7 Best Day Trips from Amman to Petra for Solo Travelers

Looking for the best day trips from Amman to Petra and are pressed for time? You’ve landed in the right spot. 

As a solo female traveler who’s ventured through Jordan for a month, including a memorable two days in Petra, I’ll cover everything you need to know to make this trip as smooth and enjoyable as possible.

Traveling solo here does come with its quirks—Jordan tends to attract more families, couples, and organized groups, making some solo adventures a bit of a planning exercise. 

Especially when it comes to transportation, as public transportation in Jordan is limited, and costs for private options don’t drop if you’re riding solo since they charge by vehicle. 

I’ve been known to splurge on convenience or team up with fellow travelers to cut costs. It’s all doable with a bit of forethought.

As someone who’s navigated Jordan solo, from Petra to Wadi Rum and the Dead Sea, I’m here to share the insights and tips that made my journey unforgettable. 

Let’s explore how you can make the most of your Petra day trip from Amman, even if you’re short on time.

👉 Check out all the available Petra tour options from Amman. Don’t forget to read the reviews!

Can You Do Petra as a Day Trip from Amman?

While I would recommend you spend the night in Wadi Musa—that’s the town where Petra is located—Petra is absolutely doable in a day from Amman. But brace yourself for a good amount of walking under the sun!

I explored most of Petra in a day by starting early.

It was an intense but utterly rewarding full day of chasing views from the Treasury to the Monastery. By the end, my legs were turning to jelly.

I returned a second day to take a fun horseback riding tour, and I did Petra by Night, too (overrated, in my opinion).

Despite the exhaustion of a full day of walking and step-climbing, I wouldn’t have it any other way. Petra is freakin’ amazing!

The visit can always be spread over two or three days if you prefer a less rushed experience.

For those short on time, considering a day tour from Amman to Petra might be your best bet for efficiency and ease, despite not being the cheapest route. 

Organized day trips from Amman to Petra typically cover all logistics, including transport in an air-conditioned vehicle, and can save you the hassle after a long day of exploration. 

That said, renting a car or taking the bus are viable options if you want to save some cash and don’t mind a bit of extra legwork (more on that towards the end of the article).

3. Three-Day Private Tour from Amman: Petra, Wadi Rum, Dana, Aqaba, and Dead Sea

⭐️ RATING: 5 out of 5 | ⏳ TOUR LENGTH: 3 days | ✅ Book it!

▶ Check Rates and Availability for 3-day Private Tour: Petra, Wadi Rum, Dana, Aqaba, and Dead Sea

This 3-day private tour is the ultimate Jordanian adventure, designed for those who want to dive deep into the country’s most iconic landscapes and historical sites. It includes Dana Biosphere Reserve and the Red Sea, which the other day trips from Amman to Petra do not.

With your own personal driver/guide, your group can explore at a pace that suits you, making it an ideal choice for families, friends, or solo travelers who value convenience. 

For those on a tighter budget, connecting with fellow travelers through social media or hostels to share the cost could be a savvy move – that’s what I would do. 

I also appreciate they offer a transportation-only option that lets you book accommodations separately and still enjoy the convenience of a private car. You have options!

Key Features:

• Private tour for up to 7 people with a personal driver/guide, offering a customizable and intimate experience.
• Visits to Dana Nature Reserve, Shobak Castle, Little Petra, Petra, Wadi Rum, Aqaba, and the Dead Sea.
• Mix of guided exploration and independent time.
• Accommodations included for two nights, one in the Petra area and another in a Wadi Rum Bedouin camp.

“We had a fantastic three days with Raed! We went at our own pace and got to see everything we came for. We rode in a very comfortable car. Raed was very accommodating and provided history along the way.”

-Greg (Read more reviews)

Pros:

• Comprehensive Itinerary: Covering significant Jordanian highlights, this tour offers a deep dive into the country’s natural and historical treasures over three full days.
• Flexibility: The private nature of the tour means you can tailor the experience to your group’s interests and pace.
• Cultural Depth: Overnight stays, especially in the Bedouin camp, provide a unique insight into local traditions and lifestyles.
• Personalized Guidance: Having a dedicated driver/guide enhances the experience with historical context and logistical ease.

