The ancient Nabatean city of Petra is known all over the world as the “rose-red city half as old as time.” Archaeologists believe that Petra has been inhabited since prehistoric times. Imagine exploring the remnants of a 9,000-year-old city carved in stone surrounded by mountains riddled with passages and gorges. It makes for a surreal experience. Travellers have been drawn to Petra for years. There’s no doubt it is among the most spectacular sites you’ll encounter in the Middle East and many regard it as the most impressive ancient city remaining in the modern world. Don’t miss a chance to go just a bit further off the beaten path while in presence of this once great city. Here’s what you can do if you’re looking for a more unique adventure and it is recommended to
book flight tickets in advance! Be blown away by Petra at night
Petra by Night is an excursion organized by a number of local tour operators which allows you to explore the majestic site when lit only by candlelight. You start the evening at the main entrance known as Siq following a narrow canyon lit by the flickering light of candles for guidance. With a vast array of stars above you, it is a magical way to experience the ancient city. You end your journey in Siq with the iconic Treasury. Local Bedouin musicians start playing the pipes. You take in the atmosphere with a cup of mint tea in your hands. Petra by Night is not to be overlooked as it highlights the beauty of the
rose-red city from a different offbeat perspective.
Visit Little Petra
Located in Siq al-Barid close to Petra (about 20 minutes by car beyond Wadi Musa), Little Petra or al-Beidha is worth visiting. This site is interesting because it gives you a chance to get close to the Nabatean ruins away from the touristy crowds. It is also the perfect chance to blend with the locals. We recommend you head to Little Petra on Friday afternoon when the local families gather for a walk through the towns and lovely picnics in the hills surrounding the site.
Explore Wadi Musa away from the crowds
As soon as the tourist buses leave in the afternoon, that’s when you know it’s the perfect time to head to the small village known as Wadi Musa or “the Valley of Moses.” Stretching from Ain Musa or Moses’ Spring to the front entrance of Petra, this is where you’ll experience the true charm of a small Jordanian town. There are various excellent restaurants and shops all around. Various beautiful hand-made crafts are sold on every corner.
Trek the Bedouin trails around Petra
Trekking around Petra is quickly gaining reputation among avid adventure travellers as the finest in the Middle East. Trekking across Jordan’s deserts and mountains is definitely unique and exciting. The entire area features endless hiking trails that were used by the locals for centuries. Make sure you hire a guide as it is very easy to get lost. Most trails lead to the back entrance of Petra through dramatic gorges and canyons. Reaching the highest point in the area is surreal as you get to watch over the iconic panoramic view of the Monastery, Little Petra, and the royal tombs surrounded by the beautiful landscape. The Dana-Petra trail which starts at the Dana Reserve ending with the ancient city is stunning and trekkers have gotten to calling it “the Inca Trail of the Middle East.”
Petra is just one way to enjoy this historical destination. Check out the various packages available and experience the perfect
holiday in Jordan.By Amal Ghali
