Dreaming of ancient wonders? Perhaps you envision yourself traversing the Siq, finally beholding the majestic Treasury of Petra. But before you can stand in awe of this rose-red city, a practical question arises: How far exactly is it from Amman, Jordan's bustling capital? Understanding the distance between these two iconic locations is crucial for planning your Jordanian adventure, impacting everything from transportation choices and travel time to overall budget considerations.
Knowing the distance allows you to efficiently allocate your precious vacation time. Do you opt for a quick day trip, or dedicate a few days to fully immerse yourself in Petra's magic and explore the surrounding areas? Factoring in travel duration, potential traffic delays, and the cost of different transportation options empowers you to create a well-structured itinerary that maximizes your enjoyment and minimizes travel-related stress. A little planning goes a long way in ensuring a smooth and unforgettable experience.
What are the best ways to get from Amman to Petra, and how long will each take?
What's the distance between Amman and Petra in kilometers?
The distance between Amman, the capital of Jordan, and the ancient city of Petra is approximately 230 kilometers (143 miles) by road.
While the distance is roughly 230 kilometers, the actual travel time can vary depending on the mode of transportation and traffic conditions. The most common route is via the Desert Highway (Highway 15), which is a well-maintained road making for a relatively straightforward drive. A direct car journey typically takes around 2.5 to 3 hours. Alternatively, you could also travel by JETT bus, which offers a comfortable and affordable option, although the journey time is slightly longer, usually around 3 to 4 hours. Private taxis are also available, offering a more personalized and faster service, but at a higher cost. Keep in mind that these travel times can be affected by road work or other unforeseen delays, so it's always advisable to check current conditions before setting out.How long does it take to drive from Amman to Petra?
The drive from Amman to Petra typically takes around 3 to 3.5 hours, covering a distance of approximately 230 to 250 kilometers (143 to 155 miles) depending on the specific route taken and traffic conditions.
Several factors can influence the total driving time. The most direct route is usually via the Desert Highway (Highway 15), which offers relatively smooth driving conditions and fewer stops. However, the King's Highway, while more scenic and passing through historical sites, is a slower route due to winding roads and towns along the way. Traffic congestion, especially around Amman and on weekends, can also add to the journey time. It's also important to factor in potential stops. While the direct drive can be done in 3-3.5 hours, many travelers choose to break up the journey to visit attractions like Madaba, Mount Nebo, or the Kerak Castle. These stops can easily add several hours to your overall travel time. When planning your trip, remember to consider these factors for a more accurate estimation of your travel time from Amman to Petra.Is there a direct bus from Amman to Petra?
Yes, there is a direct tourist bus from Amman to Petra operated by JETT (Jordan Express Tourist Transportation). This is the most convenient and common public transportation option for travelers.
While taxis and private transfers offer door-to-door service and greater flexibility, the JETT bus provides a budget-friendly and reliable alternative. It departs from the JETT office in Amman, usually located near Abdali, and takes approximately 3-4 hours to reach Petra (Wadi Musa), where it drops passengers off near the entrance to the archaeological site. Keep in mind that the JETT bus usually runs only once per day in each direction. It's crucial to check the current schedule and book your tickets in advance, especially during peak tourist season, to ensure availability. The JETT website or their office in Amman are the best places to get the most up-to-date information on departure times and booking procedures. You can also find local travel agencies that sell tickets.What are the best transportation options for getting from Amman to Petra?
The best transportation options for traveling from Amman to Petra (specifically Wadi Musa, the town closest to Petra) include renting a car, taking a JETT bus, hiring a private taxi, or arranging a tour that includes transportation. Each option offers a different balance of cost, convenience, and flexibility.
