brown concrete building during daytime

Explore Petra's Wonders

Your essential guide to ticket options for an unforgettable journey through Petra's ancient beauty. Learn about ticket options for Petra, including the Jordan Pass and regular entry tickets

An extensive guide to visiting Petra and deciding between the Jordan Pass and regular entry tickets. A Guide on How to Book Online, Which One to Book Smart & Fast

Petra is a world-renowned archaeological site that draws visitors from all corners of the globe, especially from Europe, North America, and South America. This ancient city, estimated to be around 3,000 years old, is accessed through a narrow canyon called Al-Siq. Walking through this passage reveals an awe-inspiring view of Petra. The site, carved directly into pink sandstone cliffs, has led it to be known as the "Red Rose City." Its stunning temples and structures appear bathed in a warm, rose-colored glow, offering an experience that truly must be seen to be appreciated.

When visiting Petra, you'll see the stunning Sunstone Cliff, which is truly a sight to behold. Among its attractions is one of the most famous structures, Al-Khazneh, also known as The Treasury. While there are plenty of other sights to explore, it’s wise to consider how you buy your tickets. Tickets are available both online and onsite, but during peak season, queues can get very long, which could cost you valuable time. Booking online allows you to skip the line, saving you a lot of time. There are two options: purchasing a ticket online or using the Jordan Pass. In this article, I'll cover the details and compare the benefits of each. First, let’s look at how to buy tickets online and decide if it's best to go with an online ticket or the Jordan Pass.

To buy tickets online:

1. Visit the Official Website. Look for the "Buy Your Ticket" button at the top right. Click it.

2. Enter the visitor's name, mobile number, and email address.

3. Tickets are valid for over a year.

4. Select your arrival date and time. For the best experience, I recommend visiting early in the morning; Petra opens at 6 AM and closes at 6 PM.

Once you've entered the date and time, click "Next."

Ticket Options

- One-Day Ticket: This includes a day visit only and costs 90 JD.

- One-Day and Overnight Ticket: For a day visit plus one night, this costs 50 JD.

- Two-Day Ticket: Slightly discounted at 55 JD.

- Three-Day Ticket: Available for 60 JD.

Select your ticket type and quantity, then proceed with the purchase.

1. Start by selecting the adult ticket. After adding it, you may proceed to the next step.

2. Enter your name, followed by your passport details. Be sure to carry your passport with you.

3. To make your passport mandatory, enter your date of birth.

4. Next, select your country. Some countries are restricted, meaning you cannot make online payments; you'll need to apply for a visa first to secure a ticket. If your country is unrestricted, you can proceed with the online payment.

5. Choose your gender, then enter your name, mobile number, and email address.

6. You will see an option for a one-day ticket priced at 50 JD, with a 1.20 processing fee, bringing the total to 51.20 JD. You can choose to pay by credit card or e-wallet. There’s a slight difference: with e-wallet, the total is 51 JD.

7. Once you've chosen your payment method, confirm by checking the relevant boxes. Enter your credit card details, including card expiry date, name, and security code.

8. You’ll receive a one-time password (OTP) to complete the payment. After payment, you can transfer your ticket to your mobile.

You can get the information in either digital or hard copy form, though I recommend taking a hard copy for easier reference.

Petra ticket booking site
Petra ticket booking site
Petra ticket choosing options
Petra ticket choosing options

Now, moving on to ticket types: The second option is a single-day visit, which doesn't require an overnight stay.

For the day tour, the ticket costs 90 JD. Enter the quantity and if you're booking for children over 12 years, note that their entry is free. Fill in your details accurately—use the exact name and number on your passport without alterations.

After entering your name, add your date of birth, select your country and gender, then click "Next." For payment, you can choose between credit card or eFAWATEERCOM both methods work well. Just remember to select your preferred option and make the payment.

Now, let's return to the two-day visit option. For a two-day visit with an overnight stay, the fee is 55 JD, which includes the accommodation fee for a one-night stay in Jordan.

If you’re planning a visit to Petra, you have a few ticket options to consider:

1. Single-Day Tour: If you’re only visiting for a day, you can buy a single-entry ticket.

2. Multi-Day Pass: For a longer stay, such as three days, choose a multi-day ticket. It cost 60 JD.

For overnight stays in Jordan, a minimum one-night accommodation in Jordan is required for the “Accommodated Visitor” pass, or you can pay a 1 JD fee if you’re a local resident. For foreign visitors staying longer, there’s a ticket available at 10 JD, while Arabs pay 30 JD. i.e. People from Jordan and other Middle Eastern countries can select the 30 JD option. Tickets can also be bought through third-party sites like Get Your Guide, though these may cost a bit more.

