Petra Jordan Entry Fee: 2025 Guide to Tickets and Savings

Visiting Petra requires understanding the 2025 entry fee structure to maximize your budget and experience. Ticket prices vary significantly based on your nationality, visit duration, and planned activities within the archaeological park. This guide provides the exact costs, money-saving strategies, and essential planning tips for your visit to this iconic Wonder of the World.

Essential Petra Visitor Information

Petra is an ancient Nabatean city carved into rose-red sandstone cliffs in southern Jordan. The site spans over 100 square miles, though the main archaeological trail covers a concentrated area. The Jordanian government, through the Petra Development and Tourism Region Authority (PDTRA), manages all ticketing and site access.

The famous Treasury (Al-Khazneh) is just the beginning of the extensive ruins. You will need multiple days to fully appreciate the Royal Tombs, the Monastery (Ad-Deir), and the High Place of Sacrifice. Weather varies dramatically, with scorching summer heat and chilly winter nights affecting your visit comfort.

What Constitutes the Petra Entry Fee

Your ticket grants access to the entire archaeological park for a specified number of consecutive days. The base Petra Jordan entry fee covers entrance only and does not include guides, transportation inside the site, or special experiences.

Main Site Access: Entry to the Siq, Treasury, Street of Facades, Theater, Royal Tombs, Colonnaded Street, and the main trail to the Monastery.
Standard Hours: Access from 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM in summer (April-October) and 6:00 AM to 4:00 PM in winter (November-March).
Exclusions: The fee does not cover the optional golf cart ride through the Siq, donkey or camel rides, the Petra by Night event, or a licensed guide.

Key Definitions: Jordan Pass vs. Standard Ticket

The Jordan Pass is a tourism bundle that prepays your visa fee and entry to over 40 attractions. It includes your Petra ticket for one, two, or three days. Purchasing it online before arrival is the most cost-effective method for most travelers.

A standard ticket is bought directly at the Petra Visitor Center. This option is only suitable if you are a Jordanian resident, hold a non-tourist visa, or are visiting only Petra. For almost all international tourists, the Jordan Pass offers substantial savings on the overall trip cost.

Visitor Center and Gate Procedures

All visitors must purchase tickets or validate passes at the main Visitor Center in Wadi Musa. You cannot buy entry at any other gate. Arrive early to avoid long queues, especially from 9:00 AM to 11:00 AM.

You will need your passport for identification when exchanging your Jordan Pass voucher or buying a ticket. Keep your ticket handy, as rangers may request to see it at various points along the trails, particularly before the ascent to the Monastery.

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Petra Jordan Entry Fee – Planning Your Visit

Budgeting accurately for the Petra Jordan entry fee is the first step in planning. Prices are set in Jordanian Dinar (JOD) but are listed here in US Dollars for convenience using a standard exchange rate. Your citizenship dramatically affects the price you pay at the gate.

International tourists pay a premium compared to residents of Jordan or neighboring Arab countries. The multi-day tickets offer excellent value, as the cost per day decreases significantly. Always check the official PDTRA website for the very latest official pricing before your trip.

Best Time to Visit Petra

The ideal months to visit are March through May and September through November. During these periods, daytime temperatures range from a pleasant 70°F to 85°F (21°C to 29°C). Crowds are moderate, and the light is perfect for photography in the canyon.

Summer (June-August) sees extreme heat, often exceeding 100°F (38°C), making hikes strenuous. Winter (December-February) can be cold, with occasional rain and even rare snow, and temperatures between 40°F and 60°F (4°C to 16°C). The site is least crowded in January and February.

Budget Planning and Costs

Your total Petra budget includes the entry fee, transportation inside the site, food, and guides.

Budget Traveler (~$120 USD): One-day Jordan Pass ($99), packed lunch and water ($10), and walking everywhere. This covers the visa fee and basic Petra access.
Mid-Range Comfort (~$250 USD): Two-day Jordan Pass ($106), round-trip golf cart ride in the Siq ($35), lunch at a restaurant ($20), and a tip-based guided audio tour app ($5).
Premium Experience (~$400+ USD): Three-day Jordan Pass ($113), private licensed guide for a day ($70), Petra by Night ticket ($24), and meals at top local restaurants.

Essential Preparation Checklist

Physical preparation is as important as financial planning. You will walk a minimum of 6-8 miles on rough, uneven terrain during a full day of exploration. Comfort is absolutely key to enjoying your visit.

