Exploring the ancient Nabataean city of Petra from Eilat, Israel is a remarkable opportunity to take in a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The day tour whisks travelers across the border into Jordan, where they’ll marvel at the iconic rose-colored cliffs and temples carved directly into the rock. Led by a knowledgeable guide, visitors can explore the fascinating history of this once-thriving civilization. With round-trip transportation, lunch, and all necessary fees included, it’s a seamless way to discover one of the world’s true wonders. However, there are a few important details to consider before embarking on this unforgettable journey.
Key Points
- Full-day tour from Eilat, Israel to the ancient rock-cut city of Petra, a UNESCO World Heritage Site in Jordan.
- Tour includes a professional guide, bottled water, lunch, and round-trip transportation from Eilat.
- Visitors must pay a $65 USD border fee to cross from Israel into Jordan and a $60 USD visa fee.
- The tour typically lasts 3-4 hours, with an optional 650-foot horseback ride through the iconic Siq entrance.
- The tour may be shortened in exceptional cases due to unforeseen delays.
Tour Overview
This full-day tour whisks travelers from Eilat, Israel, to the ancient rock-cut city of Petra, allowing them to explore the remarkable world of the Nabataeans.
During this journey, guests will marvel at the temples and treasury carved directly into the rosy cliffs, discovering a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
The tour includes a professional guide, bottled water, and a delicious lunch, as well as round-trip transportation from Eilat.
To ensure a seamless experience, travelers should be aware of the border fees and visa requirements, which must be paid in cash.
With approximately 3-4 hours to explore Petra, this tour offers a comprehensive and immersive glimpse into this captivating ancient civilization.
Included in the Tour
The tour includes a professional guide to lead travelers through the ancient wonders of Petra, providing in-depth commentary and expert insights throughout the journey.
Bottled water is provided, ensuring travelers stay hydrated in the desert climate.
A delicious lunch is also included, allowing visitors to refuel during their exploration.
Round-trip transport from Eilat is covered, so travelers can sit back and enjoy the scenic drive to and from the site.
The tour package also includes the necessary border fees and visa, making the process seamless for visitors.
With these inclusions, travelers can focus on seeing the rich history and captivating beauty of the UNESCO-listed Petra without worrying about logistics.
Border Fees and Visa
To visit Petra from Eilat, travelers must pay a $65 USD border fee and a $60 USD visa fee, both in cash, when crossing into Jordan.
Passport information is required at the time of booking to facilitate the border crossing process. These fees are payable in addition to the cost of the tour itself.
The border fee covers the cost of crossing from Israel into Jordan, while the visa fee is required for entry into Jordan.
Travelers should come prepared with the necessary cash to cover these charges, as they must be paid before the tour can commence. Failure to pay these fees may result in delays or even being denied entry into Jordan.
Tour Experience Details
Departing Eilat at 7:45 AM, the full-day tour takes travelers on an immersive exploration of the ancient Nabataean rock-cut city of Petra.
Depending on border crossing and transfers, visitors can expect to spend approximately 3-4 hours discovering the wonders of this UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Those seeking a more authentic experience can opt for a 650-foot (198-meter) horseback ride into the iconic site.
Along the way, the tour may make stops at breathtaking viewpoints overlooking the dramatic landscapes of Wadi Rum and the port of Aqaba, if time allows.
Travelers should note that in exceptional cases, the tour may be shortened due to unforeseen delays.
Departure and Duration
Travelers depart Eilat at 7:45 AM sharp for the full-day tour to Petra, allowing ample time to explore the ancient Nabataean city.
The journey takes around 3-4 hours, depending on border crossings and transfers, giving guests approximately 3-4 hours to wander through Petra’s temples and treasury carved directly into the rosy cliffs.
However, the tour may be slightly shorter in exceptional cases due to unforeseen delays.
If time permits, the tour also includes stops at viewpoints overlooking the stunning Wadi Rum and the port of Aqaba.
With a maximum group size of 25 travelers, this comprehensive tour ensures a personalized experience at one of the world’s most remarkable UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
Horseback Ride Option
Visitors can opt for a 650-foot (198-meter) horseback ride through the iconic Siq entrance to Petra, seeing the ancient Nabataean experience.
This optional activity allows travelers to explore the stunning rock-cut city in an authentic way, as the Nabataeans themselves would have centuries ago.
The horseback ride offers a unique perspective, with riders gazing up at the towering cliffs and intricately carved facades along the winding Siq.
Though the ride is an additional cost, it’s a popular choice for those seeking a more immersive and memorable journey into the heart of Petra’s ancient world.
Stops Along the Way
The tour makes strategic stops at notable viewpoints along the way, allowing participants to soak in the breathtaking vistas of the surrounding landscapes. At one such overlook, they’ll gaze out over the dramatic expanse of Wadi Rum, the vast desert valley renowned for its towering sandstone formations. Time permitting, the group may also pause to admire the port city of Aqaba, whose shores meet the crystalline waters of the Red Sea.
| Viewpoint | What You’ll See | Highlights |
|---|---|---|
| Wadi Rum | Dramatic desert landscape | Towering sandstone formations |
| Aqaba | Port city on the Red Sea | Sparkling blue waters |
| – | – | – |
| – | – | – |
| – | – | – |
The stops along the way offer a chance to appreciate the region’s natural splendor and prepare for the main attraction – the ancient rock-cut city of Petra.
Important Requirements
Prior to embarking on the tour, participants must ensure they fulfill certain essential requirements. Namely, a valid passport with at least 6 months of remaining validity is mandatory, as border crossings are involved.
Both a border fee of $65 USD per person and a visa fee of $60 USD per person must be paid in cash upon arrival.
As the tour may not be wheelchair accessible, individuals with mobility constraints should consider this factor.
The maximum group size is set at 25 travelers, so prompt booking is recommended to secure a spot.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is There an Option to Visit Petra Independently?
Yes, visitors can explore Petra independently. They’ll need to arrange their own transportation, secure a visa, and pay border fees. This offers more flexibility but requires additional planning compared to joining a guided tour.
Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks to the Tour?
Participants can’t bring their own food and drinks on the tour. The tour includes bottled water and lunch, so there’s no need to pack your own. However, you’re welcome to bring snacks if you have any special dietary requirements.
Are There Any Additional Costs or Optional Activities?
There are a few additional costs and optional activities on this tour. Travelers must pay a $65 USD border fee and $60 USD visa fee in cash. They can also opt for a 650-foot horseback ride at Petra for an additional cost.
How Much Time Is Allocated for Exploring Petra?
The tour allows approximately 3-4 hours to explore the ancient rock-cut city of Petra, depending on border crossing and transfers. Guests can choose to take a 650-foot horseback ride option upon arrival at Petra.
Is the Tour Suitable for Children or Elderly Travelers?
The tour may not be well-suited for young children or elderly travelers. The tour involves a significant amount of walking over uneven terrain, and the horseback ride option may not be suitable for all participants. Travelers with mobility concerns should consider the accessibility of the tour.
Recap
The day tour from Eilat to Petra is an unforgettable adventure.
Travelers can enjoy the ancient Nabataean civilization, marveling at the iconic rock-cut architecture and learning from a knowledgeable guide.
With round-trip transportation, border fees, and lunch included, it’s a convenient way to explore this UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Whether choosing to explore on foot or by horseback, the Petra day tour from Eilat promises an enriching cultural experience.
