Petra and Wadi Rum Itinerary: How to Plan Your Trip
Petra and Wadi Rum are Jordan's two most iconic destinations. Here's how to combine them into a seamless, unforgettable itinerary — with or without a tour guide.
The Perfect Petra and Wadi Rum Itinerary
Visiting Petra and Wadi Rum together is the classic Jordan experience. These two UNESCO-listed sites are located relatively close to each other in southern Jordan, making a combined itinerary both practical and deeply rewarding.
How Many Days Do You Need
- Petra: Minimum one full day; ideally two to see Petra by Night and explore the back trails
- Wadi Rum: One day for a jeep tour, or one night camping under the stars
- Travel time between them: approximately 1.5 hours by private car
A comfortable 3-day itinerary allows you to fully experience both without rushing.
Day by Day Plan
Day 1 — Petra
Arrive in Wadi Musa (the village next to Petra) early. Enter through the Siq at opening time to beat the crowds. Spend the morning at the Treasury, the Royal Tombs, and the Monastery if you have the energy.
Day 2 — More of Petra or Petra by Night
If you have a second day, explore the coloured canyon, the High Place of Sacrifice, or the smaller, quieter sites. Petra by Night runs three times per week and is a magical experience.
Day 3 — Wadi Rum
Drive south to Wadi Rum. Join a half-day or full-day jeep tour through the desert. Key sites include Lawrence's Spring, Khazali Canyon, and the red sand dunes.
Getting There
The best way to travel between Petra and Wadi Rum is with a private driver. You can arrange for pickup at your hotel and a drop-off directly at the Wadi Rum visitor centre. If Petra and Wadi Rum are consecutive stops, review the private transfer from Petra to Wadi Rum for the direct route between them. We offer a ready-made Petra and Wadi Rum package or you can build your own custom itinerary with the stops and timing that suit you. Read what our travellers say about this trip before you book.