Petra
The rose-red Nabatean city of Petra, just across the border in Jordan.
The shape of the day
Petra sits in Jordan, so this is a day I arrange rather than guide personally. I set it up with trusted partners on the Jordanian side and handle the border crossing and the logistics from Eilat in the south.
Petra is one of the wonders of the world: a whole city the Nabateans carved into rose-coloured sandstone two thousand years ago, entered through the Siq, a narrow canyon nearly a mile long that opens suddenly onto the Treasury.
Beyond the Treasury the city keeps going, with tombs, a Roman street and a great monastery up a long climb, far more than most people expect; how much you see depends on your time and your legs.
It works as a long single day from Eilat or, better, as an overnight, and pairs naturally with time in Israel’s far south.
Sites we visit
- The Siq
- The Treasury (Al-Khazneh)
- The Royal Tombs & the Roman street
- The Monastery (Ad-Deir), for those who climb
Who it’s for
Petra is a real wonder, a UNESCO heritage site with remarkable ruins, and famously featured in the Indiana Jones franchise(!) If you’re interested in history, architecture or just enjoy desert scenery, it’s for you.
FAQ
Do you guide Petra yourself?
No. I’m not allowed to guide in Jordan, so I arrange it with trusted partners on the Jordanian side and handle the crossing and the logistics, while a local guide shows you the site.
You get the right expertise on the ground and a seamless plan around it.
Day trip or overnight?
Both are possible. From Eilat it can be done as a long single day, but an overnight is far more relaxed, lets you see more of the city, and opens up Wadi Rum’s desert nearby. I’ll advise based on your time.
How does the border crossing and visa work?
It’s all part of the arrangement, and I’ll talk you through exactly what’s needed.
The crossing near Eilat is the usual route and is well worn by travellers doing this trip.
How much walking is it?
A good deal: the Siq and the main city are a long, gradual walk, and the Monastery is a serious climb of several hundred steps.
There are options to ride part of the way, and you can do as much or as little as suits you.
Make this itinerary yours
Tell me who’s travelling, your dates and where you want to focus. I’ll put together a personalised proposal.
For urgent bookings, send me a WhatsApp
If you are going to Israel, you would be mad not to give him a call.
Amol Rajan, BBC presenter and broadcaster
Having been on trips in Israel with seven different tour guides, Samuel stood above all the rest.
Seasoned Israel traveller
Samuel is one part walking encyclopedia, one part storyteller, one part stand-up comedian.
Berkeley Haas Business School student