For Petra, the question is how close to the gate you want to be. For Wadi Rum, it is which kind of camp. Most first-timers spend two nights in Wadi Musa and one in the desert. Here is how the areas compare, and the hotel we would pick for each kind of trip.
A note on 2026
Visitor numbers are lower than in peak years, and a number of Wadi Musa hotels have closed or scaled back. The properties below were listed and bookable in late 2026, but confirm facilities and seasonal openings, such as pools, before you travel.
At the Petra gate: for the earliest start
The hotels clustered around the visitor centre let you walk into the Siq at opening, come back for a rest in the heat of the day and stroll to Petra by Night. Our splurge pick is the Mövenpick Resort Petra, a five-star resort about 50 metres from the gate, with a rooftop garden, several restaurants, a seasonal pool and a spa. Next door, the Petra Guest House Hotel offers the same location for less, with rooms and garden chalets that suit families and the Cave Bar, set in a Nabataean tomb, for an evening drink.
Wadi Musa town: for value
The town climbs the hill above the gate, with most hotels along the main roads and a choice of restaurants and shops. Staying a short walk up Visitor Center Street saves money without losing much convenience. Our pick is the Petra Moon Hotel, about ten minutes’ walk from the gate, with around 52 rooms, family rooms and a rooftop with a seasonal pool and Jacuzzi. Further up the hill, hotels are cheaper still, but you will want taxis to the site.
Near Little Petra: for quiet
North of town, a handful of camps sit in the sandstone hills near Little Petra and the Neolithic site of Beidha. Seven Wonders Luxury Camp has dome tents and cabins with balconies and mountain views, and puts you close to the back trail to the Monastery. You will need taxis or a car for the main gate and town restaurants.
Wadi Rum: for the desert night
Camps range from simple Bedouin tents to domes with private bathrooms and wide windows. Sun City Camp is a well-known choice for its air-conditioned Martian domes, buffet meals, zarb dinners and stargazing sessions, about fifteen minutes from the visitor centre. Most camps include dinner and breakfast and can arrange jeep tours and transfers.
Aqaba: for the sea
If you want to end by the Red Sea or would rather visit Wadi Rum as a day trip, base yourself in Aqaba, an hour from the desert, with beachfront hotels and reefs off the shore.
Matching base to trip
For a first visit and comfort at the gate, the Mövenpick. For the gate location on a smaller budget, the Petra Guest House. For value with a rooftop pool, Petra Moon. For a quiet glamping night near Little Petra, Seven Wonders. For the classic Wadi Rum night, Sun City Camp.
Practical tips
Wadi Musa nights are cold from November to March, so check heating. Ask camps whether transfers from the visitor centre are included, and confirm meal plans when you book.
