customer reviews further attest to the excellence of this shore excursion.
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