Petra — the legendary Rose City carved into pink sandstone cliffs — sits about 230 km south of Amman, a journey of roughly 2 hours 45 minutes to 3 hours depending on the route. Reaching this UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the New Seven Wonders of the World is part of the adventure. Most international visitors choose a private taxi from Amman to Petra because it's faster, far more comfortable than a public bus, and lets you stop along the way at iconic landmarks.
Distance, Drive Time & Routes
You have two scenic routes to choose from:
- Desert Highway (Route 15) — the fastest route, about 2 h 45 min, mostly flat and straightforward. Best if you want to reach Petra quickly.
- King's Highway (Route 35) — slower (4–5 h) but breathtaking: stops at Madaba (City of Mosaics), Mount Nebo, Karak Crusader Castle and the dramatic Wadi Mujib viewpoint. Add 50–70 JOD to the private transfer for the scenic option.
Amman to Petra Transfer Prices (2025)
- One-way private taxi from Amman to Petra — from 95 JOD (sedan, 1–3 pax) / 130 JOD (van, 4–7 pax).
- Direct from Queen Alia Airport to Petra — from 110 JOD (sedan) / 150 JOD (van).
- Round trip Amman ↔ Petra (same day) — from 180 JOD with waiting included.
- Petra → Wadi Rum continuation — from 60 JOD (sedan).
How Amman–Petra Transfer Compares to Other Options
- Private taxi (recommended) — door-to-door from your hotel to your Petra hotel, English-speaking driver, fixed price, free stops along the way.
- JETT bus — about 11 JOD one-way, departs Amman at 06:30 and returns at 17:00. Cheaper but limits your visiting time and pickup is from a station, not your hotel.
- Rental car — flexible but Jordanian driving and parking near Petra can be stressful for first-time visitors.
- Group tour — affordable but rushed and full of commission shopping stops.
Travel Tips for Visiting Petra
- Buy your Jordan Pass before arrival — it covers the visa fee plus Petra entry and 40+ other sites.
- Wear comfortable walking shoes — you may walk 6–10 km inside Petra.
- Bring at least 2 litres of water, sunscreen, a hat and sunglasses.
- Enter as soon as the gates open (06:00) for the iconic empty Treasury photo.
- Don't miss the hike to the Monastery (Ad Deir) — 800 steps, but worth every one.
- Consider Petra by Night (Mon/Wed/Thu evenings) — the Siq lit by 1,500 candles.