What to see in Petra in two days the best itinerary

Visiting Petra, one of the New Seven Wonders of the World, is a dream come true for many travelers. However, the vastness of this archaeological wonder often leaves visitors unsure about how to make the most out of their time there. Fear not! In this guide, we will explore how to experience the best of Petra in just two days, ensuring you don’t miss any of the breathtaking sights and hidden gems that await you.

Prepare to lace up your comfortable shoes, slap on some sunscreen, and grab your camera, because Petra is not just a place to visit; it’s an adventure that will leave you with unforgettable memories.

Planning Your Two-Day Itinerary for Petra

When planning your visit to Petra, it’s essential to understand that there’s no perfect one-way path through the site. The standard entrance is through the Visitor Center and the Siq, a narrow gorge leading directly to the famed Treasury. However, for those seeking an alternative route that saves you some hiking, consider the backdoor trail to the Monastery. This route offers a more scenic approach and allows you to see Petra from a different perspective.

Let’s break down the itinerary for an optimal two-day experience:

Day 1: Discovering the Wonders of Petra (8 km)

Your journey begins in the town of Wadi Musa, where you’ll arrive around noon. After dropping off your bags and grabbing a quick lunch, head to the Visitor Center to purchase your tickets and gather essential information, including a map of the site. Don’t forget to show your Jordan Pass for entry.

Once inside, take the shuttle to Little Petra, a smaller but equally stunning site, where you can spend about 15 minutes exploring. Next, embark on the backdoor trek, which leads you to the Monastery, a magnificent structure that will take your breath away.

• Start your hike around 14:00, climbing the initial steps and navigating through scenic trails.
• Enjoy spectacular views and take breaks at various lookout points.
• Arrive at the Monastery in under an hour, where you can relax and take in the surroundings.

After spending some time at the Monastery, it’s time to descend. The way back will take you through the Basin, where you can see various ruins, including the Royal Tombs. Don’t rush; instead, take your time to capture some stunning photographs as the light changes.

Finally, make your way to the Treasury. Arriving around 17:00, you’ll have the place nearly to yourself, especially as the sun sets, providing the perfect lighting for photographs. This is the ideal moment to reflect on the day’s adventures before heading back to the Visitor Center via the Siq.

After a fulfilling first day, enjoy a hearty dinner at a local restaurant, sampling traditional Jordanian dishes like mansaf and mezze. If you prefer a structured experience, consider joining an organized tour in the future to explore more of Jordan.

Day 2: Delving Deeper into Petra (13 km)

Rise early on your second day and head back to the Visitor Center, prepared to explore the main valley of Petra. This time, you’ll walk through the Siq as the morning sun casts beautiful shadows along the path. Aim to arrive at the Treasury by 08:00 to avoid the crowds and soak in the magic.

From the Treasury, continue along the Street of Facades and cross a bridge that leads you to the Tomb of Uneishu, which offers fantastic views of the ancient theater, another must-see in Petra.

• Take the time to admire the architecture and the history behind each site.
• Explore the nearby Royal Tombs, which are clustered together for easy viewing.
• Consider climbing to the Tomb of the Urn for a unique perspective.

The real adventure begins as you hike the Al-Khubtha Trail, which leads to the best viewpoint overlooking the Treasury. This 400-meter climb features stunning vistas and is well worth the effort. Expect to spend about 1.5 hours exploring this area before making your way back.

After some well-deserved rest, it’s time to explore the remaining areas of Petra. The Nabataean Theater and the Avenue of the Columns are highlights you won’t want to skip. Be sure to take your time and appreciate the intricate details of these historical structures.

Finally, if you have the energy, consider the hike to the Altar of Sacrifice. This route is known for its breathtaking views, especially at sunset. Although we didn’t complete this hike on our visit, it’s suggested as one of the best spots to conclude your journey through Petra.

As you make your way back, take a moment to bid farewell to the majestic Treasury and reflect on the incredible experiences you’ve had over the past two days.

Map of Your Two-Day Itinerary in Petra

To help you visualize your route, we’ve created a map outlining the key sites to visit during your two days in Petra. This will serve as a handy guide to ensure you don’t miss anything important.

In conclusion, your adventure in Petra will undoubtedly be filled with physical challenges and awe-inspiring sights. Prepare yourself for an unforgettable experience that combines history, culture, and natural beauty. Enjoy every moment as you explore this ancient city!

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