How to Get from Amman to Petra: Best Transfer Options & Day Trip Guide (2026)

Petra — the ancient Nabataean city carved into rose-red sandstone cliffs — is Jordan's most famous attraction and one of the New Seven Wonders of the World. If you are already staying in Amman, you are perfectly positioned for a day trip or overnight visit to this archaeological marvel. The journey from Amman to Petra is straightforward, with several transportation options to suit every budget and travel style.

This guide compares every way to get from Amman to Petra in 2026, including private transfers, guided tours, buses, rental cars, and taxis. We will also cover what to see, how much time you need, entry fees, and practical tips to make your visit unforgettable.

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Distance and Travel Time: Amman to Petra

The distance from Amman city center to Petra is approximately 230 kilometers (143 miles). The driving time depends on which route you take:

Desert Highway (Route 15): This is the fastest route, taking about 3 hours. The Desert Highway is a well-maintained, straight road that runs south from Amman past the airport towards Aqaba. It is the most direct route and the one most drivers use for speed. The scenery is mostly flat desert landscape.

King's Highway (Route 35): This scenic route takes approximately 3.5 to 4 hours. The King's Highway winds through dramatic mountain passes, pine forests, and historic towns like Madaba and Karak. If you have time, this route is beautiful but adds about 30–60 minutes to the journey. It is best suited for those who want to turn the drive into part of the experience.

Traffic note: Amman morning traffic can add 30 minutes to your departure. If you leave between 7:00 and 8:00 AM, factor in extra time to get out of the city. Departing by 6:00–6:30 AM is ideal for a day trip.

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Option 1: Private Transfer from Amman (Recommended)

For most travelers, a private transfer from Amman is the best way to reach Petra. A private driver picks you up from your hotel or accommodation in Amman, takes you directly to the Petra visitor center, and can wait while you explore or return at a scheduled time.

Cost: JOD 60–100 (approximately USD 85–140) for a standard sedan, depending on the vehicle type and whether you need a round trip.

Benefits:

• Door-to-door service: No navigating public transport or dealing with taxis. Your driver meets you at your hotel.
• Flexible timing: You choose when to leave and when to return. Want to arrive at Petra for sunrise? No problem. Need to stay until sunset? Your driver adjusts.
• Comfortable vehicles: Modern, air-conditioned cars or SUVs — essential during Jordan's hot summers.
• Wi-Fi and water: Most private transfer services include complimentary bottled water and in-car Wi-Fi.
• No negotiation: Fixed pricing means no haggling or surprises.
• Multilingual drivers: English-speaking drivers are available, often with knowledge of local history.

Round trip vs. one way: A round-trip private transfer with driver waiting (typically 6–8 hours at Petra) costs JOD 100–150. A one-way drop-off is cheaper, but you will need to find your own return transport. We recommend booking a round trip for the peace of mind of knowing your driver will be there when you finish exploring.

Booking tip: Book your private transfer at least 24 hours in advance during peak season (March–May, September–November). Services like Amman Limousine offer online booking with fixed rates and flight monitoring if you are arriving from the airport.

Book your Amman to Petra private transfer →

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Option 2: Guided Tour from Amman

Guided day tours from Amman to Petra are extremely popular, especially for solo travelers and couples who prefer a structured experience with a guide.

Cost: JOD 40–80 per person, depending on group size, inclusions, and the tour operator.

What is typically included:

• Round-trip transportation from your Amman hotel in a minibus or coach
• English-speaking guide
• Entrance fee to Petra (sometimes — check carefully)
• Bottled water
• Pickup and drop-off at your hotel
• Usually 4–5 hours inside Petra

What is not always included:

• Lunch (sometimes included, sometimes extra)
• Petra entry fee (some tours charge extra for the ticket)
• Guide inside the site itself (some tours provide a guide who accompanies you through the Siq and to the Treasury)

Pros:

• Educational experience with a knowledgeable guide
• Social option — meet other travelers
• Hassle-free logistics
• Often includes stops at viewpoints or other attractions along the King's Highway

Cons:

• Fixed schedule — you are on the group's timeline, not your own
• Limited time at Petra — most tours give 4 hours, which is barely enough to see the main sites
• Larger groups can feel rushed

Choosing a tour: Read reviews carefully. Some budget tours skip the Petra entry fee (JOD 50) and do not mention it until after you book. Look for tours that explicitly say "entry fee included" to avoid surprise costs.