Cons:

• Cost for Solo Travelers: The price tag can be steep for solo adventurers since it’s a private tour, paying almost the same cost as a couple.
• Entrance Fees and Some Meals Not Included: While providing flexibility, the exclusion of some meals and all entrance fees can add unexpected costs to your budget. Consider buying the Jordan Pass to save money.
• Seasonal Limitations: The tour doesn’t stop at the Gulf of Aqaba during the winter months due to shorter days, which might be a downside for those looking forward to the Red Sea.

4. Full-Day Trip from Amman to Petra (All-Inclusive Option Available)

⭐️ RATING: 5 out of 5 | ⏳ TOUR LENGTH: 8-11 hours | ✅ Book it!

▶ Check Rates and Availability for Full-Day Trip to Petra from Amman

I spent a full day in Petra, walking several miles and climbing up and down hundreds of ancient steps. I don’t think I would have had any energy to explore Wadi Rum or other destinations after that – then again, I had the luxury of time.

For those who prefer a focused visit without the rush of cramming multiple destinations into a single day, this full-day trip to Petra from Amman stands out. 

This tour offers a straight shot to one of the world’s wonders with an all-inclusive package that takes the hassle out of planning.  I appreciate the all-inclusive option that includes entrance fees and a local guide for Petra, which most tours leave you to handle separately.

Or, choose the no-frills option if you want. 

Key Features:

• Option for an all-inclusive package, covering entrance fees to Petra and a 2-hour guided tour with a local expert.
• Return private air-conditioned transport with onboard WiFi and water, ensuring a comfortable journey.

“There wasn’t a formal tour but basically transportation which was just fine. I’m happy to explore on my own. The driver Ahmed was amazing!”

-Laura (Read more reviews)

Pros:

• Simplicity and Focus: By concentrating solely on Petra, this tour allows for a deeper exploration of the site without the fatigue of additional destinations.
• All-Inclusive Option: Including a local guide and entry fees in the package provides significant value and convenience.
• Flexible Packages: Whether you’re looking for just transportation or the full package, there’s an option that fits your style and budget.

Cons:

• Cost for Solo Travelers: The all-inclusive option can be pricey for solo visitors, though the value is evident in the services provided.
• Self-Pay Lunch: Meals are not included, requiring travelers to budget for their own dining experiences in Petra.
• Guide Only for Limited Time: The local guide is available for two hours, which might feel brief for some – but you may also enjoy exploring on your own as I did.

5. From Amman: Full-Day Petra Tour

⭐️ RATING: 5 out of 5 | ⏳ TOUR LENGTH: 10-12 hours | ✅ Book it!

▶ Check Rates and Availability for Full-Day Petra Tour

This private journey allows for a customizable experience, with the flexibility to start your day as early as 6:30 am or as late as 9 am – I know it’s hard to get up early on vacation but trust me, you’re going to want to get there as early as possible!

You have the option to include Petra tickets in your package or opt for transportation only, tailoring the trip to your preferences and budget.

Having about 5-6 hours at Petra means you can explore at your own pace, tackling the hikes to the Treasury viewpoint and the Monastery without feeling rushed. 

You’re going to be tired after a full day exploring Petra, so you’ll very much appreciate not having to drive back to Amman on your own. 

Key Features:

• Private transportation from Amman to Petra.
• Options available for including Petra entry tickets with transportation or opting for transportation only (like if you already have the Jordan Pass).
• Insightful interaction with the driver, who shares tips about Jordanian culture and advice for making the most of your time in Petra.
• Approximately 5-6 hours to explore Petra, providing ample time to see its key sights.

“I had an AMAZING day at Petra. My driver for the day, Essam, picked me up at 6:30am and we got going from there. The drive to Petra is three hours but it goes by fast. Essam stopped about halfway through coming and going for a chance to get some water, snacks, and gifts on the road.”

