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Is it safe to travel to Petra Jordan?

The country's tourism board has emphasised that the country remains “safe and welcoming” to tourists, and that its focus is the “safety and wellbeing” of all visitors, who might want to explore the majestic Nabataean tombs at Petra, the mesmerising coastline along the Dead Sea or understand the lives of the Bedouin ...



As of late February 2026, travel to Petra and the main tourist areas of Jordan is generally considered safe but requires a "high degree of caution." While Jordan itself remains a stable "oasis of peace" in the region, Western governments currently advise travelers to be vigilant due to unpredictable regional tensions. The Jordanian government has significantly increased security at major tourist sites like Petra, Wadi Rum, and the Dead Sea to ensure visitor safety. You will notice a high police presence, which is meant to be reassuring. The biggest "dangers" at Petra are actually physical—extreme heat, uneven terrain, and the occasional pushy vendor or "donkey ride" scam. Most travelers in 2026 report a very welcoming experience, as Jordanians are famously hospitable and the tourism industry is vital to their economy. However, you should avoid the border areas with Syria and Iraq and stay away from any political demonstrations in Amman. Always check your country’s latest travel advisory before booking, as the situation in the Middle East can shift quickly.

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Exercise increased caution in Jordan due to terrorism. Some areas have increased risk. Do not travel to: Within 3.5 km of the Jordanian border with Syria and east of the town of Ruwayshid in the direction of the border with Iraq due to terrorism and armed conflict.

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Yes, Jordan, including Petra and the nearby town of Wadi Musa is very safe, even for women traveling on their own. You may encounter one or two local Bedouins who try to convince you to hire their camel or horse, but a firm ?no thank you? is usually enough to get them off your back.

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Exercise a high degree of caution in Jordan overall due to the threat of terrorism. See Safety.

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There isn't a strict Petra dress code as such. It's the biggest tourist attraction in Jordan, so people pretty much wear what they like when they visit Petra, However, bear in mind that the site of Petra is huge, so be prepared to do a lot of walking.

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

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The Nabateans carved Petra out of sandstone, a soft rock that's easily damaged by wind, rain, earthquakes and flash floods.

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It's very hot in summer (June to August), with temperatures of up to 102°F. In contrast, Jordan often experiences snow in winter (December to February) and the nights get very cold, especially in the desert regions. Most of the rain falls at this time, in short, sharp showers.

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Although Jordan is not considered a budget destination, it is possible to save money if you're willing to make a few adjustments to your itinerary. Accommodations, guided tours, entrance fees and restaurants can add up quickly, but our suggestions will help you plan the best ways to experience Jordan for less.

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Jordan is a conservative society. You should dress modestly and behave courteously. It's illegal to drink alcohol on the street but permissible in bars, clubs, hotels and private homes. There are strict alcohol limits for drivers, similar to those of the UK.

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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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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.

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Several species of insects and arthropods are found in Wadi Rum, including scorpions, spiders, ants, bees, wasps, moths and beetles.

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In more touristy areas (excluding mosques) such as Mount Nebo, Wadi Rum, and Petra, I dressed a bit more liberally (see photos below) and felt entirely comfortable. Our tour guide assured us wearing shorts at these places is totally acceptable and common.

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You will pay for your tour with a credit card when booking. Payment of visa fees, border fees, and tips must be in cash. You may bring cash and/or credit cards with you for personal needs on your trip.

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It is fine to travel in Jordan in jeans most of the time, and you can, of course, wear them in Petra as well, in case this is the piece you never leave your home without, but as the visit of Petra requires quite a lot of walking, we think hiking trousers are a much better choice.

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Many people know of Petra's famous Treasury from the Hollywood film “Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade” with Harrison Ford. It's inside that Ford finds the Holy Grail.

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Camel Ride in Wadi Rum & Petra is optional for 15 JD / $ 21 USD per camel per hour. You don't need to book it in advance and can be arranged upon arrival to Petra or Wadi Rum.

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