While you could do the hiking in a pair of Converse, you'll be more comfortable in shoes with grip. If you're planning on tackling some of the more advanced routes, or even just the 850+ stairs to the Monastery, hiking boots would be ideal.

For a visit to Petra in 2026, the absolute "gold standard" for footwear is a high-quality pair of broken-in hiking boots or sturdy trail running shoes with excellent arch support and aggressive tread. The terrain in the "Rose City" is a challenging mix of dusty sand, uneven ancient cobblestones, and steep, slippery sandstone stairs—especially if you plan to hike up to the Monastery (Ad Deir) or the High Place of Sacrifice. You will likely walk between 10,000 and 25,000 steps in a single day, so cushioning is vital to prevent foot fatigue. Avoid open-toed sandals or flip-flops, as the desert sand can be scorching hot, and the paths are often shared with donkeys and camels, leading to "biological" hazards you don't want on your skin. Additionally, the dust in Petra is incredibly fine and pervasive; lightweight, breathable mesh shoes may let in too much grit, so a leather or synthetic hybrid boot that provides ankle protection is highly recommended to prevent rolls on the loose gravel.