Petra, one of the most iconic archaeological sites in the world, is a must-see destination for any traveler. Carved into the rose-red sandstone cliffs, this ancient city was once the thriving capital of the Nabataean Kingdom and is now a UNESCO World Heritage site. For centuries, Petra remained hidden from the world, until its rediscovery in 1812. Since then, it has captivated travelers with its breathtaking structures, intricate carvings, and fascinating history.
Many visitors to Petra rush to see the Treasury, the most famous monument, but there’s so much more to this wonder than meets the eye. To truly experience the magic of Petra, it’s essential to set aside more than just a few hours. Spending at least two full days in the city will allow you to explore the numerous monuments, hike the stunning trails, and immerse yourself in the history of this ancient wonder. Petra’s beauty is especially striking at sunrise and sunset, when the soft light casts a warm glow over the red sandstone, adding to its enchanting allure. Whether you’re a history buff, nature lover, or adventure seeker, Petra offers something for everyone. From hiking the rugged terrain to exploring ancient tombs and temples, here are the best things to do in Petra to make the most of your visit.
1. Walk Through the Siq to the Treasury
One of the most iconic experiences in Petra is walking through the Siq, a narrow, winding gorge that leads visitors to the Treasury. The Siq is not only a natural marvel, but it also holds significant historical importance, as it was the main entrance to Petra. As you walk through the towering rock walls, you’ll be struck by the beauty of the surroundings and the sense of anticipation building with each step. The path gradually opens up to reveal the Treasury, or Al-Khazneh, one of Petra’s most famous and well-preserved monuments. Carved into the rock face, the Treasury’s intricate façade is a marvel of Nabataean engineering and artistry. The Treasury was built as a tomb for King Aretas IV in the 1st century BC, and its grandeur leaves visitors in awe.
The Siq itself is a journey worth experiencing. The walls of the gorge are lined with ancient carvings and water channels, offering glimpses into the engineering skills of the Nabataeans. The dramatic reveal of the Treasury at the end of the Siq is a moment that many travelers find to be the highlight of their visit to Petra. It’s a perfect spot to snap photos and take in the beauty of this ancient wonder. Early morning or late afternoon is the best time to visit the Treasury, as the light softens and the crowds are thinner.
2. Hike to the Monastery (Al-Deir)
If you’re looking for an unforgettable hiking experience, a trip to the Monastery (Al-Deir) should be on your list of best things to do in Petra. Although it requires a challenging uphill climb of over 800 steps, the reward is worth the effort. The Monastery is one of Petra’s most impressive sites, comparable in grandeur to the Treasury, but it’s often less crowded, giving visitors a more peaceful experience.
The hike to the Monastery takes you through beautiful desert landscapes and past small stalls where you can purchase souvenirs. Along the way, you’ll encounter incredible views of Petra’s vast landscape, including valleys, cliffs, and distant mountains. Once you reach the top, you’ll be rewarded with an awe-inspiring view of the Monastery, a massive structure carved into the cliffside. The Monastery’s large, intricate façade is an impressive example of Nabataean architecture, and it’s a perfect spot to take in the surroundings.
Though the hike can be strenuous, there are options to ride a donkey for part of the journey. However, for those who enjoy a challenge and the chance to explore Petra on foot, this hike is an essential part of the Petra experience.
3. Explore the Royal Tombs
Located just a short walk from the Treasury, the Royal Tombs are an essential stop on any Petra itinerary. These monumental tombs were carved into the sandstone cliffs to honor Nabataean royalty, and each tomb features a unique façade. The Urn Tomb is the most famous and the most well-preserved of the Royal Tombs, with its large urn adorning the top of the structure.
As you explore the Royal Tombs, you’ll discover their historical significance and architectural beauty. The tombs were used to house the remains of Nabataean kings and queens, and each tomb is designed with intricate carvings and facades, reflecting the wealth and power of Petra’s rulers. The tombs are scattered along the hillsides, providing visitors with spectacular views of the surrounding landscape. Exploring these tombs is a great way to step back in time and learn more about the Nabataean people’s beliefs and culture.
