How do I get from Tel Aviv to Petra?

Independent Travel from Tel Aviv to Petra You can do this by taking a bus or flight to Eilat and from there a taxi to the border crossing. Remember to organize your Jordanian visa before traveling. If you are traveling without a tour group you cannot get a visa at the border.



Getting from Tel Aviv to Petra involves crossing the international border into Jordan, which can be done via three main routes: North (Jordan River Crossing), Central (Allenby/King Hussein Bridge), or South (Wadi Araba/Yitzhak Rabin Crossing). The most common and scenic way is to take a domestic flight or a 4-hour bus from Tel Aviv to Eilat, then walk across the Southern Wadi Araba border into Aqaba, Jordan. From there, it is a 2-hour taxi or bus ride to Petra. Alternatively, many travelers book organized 1- or 2-day tours that depart from Tel Aviv at 3:00 AM; these tours handle the complex border logistics and transportation. In 2026, ensure your passport is valid for at least 6 months and check the current visa requirements—many nationalities can get a visa on arrival at the Southern crossing, but those using the King Hussein Bridge near Jerusalem often need to secure a visa in advance. Always budget for the exit tax (approx. 110 NIS on the Israeli side) and the Jordanian entry fees.

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Jordan and Israel are not the best friends in the world but both countries signed a peace agreement some decades ago so, surprisingly, travel to Jordan from Israel (and vice-versa) is pretty easy and straightforward.

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While there is certainly enough to occupy yourself for five or more days, two to three days is sufficient to visit all of the highlights in and around the park. One day--or worse yet a morning or afternoon--is likely to bring some disappointment to those who have traveled a great distance.

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If you plan on coming to Petra for only a day, you're missing out on most of the experience. One day in Petra is not enough. In fact, you could spend a whole week in Petra and still find new things to do! Petra is a relic of the past, a living city that transports you hundreds of years back in time.

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Distance and Difficulty: The Petra Main Trail is 8km / 5 miles return from the Visitors Centre. Easy walk, largely flat. Allow 3 – 4 hours return, including time to see the sites along the way.

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Neither the US State Department nor the British Foreign Office has issue travel advice against visiting anywhere in the vicinity of Petra. They currently advise against visiting the border with Syria and Iraq. They also advise avoiding protests and political demonstrations which usually occur in the center of towns.

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Venturing to Petra from Israel is possible by crossing one of the three borders. The border crossings in Eilat (Wadi Arava Crossing) and Beit Shean (Sheikh Hussein Crossing) issue visas on arrival. Some restricted nationalities are required to pre-arrange a visa, so be sure to check your requirements.

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Monday and Tuesday tend to be the quietest days as many people arrive in Amman on the weekend, then stay a few days in the north and then come to Petra. So usually Wednesday and Thursdays are the busiest weekdays.

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Latest update:We continue to advise reconsider your need to travel to Israel and the Occupied Palestinian Territories overall due to the volatile security situation, including the threat of terrorism, armed conflict and civil unrest.

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In my opinion, spending 2 days in Petra will give you plenty of time to explore this beautiful ancient city and world wonder. By entering Petra through the Siq on day 1, while taking the back entrance on day 2, there is plenty of variation during your visit.

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Entry into the site of Petra is only permitted to visitors holding valid tickets. These are available at the Visitor Center and can be purchased on arrival.

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Yes, Petra is definitely worth a trip! It's an incredible archaeological site with stunning architecture that's been carved out of the rocks. You'll be able to visit Petra in comfort with a tour and guide from Amman.

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Whether you are in the city of Amman, exploring Petra, or trekking the desert valley of Wadi Rum, men should refrain from wearing shorts as it is seen as disrespectful.

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