A visit to the breathtaking city of Petra is a must for all travelers and being in close proximity to the magnificent desert of Wadi Rum and the Red Sea resort of Aqaba enables our guests to explore the enchanting rock-carved city of Petra & beyond.
THE LOST CITY OF PETRA
Only footsteps away from our hotel lies the long lost breathtaking Nabatean city of Petra which was carved entirely out of rock about 2,000 years ago and recently voted as one of the New Seven Wonders of the World awaits you. Explore this remarkable city by walking through the “Siq” which leads to Petra’s most impressive monument, the Treasury. Then pass by the Street of Facades, the remarkable 3,000 seat Theater, the impressive collection of Royal Tombs, the Colonnaded Street; the Byzantine Church, the Temple, the Monumental Arch, the mighty Qasr el-Bint Faroun & finally up to the Monastery with its spectacular views. Should you wish to return to Petra for second half day visit, you may climb up to the High Place of Sacrifice. Google coordinates for Petra’s Visitors’ Centre ( 30.325022,35.468367 ) Entry tickets to Petra: 1-day visit = JD 50 | 2-day visit = JD 55 (visits ought to be on consecutive days).
MINIATURE PETRA ( LITTLE PETRA )
In a hidden peaceful valley, about 9 km north from our hotel, amidst white sandstone domes lies Little Petra (known in Arabic as Siq el-Barid); a miniature Petra with its own small gorge “Siq” and impressive rock-carved monuments, aqueducts and stairways. Just a short distance to the southwest of Siq el-Barid, is one of the region’s most important archaeological sites, the 9,000 year old Neolithic village of Beidha (1½ hrs., easy)… free admission ( Google coordinates 30.375245,35.451504 )
PETRA BY NIGHT
The ‘rose-red’ city is transformed at night into a world of magic with only the flickering light of candles to guide your way to the Treasury where you will hear Bedouin music & drink tea. Meeting point is in front of Petra’s Gate @ 8.15pm (Duration 8.30pm – 10.30pm). Petra by Night operates on Mondays, Wednesdays & Thursdays & subject to cancellation depending on weather conditions. Ticket JD 12 per person (torch light recommended).
THE ROCK CAMP PETRA
For a dining experience unlike any other, guests may enjoy an authentic Bedouin dinner at The Rock Camp Petra which is ideally set in a spectacular secluded area in Beidha (also known as Little Petra; 14km away); surrounded by majestic towering rocks, offering a personal insight into the Bedouin’s hospitable way of life. Guests may enjoy the serenity of the desert under lamp-lit hand woven tents or may relax around the campfire gazing at the starlit skies while sipping Bedouin cardamom-spiced coffee. Guests may also share in authentic Shraak bread baking & get adorned with temporary Henna tattooing; traditionally thought to have magical powers & Kohl eyeliner, still popular amongst the Bedouins as a natural protection against the harsh desert sun (booking should be done in advance & subject to availability). Google coordinates (30.411818,35.451881).
THE STUNNING DESERT OF WADI RUM
Only 110km south of Petra is Wadi Rum; one of the world’s most magnificent and unique landscapes of endless desert and breathtaking mountain scenery. Choice of travel to explore Wadi Rum is wide. For travelers seeking adventure you may enjoy the vast sandy dunes of Wadi Rum and explore its canyons either by Bedouin four-wheel drive vehicles, horse-back or camel rides depending on your preference bookable at Wadi Rum Visitors’ Center. Google coordinates (29.639425,35.434157).
THE RED SEA RESORT OF AQAPA
135km south of Petra is the Red Sea resort of Aqaba; which offers a fascinating undersea world of corals and exotic fish. The crystal clear waters play host to an endless list of marine life ready to be explored whether by snorkeling or unsurpassed scuba diving. Cruises are also available for an amazing coral viewing, snorkeling & fishing. For thrill-seekers, a variety of other water sports are on hand including parasailing, water skiing, windsurfing and sailing to mention just a few. Aqaba city centre Google coordinates (29.529274,35.001644)