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Why Visit Petra from Cairo?
Petra, often called the “Rose City,” is a testament to the ingenuity of the Nabataean civilization, with iconic landmarks like the Treasury (Al-Khazneh) and the Monastery. Combining a visit to Petra with Cairo’s ancient wonders, such as the Pyramids of Giza and the Egyptian Museum, creates a perfect Middle Eastern adventure. Whether you’re a history buff, an adventure seeker, or a culture enthusiast, a Cairo to Petra tour promises an immersive experience.
How Do I Go to Petra from Egypt?
Traveling from Cairo to Petra is straightforward, with multiple transportation options to suit different budgets and preferences. Here’s a breakdown of the most popular ways to make the journey:
Can You Fly from Cairo to Petra?
Yes, flying is the fastest and most convenient way to travel from Cairo to Petra. Direct flights from Cairo International Airport to Queen Alia International Airport in Amman, Jordan, take approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes. From Amman, Petra is about a 3-hour drive (239.5 km). Many tour operators, such as Sun Pyramids Tours and Memphis Tours, include round-trip flights, transfers, and guided tours in their Egypt and Petra tour packages, ensuring a seamless experience.
- Flight Cost: Prices range from $200 to $400 round-trip, depending on the season and booking time.
- Tour Packages: A 3-day tour, including flights, accommodation, and guided Petra visits, starts at $599 per person (standard package).
- Example Itinerary: Fly from Cairo to Amman, transfer to Petra, explore the Siq and Treasury, and return to Cairo the next day.
Cairo to Petra Flight Time
The Cairo to Petra flight time is approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes to Amman, followed by a 3-hour drive to Petra. Total travel time, including airport procedures and transfers, is around 6–7 hours one way. Opting for a guided tour eliminates the hassle of arranging transfers, as operators like Egypt Tours Plus provide air-conditioned vehicles and English-speaking drivers.
Cairo to Petra Distance
The Cairo to Petra distance varies by route:
- By Air: Approximately 550 km (342 miles) from Cairo to Amman, plus 239.5 km (149 miles) by road to Petra.
- By Land and Sea: Around 700–800 km, depending on the route through Taba and Aqaba (more on this below).
Flying is recommended for time efficiency, but land and sea options offer a more adventurous experience.
Cairo to Petra Bus
Traveling by bus from Cairo to Petra involves a combination of land and sea travel. One popular route is via Taba, Egypt, and Aqaba, Jordan:
- Step 1: Take an overnight bus from Cairo to Taba (6 hours, approximately $20–$30).
- Step 2: From Taba Heights Marina, board a ferry to Aqaba (45 minutes, $50–$70).
- Step 3: From Aqaba, a 2-hour drive (126 km) takes you to Petra.
Tour operators like Egypt Online Tours offer packages starting at $484 per person, including bus transfers, ferry tickets, and a guided Petra tour. This option is budget-friendly but requires more time (12–14 hours one way).
Cairo to Petra Train
Unfortunately, there is no direct Cairo to Petra train service, as rail connections between Egypt and Jordan are limited. Travelers relying on public transport must use buses or flights. However, some tour packages combine train travel within Egypt (e.g., Cairo to Luxor) with flights or buses to Jordan, creating a comprehensive Middle East itinerary.
see: Best breakfast in Jordan
Egypt and Petra Tour Packages
For a hassle-free experience, Egypt and Petra tour packages are the best choice. These packages typically include:
- Round-trip flights or bus/ferry transfers.
- Accommodation in Cairo and Petra (e.g., Hilton Pyramids Golf Hotel or Grand Hyatt Amman).
- Guided tours of Petra’s highlights, such as the Siq, Treasury, Royal Tombs, and Monastery.
- Visits to other Jordanian sites like the Dead Sea, Mount Nebo, or Wadi Rum.
- Meals (breakfast and lunch) and entrance fees.
Popular Packages
- 7-Day Cairo to Petra Tour (Memphis Tours): Starting at $1,019 per person, this tour covers Cairo’s Pyramids, Egyptian Museum, and Petra’s major sites, with optional visits to the Dead Sea and Mount Nebo.
- 3-Day Petra Tour from Cairo (Cairo Day Tours): Priced at $599 per person, including flights, accommodation, and a guided Petra tour.
- 2-Day Jordan and Petra Trip (Egypt Tour Packages): From $1,000 per person, this package includes Petra, Wadi Rum, and the Dead Sea.
