Enjoy comfort and calm in the city
Things to do in Petra
You may have seen images of Petra – or its most famous structure, the Treasury – in magazines, documentaries or movies – but it’s not till you’re there that you begin to feel a real sense of awe for the place. Petra has formed the backdrop for many films, including Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade; a tribute to its mystery and charm that continues to captivate visitors right to this day.
Hike through the mountains
There are numerous trails which lead hikers through the mountains and to breathtaking vantage points such as the High Place of Sacrifice. It’s a great way to discover lesser-known ruins like Little Petra, as well as admire colourful and strange rock formations. This is a desert climate so wear appropriate clothing (a cap and proper hiking shoes are a must) and bring plenty of water and some food. Avoid venturing off the path and make sure you get back to the main gate before dark. Information about guides and trails can be obtained from the Petra office at the main entrance.
Visit Petra by night
Seeing Petra during the day is an awe-inspiring experience for most visitors. By night, the ancient city transforms into what must be one of the most magical places in the world. Thousands of candles guide visitors through the Siq (a canyon) to the main square where the Treasury is located, making a visit to Petra by night one of the most unique things to do in Jordan. It’s a truly romantic experience and a perfect place to pop the question (for those planning to do so).
Cultural Events
Festivals in Jordan are often of a religious nature. Like its neighboring countries, many of its holidays are marked by the Islamic calendar, so some international events such as the New Year have different dates.
Check into a hammam
After a day of trekking through Petra, there’s no better way to soothe those aching muscles and rid yourself of the dust and sand than to check into a hammam (or Turkish bath). There are several hammams in Wadi Musa (the township adjacent to Petra) that serve both male and female clientele. A typical hammam session consists of a steam bath, a body scrub and an oil massage.
Local Food
One of the best parts of traveling is eating local food. The local popular Jordanian food tends to consist of rice, yogurt, lamb, olives, and a range of herbs and spices.
Join a cooking course
This is a great thing to do in the evenings if you’ve already seen Petra by night. The Petra Kitchen (located along the main road in Wadi Musa, a few hundred yards away from the main entrance to Petra) is a lovely place that promises an educational and fun-filled evening. Visitors don gloves and aprons, and under the supervision of the restaurant’s chefs, learn how to create typical Jordanian dishes.
Shop for authentic souvenirs
Petra/Wadi Musa is a great place to shop for traditional Jordanian and Nabatean handicrafts.
Check out ‘The Best View’
At the Monastery, near the small café, you’ll spot a sign pointing you in the direction of “The Best View”. It’s a short hike uphill and the view of the Monastery and the surrounding mountains is stunning!