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Option 3: JETT Bus from Amman to Petra

JETT is Jordan's government-operated bus company and offers a daily service from Amman to Petra. This is the cheapest organized option.

Departure point: Abdali station in central Amman (near the Abdali Mall and bus terminal).

Schedule (2026): Typically one daily departure at 6:30 AM from Amman, returning from Petra at 4:00 PM. Times can vary by season, so check the JETT website or call ahead.

Cost: JOD 15–20 per person (one way). A round trip is approximately JOD 30–35.

Duration: Approximately 3 hours each way.

Pros:

• Very affordable compared to private transfers
• Air-conditioned coaches
• Reliable schedule
• No negotiation or language barrier

Cons:

• Only one departure time — you must be at Abdali station by 6:00–6:15 AM
• Return bus departs Petra at 4:00 PM sharp — you lose about 1 hour of visiting time if you need to be at the gate early
• No flexibility — if you miss the bus, you are stuck
• You need to get yourself to Abdali station (taxi from most hotels costs JOD 2–5)
• No stops or scenic detours

Best for: Budget-conscious travelers who are comfortable with a fixed schedule and staying in central Amman near Abdali.

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Option 4: Rental Car

Driving yourself from Amman to Petra is a good option if you want maximum flexibility and plan to visit other destinations in Jordan (like Wadi Rum or the Dead Sea).

Car rental cost: JOD 20–40 per day for a standard economy car, plus insurance (JOD 10–15 per day for full coverage). A small SUV is recommended for the King's Highway.

Fuel cost: Approximately JOD 15–20 for a round trip from Amman to Petra.

Road conditions:

• Desert Highway: Excellent road surface, well-lit, clear markings. Easy driving.
• King's Highway: Winding mountain roads, some steep sections, and occasional slow trucks. Requires more attention but offers incredible views.
• General advice: Jordanian drivers can be aggressive — expect honking, close following, and unexpected overtaking. Drive defensively.

Parking at Petra:

• There is a large, secure parking lot near the Petra Visitor Center
• Cost: JOD 5–7 per day (free with some hotels)
• Parking is safe and monitored
• You do not need a 4x4 — a regular car is fine for the main roads

Pros of rental car:

• Complete freedom — stop anywhere, leave anytime
• Combine Petra with Wadi Rum or the Dead Sea on the same trip
• No reliance on schedules or drivers

Cons of rental car:

• You must handle navigation, fuel, and parking
• Not ideal if you plan to hike extensively at Petra (you will be tired for the drive back)
• Traffic in Amman can be chaotic for first-time visitors
• International Driving Permit required

Best for: Experienced drivers who are visiting multiple destinations in Jordan over several days.

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Option 5: Taxi from Amman

Hailing a taxi from Amman for a private trip to Petra is possible, though less common than booking a transfer.

Cost: JOD 70–120 for a round trip, depending on your negotiation skills and the driver's willingness to wait at Petra.

Negotiation tips:

• Agree on the price before getting in
• Specify whether the price is one-way or round-trip
• Clarify how long the driver will wait at Petra (standard is 6–8 hours)
• Confirm that the price includes fuel and any tolls
• Write the agreed price down to avoid misunderstandings later

Pros:

• Available immediately — no advance booking needed
• Negotiable price
• Most taxi drivers know the route well

Cons:

• Unpredictable quality — some taxis are older, less comfortable vehicles
• Language barrier possible outside of tourist-oriented drivers
• No guarantee of availability for the return trip if you do not negotiate a round trip
• Drivers may pressure you to visit shops or restaurants where they receive commissions

Best for: Last-minute trips when other options are unavailable, or if you are comfortable negotiating in Arabic or with a translation app.

