The highlight of any trip to Jordan is undoubtedly a Petra tour, and no holiday to the country would be complete without a few days spent here exploring. If you are looking to plan a holiday to Petra our complete travel guide highlights some of our favourite places to stay, how long you need to visit and how a trip to Petra can be incorporated into a Jordan itinerary.
Request a Brochure
North Africa & the Middle East
Petra, Jordan
No matter how many times you have seen this legendary city on television or in film, nothing prepares you for the first time take a trip to Petra, as you exit the tiny cleft of the Siq (the 1.2 kilometre-long narrow canyon leading into the city) to be confronted by the enormous splendour of the Treasury Tomb.
Built by the Nabateans, who grew rich through their control of the frankincense trade routes through Arabia, Petra fell into obscurity about a thousand years ago, while its existence - and location - were kept a closely-guarded secret by the local Bedouin.
In 1812, Johann Ludwig Burckhardt tricked his way into the site, and almost immediately tourists began to follow - in large numbers. Fortunately, even the largest crowds dissipate in this vast site.
Getting there and how long to stay.
See how you can include Petra in a trip to Jordan.
Our favourite places to stay when visiting Petra.