Petra, Jordan: How to Get There – The Complete Transportation Guide for Visiting Petra

Petra isn’t inside a big modern city. It sits near a small town called Wadi Musa in southern Jordan. This means you cannot simply walk there from Amman or Aqaba and must plan your transportation in advance.The site opens early, walking distances are long, and the sun can be strong. Arriving tired or late can limit how much of Petra you are able to see.This guide explains the main ways to reach Petra, how long each option takes, and what it generally costs, helping you choose the route that best fits your travel style and budget.

Petra Jordan How to Get There: All Transportation Options Explained

Most trips to Petra rely on one or more of the following transportation methods:

Car rental or self-driveJETT tourist buses from Amman and sometimes AqabaLocal minibuses, which are cheaper but less comfortablePrivate transfer or taxiOrganized day tours or multi-day toursAll routes eventually lead to Wadi Musa, the town next to Petra, where the Petra Visitor Center is located.

How to Reach Petra from Amman: Car, Bus, Taxi, Tours

Distance: about 230–235 km (around 143–146 miles).

Average travel time: 3–4 hours, depending on traffic and stops.By rental car Route is usually via Highway 15 (Desert Highway), the fastest and simplest option. Travel time is just under 3 hours in light traffic. This option is ideal if you want flexibility and the ability to stop along the way. By JETT bus Departure from Amman (Abdali or 7th Circle) is usually around 06:30. Arrival in Petra is around 10:30. Journey duration is about 3.5–4 hours. Price is around 10–11 JD one way. Tickets can be booked online or at the station. By taxi or private driver Travel time is around 3 hours. This option offers door-to-door service for small groups. Prices vary depending on season and negotiation. By guided tour from Amman Transport and driver are included. Sometimes a guide is available at Petra. Tours often include stops such as Wadi Rum or the Dead Sea.

Traveling to Petra from Aqaba

Distance: about 125–130 km (78–80 miles).

Average travel time: around 2 hours by car.Rental car or private driver The easiest option, taking around 2 hours. Shared or private taxi Faster than buses, with the cost shared between passengers. Occasional buses or tours Some hotels and tour companies arrange transportation between Aqaba and Petra. Aqaba is a good base if you want to combine Red Sea relaxation with a visit to Petra.

Airports in Jordan Near Petra and How to Connect

Queen Alia International Airport (AMM), Amman Main international gateway to Jordan. Approximately 2.5–3 hours by road to Petra. You can continue by taxi, JETT bus, or private transfer.

King Hussein International Airport (AQJ), Aqaba Smaller airport in southern Jordan. About 2 hours by road to Petra. Ideal for combining Aqaba, Petra, and Wadi Rum.

Driving to Petra: Road Conditions, Safety Tips, and Parking

Main routes Desert Highway (Highway 15): fast and direct. King’s Highway: more scenic but slower.

Road conditions Highways are generally paved and in good condition. Night driving is possible but limited lighting can be an issue. Animals or pedestrians may occasionally appear on the road. Safety tips Keep your fuel tank at least half full. Respect speed limits and watch for speed cameras. Avoid long night drives if you are tired. Parking A parking area is available near the Petra Visitor Center. Many hotels in Wadi Musa also offer parking.

Public Transportation to Petra

JETT bus Daily morning departure from Amman. Journey time is about 3.5–4 hours. Buses are air-conditioned with luggage space.

Local buses Cheaper than tourist buses. No fixed schedule; they usually depart when full. If you have a tight schedule, JETT or a private transfer is usually the better option.

Best Time of Day to Travel to Petra

Early morning Cooler temperatures and fewer crowds.

Midday Clear roads but strong heat, especially in summer. Late afternoon or evening Suitable if you plan to visit Petra the following morning.

Cost of Transportation to Petra

JETT bus: around 10–11 JD one way. Car rental: about 25–30 JD per day plus fuel. Fuel from Amman to Petra: roughly 15–25 JD. Shared taxi from Aqaba: around 25–40 JD per car. Private transfer: approximately 70–150+ JD.

Maximum flexibility: Rent a car and drive via the Desert Highway.
Affordable from Amman: Take the JETT bus.
Limited time: Book a private transfer or organized tour.
Red Sea and desert: Fly into Aqaba and continue by road.