Petra, the ancient capital of the Nabataean kingdom, is without question the crown jewel of tourism in Jordan. Carved directly into rose-coloured sandstone cliffs more than 2,000 years ago, the city was lost to the Western world for centuries until its rediscovery in 1812. Today it is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the New Seven Wonders of the World.
Most visitors enter through the Siq, a dramatic 1.2-kilometre narrow canyon that opens onto the Treasury (Al-Khazneh), Petra's most photographed facade. Beyond it lie hundreds of carved tombs, the Roman-style theatre, the colonnaded street, the Monastery (Ad-Deir) high on the mountain, and panoramic viewpoints best reached at sunrise or sunset.
Give yourself at least one full day — two if you want the Monastery and the back trails. Comfortable shoes, water and sun protection are essential. Many travellers who hire car & driver in Jordan arrive early to beat the crowds, and full package tours to Jordan typically combine Petra with Little Petra, Wadi Rum and the Dead Sea in a single loop.
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