How to Make the Most of One Day in Petra

Last updated on June 13th, 2023 at 03:56 am

There are some places in the world that need to be seen in person. No number of beautiful pictures in travel guides or documentaries on television will replace the experience of visiting in person. The Lost City of Petra is one of those places.

If you are thinking of skipping Petra because you don’t have much time to spend there, DON’T! Ideally, we would all have 2-3 days to fully explore this archaeological wonder. In reality, most people only have 1 day to visit. Here is a guide of what you can do and see during your one day in Petra. You can also check here for up-to-date hours and special events.

History

First, a little history on the Lost City. One of the oldest cities in the world, Petra is a UNESCO World Heritage site that has a treasure trove of archaeological history. One common misperception regarding Petra is that the Treasury is the main site (and only one) to see. You will be amazed at how much history has been uncovered and is waiting for you to explore. Even more amazing, 85% of Petra remains undiscovered. Keep reading for what to see and do during your one day.

How to Spend One Day

The Siq

In my opinion, Petra has one of the most visually stunning entrances of anywhere in the world. The long, narrow passageway winds its way to one of the most impressive ruins anywhere, The Treasury. A thin opening in the walls allows you to catch a glimpse of what awaits you.

As much as you may want to rush to get to the end of the Siq, don’t! Take your time as you wander through the sandstone gorge. Along the way, there are underground chambers and remnants of ceremonial sites that can still be seen today.

To get from the start of the Siq to the Treasury is just under one mile. You can walk, ride in a carriage or channel your inner Indiana Jones and ride horseback.

The Treasury

You have made it to Jordan’s most visited site. Believed to have been built in 1st century A.D., the intricate structure was believed to have been tomb. Even more impressive than the detailed carvings is the fact that all the buildings were carved from the top down. It is an engineering marvel.

Of course, with all good things comes–crowds. It does become a practice in patience to get the perfect picture. Due to the impact of tourism, you will not be allowed to go inside of the Treasury. Nevertheless, the breathtaking views from the outside are worth it.

Hiking to the Monastery

As you will find out, there is so much to see at Petra that is cannot be done in one day. After a lot of consideration, we chose to walk up to the Monastery. This hike works very well for a one day itinerary.

The Main Trail

While this trail technically starts at the Visitor Complex, we are going to pick it up at the Treasury as it will be the path we walk to the start of the Monastery. As you are making your way back to the steps of our final destination, you will pass by some of the must-see sites. Those you will see:

• Street of Facades
• Roman Theater
• Royal Tombs
• Great Palace

We waited to take pictures of the above sites on our way back from the Monastery, but this is a personal preference.

The Main Trail ends at the City Complex and this becomes the starting point for other hiking trails. We are following the Ad Deir (Monastery) trail.

Hiking to the Monastery

So far, the trail has been pretty flat. Now, it changes. To get to the Monastery it is a little over a 1 mile hike, in addition to the 2 1/2 mile Main Trail. Though a mile may not sound difficult, you will be climbing 900 uneven steps for much of your trek. Take your time while ascending to the top. Take breaks if you need to. Depending on when you visit, the temperature can be downright hot and the sun brutal. All along the climb, thee are little shops where the locals are selling snacks, soft drinks and fresh squeezed juice.

Once you reach the top, you will be rewarded with one of the most awe-inspiring views in the region. Next to the Treasury, this is the second most visited site in Petra. Unlike the Treasury, the Monastery is much larger, standing 154′ high and 157′ wide. Nestled close to some of the best viewpoints is an open air cafe where you can get a snack and something to drink. Rest your feet by relaxing on one of the couches facing the Monastery. You can relax, take in the view and enjoy the fact you made it!

Helpful Hints

When planning your one day at Petra, there are a few things to keep in mind and prepare for. I hope you find these hints helpful in your preparation.

• Wear shoes with good grip. The steps to the Monastery can be slippery.
• Wear closed toed shoes. It’s sandy and dusty.
• Watch the weather. It can be cool in the mornings and heat up during the day.
• Take water!
• Take toilet paper and hand sanitizer. I was very happy I had packed both.
• Go early. You will need as many hours as possible.
• Don’t rush. Enjoy the experience.

Conclusion

i hope you will plan to visit Petra, even if you only have one day. As you can see, you can have an awesome day exploring the ruins. It is the perfect one-day introduction to the Lost City and you can decide if you want to return to experience more.

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