For an even more convenient option, you might consider the Jordan Pass. Simply go to the Jordan Pass website and follow the instructions for online purchasing. To enter Petra, tourists often use the Jordan Pass because the cost is inclusive of a visa, as it allows entry directly into Petra. The Jordan Pass need to be obtained online in advance, but it's important to note that it isn’t available upon arrival—you must apply for it online before you travel.

To apply for the Jordan Pass, follow these steps on the official website:

1. Select "Buy Now" and enter your details.

2. Provide your full name and email address, and re-enter the email address for confirmation.

3. Enter your telephone number and indicate the main purpose of your visit (e.g., tourist, historical site visit).

4. Specify your accommodation type, such as a three-star hotel, and indicate how many nights you plan to stay in Jordan.

5. For travelers staying about a week, a seven-day pass is typically sufficient to explore the entire country.

If arriving by air, you’ll also need to select your airline information as part of the application process.

To begin, please enter the airline you're flying with and whether you're traveling alone, as a couple, with family, with friends, or as part of an organized group. After that, specify who you’re traveling with (e.g., family).

Next, provide the expected day of arrival, as well as the month. For example, are you arriving in October, November, or December? Keep in mind that the period from October to December is peak season. It's winter, making it an enjoyable time to visit, as the temperatures are cooler.

When selecting your ticket type, consider the following options: Jordan Wanderer, Jordan Explorer, and Jordan Expert. I recommend the Jordan Explorer ticket, which provides two days for a comprehensive exploration, especially of Petra. Two days is often enough to fully enjoy this location, but if you prefer a one-day visit, go with Jordan Wonder. For a more extended three-day stay, Jordan Expert is available.

To book tickets for Jordan Explorer, first decide how many people need tickets. If you’re an adult, enter the number of adults in your group. Children under 12 don’t need tickets, but they must be accompanied by a parent or guardian. For example, if you're booking for a family with five adults, only enter the number of adults (five).

If you'd like to add access to Bethany Beyond the Jordan," you can select this option as well. However, some attractions, like the Train Ride Adventure, aren’t highly recommended, so feel free to skip those.

jordan pass options
jordan pass options
jordan pass
jordan pass

Here’s a breakdown of the costs:

- For Jordan Wanderer Per Adult: 70 JD, Jordan Explorer 75 JD and Jordan Expert 80 JD

- Processing fee Applicable

Now, to complete your booking:

1. Enter your full name.

2. Select your country of residence.

Once these steps are complete, your ticket purchase should be all set!

To enter, please provide the following details:

1. Passport Number: Enter your passport number exactly as it appears on your passport. The name on the passport must match.

2. Date of Birth: Input your date of birth. This is necessary for the raffle.

3. Proceed to Payment: After entering your details, you'll move on to the payment section.

4. Payment Information: If you have not yet provided your passport number, you must complete that before proceeding. You will see the total fee inclusive of processing fee. Review the amount carefully before moving forward.

5. Enter Card Details:

- Card Number

- Expiry Date

- Cardholder Name

- CVV

6. Complete Payment: After entering the card details, you will receive an OTP (One-Time Password). Enter the OTP to finalize your payment.

7. Ticket Confirmation: Once payment is complete, you will receive a hard copy of your ticket in your email. It’s important to carry the hard copy because QR codes can sometimes fail to scan on mobile devices.

8. At the Amman Airport: When you arrive at the airport, present the hard copy of your ticket to be scanned.

About the Jordan Pass:

The Jordan Pass provides prepaid entry to over 40 attractions in Jordan including Petra.

It is valid for 12 months, but once you first scan your pass, it must be fully utilized within 14 days. Though it can be used at any time within the 12-month validity.

You can save on tourist entry fees if you purchase the Jordan Pass before arriving in Jordan, as well as save on visa costs (approximately $50) if you stay a minimum of three nights and four days. This outline should help clarify the process and benefits of obtaining a Jordan Pass. If you consider the Jordan Pass, it offers significant benefits, particularly in terms of cost savings—about $30 compared to individual ticket purchases. However, it's important to note that the Jordan Pass requires a stay of at least three nights and four days. If you plan to visit Jordan, opting for the Jordan Pass is a wise choice.

