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The Elsewhere Guide

Petra, Jordan

A rose-red city carved from sandstone and half as old as time

Middle East March–May, October–November $100–$250/day

Petra, the ancient Nabatean city carved into rose-red cliffs, is a timeless testament to human ingenuity and ambition. With its dramatic landscapes and storied history, Petra offers a luxurious escape where the past meets present in the most enchanting ways. Embark on this curated journey and uncover the magic of Petra with unmatched style and sophistication.

Best time to go

The best time to visit Petra is during the spring (March to May) or autumn (September to November) when the weather is pleasant and the desert blooms with vibrant colors.

Where to Stay

The Icon

Mövenpick Resort Petra

Petra

$400 /night

This luxurious resort, just steps from the entrance to the ancient city, offers opulent rooms and a rooftop garden with stunning views of the Petra mountains.

Why we love it: The rooftop is the perfect spot for a sunset cocktail with panoramic views.

The Hideaway

Petra Marriott Hotel

Taybeh Village

$350 /night

Nestled on a hillside, this hotel offers breathtaking views of the Petra Valley and combines traditional Jordanian hospitality with modern luxury.

Why we love it: The outdoor terrace provides an unrivaled view of the sunset over Petra.

The Desert Retreat

Bespoke Hideaways Aicha Luxury Camp

Wadi Rum

$500 /night

Experience the ultimate desert glamour in this luxury camp amidst the stunning Wadi Rum landscape, featuring private tents with en-suite bathrooms and plush interiors.

Why we love it: The starlit skies and serene desert ambiance offer a magical escape.

Seven Days in Petra

Day 1

Arrival and Acclimatization

Breakfast 8:00 AM

Breakfast at Mövenpick Resort Petra

Mövenpick Resort Petra

💡 Try their signature Middle Eastern breakfast buffet.

restaurant
Morning 10:00 AM

Private Tour of Little Petra

Siq al-Barid

💡 Explore with a local guide to uncover hidden chambers.

experience
🍽
Lunch 1:00 PM

Lunch at Basin Restaurant

Petra

💡 The perfect spot for a meal surrounded by ancient ruins.

restaurant
Afternoon 3:00 PM

Relaxation at the Hotel's Spa

Mövenpick Resort Petra

💡 Opt for the signature Nabatean massage.

hotel
🌙
Evening 7:00 PM

Dinner at Al Qantarah

Wadi Musa

💡 Request a table on the terrace for a view of the Petra hills.

restaurant

A gentle start to acclimatize and savor the anticipation of what's to come.

Day 2

The Magnificent Treasury

Breakfast 7:00 AM

Breakfast at Al Mamlouka

Petra Marriott Hotel

💡 Enjoy the sunrise over the Petra Valley from the terrace.

restaurant
Morning 8:30 AM

Private Guided Tour to the Treasury

Petra

💡 Arrive early to capture the Treasury in the morning light.

experience
🍽
Lunch 12:00 PM

Lunch at The Cave Bar

Petra

💡 Dine inside a 2,000-year-old Nabatean tomb.

restaurant
Afternoon 2:00 PM

Explore the High Place of Sacrifice

Petra

💡 The views from the top are worth the climb.

experience
🌙
Evening 7:00 PM

Dinner at My Mom's Recipe Restaurant

Wadi Musa

💡 The Mansaf here is a must-try.

restaurant

A day dedicated to exploring the iconic sights of Petra.

Day 3

The Monastery and Beyond

Breakfast 8:00 AM

Breakfast at Petra Marriott Hotel

Petra Marriott Hotel

💡 Begin your day with fresh local pastries.

restaurant
Morning 9:00 AM

Hike to the Monastery

Petra

💡 Hire a donkey for the ascent if you prefer a less strenuous climb.

experience
🍽
Lunch 12:30 PM

Picnic at the Monastery

Petra

💡 Pack a gourmet picnic from your hotel.

experience
Afternoon 2:00 PM

Visit the Royal Tombs

Petra

💡 The colors of the tombs change with the light—ideal for photography.

experience
🌙
Evening 6:30 PM

Dinner at Red Cave Restaurant

Wadi Musa

💡 Request their signature lamb dish.

restaurant

A day of exploration and adventure through Petra's less-traveled paths.

Day 4

Cultural Immersion in Wadi Musa

Breakfast 8:00 AM

Breakfast at Mövenpick Resort Petra

Mövenpick Resort Petra

💡 Enjoy the international breakfast buffet with local specialties.

restaurant
Morning 9:30 AM

Visit the Petra Museum

Petra

💡 A guide can provide deeper insights into the artifacts on display.

museum
🍽
Lunch 12:30 PM

Lunch at Petra Kitchen

Wadi Musa

💡 Participate in a cooking class to learn traditional Jordanian dishes.

restaurant
Afternoon 2:30 PM

Explore Wadi Musa Souk

Wadi Musa

💡 Look for handmade Bedouin crafts.

market
🌙
Evening 7:00 PM

Dinner at Al-Wadi Restaurant

Wadi Musa

💡 The mixed grill platter is a local favorite.

restaurant

Immerse yourself in the rich culture and community of Wadi Musa.