Reviews: Travelers praise operators like Sun Pyramids Tours (4.9/5 on Tripadvisor) for their knowledgeable guides and seamless organization. For example, Patricia White (January 2023) described her Memphis Tours experience as “an amazing and well-organized trip.”
Top Attractions in Petra
Petra’s archaeological wonders are the highlight of any tour. Key sites include:
- The Siq: A 1.2-km canyon with towering cliffs, leading to the Treasury.
- The Treasury (Al-Khazneh): Petra’s most iconic monument, carved into pink sandstone.
- Royal Tombs: Intricate burial sites showcasing Nabataean architecture.
- The Monastery: A massive rock-cut structure reached by an 800-step climb.
- Little Petra: A smaller site with similar rock-cut architecture, ideal for a quieter visit.
Many tours also offer a Petra by Night experience, where the Siq and Treasury are illuminated by candlelight, creating a magical atmosphere.
Sample Itinerary: 3-Day Petra Tour from Cairo
Day 1: Cairo to Petra
- Morning: Transfer to Cairo International Airport for a flight to Amman.
- Afternoon: Arrive in Amman, drive to Petra (3 hours), and check into a hotel (e.g., Le Riad de Charme).
- Evening: Optional Petra by Night tour.
- Overnight in Petra.
See also: Shobak castle jordan
Day 2: Petra Exploration
- Morning: Guided tour through the Siq to the Treasury, followed by visits to the Street of Facades, Royal Tombs, and Roman Theatre.
- Afternoon: Explore the Colonnaded Street, the Temple of Dushares, and the Byzantine Church. Lunch at a local restaurant.
- Evening: Free time to shop for souvenirs in Wadi Musa.
- Overnight in Petra.
Day 3: Return to Cairo
- Morning: Breakfast and optional visit to Little Petra.
- Afternoon: Drive to Amman, fly back to Cairo, and transfer to your hotel.
- Meals: Breakfast included.
Total Cost: Starting at $599 per person (standard package, double occupancy).
Tips for Travelers
- copyright and Visa: Ensure your copyright is valid for at least 6 months. A Jordanian visa is required ($60 at the airport).
- Clothing: Wear comfortable walking shoes and lightweight clothing. Bring a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen for sun protection.
- Hydration: Carry a refillable water bottle, as Petra’s terrain can be demanding.
- Currency: Exchange money for Jordanian Dinar (JOD) in Amman or Petra.
- Respect Local Customs: Dress modestly, especially at religious sites like Mount Nebo.
- Photography: Bring a camera to capture Petra’s stunning landscapes, but respect restricted areas.
Why Choose a Guided Tour?
Guided tours offer several advantages:
- Expert Guides: English-speaking Egyptologists and local guides provide an in-depth historical context.
- Convenience: All logistics, including flights, transfers, and entrance fees, are handled by the operator.
- Safety: Reputable companies like Sun Pyramids Tours ensure a secure and hassle-free experience.
- Customization: Many operators allow you to tailor itineraries, adding stops like Wadi Rum or an extra day in Amman.
Traveler Feedback: Reviews highlight the professionalism of guides like Mahmoud (Cairo Day Tours) and Mansour (Sun Pyramids Tours), who tailor tours to group interests and provide exceptional service.
Best Time to Visit Petra
The ideal time to visit Petra is spring (March–May) or autumn (September–November), when temperatures are mild (20–25°C). Summer (June–August) can be hot (up to 35°C), while winter (December–February) brings cooler weather but occasional rain. Booking during shoulder seasons ensures fewer crowds and better rates.
Budget Considerations
- Flights: $200–$400 round-trip (Cairo–Amman).
- Tours: $484–$1,105 per person, depending on duration and inclusions.
- Visa Fees: $60 for Jordan entry.
- Extras: Budget $50–$100 for souvenirs, tips, and optional activities like camel rides.
See also: Best Hotels in Amman Jordan Dead Sea
Discounts: Group bookings (10+ people) or family packages often come with reduced rates, as offered by Egypt Online Tours.
Safety and Accessibility
Petra’s uneven terrain may be challenging for wheelchair users, but some areas are accessible with assistance. Tour operators provide wheelchair-accessible vehicles upon request. Egypt and Jordan are generally safe for tourists, with operators prioritizing security through private transfers and experienced guides.
Don’t miss the chance to explore the ancient wonders of Petra on a seamless tour from Cairo. Whether you choose a quick 2-day trip or a comprehensive 7-day adventure, a guided tour ensures an unforgettable experience. Book your Cairo to Petra tour now with Jordan Magic Wonders and embark on a journey through history, culture, and breathtaking landscapes. Act fast—secure your spot today!