Renting a car provides the most freedom to explore at your own pace, allowing you to stop at other attractions along the way like the Dead Sea or Wadi Mujib. However, it also involves navigating Jordanian roads, which can be different from what you're used to, and dealing with parking in Wadi Musa. A JETT bus is the most budget-friendly option and provides a comfortable, direct ride. The downside is the fixed schedule and limited flexibility in terms of departure times and stops. Hiring a private taxi offers a door-to-door service and can be negotiated for stops along the way, but it's considerably more expensive than the bus. Organized tours provide a hassle-free experience, often including transportation, accommodation, and guided tours of Petra, but they may not offer as much independence. Ultimately, the "best" option depends on your priorities and budget. A final option is to use ride-sharing apps (like Uber/Careem), which have gained popularity in Amman, but finding a driver willing to take you that far (and at a reasonable price) may be challenging.How much does it cost to travel from Amman to Petra?
The cost to travel from Amman to Petra varies significantly depending on your chosen mode of transportation, ranging from approximately 8-15 JOD for a JETT bus to upwards of 100 JOD or more for a private taxi or rental car including fuel.
Several factors influence the overall cost. Public transportation, primarily the JETT bus, is the most budget-friendly option. However, its fixed schedule (typically one departure per day) and limited flexibility may not suit all travelers. Taxis offer door-to-door service and greater convenience but come with a higher price tag that should be negotiated beforehand. Renting a car provides the most freedom to explore at your own pace but includes rental fees, fuel costs, and potentially insurance. Additionally, factor in entrance fees to Petra itself (50 JOD for one day if you're not staying overnight in Jordan, or cheaper with the Jordan Pass), meals, and any potential accommodation costs in Petra if you plan to stay overnight. To illustrate the cost breakdown, consider a solo traveler: the JETT bus might cost 15 JOD round trip. A taxi, potentially 80-120 JOD one way. A rental car could cost 30-50 JOD per day, plus fuel. For groups, the cost per person for a taxi or rental car becomes more competitive, making those options more attractive than public transportation. Always research and compare prices before making a decision to ensure you find the best option that fits your budget and travel style.Is the road from Amman to Petra scenic?
The road from Amman to Petra offers a mix of landscapes, transitioning from urban Amman through desert vistas and agricultural areas. While not consistently breathtaking, stretches of the journey provide notable scenery, especially as you approach the mountainous region surrounding Petra, where the views become more dramatic.
The journey from Amman to Petra generally follows the Desert Highway (Highway 15) or the King's Highway (Highway 35). The Desert Highway is faster and more direct, primarily traversing arid desert plains. While efficient, its scenic value is limited to the vastness of the desert landscape. The King's Highway, on the other hand, is significantly longer and slower, but winds through historical towns, valleys, and offers more diverse scenery including glimpses of the Wadi Mujib canyon and other geological formations. Keep in mind that the King's Highway's appeal also means narrower roads and potentially slower travel times. Ultimately, whether you consider the road 'scenic' depends on your personal preferences and tolerance for desert landscapes versus the desire for more varied and dramatic vistas. Many travelers find sections of both routes interesting, especially the final approach to Petra, regardless of which highway is taken, as the landscape becomes more mountainous and the anticipation of reaching the ancient city builds. The experience can also be enhanced by making planned stops at viewpoints or historical sites along the way.What is the distance from Amman airport to Petra?
The distance from Queen Alia International Airport (AMM) in Amman to Petra is approximately 250 kilometers (155 miles) to 275 kilometers (171 miles) depending on the specific route taken.
The journey from Amman airport to Petra is primarily by road. The most common route involves taking the Desert Highway (Highway 15) south. This is the faster option and typically takes around 3 to 3.5 hours to drive. An alternative, and more scenic route, is the King's Highway. While offering stunning views and passing through historical sites, this route is longer, adding approximately an hour or more to the total travel time. Factors affecting the travel time include traffic conditions, especially around Amman, and the specific type of transportation used. Rental cars, pre-booked private transfers, and tourist buses are common options. Be sure to factor in potential stops for food, restroom breaks, or sightseeing along the way.Alright, there you have it! Hopefully, you now have a good idea of the distance between Amman and Petra and some options for getting there. Safe travels, and thanks for stopping by! Feel free to come back anytime you have more travel questions – we're always happy to help!