Stories of Discovery & Wonder

Two-Day Petra, Dead Sea & Wadi Rum Shore Excursion from Aqaba

Cover Petra’s carved canyons, float in the Dead Sea and explore Wadi Rum’s desert in a compact 2‑day shore excursion from Aqaba. This guided route balances walking in ancient stone with jeep time in sweeping dunes.

Aqaba, Aqaba Governorate•

2 days (approx. 48 hours)

•By Adventure Collective•October 2025

The Experience

Morning light slices the red rock as your cruise ship slips into Aqaba and a guide waits with your name on a sign. Within hours the jagged mouth of the Siq narrows and Petra’s Treasury appears—stone carved into memory—while later the Dead Sea’s saline surface buoyantly lifts you, and Wadi Rum’s vast sandstone plains unfold under a cobalt sky.

Before You Go

Hydrate continuously

Carry at least 1–2 liters of water per person for Petra and Wadi Rum; refill where available—desert transfers are long.

Footwear and steps

Wear sturdy walking shoes with grip; Petra has uneven stone and steps that can be slippery if wet.

Sun protection

Use high‑SPF sunscreen, a wide‑brim hat and sunglasses—shade is limited on the route between sites.

Cash for tips and extras

Bring small Jordanian dinar notes for tips, optional camel rides (~10 JD) and local purchases where cards aren’t accepted.

Local Knowledge

Hidden Gems

•Little Petra (Siq al‑Barid) offers quieter carved facades and fewer crowds.
•Lawrence Spring area in Wadi Rum provides dramatic rock silhouettes for sunset photography.

Wildlife

•Nubian ibex (seen on Petra’s cliffs)
•Rüppell’s (desert) fox and small lizards in Wadi Rum

Conservation Note

The Dead Sea’s water level is dropping due to upstream diversion—stay on marked paths, avoid collecting artifacts, and use reef‑safe or biodegradable sunscreen to reduce pollution.

Petra was the Nabatean trade hub built into rose‑colored sandstone; Wadi Rum has been occupied by Bedouin communities for millennia and was a backdrop to Lawrence of Arabia.

What to Bring

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Sturdy walking shoesEssential

Support and traction for Petra’s flagstones and short hikes in Wadi Rum.

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Reusable water bottle with filter or 1–2L capacityEssential

Long transfers and desert heat make regular hydration essential.

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Sun hat and high‑SPF sunscreenEssential

Protects against intense desert sun during daytime walks and jeep tours.

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Swimwear and quick‑dry towel

Useful for floating and hotel spa facilities at the Dead Sea.

Common Questions

How much walking is in Petra?

Expect 3–5 hours of walk time depending on pace; the main Siq to the Treasury is flat but reaching the Monastery or Royal Tombs adds steps and inclines.

Can I float in the Dead Sea and is it included?

Yes—hotel time at the Dead Sea includes access to flotation and mud facilities; bring swimwear and avoid shaving beforehand due to high salinity.

Are camel rides included?

Camel riding is optional and typically charged extra (about 10 JD / 15 USD); a short horse ride from Petra’s main gate may also be offered with a tip expected.

What about visas and cruise timing?

Many nationalities receive visas on arrival but check requirements ahead; the tour coordinates pickup/dropoff based on cruise port times—provide your ship’s schedule at booking.