3 days in Jordan

Word from curator

Sandra, Jordan expert

The ancient city of Petra is one of the most famous archaeological sites in the world. It was the capital of the Nabatean Kingdom and flourished as a major trading hub during ancient times. It continues to inspire awe and fascination today.

The most iconic feature of Petra is the Al-Khazneh, also known as the Treasury. This impressive rock-cut facade serves as the entrance to the city and is carved into the towering cliffs. As you walk through the narrow canyon known as the Siq, your are greeted with the grandeur of the Treasury, a magnificent sight that has captivated travelers for centuries.

Beyond the Treasury, Petra is home to numerous other archaeological wonders. The city features intricate rock-cut tombs, temples, and structures carved into the sandstone cliffs. Notable sites include the Monastery (Ad-Deir), the Royal Tombs, the Great Temple, and the Street of Facades.

Hiking trails is the best and only way to fully experience this ancient city. Your journey starts at the Visitor Center and can stretch up to 5 miles to the farthest site – the Monastery. Here is how we recommend to spend your time in Petra:

🥾 Start your day with the easiest and most popular Main Trail that takes you through the Dam, the Siq canyon, the famous Treasury, and ends at the City Complex with stunning sights like Street of Facades, Nabatean theater, Royal Tombs, and the Great Temple. This is a 5-mile round-trip trail that will take you 3 to 4 hours.

🥾 Go further up to the Monastery, one of the largest and most impressive structures in Petra. This trail is short and adds about an hour round-trip, but requires climbing about 800 steps. But as always, the views at the end are totally worth it.

The Main Trail and then to the Monastery is your minimum in Petra. Check out the links section for this trail details on AllTrails. If you are ready for a more strenuous adventure once you're back to the City Complex from the Monastery, here are some great options:

🥾 Hike up to the Treasury From Above viewpoint (Al Khubtha Trail). This trail is quite strenuous, but takes you to the best views in whole Petra, adding just 1-2 extra hours to your day. We love this detour because it's not crowded.

🥾 High Place of Sacrifice Trail is another strenuous option from the City Complex, taking you to the panoramic viewpoint of the city down in the valley. It adds another hour to your total exploration time.

☀️ We strongly recommend starting before 7am to avoid heat. There are restaurants and restrooms with drinking water where you can hide from mid-day heat. They are located in the central area, right at the start of the Monastery trail.

Exploring Petra allows to immerse yourself in the rich history and architectural marvels of this ancient civilization. The craftsmanship and engineering feats of the Nabateans are evident throughout the site, showcasing their mastery in creating a thriving city in the midst of a desert landscape.

In addition to its historical significance, Petra offers stunning natural beauty. The surrounding landscapes are characterized by rugged canyons, colorful rock formations, and breathtaking views. The interplay of light and shadow on the sandstone cliffs creates a visually striking experience, particularly during sunrise and sunset.

Petra is not only a remarkable archaeological site but also a testament to human ingenuity and the enduring legacy of the Nabatean civilization. It is a must-visit destination for history enthusiasts, adventure seekers, and those seeking a truly unique travel experience.

Word from curator

Sandra, Jordan expert

Little Petra, also known as Siq al-Barid, is another remarkable archaeological site located near Petra. This smaller sister site offers a more intimate and tranquil experience compared to the bustling Petra, allowing visitors to explore at their own pace and appreciate the details of the site.

It served as a trading hub and features narrow passages, rock-cut facades, and ancient structures. Highlights include the Painted House, which showcases well-preserved frescoes depicting scenes from daily life and religious symbols. The rock-cut architecture and the intricate details of the structures offer a glimpse into the ancient civilization that thrived in the region.

Little Petra complements the grandeur of Petra and provides a deeper understanding of the Nabatean civilization. It is a hidden treasure that allows you to connect with the rich history and archaeological wonders of Jordan, offering a memorable experience that combines exploration, cultural discovery, and a sense of tranquility.

