If you’ve been smitten by the Petra bug, then the only antidote is to visit this spectacular archaeological city, which lies on the breathtaking slopes of Mount Hor. John William Burgon aptly described it as ”a rose-red city half as old as time.” Whether you’re travelling from Amman or Aqaba, your journey will be comfortable, even if you’re making your own arrangements.

From Amman, you can take the JETT bus from Abdali which leaves at 6:30am. After a four hour drive you should reach Petra at 10:30am. This bus leaves Petra at 4pm. A round trip will cost you about 16 JD. There are also air-conditioned tour buses which offer the services of a guide translator, maps, drinking water, etc. Public minibuses make the journey from Mujamaaa Janobi station to Wadi Musa and return in the evening. These will cost you about JD 5 one way. Alternatively, you can take a taxi from Queen Alia Airport or downtown Amman for JD 80.

From Aqaba, you can take a public minibus from Aqaba Police Station bus stand all the way to Wadi Musa for JD 5. Buses run every day except for Friday; it’s a two hour journey. There are five buses that run daily so check the schedule in advance. If you’re travelling in a group of four, you can hire a white service taxi which will cost you JD 30 for a trip to Wadi Musa. The green Aqaba taxis will cost JD 80 for a round trip to Petra and back.