Recently updated on April 29th, 2025 at 04:23 pm
Welcome to Jordan, Petra: an archaeological marvel carved into sandstone as much as 2500 years ago and one of the New Seven Wonders of the World. Lost to the sands of time, it was generally unknown to the wider modern world until a Swiss explorer stumbled upon the lost city in 1812. The “Rose City” is carved into rose-colored sandstone and was a famed marvel even back in the years before Christ due to its rock-cut architecture and water systems, and is now a protected UNESCO World Heritage site. It’s not easy to navigate such an ancient and unique landmark. Here is your handy Trafalgar guide with 8 things you need to know before visiting Jordan, Petra.
1. You can travel with confidence
Jordan may be in a region with a history of conflict, but it remains one of the most welcoming and safe destinations, even for solo female travelers. The main thing to watch out for isn’t danger but potential scams, so staying aware is key. Hospitality is deeply ingrained in the culture, and violent crime is rare. In fact, Gallup’s 2022 Law and Order Report places Jordan among the top 10 countries where people feel secure walking alone at night. While it’s always smart to take basic precautions—securing travel insurance, keeping cash to a minimum, and locking up valuables—there’s no reason to let fear deter you. Jordan is an incredible country which you can explore with confidence.
2. Follow the lead of those you greet
Respecting local customs is key, so be prepared for different greeting styles. Some Muslims, out of respect for their religion and spouse, avoid physical contact with the opposite gender unless they’re family. If you reach out for a handshake or lean in for a hug, don’t be surprised if they don’t reciprocate—it’s nothing personal.
Same-gender greetings, on the other hand, can be quite warm, with handshakes, hugs, and even multiple air kisses on each cheek. If you’re unsure, let the other person take the lead. A handshake or hug may be offered, but if they keep their hands at their sides or place their right hand over their heart, that’s their way of acknowledging you. Simply standing, smiling, and saying hello is always a safe and respectful way to start.
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3. It’s really useful to get a guide in Petra, Jordan
Having a knowledgeable guide can make all the difference when exploring Petra. You’ll get to know them personally and can ask endless questions, learning new insights, preparing you for key moments, and using their expertise to get a much deeper understanding of this incredible site.
Independent travelers can hire a guide from the visitor center, with rates starting at 50 J.D. (about $70 USD). You can experience the same and more by joining a guided tour with Trafalgar, where a dedicated Travel Director and Local Expert will lead the way. While it’s possible to explore Petra on your own, having a guide is highly recommended—this UNESCO World Heritage site has a rich and complex history that’s best understood with an expert by your side.
4. You need to prepare appropriate clothes
When visiting Jordan, try to be mindful of local customs and dress codes, especially when exploring cultural and religious sites. While Jordan is a Muslim-majority country, it is home to a diverse range of beliefs. Jordan is more relaxed compared to other countries, and the Bedouins, for instance, are typically not bothered by uncovered shoulders.There is no legal requirement for women to wear the hijab, but modest dress is encouraged, particularly in public and religious spaces. Low-cut tops, short skirts, and shorts should be avoided to show respect for local customs.
If you plan to visit a place of worship, both men and women must cover their knees and shoulders, and women are generally expected to cover their hair, chest, and neck. In Petra, women do not need to cover their head, though a scarf can be helpful for shielding against the sun and dust. When visiting Petra, comfort is key. The site is vast, with sandy and rocky terrain, so make sure to wear sturdy, comfortable walking shoes or trainers. The ground can get hot and dusty, and climbing to famous viewpoints can be rough, requiring durable footwear. Early mornings in spring or autumn can be cool, so bring an extra layer, or a raincoat if you’re visiting in winter. Since Petra has very little shade, a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen are essential to protect yourself from the sun.
5. It’s not always hot and sunny in Jordan
Contrary to the common belief that Jordan is always hot, dry, and sunny, the country experiences a true winter season from November to February. If you’re planning to visit Jordan any time from mid-October to mid-March, don’t forget to pack warm layers and a waterproof jacket. Monitoring the weather is crucial, as flash floods sometimes happen and are of course dangerous, so even iconic sites like Petra could close due to bad weather.
During this time, expect chilly days with temperatures often dipping below 10ºC (50ºF) and freezing nights around 0ºC (32ºF). Rain, cloudy skies, and even snow, sleet, or hail aren’t uncommon.
While the warmer months from May to September do bring the classic desert heat and sunshine, be prepared for a cooler, wetter Jordan if you’re visiting in winter.
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6. Alcohol is legal, but it is restricted and heavily taxed
Alcohol is legal in Jordan, but it’s subject to high taxes, which means you’ll pay a premium. If you do choose to drink, always be mindful of local customs and consume alcohol in moderation. It’s also wise to check ahead about availability and restrictions, especially during Islamic holidays or in Muslim-owned establishments.
During Ramadan, for example, alcohol sales are prohibited throughout the country, with some exceptions for high-end hotels. In Wadi Rum, most camps don’t serve alcohol, but you’re often permitted to bring your own.
