Petra and Wadi Rum Trip

Choose a realistic Petra and Wadi Rum itinerary

Technically, Petra and Wadi Rum can be visited in one day, but it is not recommended. The combined driving from Amman to Petra to Wadi Rum is approximately 5.5 to 6 hours one way, with very little time at either site. Two days is the realistic minimum — one full day at Petra, then a transfer south to Wadi Rum for the afternoon and evening. Three days is the recommended option for those wanting to fully experience both.

Petra (Wadi Musa) to Wadi Rum is approximately 100 kilometres — about 1.5 hours by private car. The route passes through Ma'an, then south along the Desert Highway before turning into the Wadi Rum Protected Area. An optional stop at Little Petra (Siq al-Barid) can be made en route and adds about 30 minutes.

Plan overnight stays and activities separately

For a Petra and Wadi Rum trip, overnight accommodation is strongly recommended to be booked in advance, particularly in high season (March to May, September to November). ORYXJOURNEY provides private transportation only — accommodation is not included and is arranged separately. Popular options include hotels in Wadi Musa (near Petra) and Bedouin camps near Wadi Rum.

At Wadi Rum, Jeep excursions to explore the interior of the protected area are operated by local Bedouin guides — these are arranged at the visitor centre and are not included in the transport price.

Want Aqaba as well? Compare Petra, Wadi Rum and Aqaba multi-day trips for a longer southern Jordan route.