With the Jordan Pass, you gain access to numerous attractions, including Petra, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, as well as various museums, castles, and more. While Petra is relatively small, it's definitely worth the visit. Additionally, if you're interested in exploring further, Wadi Rum is about a 2-hour journey from Petra. You can also visit the Amman Citadel and many other sites, all included with the Jordan Pass. To take advantage of the Jordan Pass, just keep your passport handy, as it grants you free entry to these attractions. For context, a one-day ticket to Petra alone costs around 70 JD. The main difference with the Jordan Pass is the duration of access; the Jordan Explorer allows you to visit Petra for two consecutive days. If you plan to stay for three days, you'll have the flexibility to visit daily without any issues. Overall, whether you choose to buy tickets online or opt for the Jordan Pass, the experience remains the same, but the pass offers you more value for your stay. The Jordan Pass is non-refundable and cannot be canceled, so it's essential to carefully choose your dates before purchasing.

If you're interested in exploring the Trails, you can purchase tickets directly there or at the visitor center. The visitor center also offers golf carts for easier navigation around the site.

You’ll find various trails available, but I highly recommend two trails in particular. The first is the Main Trail, which spans 4 kilometers one way (8 kms round trip). Expect the journey to take about 2 hours, with a moderate level of intensity. Along this trail, you'll encounter significant landmarks such as Al Khazna and The Theater. The route I'm suggesting isn't a narrow path; it's well-defined on both sides. This route is completely accessible, and you must follow it to see all the incredible sites along the way. One of the best options is to take the main trail. If that doesn’t appeal to you, I recommend another route called " Al Dayr 1 Trail." It's only a 2 km trail, so the round trip will be about 4 km. The walking distance one way is 2 km, and it typically takes about two hours to complete. This trail offers an easy to moderate experience, though it has some challenging sections.

Along the way, you can explore many locations, making it one of the best hiking experiences available. The main trail is highly recommended, but this alternative is also worth considering. It’s noted as one of the most well-known hiking routes.

As you navigate through Petra, be sure to visit iconic spots like The Siq, Al Khazna (The Treasury), The Theater, The Round Tower, and The Church Complex of Petra, as well as Tomb 649. Some locations are a bit farther apart, while others are quite close, so plan accordingly. Don't forget to take photos along this scenic route—they're sure to be spectacular!

You can easily get around by taking a Golf Cart for separate charges from visitor canter.

First, visit the Petra Museum, which is very close to the entrance of Petra. Just before you get there, you'll find Wadi Musa, the main town where you'll find hotels, hostels, restaurants, and everything you need. It's only about 1 km away, so you can stay there and then head to the Petra Museum, which is also worth seeing.

Additionally, I recommend visiting Dana Nature Reserve, which is nearby to Petra. After that, you can go to Wadi Rum, which is about a two-hour drive away. There are many sights to see there as well.

If you're interested in experiencing some events in Petra, I suggest two activities. The first is the "Nabatean Water System Management Tour." This tour offers a fascinating look at the ancient water management system used over 3,000 years ago. You'll get to meet local community members, enjoy tea and sweets, and learn about the system from the locals.

If you're also interested in Star Gazing, I can recommend that as well. Another experience you shouldn't miss is the Petra Balloon ride, which takes you around 4 km for a unique view of the area.

Lastly, consider the "Petra by Night" experience, which is truly one of a kind. Just remember, you'll need to purchase a separate ticket for that, which costs 17 JD.

Petra by Night Information:

- The Jordan Pass does not include Petra by Night; it only covers daytime entry to Petra.

- Petra by Night takes place on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays from 8:30 PM to 10:30 PM. To attend, you need to be at Petra by 7:30 PM.

- Tickets for Petra by Night can be purchased at the visitor center. Children under 10 years can enter for free, while adults need to pay 17 JD for their tickets.

- No advance reservations are available, but there are unlimited tickets for Petra by Night. The experience is particularly enchanting, as the site is illuminated by candles.

- Guide will accompany Petra by Night Show during your visit. Enjoy your visit to Petra, and don't miss the magical experience of Petra by Night!

