Petra is the undisputed highlight of any Jordan trip – and the Jordan Pass Petra combination is the smartest way to experience it. This guide covers exactly how the Jordan Pass works at Petra, how to choose the right number of days, and how to make the most of your time in the rose-red city.
Is Petra Included in the Jordan Pass?
Yes – every Jordan Pass includes Petra entry. The number of consecutive days at Petra depends on your package:
| Package | Petra Days Included | Pass Price (~USD) | Petra Ticket Separately |
|---|---|---|---|
| Wanderer | 1 day | ~$70 | ~$74 (day 1 only) |
| Explorer | 2 consecutive days | ~$80 | ~$117 (2-day ticket) |
| Insider | 3 consecutive days | ~$99 | ~$137 (3-day ticket) |
Even the basic Wanderer pass saves you money compared to buying a Petra ticket separately, once you factor in the visa waiver. The Explorer and Insider passes save exponentially more. See full pricing details on our Jordan Pass fee page.
How to Use the Jordan Pass at Petra
- Arrive at the Petra Visitor Centre in the town of Wadi Musa
- Present your Jordan Pass QR code (digital or printed)
- Staff will scan it and issue your Petra entry ticket
- Walk or take a horse-drawn carriage down the entrance path
- Pass through the Siq canyon to reach the iconic Treasury
Important: The Petra visitor centre opens at 6:00 AM. Arrive early to reach the Treasury before tour groups arrive around 9-10 AM.
How Many Days Do You Need at Petra?
Petra covers over 264 square kilometres and contains hundreds of ancient monuments. Here’s a realistic guide:
1 Day at Petra (Wanderer)
Possible but rushed. With an early 6 AM start and high energy, you can cover:
- The Siq entrance
- The Treasury (Al-Khazneh)
- The Street of Facades
- The Roman Theatre
- The Royal Tombs
- The Colonnaded Street and Nymphaeum
You probably won’t have time for the Monastery (Ad-Deir) hike, which is a major highlight requiring 2-3 extra hours. Plan for 8-10 hours of walking – it’s a full day.
2 Days at Petra (Explorer)
The ideal balance for most visitors:
- Day 1: Main circuit – Siq, Treasury, Street of Facades, Theatre, Royal Tombs, Qasr al-Bint temple. Exit via the main path.
- Day 2: The Monastery (Ad-Deir) hike + High Place of Sacrifice + Little Petra (Siq al-Barid, 5 km away – separate from main site entry)
3 Days at Petra (Insider)
For archaeology enthusiasts, photographers, and those who want to go deep:
- Day 1-2: As above
- Day 3: The Back Trail from Wadi Muthlim, Jabal Haroun (Aaron’s Tomb) hike, less-visited rock-cut tombs in the outer Petra district
Top Tips for Visiting Petra with the Jordan Pass
- Wear comfortable, closed-toe shoes – you’ll walk 15-20 km per day on uneven terrain
- Bring sun protection – hat, sunscreen, and sunglasses are essential (minimal shade on main paths)
- Carry water – stay hydrated, especially in summer
- Don’t pay for horses – the horse ride in the entry path is technically included in your ticket but handlers may ask for tips; agree on amount upfront if you use it
- Start early – gates open at 6 AM; the Treasury is magical in the early morning light before crowds arrive
- Stay in Wadi Musa – the town adjacent to Petra has every budget level of accommodation, from luxury to cheap guesthouses
Petra by Night – Is It Included?
No. Petra by Night is a separate experience (usually Monday, Wednesday, and Thursday evenings) that costs approximately JOD 17 per person. Hundreds of candles light the Siq leading to the Treasury, with Bedouin music – it’s worth doing at least once. Buy Petra by Night tickets at the Visitor Centre.
Getting to Petra from Amman
Wadi Musa (the town for Petra) is approximately 235 km south of Amman:
- JETT Bus: Direct service from Amman (Abdali Bus Station) to Petra, ~3.5 hours, ~JOD 11 one-way
- Private car/taxi: ~2.5-3 hours, can be arranged through hotels
- Rental car: Recommended if doing a full Jordan road trip via the King’s Highway
For the full Jordan travel experience, check our Jordan travel guide 2026.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use my Petra days on non-consecutive days?
No. The Jordan Pass Petra days must be used consecutively. If you have a 2-day Explorer pass and enter Petra on Wednesday, Day 1 is Wednesday and Day 2 is Thursday. You cannot split them (e.g., Wednesday and Friday).
What time does Petra open and close?
Petra Archaeological Park opens at 6:00 AM and closes at sunset (approximately 6:00 PM in winter, 7:00 PM in summer). Gates close to new entries at 4:00 PM. You can stay inside until official closing time even if you entered late.
Is Little Petra included in the Jordan Pass?
Little Petra (Siq al-Barid), a smaller Nabataean site about 5 km from the main Petra entrance, has historically been free to enter for all visitors and does not require a Jordan Pass. Verify this remains the case at the time of your visit.
Can I bring a stroller or wheelchair into Petra?
The main path through the Siq and to the Treasury is walkable with a stroller (unpaved but flat), though the Siq has some uneven sections. The Monastery hike and most other trails are not accessible by wheelchair or stroller. The horse path in the entrance can accommodate some mobility limitations.