Ensure your passport has at least six months of validity. Purchase comprehensive travel insurance that covers medical evacuation. Book accommodations in Wadi Musa at least three months in advance for peak season visits to secure the best locations and rates.

Official 2025 Ticket Prices and Passes

The Petra Development and Tourism Region Authority sets official prices annually. The following structure is projected for 2025 based on recent trends and official announcements. All non-Jordanian visitors must pay in foreign currency or by credit card at the Visitor Center.

Prices for visitors staying overnight in Jordan are significantly lower than for same-day arrivals from neighboring countries like Israel or Egypt. This policy encourages longer stays and supports the local economy in Wadi Musa and the broader region.

Petra Ticket Prices for Non-Jordanian Visitors

A one-day pass is sufficient only for a rushed highlights tour. The two-day ticket is the most popular choice, allowing for a complete main trail visit and a deeper exploration of secondary trails. The three-day pass is ideal for serious photographers, hikers, or archaeology enthusiasts.

Children under 12 typically enter free with a paying adult. Student discounts are available with a valid international student ID (ISIC card), usually providing a 50% reduction on the standard foreign visitor fee. Always present your ID at the ticket counter to claim any discount.

Jordan Pass Breakdown and Value

The Jordan Pass is the undisputed best value for tourists entering Jordan via Amman’s Queen Alia International Airport (AMM) or the Aqaba airport. It waives the 40 JOD (approx. $56 USD) tourist visa fee upon entry if you stay a minimum of three nights.

Three tiers exist: The “Wanderer” (1-day Petra), “Explorer” (2-day Petra), and “Expert” (3-day Petra). The “Explorer” pass offers the best balance for most itineraries. You must purchase the pass online before your trip and present the printed QR code or mobile voucher upon arrival and at Petra.

Special Tickets and Night Events

The “Petra by Night” event is a separate ticketed experience held on Monday, Wednesday, and Thursday evenings. It involves a candlelit walk through the Siq to the Treasury for a traditional music performance. Tickets cost around 17 JOD (approx. $24 USD) and are not included in any standard pass.

Guided tours from licensed operators are an additional cost but provide immense historical context. Official site guides are hired at the Visitor Center, while private tour companies offer pre-arranged packages that may include transportation from Amman.

Practical Travel Information for Petra

Reaching Petra requires travel to the town of Wadi Musa. Most international visitors fly into Amman (AMM) or Aqaba (AQJ). From there, you can take a domestic flight, a JETT tourist bus, a private taxi, or a rental car.

Accommodation in Wadi Musa ranges from basic hostels to five-star resorts with stunning cliffside views. Staying within walking distance of the Visitor Center is highly recommended to facilitate early morning entry. Booking.com and Airbnb list most available options.

Getting There and Around

Fly into Queen Alia International Airport (AMM) near Amman. From Amman, the drive to Petra takes about 3 hours. The JETT bus departs at 6:30 AM from their station in Amman and returns from Petra at 5:00 PM, costing around 11 JOD ($15 USD) one-way.

Renting a car provides maximum flexibility for visiting Petra, Wadi Rum, and the Dead Sea on one trip. Within Petra, walking is primary. Golf carts can shuttle you through the Siq for an additional 25 JOD ($35 USD) round-trip. Horse and donkey rides are available but check animal welfare practices first.

Where to Stay in Wadi Musa

The area closest to the Visitor Center is called the “Touristic Area.” Hotels here, like the Petra Guest House, allow you to walk to the entrance in two minutes. Downtown Wadi Musa offers more local restaurant options and cheaper hotels but requires a taxi ride up the hill to the site.

For a unique experience, consider staying at a camp in nearby Little Petra. This provides a quieter atmosphere and is excellent for stargazing. Book your hotel at least 60 days in advance for the spring and fall seasons to avoid sold-out situations and inflated prices.

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Food, Culture, and Local Experience

Jordanian cuisine is a highlight of any visit. Meals are social, generous, and flavorful. In Wadi Musa, you’ll find everything from simple falafel stands to restaurants with Petra-view terraces. Tipping (bakshish) is customary for good service in restaurants and for guides.

Respect local customs by dressing modestly, especially when away from the immediate tourist site. While shorts and t-shirts are acceptable in Petra, covering shoulders and knees is appreciated in the town. Learning a few Arabic phrases like “Shukran” (thank you) will be warmly received.

