Loading Page...

Can you drink the water in Petra?

If you forget it, don't worry - just reuse a plastic bottle you've purchased on arrival. The other good thing is that many of the hotels in Petra and Wadi Rum have installed water purification systems for their guests, which means you can drink water from the tap that isn't just safe but tastes pleasant.



You should not drink tap water in Petra or anywhere else in Jordan. While the water in major Jordanian cities is often treated and technically safe at the source, the distribution systems and aging pipes can introduce contaminants, and the mineral content is significantly different from what most Western travelers are accustomed to. Drinking tap water often leads to "Traveler's Tummy" or more severe gastrointestinal issues. It is strongly recommended to use bottled water for drinking and even for brushing your teeth if you have a sensitive stomach. In 2026, many eco-conscious hotels in the Petra/Wadi Musa area have installed high-quality filtration systems or provide large water carboys to reduce plastic waste; always ask your hotel staff if the filtered water provided is safe for consumption. When exploring the ancient city of Petra itself, be sure to carry a significant supply of bottled water, as the dry desert heat can lead to rapid dehydration during the long hikes to the Monastery or the High Place of Sacrifice.

People Also Ask

Do not drink the water: a few gulps of it could cause irreversible damage or even kill you. – Don't get water into your eyes as it will burn. – Not a must, but it's very useful to have sandals as the salt might be sharp. – Silver jewelry will turn black; the same goes for gold jewelry that is less than 24 carats.

MORE DETAILS

Most of the public bathrooms we encountered in Jordan did not have toilet paper. Most of them have a sprayer. I packed toilet paper or Kleenex in my bag every day and used it every day. Don't flush it in the toilet.

MORE DETAILS

Is Wadi Rum safe ? Yes trips in Wadi Rum are safe as they are supervised by our professional guides.

MORE DETAILS

Please note that many smaller shops still prefer cash payment in the Jordanian currency, and it's essential for shopping in the local souks. The official language of Jordan is Arabic, but English is widely spoken especially in the cities.

MORE DETAILS

If you're on a tight budget, you can enjoy a budget meal at a local restaurant for around $5. If you're looking for something a bit more upscale, a mid-range meal can cost you around $15 per person. Transportation: Getting around in Jordan can be an adventure in itself.

MORE DETAILS

Part of the reason that camping in Wadi Rum is so affordable during the initial booking process is that the guides running the camps make a good chunk of their money selling Jeep tours and camel rides. This is simply part of the process, and nothing to be worried about at all–but it helps to know what to expect.

MORE DETAILS

The main sights can be experienced in one full day, but for those who like hiking and exploring off the beaten track, two to three days is ideal. If you want to plan and make the most of your time in the desert, I'm sharing all the details from our two-day adventure trip in Wadi Rum below.

MORE DETAILS

What are the toilets like? Western-style toilets are widely available in hotels and some restaurants but many of the public toilets are of the squat variety. Typically, they use water for cleaning so toilet paper isn't always readily available in toilets.

MORE DETAILS