So, while Jordan offers a variety of alcoholic beverages, from local wines by St George and Jordan River to craft beer, it’s important to understand the cultural nuances and plan accordingly.
7. Smoking shisha and cigarettes is common
Smoking is widely accepted in Jordan. Argeeleh (shisha) is a national pastime, with Argeeleh cafes plentiful throughout the country. While alcohol may be harder to find in some areas, you’ll have no trouble enjoying a shisha session. Cigarette smoking is also very common, even in indoor public spaces where it’s technically banned. So travelers with health concerns should keep Jordan’s smoking culture in mind, If you prefer to avoid smoke, it’s a good idea to ask about non-smoking options when booking rooms, restaurants, tours, or transportation to ensure a more comfortable stay.
8. There are some food options at the site, but try bring your own
Inside Petra, food and drink options range from simple Bedouin food stands offering local dishes and snacks to tea stalls and café kiosks. While the food stalls are convenient, they tend to be more expensive than expected, so it’s a good idea to stock up on drinks and snacks before heading in. Water is readily available from cooled fridges in Bedouin tents for around 1-2 JOD per large bottle.
For those looking for a more prepared meal, many hotels offer packed lunches upon request the night before. The availability of water, snacks, and more means you won’t have to go without during your visit. Just keep in mind that prices inside the site are higher, so plan accordingly.
What to pack for Petra, Jordan:
- Water (purchasable inside Petra but more expensive)
- Comfortable, sturdy walking shoes (Essential for exploring Petra’s rugged terrain)
- Hat (For sun protection)
- Sunglasses (To shield your eyes from the strong sun)
- Sunscreen (Protect your skin during long days in the sun)
- Scarf (To cover your shoulders for sun protection)
- Camera (To capture the stunning views)
- Small backpack (For your essentials, like water, camera, and snacks)
- Cash (For purchasing food, water, and souvenirs)
- Blister plasters (In case of foot discomfort from walking long distances)
- Snacks (To keep hunger at bay during long hikes. There will be stalls and coffee shops inside Petra, but you might have to walk for a while before you find one)
- Reusable water bottle (To reduce plastic waste)
Note: Tap water is generally not drinkable in Jordan, so it’s advisable to carry your own water. Plastics litter the lovely landscapes, so try to bring your own instead of buying water bottles there.
Top sights in Petra, Jordan:
1. The Siq
The adventure begins as you enter the Siq, a 1.2 km-long canyon leading from the Visitor Centre to the Treasury. Walking through this narrow passage, flanked by towering pink and orange rock formations, feels like stepping into another world. The moment the Treasury comes into view is truly awe-inspiring and a magical introduction to Petra.
2. Al-Kazneh (The Treasury)
The Treasury is Petra’s most famous landmark, a 40-meter-high, intricately carved tomb built into the rock. Despite its name, it was never a treasury but the burial place of a Nabatean king. Interestingly, it was targeted by tomb raiders looking for treasure, and you can still spot bullet holes in the rock from their attempts to breach its defenses. As of December 2018, the Treasury is no longer open to visitors inside.
3. The Theater
A short walk from the Treasury brings you to the impressive Theatre, seating over 8,000 people. It’s a massive structure that’s impossible to miss and offers another glimpse into Petra’s grand scale.
4. Royal Tombs
Beyond the theatre, you’ll find the Royal Tombs, four rock-carved tombs, each with intricate facades. These tombs are slightly less well-preserved than the Treasury due to flood damage over the centuries, but they remain an impressive sight. You can climb stairs to visit the tombs’ interiors, and nearby stalls sell souvenirs.
5. Colonnade Street
Running through the heart of Petra, Colonnade Street is lined with columns, though much of it is in ruins due to the frequent flash floods over the millennia. There are still areas yet to be excavated, giving you a sense of Petra’s vastness.
6. Monastery
The Monastery is located at the far end of Petra and requires a tough 820-step climb to reach. The Monastery’s 50-meter-high façade is remarkably well-preserved and, like the Treasury, carved into the rock. Although it’s called a “Monastery” because of Byzantine-era crosses found inside, it was likely originally a temple. There’s a tea shop near the Monastery to relax after the hike.
7. High Place of Sacrifice
The High Place of Sacrifice, once used for ceremonial offerings, involves a steep 45-minute climb. The path is well-marked, but without railings, it’s best suited for those confident on uneven terrain. The views from the top are magnificent, offering sweeping panoramas of Petra’s rock formations and monuments.
Are there toilets in Petra, Jordan?
Petra offers several toilet facilities throughout the site, though their quality can vary – some are basic sheds, while others are more like proper buildings. Most require a small tip to the attendant, so it’s a good idea to carry some toilet paper with you just in case. You’ll find these toilets in convenient spots, such as near the Visitor Centre, the Theatre, the museum, and at the start of the Siq. There are also portaloos by a couple of cafés.