Day 5

Desert Dreams in Wadi Rum

Breakfast 7:30 AM

Breakfast at Bespoke Hideaways Aicha Luxury Camp

Bespoke Hideaways Aicha Luxury Camp

💡 Enjoy breakfast under the open desert sky.

restaurant
Morning 9:00 AM

Private Jeep Tour of Wadi Rum

Wadi Rum

💡 Visit Lawrence's Spring and the Khazali Canyon.

experience
🍽
Lunch 12:30 PM

Bedouin Lunch Experience

Wadi Rum

💡 Try the traditional Zarb, a Bedouin barbecue cooked underground.

culinary
Afternoon 2:30 PM

Camel Ride through the Dunes

Wadi Rum

💡 The best way to experience the vastness of the desert.

experience
🌙
Evening 6:00 PM

Stargazing at Aicha Camp

Bespoke Hideaways Aicha Luxury Camp

💡 The clear desert skies offer an unparalleled view of the stars.

experience

A day to get lost in the surreal beauty of the desert landscapes of Wadi Rum.

Day 6

Petra by Night

Breakfast 8:00 AM

Breakfast at Mövenpick Resort Petra

Mövenpick Resort Petra

💡 Savor their freshly baked breads and local jams.

restaurant
Morning 9:30 AM

Visit Al-Beidha (Little Petra)

Petra

💡 A quieter, yet equally fascinating archaeological site.

experience
🍽
Lunch 12:00 PM

Lunch at The Old Village Resort

Wadi Musa

💡 Enjoy their renowned traditional Jordanian cuisine.

restaurant
Afternoon 3:00 PM

Relaxation at the Petra Marriott Spa

Petra Marriott Hotel

💡 Indulge in a rejuvenating Dead Sea mud wrap.

hotel
🌙
Evening 8:30 PM

Petra by Night Experience

Petra

💡 Arrive early to secure the best viewing spot near the Treasury.

cultural

End your day with the enchanting Petra by Night experience, where the ancient city is illuminated by thousands of candles.

Day 7

Farewell to the Ancient City

Breakfast 8:00 AM

Breakfast at Petra Marriott Hotel

Petra Marriott Hotel

💡 A farewell breakfast with a view of the Petra mountains.

restaurant
Morning 9:30 AM

Visit the Petra Archaeological Park

Petra

💡 Hire a knowledgeable guide to uncover the stories behind the ruins.

museum
🍽
Lunch 12:00 PM

Lunch at Beit Al-Barakah

Wadi Musa

💡 Their Maqluba is a perfect farewell dish.

restaurant
Afternoon 2:00 PM

Shopping for Local Crafts

Wadi Musa

💡 Look for unique silver jewelry and hand-woven textiles.

market
🌙
Evening 6:00 PM

Farewell Dinner at Al Iwan Restaurant

Petra

💡 Celebrate your journey with their exquisite mezze platter.

restaurant

A day to reflect on the wonders of Petra and bid farewell to this mystical land.

The Table

Restaurants that define the destination.

Basin Restaurant

Dine amidst ancient ruins, a truly atmospheric experience.

lunch $$$

My Mom's Recipe Restaurant

Authentic Jordanian cuisine that feels like a warm family embrace.

dinner $$$

Red Cave Restaurant

Renowned for its traditional lamb dishes and local charm.

dinner $$$

Petra Kitchen

A culinary experience where you can learn to cook like a local.

lunch $$$

Al-Wadi Restaurant

Famed for its mixed grill platter served with a view.

dinner $$$

Al Qantarah

Offers a sophisticated take on Jordanian classics with stunning views.

dinner $$$

Make It Extraordinary

Experiences beyond the obvious.

private tour

Private Tour of Little Petra

Discover the hidden chambers and ancient frescoes of Siq al-Barid with a seasoned guide.

cultural

Petra by Night

Experience the magic of Petra illuminated by thousands of candles, an ethereal evening journey.

nature

Desert Stargazing

Gaze at the star-filled desert sky from the luxurious comfort of a Bedouin-style camp.

culinary

Bedouin Lunch Experience

Savor a traditional Zarb meal cooked in the desert sands, a true taste of Bedouin hospitality.

nature

Camel Ride through Wadi Rum

Traverse the undulating dunes of Wadi Rum atop a camel, embracing the timeless desert landscape.

Petra is a place where history and luxury intertwine seamlessly. As you depart this ancient city, let the memories of its rose-red sands and timeless marvels linger, knowing you have experienced a journey reserved for the most discerning travelers.

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