Cheap flights to Petra: Jordan's Hidden Canyon Treasures

The ancient city of Petra, carved into rose-colored sandstone cliffs, stands as one of the world's most magnificent archaeological wonders. Finding Cheap flights to this Jordanian treasure allows travelers to allocate more of their budget to exploring the breathtaking sights this remarkable destination offers. Whether you're dreaming of walking through the narrow Siq canyon or standing in awe before the magnificent Treasury, securing affordable airfare is your first step toward an unforgettable adventure.

For many travelers, the journey to Jordan might seem financially out of reach, but with some savvy planning and flexibility, Cheap flights to Petra (via Amman or Aqaba) are definitely attainable. Using tools like Valor Flights can simplify your search with AI-powered flight options that help connect you to this ancient wonder without emptying your wallet.

Understanding Petra: A Wonder of the Ancient World

Before diving into the logistics of finding Cheap flights to Petra, let's explore what makes this destination so extraordinary. Carved directly into vibrant red, white, and pink sandstone cliffs by the Nabataeans over 2,000 years ago, Petra was once a thriving trading center and the capital of the Nabataean Empire. Today, it's Jordan's most valuable treasure and greatest tourist attraction, drawing visitors from around the globe.

The ancient city remained unknown to the Western world until 1812, when Swiss explorer Johann Ludwig Burckhardt rediscovered it. Since then, it has captured the imagination of travelers, archaeologists, and filmmakers alike, even serving as a dramatic backdrop in Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade.

The Treasury and Beyond

Most visitors recognize Petra for its most iconic structure, Al-Khazneh (The Treasury), whose elaborate façade greets travelers as they emerge from the narrow Siq canyon. However, Petra encompasses much more than this single magnificent structure. The archaeological site spans over 100 square miles and contains hundreds of tombs, a Roman-style theater, temples, sacrificial altars, and colonnaded streets.

Some of the most remarkable monuments include:

• The Monastery (Ad-Deir): Larger than the Treasury and requiring a climb of 800 rock-cut steps
• The Royal Tombs: A series of impressive facades carved into the eastern cliff
• The Great Temple: One of the few free-standing structures in Petra
• Little Petra (Siq al-Barid): A smaller archaeological site just north of the main city

Finding Cheap flights to Petra: Timing is Everything

When searching for Cheap flights to Jordan for your Petra adventure, understanding seasonal price fluctuations can save you hundreds of dollars. Jordan experiences distinct high and low seasons that significantly impact airfare prices.

The Best Times to Find Cheap flights

The cheapest flights to Jordan typically occur during the following periods:

• November to February (excluding holidays): While this is winter in Jordan, temperatures around Petra remain mild and comfortable for exploring, typically ranging from 50-70°F (10-21°C) during the day.
• June to August: Though summer brings intense heat to Petra (often exceeding 100°F/38°C), flight prices often drop as many travelers avoid these scorching months.

Shoulder seasons (March-May and September-October) offer a balance between reasonable flight prices and ideal weather conditions. Spring especially brings stunning wildflowers to the region, adding another dimension to your photography.

To find the best Cheap flights to Petra, consider using Valor Flights to explore various date options. Being flexible with your travel dates by just a few days can sometimes yield significant savings on your airfare.

Booking Windows for the Best Deals

Generally, the sweet spot for booking Cheap flights to Jordan is about 3-5 months ahead of your intended travel date. Last-minute deals are rare for this destination, and prices typically increase as the departure date approaches. Setting up fare alerts through flight search tools can notify you when prices drop for your desired route.

Gateway Cities to Petra

When searching for Cheap flights to Petra, you'll need to target one of Jordan's two international airports, as Petra itself doesn't have an airport.

Flying to Amman

Queen Alia International Airport (AMM) in Amman is Jordan's main international gateway and typically offers the most flight options and competitive prices. From North America and Europe, you'll find the widest selection of carriers and routes to Amman.

After landing in Amman, you can reach Petra by:

• Public bus (3-4 hours, most economical option)
• Rental car (approximately 3 hours via the Desert Highway)
• Organized tour transport
• Private taxi

Many travelers choose to spend a day or two exploring Amman before continuing to Petra, making the most of their Cheap flights to Jordan by experiencing multiple destinations.