Don’t forget to take your time to admire the detailed carvings, including scenes of animals, gods, and celestial motifs. The Royal Tombs are a fascinating and peaceful part of Petra that shouldn’t be missed.
4. Visit the Great Temple of Petra
The Great Temple of Petra is another must-see monument in the city. Built by the Nabataeans in the 1st century BC, the Great Temple was a center of religious and social activity in Petra. This massive structure is one of the largest and most impressive temples in Petra, and its size alone will leave you in awe.
Located at the end of the Colonnaded Street, the Great Temple is an essential part of Petra’s Roman-era ruins. Though much of the temple has been eroded by time, the remains of its large courtyard, columns, and terraces offer a glimpse into the grandeur of Petra’s past. The temple was used for religious ceremonies and likely hosted large gatherings, making it a central location for the Nabataean people.
Visitors to the Great Temple can walk through the remains of the temple and imagine the bustling activity that once took place here. The temple’s location also provides great views of the surrounding area, making it a perfect spot for photos and reflection.
5. Take a Camel Ride through Petra
For a truly unique experience in Petra, consider taking a camel ride through the desert landscape. Camel rides are a traditional way of traveling in the region, and they provide a slower, more peaceful way to explore Petra’s many sites. Riding a camel through Petra allows you to see the monuments and landscapes from a different perspective, with the chance to stop and admire the views at your own pace.
There are various camel rides available, ranging from short rides around the main Petra sites to longer rides that take you off the beaten path and into the surrounding desert. You’ll be guided by a local Bedouin guide, who will share insights into the culture and history of the area. Whether you’re riding through the Siq, along the Colonnaded Street, or around the Treasury, a camel ride is a fun and memorable way to experience Petra.
6. Hike to the High Place of Sacrifice
The High Place of Sacrifice is another incredible viewpoint in Petra that offers stunning panoramic views of the entire site. To reach the High Place of Sacrifice, you’ll need to hike uphill, but the effort is well worth it. The hike offers spectacular views of Petra’s main monuments, including the Treasury, the Monastery, and the Royal Tombs.
The High Place of Sacrifice was a sacred site used for religious rituals, and the remains of altars and carved stone steps can still be seen at the summit. From this high vantage point, you’ll get a bird’s-eye view of Petra’s vast landscape, with its rocky hills, ancient structures, and desert surroundings. The hike to the High Place of Sacrifice is relatively short but steep, so make sure to wear comfortable shoes and bring water.
7. Stroll Along the Colonnaded Street
The Colonnaded Street is one of Petra’s most significant Roman-era ruins. Once a bustling avenue lined with columns and shops, the street was the main thoroughfare in Petra during the Roman period. Today, visitors can walk along the street and admire the remains of the columns and the paving stones, imagining the city’s lively atmosphere centuries ago.
Walking along the Colonnaded Street is a great way to explore the Roman influence on Petra’s architecture. As you stroll, you’ll pass the remains of ancient shops, temples, and other structures, including the Great Temple and the Nymphaeum. The Colonnaded Street offers a unique look at Petra’s Roman-era past, and it’s an essential stop for history lovers.
8. Discover the Byzantine Church
For those interested in Petra’s later history, a visit to the Byzantine Church is a must. This small, well-preserved church is located near the Colonnaded Street and dates back to the 5th or 6th century AD. The church features beautiful mosaics on the floor, depicting scenes of animals, plants, and religious figures. The mosaics are a testament to the artistry of the time and offer a glimpse into Petra’s Christian period.
The church’s quiet, peaceful atmosphere makes it a great spot to reflect and admire the intricate details of the mosaics. It’s a small but important site in Petra’s history, showing how the city continued to evolve long after the fall of the Nabataean Kingdom.