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Comparison Table

Option	Cost	Duration	Flexibility	Comfort	Best For
Private Transfer	JOD 60–100 (round trip)	3 hours	High	Excellent	Families, groups, comfort seekers
Guided Tour	JOD 40–80/person	10–12 hours (incl. site time)	Low	Good	Solo travelers, couples
JETT Bus	JOD 15–20/person (one way)	3 hours	Very low	Moderate	Budget travelers
Rental Car	JOD 35–60/day (incl. insurance)	3 hours	Very high	Good (your own car)	Multi-destination road trips
Taxi	JOD 70–120 (negotiated round trip)	3 hours	Medium	Variable	Last-minute trips

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What to See in Petra

Petra is vast — the archaeological site covers 264 square kilometers. Most visitors focus on the main highlights near the central area.

The Siq

The entrance to Petra is a 1.2-kilometer-long natural gorge flanked by towering cliffs up to 80 meters high. The walk through the Siq is an experience in itself — the canyon walls reveal ancient carvings, water channels, and colorful rock formations. The walk takes about 20–30 minutes at a comfortable pace.

The Treasury (Al-Khazneh)

Petra's most iconic monument appears at the end of the Siq. Carved directly into the rose-red rock face, the Treasury stands 40 meters tall and is remarkably well-preserved. It was originally a royal tomb, though local legend says it held treasure. The best photo opportunity is in the morning when sunlight hits the facade directly (approximately 9:00–11:00 AM).

The Monastery (Ad-Deir)

The Monastery is Petra's largest carved monument, located about 800 steps above the main basin. The climb takes 45–60 minutes and is strenuous, especially in summer heat. The reward is a 45-meter-tall facade and panoramic views of the surrounding mountains. Go early in the morning or late afternoon to avoid the midday sun.

The Royal Tombs

A series of elaborate tombs carved into the cliff face along the eastern side of the main path, including the Urn Tomb, Silk Tomb, and Corinthian Tomb. These are easily accessible from the main trail and offer good photo opportunities.

The Amphitheatre

A 7,000-seat Nabataean-Roman amphitheater carved into the rock, located just past the Treasury. It is one of the best-preserved ancient theaters in the Middle East.

The Street of Facades and Colonnaded Street

These areas show the commercial heart of ancient Petra, with rows of tombs, temples, and market spaces.

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Suggested Itineraries

Sunrise Day Trip from Amman (Recommended)

• 5:30 AM — Depart Amman (private transfer or rental car)
• 8:30 AM — Arrive at Petra Visitor Center, buy tickets, use restrooms
• 8:45 AM — Walk through the Siq
• 9:15 AM — First glimpse of the Treasury (morning light is spectacular)
• 9:30–11:00 AM — Explore the Treasury, Street of Facades, Amphitheatre, and Royal Tombs
• 11:00 AM–12:30 PM — Climb to the Monastery (bring water and snacks)
• 12:30–1:30 PM — Lunch at the basin restaurant or picnic
• 1:30–3:00 PM — Further exploration or relax at a cafe near the visitor center
• 3:00–3:30 PM — Walk back through the Siq
• 3:30 PM — Depart for Amman
• 6:30 PM — Arrive back in Amman

Overnight Option

For a more relaxed experience, stay overnight in Wadi Musa (the town at Petra's entrance). This allows you to visit Petra over two days, see Petra by Night (candlelit Treasury on Monday, Wednesday, and Thursday evenings), and avoid the rush of day-trippers.

Two-Day Itinerary

• Day 1: Treasury, Siq, Royal Tombs, Amphitheatre (morning), Petra by Night (evening)
• Day 2: Monastery climb (early morning), Al-Beidha (Little Petra), and lesser-visited trails

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Practical Information

Opening hours (2026):

• Summer (May–September): 6:00 AM – 6:00 PM
• Winter (October–April): 6:00 AM – 4:00 PM
• Last entry is 1 hour before closing

Entry fees (2026):

• One day: JOD 50 (approximately USD 70)
• Two days: JOD 60 (approximately USD 85)
• Children under 12: Free
• Jordan Pass holders: Entry is included (does not require an additional ticket)

Jordan Pass: If you are staying in Jordan for at least 3 nights, the Jordan Pass offers excellent value. The pass covers your visa fee and entry to Petra along with 40+ other attractions. Prices start at JOD 70 for the Wanderer pass (1 day in Petra) and JOD 75 for the Explorer pass (2 days in Petra).