Flying to Aqaba

For travelers focused primarily on visiting Petra, flying into King Hussein International Airport (AQJ) in Aqaba can be advantageous. Located only about 2 hours from Petra by car, this southern airport is gaining popularity among budget-conscious travelers for several reasons:

• Some European carriers offer seasonal direct Cheap flights to Aqaba
• Aqaba is within Jordan's special economic zone, meaning visitors can receive free visas on arrival (saving the typical 40 JOD visa fee)
• The shorter transfer to Petra saves time and transportation costs

Using flight search tools like Valor Flights can help you compare options to both airports, ensuring you find the most efficient and economical route to Petra.

Making the Most of Your Cheap flights: Petra Visiting Strategies

After securing those Cheap flights to Jordan, you'll want to maximize your experience at Petra. The archaeological site is vast, and while many visitors come on day trips, those who can dedicate multiple days to exploring will have a much richer experience.

Entrance Fees and Jordan Pass

Entrance to Petra isn't cheap, with single-day tickets costing 50 JOD (approximately $70 USD) for non-overnight visitors and 55 JOD for one-day visitors. However, multi-day passes offer better value:

• Two-day pass: 55 JOD
• Three-day pass: 60 JOD

For most visitors who've found Cheap flights to Petra, the best value comes from purchasing the Jordan Pass before arrival. This comprehensive pass includes:

• Your tourist visa fee (normally 40 JOD)
• Entrance to Petra (choose from 1, 2, or 3 days)
• Access to over 40 other attractions throughout Jordan

The Jordan Pass starts at 70 JOD (approximately $99 USD) for the one-day Petra option, representing significant savings for most tourists who plan to visit multiple sites. After finding Cheap flights, this pass is the next best way to keep your Jordan adventure affordable.

Planning Your Days at Petra

To make the most of your journey after securing Cheap flights to Petra, consider this outline for exploring the ancient city:

Day 1: The Main Trail

• Enter through the Siq, the dramatic 1.2km narrow gorge
• Experience the jaw-dropping reveal of the Treasury
• Continue down the Street of Facades
• Visit the Theater and Royal Tombs
• Explore the Colonnaded Street and Great Temple

Day 2: The Monastery and High Places

• Tackle the 800-step climb to the Monastery early morning
• Visit the High Place of Sacrifice and surrounding tombs
• Explore the less-visited Wadi Farasa trail

Day 3: Off-the-Beaten Paths

• Experience Petra by Night (if scheduled)
• Hike to the viewpoint overlooking the Treasury from above
• Visit Little Petra nearby

Where to Stay Near Petra

After investing in Cheap flights to Jordan, choosing the right accommodation near Petra is crucial. Most visitors stay in the adjacent town of Wadi Musa, which offers options ranging from budget hostels to luxury resorts.

Budget Accommodations

For travelers who prioritized finding Cheap flights to maximize their adventure budget, these affordable options provide comfortable stays near Petra:

• Petra Gate Hostel: Dormitory beds and private rooms with a friendly atmosphere
• Rocky Mountain Hotel: Simple rooms with stunning valley views
• Valentine Inn: Budget-friendly with free shuttles to Petra's entrance

Mid-Range and Luxury Options

If your savings on Cheap flights allow for more comfortable accommodations:

• Petra Guest House: Located right at the entrance to the archaeological site
• Mövenpick Resort Petra: Five-star luxury just steps from the entrance
• Petra Bubble Luxotel: For a unique experience, these "bubble" rooms offer stargazing opportunities

Beyond Petra: Extending Your Jordan Adventure

After finding Cheap flights to visit Petra, most travelers discover that Jordan offers many other remarkable destinations worth exploring. The country packs an impressive variety of experiences into a relatively small area, making it easy to create a diverse itinerary.

Wadi Rum Desert

Just an hour's drive from Petra lies the otherworldly Wadi Rum desert, where massive sandstone mountains rise from red sand valleys. Many visitors combine their Petra trip with an overnight stay in a Bedouin camp in Wadi Rum, experiencing:

• Jeep tours through dramatic desert landscapes
• Camel rides across the red sands
• Bedouin-style meals cooked under the sand
• Spectacular stargazing far from light pollution

This lunar-like landscape has served as a filming location for numerous science fiction movies, including The Martian and Star Wars, earning it the nickname "Valley of the Moon."

The Dead Sea

After hiking through Petra, many travelers enjoy relaxing at the Dead Sea, about a 3-hour drive from the ancient city. As the lowest point on Earth (over 400 meters below sea level), this mineral-rich body of water offers a unique floating experience and therapeutic mud treatments. Many hotels along the Dead Sea shore provide day passes for their beach facilities and pools.