Local Cuisine and Must-Try Dishes

You must try Mansaf, Jordan’s national dish of lamb cooked in a yogurt sauce served over rice. Maqluba, an upside-down casserole of chicken, rice, and vegetables, is another staple. For breakfast, sample hummus, ful medames (fava beans), and fresh bread.

Al-Wadi Restaurant near the Visitor Center is famous for its buffet and view. For authentic local fare at great prices, head downtown to areas like Tourism Street. A typical meal at a local restaurant costs between $8 and $15 USD per person.

Cultural Tips and Etiquette

Jordanians are famously hospitable. It’s polite to accept offers of tea or coffee. When dining, use your right hand for eating, especially if sharing from a communal plate. Public displays of affection should be minimal out of respect for local norms.

Tipping 10% is standard in restaurants if a service charge isn’t included. For guides, tip 5-10 JOD ($7-$14 USD) per day for good service. Bargaining is expected in souvenir shops but not in fixed-price stores or for the official Petra Jordan entry fee.

Shopping for Souvenirs

The sand art bottles depicting Petra scenes are popular. Look for authentic handicrafts like traditional Bedouin jewelry, woven rugs, or pottery. The vendors near the Treasury and along the main path have the highest prices. For better deals, visit the shops in downtown Wadi Musa.

Always negotiate politely. Start by offering half the asking price and expect to settle around 60-70% of the initial quote. Avoid buying any antiquities or items made from archaeological materials, as their export is illegal.

Sources and References

Official Petra Tourism Board
The Official Jordan Pass Portal

Frequently Asked Questions

When is the best time to visit Petra for good weather?

Visit Petra in spring (March-May) or autumn (September-November) for ideal weather. Daytime temperatures range from 70°F to 85°F (21°C to 29°C) with minimal rain. These seasons provide comfortable conditions for hiking the site’s extensive trails without extreme summer heat.

How much does visiting Petra cost?

A one-day visit costs a minimum of $120 USD including the Jordan Pass, lunch, and water. A comprehensive two-day experience with a cart ride, guide, and nicer meals averages $250-$300 USD. The Petra Jordan entry fee itself is covered by the Jordan Pass, which starts at $99.

How many days do you need for Petra?

Plan for two full days minimum to see Petra properly. The first day covers the main trail to the Treasury and Monastery. A second day allows exploration of the High Place of Sacrifice and Royal Tombs at a relaxed pace. Dedicate three days for photography or extensive hiking.

How do you get to Petra?

Fly into Amman’s Queen Alia Airport (AMM). From Amman, drive south for 3 hours via the Desert Highway. Alternatively, take the daily JETT tourist bus for about $15 USD one-way. Many visitors combine Petra with a trip to Wadi Rum, which is a 1.5-hour drive south.

Where should you stay for visiting Petra?

Stay in Wadi Musa within walking distance of the Petra Visitor Center. The “Touristic Area” hotels offer the most convenience for early entry. For a unique experience, consider a camp in Little Petra, a 15-minute drive from the main site entrance.

Is Petra safe for travelers?

Yes, Petra is very safe for travelers. Jordan maintains a strong security presence around major tourist sites. Practice standard travel precautions like guarding valuables in crowds. The main risks are related to heat exhaustion and slips on uneven terrain, not personal safety.

Do you need special preparation for Petra?

Yes, you need excellent walking shoes, a hat, sunscreen, and at least 2-3 liters of water per day. Physically prepare for 6-8 miles of walking on rocky paths. Book your Jordan Pass online in advance and confirm your hotel reservation well before arrival.

Final Tips for Your Petra Visit

Petra’s immense scale and historical depth demand more than a rushed day trip to appreciate fully. Your visit succeeds by purchasing the Jordan Pass online before arrival, securing a hotel in Wadi Musa for at least two nights, and starting each day at the site opening time. Remember that the Petra Jordan entry fee is an investment in accessing one of the world’s most breathtaking archaeological wonders. Which ancient trail will you explore first—the path to the Monastery or the steps to the High Place?

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Accommodation Type	Location & Features	Price Range/Night (USD)
Budget Hostel	Downtown Wadi Musa, shared dorm, basic breakfast included	$15 – $30
Mid-Range Hotel	5-10 minute walk to Visitor Center, private bathroom, pool, buffet breakfast	$80 – $150
Boutique Hotel	Cave-like architecture, panoramic terrace views, restaurant on-site	$150 – $250
Luxury Resort	Cliffside location, spa, multiple fine-dining restaurants, shuttle service	$250 – $500+

Perfect Petra Jordan Entry Fee 2025 Guide 12 Tips