Best time to visit:

• March–May and September–November are ideal — temperatures are 20–30°C (68–86°F) and crowds are manageable
• Summer (June–August): Hot (35–40°C / 95–104°F) — start early and carry plenty of water
• Winter (December–February): Cool and quiet — fewer tourists but occasional rain. Petra by Night runs year-round

What to bring:

• Comfortable walking shoes with good grip (you will cover 10–15 km on uneven terrain)
• Sun protection: Hat, sunglasses, sunscreen
• At least 1.5 liters of water per person (more in summer)
• Snacks or a light lunch
• Cash (JOD) — the cafes inside Petra accept cash only
• Camera and spare batteries
• A light jacket or scarf (the Siq is shaded and can be cool even in summer)

Dress code: Jordan is a conservative country. While Petra is a tourist site, dressing modestly is respectful and practical:

• Cover shoulders and knees
• Light, breathable fabrics in summer
• A scarf is useful for sun protection and covering your head if desired
• Sturdy, closed-toe walking shoes are essential

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FAQ: Amman to Petra

What is the best way to get from Amman to Petra?

A private transfer is the best option for most travelers. It offers door-to-door service, flexible timing, and comfortable vehicles at a reasonable cost (JOD 60–100 round trip). If you are on a tight budget, the JETT bus at JOD 15–20 is the cheapest option.

How long does it take to drive from Amman to Petra?

The drive takes approximately 3 hours via the Desert Highway or 3.5–4 hours via the King's Highway.

Can I do a day trip to Petra from Amman?

Yes. A day trip is very doable if you leave by 6:00 AM and return by 6:30–7:00 PM. You will have 5–6 hours inside Petra, which is enough to see the main highlights (Treasury, Siq, Monastery, Royal Tombs).

How much does the Petra entry fee cost?

JOD 50 for one day, JOD 60 for two days. Children under 12 enter free. Jordan Pass holders get free entry.

What is the best time of year to visit Petra?

Spring (March–May) and autumn (September–November) offer the best weather with comfortable temperatures and manageable crowds.

Do I need a guide for Petra?

Not necessarily. The main trail from the Siq to the Treasury and Monastery is well-marked and easy to follow. If you want deep historical context or plan to explore the lesser-known trails (like the High Place of Sacrifice or the Snake Monument), a guide adds significant value.

Is Petra safe for solo travelers?

Yes. Petra is very safe for solo travelers, including women traveling alone. The site is well-patrolled, the path is clear, and local Bedouin are generally friendly and helpful. Standard precautions apply — keep valuables secure and stick to marked trails.

What should I wear when visiting Petra?

Wear comfortable, sturdy walking shoes, light clothing that covers shoulders and knees, a hat, and sunscreen. Bring a scarf for sun protection and a light jacket for the shaded Siq area.

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Book Your Amman to Petra Transfer

Ready to experience Petra? We offer comfortable private transfers from your hotel in Amman directly to the Petra Visitor Center. Our English-speaking drivers, modern air-conditioned vehicles, and flexible scheduling make your journey stress-free from start to finish.

WhatsApp: +962 7 9000 0000 — Book in minutes

What we include:

• Hotel pickup and drop-off in Amman
• New, air-conditioned vehicles
• English-speaking driver
• Complimentary water and Wi-Fi
• Flexible timing — you choose your schedule
• Flight monitoring if arriving from the airport
• Fixed pricing with no hidden fees

Book your private transfer now →

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Planning more of your Jordan trip? Check out our guides:

• From Queen Alia Airport to Petra — arriving directly from the airport
• From Queen Alia Airport to Wadi Rum — combine Petra with the desert
• From Queen Alia Airport to the Dead Sea — don't miss this natural wonder

Last updated: June 2026. Prices and schedules may change — always confirm with your provider before booking.