Petra, the Nabataean city carved into rose-coloured sandstone in southern Jordan, is one of the most famous sights in the Middle East, and it can be reached on a day trip from Sharm el-Sheikh. Tours of this kind usually leave in the small hours, head to the port for the crossing of the Gulf of Aqaba, clear the border formalities and then drive on to Petra, where you walk in through the narrow gorge known as the Siq to the Treasury, the building you see on every postcard. Your guide explains the history of the Nabataean traders who built the city, and you have time to wander the main route past tombs and facades before the return journey. The day is long and the programme is tight, but it lets you tick off a world-famous site without a multi-day tour. Crossing a border means passports, forms and some waiting, so go with a good guide and a flexible attitude.
What the day looks like
Expect a pick-up in the middle of the night, a sea crossing, border checks on both sides and a drive into the mountains. The core of the visit is the walk through the Siq, a winding corridor of high rock walls that opens suddenly onto the Treasury.
After that, most groups follow the main trail along the Street of Facades, with time for a meal and some shopping before the return. The route and the time at the site vary by operator and by the ferry schedule, so ask for the plan and how long you will actually have in Petra.
Paperwork and passports
This is an international trip, so you will need a valid passport and your operator will explain what is needed for the Jordan entry, including any visa arrangements for your nationality. Get the details early, since forms are often filled in during the day. Some travellers use a regional pass that covers entry, so ask the operator what is included in the price and what you must pay on the day.
What to wear and bring
Sturdy walking shoes, a hat, sunscreen, a refillable water bottle and layers, as the Siq is shaded but the site can be very hot, and early mornings on the water are cool. Plan to walk several kilometres on uneven ground. Donkeys, horses and carriages are offered along the route, and prices are best agreed in advance with your guide's help. Camera and phone batteries drain fast, so bring a power bank.
Is it worth it? Many people say Petra is the highlight of their trip, but a single day is short, and the schedule is demanding. If you can spare more time, a longer visit from Aqaba or Wadi Rum gives you more hours inside the city. Before you book, check your government's current travel advice for Egypt and for Jordan, and confirm the crossing arrangements with your operator.
Pacing yourself
The walk in is gently downhill and the walk out is gently uphill, so save some energy for the return, particularly in the afternoon heat. Eat a good breakfast, sip water regularly and take a short rest in the shade if you feel tired. If you are fit and your schedule allows extra time at the site, ask your guide about a short climb to a viewpoint above the Treasury, which many people say gives the best photographs.
Allow for a long, sleepy journey back, and keep your passport and any paperwork somewhere easy to reach for the crossing.
What to expect
The experience
A guided international day trip that crosses the Gulf of Aqaba, with a long walk through the Siq to the Treasury and the main route at Petra.
Best time
Spring and autumn are the most comfortable for the walking; summer is very hot and winter mornings are cool, so dress in layers.
How long
A full day, often more than twenty hours door to door with the night start, the crossing and the border checks.
Tips
Carry your passport, wear sturdy shoes, bring water and a power bank and ask the operator what the price covers, including entry and the Jordan arrangements.
Quick picks
- Best for
- Travellers who want one of the world's great sights and are happy with a long, tightly timed day.
- Families
- Best for older children and teenagers who can handle an overnight start and several kilometres of walking.
- Couples
- A dramatic day with a real sense of adventure, though the schedule leaves little time to linger.
- Pair with
- A slow beach day and the Naama Bay promenade afterwards to recover.
- Time needed
- One very long day, plus a rest day.
Good questions
How do you get to Petra from Sharm el-Sheikh?+
Day tours normally cross the Gulf of Aqaba by sea and continue by road. Your operator will explain the crossing, the border checks and the timings when you book.
Do I need a visa for Jordan?+
It depends on your nationality, and rules change. Ask the operator what is arranged for you and check your own government's guidance before you travel.
How much time do you get at Petra?+
Usually several hours on site, but it depends on the crossing and the schedule. Ask for the planned time at the site before you book.
How much walking is there?+
A good deal, several kilometres on uneven ground, including the Siq. Wear sturdy shoes and carry water. Donkeys and carriages are available at a cost.
Is a day trip enough?+
It gives you the highlights, mainly the Siq and the Treasury. If Petra is the main reason for your trip, a longer visit gives you time for the Monastery and the quieter trails.