Word from curator

Sandra, Jordan expert

Petra By Night is a special evening experience that offers a unique and magical way to explore the ancient city of Petra. It allows you to witness the site illuminated by the soft glow of 1,500 candles. Truly magical.

This enchanting event only happens on Mondays, Wednesdays and Thursdays, starting at 8:30 pm at the visitor center and taking about 2 hours total. We encourage you to dress warmly, as evenings in the desert can be cool.

During Petra By Night, you will follow a candle-lit pathway that leads through the Siq to the iconic Treasury (Al-Khazneh). The Siq, usually bustling with activity during the day, transforms into a tranquil and mystical passage as the candlelight guides your way.

As you make your way through the Siq, the surrounding cliffs and rock formations create mesmerizing shadows, adding to the ambiance of the experience. The anticipation builds as you approach the Treasury, and suddenly, it emerges illuminated by the warm glow of countless candles, casting an ethereal light on the magnificent facade.

Once at the Treasury, you are invited to sit on carpets and cushions arranged in front of the monument. Here, you can enjoy a traditional Bedouin music performance while sipping tea and immersing yourself in the captivating atmosphere.

The storytelling and music transport you back in time, allowing you to imagine the rich history and legends that surround this ancient city. The serene ambiance, combined with the striking beauty of Petra's iconic Treasury, creates a truly unforgettable and magical experience.

Participating in Petra By Night offers a unique opportunity to witness the ancient city in a different light, providing an enchanting and memorable experience that highlights the mystique and beauty of this extraordinary UNESCO World Heritage Site

Word from curator

Sandra, Jordan expert

The Jerash Ruins are one of the most well-preserved ancient Roman cities in the world. This archaeological site showcases the grandeur and architectural brilliance of the Roman Empire during its peak.

The ruins of Jerash are spread over a vast area and offer a captivating glimpse into the past. You can explore the well-preserved structures, including the stunning Oval Plaza, the imposing Hadrian's Arch, the grand Hippodrome, and the impressive Temple of Artemis. The ancient streets, paved with original stones, lead to temples, theaters, and public buildings that give insight into the daily life and culture of the time.

Walking through the ruins of Jerash, you can appreciate the intricate details of the columns, the mosaics, and the towering arches. The site's acoustics are particularly remarkable, as demonstrated during performances in the restored Roman theater, where the sound carries flawlessly to every seat.

In addition to the Roman remains, Jerash also features remnants of other civilizations, including Byzantine and Umayyad structures. The blending of different architectural styles and periods adds to the richness and diversity of the site.

Visiting the Jerash Ruins is like stepping back in time, offering a unique opportunity to experience the magnificence of the ancient Roman world. Whether you're a history enthusiast, an architecture lover, or simply curious about the past, Jerash promises an awe-inspiring journey into the distant past.

Word from curator

Sandra, Jordan expert

Amman is home to several fascinating ancient Roman ruins that provide glimpses into the rich history of the region. These archaeological sites offer a chance to explore the remnants of Roman civilization and witness the architectural marvels of the time.

The most prominent Roman ruin in Amman is the Roman Theater, situated in the heart of downtown. This well-preserved amphitheater was built during the 2nd century AD and could seat around 6,000 spectators. Today, it continues to host cultural events and performances, offering a unique experience of stepping back in time while enjoying modern entertainment.

Another notable nearby site is the Citadel, perched on the highest hill in the city. Within the Citadel complex, you can explore the remnants of the Roman Temple of Hercules, which includes massive columns and an imposing entrance. The Citadel also offers panoramic views of Amman's skyline and provides insight into the city's ancient past.

In addition to these major sites, there are other smaller Roman ruins scattered throughout Amman. These include the Nymphaeum, an ornamental fountain that served as a gathering place in ancient times, and the impressive Hercules Statue, a well-preserved marble statue of the mythical hero.

Exploring the Roman ruins in Amman offers a unique opportunity to appreciate the architectural ingenuity and grandeur of the Roman Empire. It allows you to connect with the city's past and gain a deeper understanding of its historical significance.