9. Visit the Petra Archaeological Museum
For a deeper understanding of Petra’s history, a visit to the Petra Archaeological Museum is highly recommended. The museum is located near the entrance to Petra and offers exhibits on the Nabataean civilization, the city’s construction, and its archaeological discoveries. The museum’s exhibits include ancient pottery, stone tools, sculptures, and carvings, as well as detailed models of Petra’s key structures.
The museum is an excellent way to learn more about the people who built Petra and the culture that flourished here for centuries. It provides a fascinating context for your visit, allowing you to better appreciate the monuments and historical sites you encounter in Petra. Whether you’re a history enthusiast or simply curious about the past, the Petra Archaeological Museum offers a wealth of knowledge and insight into this incredible ancient city.
10. Explore the Obelisk Tomb
The Obelisk Tomb is one of Petra’s more unique monuments and is often overlooked by many visitors. Located along the Siq trail, this tomb features large obelisks carved into the rock face, giving it a striking appearance. The tomb dates back to the 1st century BC and is believed to have been the burial place of an important Nabataean family.
The obelisks themselves are intricately carved with symbolic motifs and inscriptions that offer clues about the Nabataeans’ religious practices and their views on life after death. The site is a peaceful and fascinating spot to explore, and it provides a break from the larger, more crowded monuments like the Treasury and Monastery. The Obelisk Tomb’s relatively quiet location also makes it a perfect place for some reflection and photography.
11. Visit the Petra Siq and the Water System
One of Petra’s lesser-known but equally intriguing features is its ancient water system. The Nabataeans were master engineers, and they built an advanced water management system to ensure the survival of their city in the arid desert. The Siq, the narrow gorge that leads visitors to the Treasury, was an essential part of this system, as it acted as a channel for water to flow into Petra.
You can visit various points of the water system throughout Petra, including the ancient dams, water channels, and cisterns. These structures demonstrate the engineering prowess of the Nabataeans and their ability to adapt to the harsh desert environment. Exploring Petra’s water system is a fascinating and educational way to experience the ingenuity that made the city so prosperous in ancient times.
12. Take a Sunset Stroll in Petra
While sunrise in Petra is magical, so is the experience of exploring the site as the sun begins to set. During this time, the crowds thin out, giving you the opportunity to explore Petra at a more leisurely pace. The soft, golden light casts a magical glow over the sandstone cliffs, making it the perfect time for photography.
Walking through Petra at sunset allows you to see the monuments in a completely different light, with the colors of the rocks shifting as the day fades. Whether you’re wandering the Siq, visiting the Treasury, or exploring the Royal Tombs, Petra at sunset offers a peaceful and serene atmosphere. If you’re staying in Wadi Musa, the nearby town offers several vantage points for watching the sunset over Petra from a distance, which provides a stunning panoramic view of the ancient city.
Conclusion
Petra is undoubtedly one of the most remarkable places on Earth, and there’s no shortage of things to do and see. From the iconic Treasury to the more secluded Monastery, every corner of Petra offers something new and exciting to discover. Whether you’re interested in history, architecture, nature, or adventure, Petra caters to all types of travelers. Exploring Petra’s tombs, temples, and monuments allows you to step back in time and experience the grandeur of a once-thriving ancient city.
One of the best things about visiting Petra is that there is no shortage of hidden gems waiting to be uncovered. Many travelers stick to the main sites, but Petra is so much more than just the Treasury. By taking the time to hike, explore, and learn about its history, you’ll gain a deeper appreciation for this incredible archaeological wonder. Whether you’re hiking to the Monastery, wandering through the Royal Tombs, or enjoying a camel ride through the desert, Petra offers an unforgettable experience that will leave you with memories to last a lifetime.
When planning your visit, consider spending at least two days in Petra to fully immerse yourself in all it has to offer. Arriving early for sunrise and staying late for sunset gives you the chance to experience Petra’s beauty at its most magical. Don’t rush; take your time to explore, hike, and marvel at the incredible history and stunning landscapes that make Petra one of the most extraordinary places on the planet.