-Melinda (Read more reviews)

Pros:

• Flexibility: The option to start your tour early allows you to beat the crowds and the heat, making your visit more enjoyable.
• Cultural Insights: Drivers ensure you get to and from Petra safely and enhance the journey with cultural insights and practical tips.
• Convenience: Let someone else do the driving, so you can nap on the way home.

Cons:

• Cost for Solo Travelers: Like the other options, the price may be a bit steep for solo visitors. However, the convenience and personalized service can justify the expense for many.
• No Guide Included: While the tour does not include a local guide in Petra, the driver provides valuable tips on the way there. For those seeking a deeper dive into Petra’s history, hiring a local guide upon arrival is recommended but comes at an additional cost.

Other Options for Day Trips from Amman to Petra

The day trips from Amman to Petra reviewed above are very popular – and you really can’t go wrong with any of them.

Guided tours are super convenient for checking out Petra from Amman, but trust me, they’re not the only option to explore this ancient wonder. 

If you’ve got some extra time or crave adventure like me, driving or using public transport is another option. 

Spending a night in Wadi Musa, the town where Petra is located, gives you more flexibility in terms of exploring the site. 

Why Stay Overnight in Wadi Musa?

Petra is huge, sprawling across the desert, with hundreds of sites that could keep you busy for days. I’m not exaggerating when I say you’ll probably walk miles exploring Petra, including climbing up and down uneven stone steps. 

While a whirlwind tour can hit the highlights in a few hours, staying in Wadi Musa allows you to explore at a leisurely pace, diving deeper into the city’s secrets without the looming worry of a long drive back to Amman.

The journey from Amman to Petra typically follows the Desert Highway (Highway 15), a straightforward route that gets you there in about 3 hours. 

Renting a Car: Freedom on Four Wheels

I spent a month driving around Jordan and am so glad I did! 

Renting a car gives you the freedom to explore at your own pace. Rental prices average between 25 and 30 JD (about 35 and 40 USD) per day. 

The roads in Jordan are well-maintained, and navigating is straightforward once you’re out of Amman’s hectic streets.

Make sure your maps are downloaded for offline use, and plan for the drive to take more time than expected.

The Taxi or Private Driver Route

For those apprehensive about driving in Jordan or simply preferring not to, taxis and private drivers offer a convenient alternative.

In my experience, taxi drivers tend to have the best recommendations for local food, so be sure to ask!

A taxi ride to Petra might cost around 85 JD one-way, but it’s wise to negotiate or ask your accommodation for help in securing a fair price. Haggling is expected in Jordan, and you should ALWAYS agree on a price before getting in a taxi.

Hiring a private driver, starting at around $195 USD, not only takes the driving off your hands but can also enrich your journey with local insights and recommended stops.

Taking the Bus: A Budget-Friendly Choice

The JETT bus provides a direct link from Amman to Petra, departing Amman at 7am from 7th Circle and returning in the afternoon, with the last bus to Amman leaving Wadi Musa at 5pm. One-way tickets cost 10 JD.

However, given that the drive takes 3 hours each way, and Petra’s extensive grounds, a day trip by bus is too rushed for a fulfilling visit. 

If your schedule allows, consider staying overnight in Wadi Musa to ensure you can experience Petra without feeling pressed for time.

Final Thoughts: Trips to Petra from Amman

And there you have it, folks—the best day trips from Amman to Petra. Whether you choose a guided tour for its convenience and insights or strike out on your own for a bit of adventure, Petra’s ancient wonders are within reach.

Honestly, I was expecting to be let down by Petra after how much hype it gets – but it actually exceeded my expectations.

Remember, while tours can offer a hassle-free way to experience Petra, they might come with a higher price tag, especially for solo travelers. 

Each option—from the all-out adventure of combining Petra with Wadi Rum in a single day to the more focused and leisurely exploration of Petra alone—has its own set of pros and cons. It all boils down to what you’re looking for in your journey: convenience, depth of experience, or maybe a bit of both.

For those who want a bit more independence and want to save some cash, renting a car is a smart move.

It’s not just cost-effective—it allows you to explore at your own pace, maybe even venture off the beaten path. Jordan’s roads are welcoming, and the drive itself is part of the adventure.