Opening Hours for Petra:

- From October to March, Petra opens at 6:00 AM and closes at 5:30 PM.

Petra Visitor Information

- Litte Petra Ticket Office Hours: The ticket office is open from 7 AM to 3 PM in summer. During the winter, hours are extended from 7 AM to 2 PM.

- Guided Tours: Guided tours are available in Petra, and I highly recommend taking one. There are many guides on-site who can enhance your experience.

- Amenities: Petra offers various amenities, including restrooms, restaurants, and souvenir shops, all conveniently located near the entrance.

- Accommodation: You cannot stay overnight in Petra itself. However, you can find accommodation in the nearby Wadi Musa, which has plenty of restaurants and hotels.

- Nearby Attractions: In addition to Petra, you might consider visiting nearby attractions like Wadi Rum and the Dead Sea. While Little Petra is also close, it may not be as thrilling as the main site.

- Ticket Purchases: Tickets can be purchased at the visitor center, but be prepared for a bit of a queue. To avoid this, consider buying a general pass online or a Petra pass if you are planning a day tour.

- Petra Night Show: Note that tickets for the Petra Night Show are separate from regular admission tickets.

- Jordan Pass: For those holding a Jordan Pass, keep in mind that this is not necessary for Arabic nationals; a regular ticket suffices.

- Visa Requirements: If you are arriving at Aqaba Airport, some nationalities will require a visa, which should be obtained from a Jordanian embassy in your country prior to arrival.

For foreign and non-resident travelers, you can arrive directly at Aqaba Airport. Upon showing your passport, you can either board a flight or enter the country. However, if you are from a restricted nationality, you will need to obtain a visa in advance. This includes travelers from countries like Sri Lanka, Afghanistan, Pakistan, Ethiopia, Angola, and Cuba, among others.

If you're coming from Amman, the capital of Jordan, you have several transportation options to visit Petra. You can take a bus using the Jett Bus service, which departs from 6:30 AM onwards and returns at 5 PM. You can book tickets through the Jett Bus website. Additionally, public mini-buses are available, and private transportation options can also be arranged.

To reach Petra from the airport, you can hire a private taxi. Public buses and taxis are also available from Aqaba Airport, and if you're coming from the border, taxis can be accessed there as well.

It's advisable to save the contact information for Wadi Musa (the nearest town to Petra) along with a mobile number and email address in case of emergencies. There are many rangers in Petra who can assist you if needed.

In case of an emergency, you can contact the center, which is available at every location, including Petra. If you're unable to walk, there are several options to help you navigate the area: you can hire a horse, donkey, camel, or even use a golf cart. I recommend using a golf cart for convenience, but be aware that some locations require walking up stairs. If walking isn’t feasible, horseback or donkey rides are also available.

As for entry fees to Petra, here’s the breakdown:

- Accommodated Visitors:

- 1 day: 50 JD

- 2 days: 55 JD

- 3 days: 60 JD

- Non-Accommodated Visitors (Day Tours):

- 1 day: 90 JD

- Residence fee: 30 JD

If you have a temporary pass holder, the fee is 10 JOD for them.

The cost for optional services is as follows:

- Golf Cart (Club Car) Service:

- 15 JD for a one-way trip to the Treasury (4 km)

- 15 JD for a one-way trip back to the Visitor Center (4 km)

- 25 JD for a round trip

- 10 JD for a visit to the Petra Theater

The main trail ticket prices are:

- 50 JD for the Main Trail plus High Place

- 100 JD for the Main Trail plus Monastery

If you're visiting during the Petra Night Show, please note that you cannot access Petra by taking the Petra Night Show option.

For the Petra Night Show, a daylight ticket is required. You can check the timing for Club Cars, which operates from 7 AM to 5 PM.

I've provided you with complete details regarding Petra, including the option to buy your ticket online. Feel free to check the online tickets if you’re planning your visit. If you have any more questions or doubts, don’t hesitate to ask by Contacting Us.

Explore Petra Today

Your guide to visiting Petra and choosing the best ticket options for an unforgettable experience

A narrow path in a canyon between two large rocks
A narrow path in a canyon between two large rocks
a group of buildings built into the side of a mountain
a group of buildings built into the side of a mountain

Visiting Petra

A guide to Petra's ticket options and attractions

Tickets

Petra, Jordan

Hours

6 AM - 6 PM