Wadi Rum and Petra: 2-Day Adventure from Eilat Border to Amman
Cross from Eilat into Jordan and spend two intense days exploring Wadi Rum’s desertscapes and the carved wonders of Petra. This compact itinerary combines a 4x4 Bedouin-led jeep tour, optional camel or horse rides, and a guided walk through the Siq to the Treasury.
The Experience
Before You Go
Prepare for border processing
Allow extra time at the Eilat/Allenby border — carry passports, visas and any entry paperwork readily accessible to avoid delays.
Hydration and sun protection
Desert sun is strong year-round; carry at least 2–3L of water, sunscreen and a broad-brim hat for daytime touring.
Footwear for Petra
Wear closed-toe shoes with good tread—Petra involves uneven stone, steps and some loose gravel on approach trails.
Cash for local services
Bring Jordanian dinar for tipping guides, camel/horse handlers and small purchases; many camps accept only cash.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Little Petra (Siq al-Barid) for quieter Nabataean ruins
- •Sunset viewpoint at Lawrence Spring in Wadi Rum for broad desert panoramas
Wildlife
- •Nubian ibex
- •Red fox (desert fox)
Conservation Note
Both sites are sensitive to foot traffic and erosion; stick to marked paths, avoid climbing fragile rock faces, and support local Bedouin-run camps to keep tourism sustainable.
Petra was the Nabataean capital controlling incense and spice trade routes; Wadi Rum later gained prominence for its Bedouin culture and as the backdrop to Lawrence of Arabia’s campaigns.
What to Bring
Sturdy hiking shoesEssential
Grip and ankle support for Petra’s carved steps and Wadi Rum’s rocky trails.
Sun hat & sunscreenEssential
Protects against intense desert sun during mid-day drives and walks.
Insulating layerEssential
Nights in Wadi Rum can be cold; a warm layer is important if camping.
Reusable water bottle with filter or large capacityEssential
Maintains hydration on long site visits where water access may be limited.
Common Questions
Do I need a visa to enter Jordan at the Eilat border?
Many nationalities receive a visa on arrival at the Jordanian border, but check visa rules for your nationality before travel and carry passport details and any required documents.
Can I choose to stay overnight in Petra or Wadi Rum?
Yes—the tour offers a choice of overnighting in a Petra hotel or a Bedouin camp in Wadi Rum; amenities differ between options.
How much walking is involved in Petra?
Expect several hours of walking over stone paths and steps; the guided portion is about three hours but visitors often spend longer exploring independently.
Are camel rides included?
A 700m horse ride in Petra is available and camel rides in Wadi Rum are optional for an extra fee; handlers typically expect a tip.
Book This Experience
Check AvailabilityDuration
2 days (approx. 48 hours; 4–5 hours active touring Day 1, ~3–4 hours guided walking Day 2)
Location
Wadi Musa, Ma'an Governorate
Difficulty
moderate
Fitness Level
Moderate fitness—able to walk several hours on uneven ground and climb stone steps; comfortable with bumpy jeep rides.
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