Aqaba and the Red Sea

If your search for Cheap flights to Petra brought you through Aqaba, consider spending time exploring this coastal city. Aqaba offers some of the best snorkeling and diving in the Red Sea, with vibrant coral reefs and diverse marine life. The contrast between the desert landscapes of Petra and Wadi Rum and the turquoise waters of the Red Sea creates a memorable and varied Jordan experience.

Practical Tips for Visiting Petra

To make the most of those Cheap flights to Petra, here are some essential tips for visiting the ancient city:

Weather Considerations

Petra's desert climate brings extreme temperature variations:

• Spring and Fall: Ideal visiting weather with temperatures between 70-85°F (21-29°C)
• Summer: Extremely hot, often exceeding 100°F (38°C), requiring early morning exploration
• Winter: Comfortable daytime temperatures around 60°F (15°C) but cold nights; occasional rain can cause flash floods in the Siq

Regardless of when you find Cheap flights to Petra, pack appropriate clothing for the season, including layers for evening temperature drops, sun protection, and comfortable walking shoes.

Physical Preparation

Exploring Petra involves significant walking on uneven terrain, often under direct sun:

• The main trail from the entrance to the Basin Restaurant is approximately 4km (2.5 miles) one way
• Adding climbs to the Monastery or High Place of Sacrifice can mean 10-15km (6-9 miles) of walking in a day
• Bring plenty of water, snacks, sun protection, and comfortable shoes

While horse carriages, camels, and donkeys are available for transport within Petra, walking allows you to appreciate the details and discover hidden corners of the site.

Cultural Sensitivity

Jordan is a predominantly Muslim country with conservative social norms. Respecting local customs enhances your experience after finding those Cheap flights to Petra:

• Dress modestly, especially when visiting communities (shoulders and knees covered)
• Ask permission before photographing local people
• During Ramadan, avoid eating, drinking, or smoking in public during daylight hours
• Learn a few basic Arabic phrases, which locals greatly appreciate

Creating Your Perfect Petra Itinerary

After securing Cheap flights to Jordan, developing a well-structured itinerary helps maximize your experience. Here's a sample 5-day Jordan itinerary centered around Petra:

Day 1: Arrive in Amman or Aqaba, overnight in arrival city or transfer to Petra

Day 2-3: Two full days exploring Petra, staying in Wadi Musa

Day 4: Morning at Little Petra, afternoon transfer to Wadi Rum for desert camping experience

Day 5: Morning in Wadi Rum, afternoon transfer to the Dead Sea or back to your departure airport

This compact itinerary lets you experience Jordan's highlights efficiently. If your Cheap flights to Petra allow for a longer stay, consider adding time in Amman to visit the Roman ruins of Jerash, the biblical site of Mount Nebo, or the crusader castle at Kerak.

Budgeting for Your Petra Adventure

Finding Cheap flights to Petra is just the beginning of planning your Jordan adventure. Here's a breakdown of what to expect cost-wise:

Daily Expenses in Jordan

• Accommodation: $25-50 for budget, $60-120 for mid-range, $150+ for luxury (per night)
• Meals: $5-10 for budget meals, $15-25 for mid-range restaurants
• Transportation: $15-30 daily for public transportation or shared taxis between sites
• Entrance Fees: Jordan Pass from $99 (covers visa and major attractions)

A typical daily budget after finding Cheap flights might range from $60-100 for budget travelers to $150-300 for those seeking more comfort and convenience.

Finding Those Cheap flights to Petra

To wrap up our comprehensive guide, let's recap some key strategies for securing those budget-friendly flights to Jordan:

• Book 3-5 months in advance for the best rates
• Be flexible with your travel dates, considering shoulder seasons
• Compare flights to both Amman and Aqaba airports
• Consider layover options, as direct flights are typically more expensive
• Use tools like Valor Flights to search across multiple date combinations and route options

The effort to find Cheap flights to Petra pays off tremendously when you're standing before the magnificent Treasury, watching the rose-colored stone glow in the morning light, or discovering a quiet corner of this vast archaeological wonder.

Final Thoughts: The Journey That Awaits

Beyond the practicalities of finding Cheap flights to Petra and navigating logistics, what truly awaits is an experience that transcends time. Walking through the narrow Siq canyon, the ancient city revealing itself through a sliver between towering cliffs, creates a sense of discovery that few other destinations can match.

The civilization that meticulously carved these structures from solid rock has long disappeared, but their architectural masterpieces remain, telling stories of ingenuity, artistry, and human determination. Whether you're watching the sunset cast changing colors across the façade of the Monastery, discovering intricate tomb carvings off the main path, or simply sitting in contemplation amidst these ancient wonders, Petra offers moments that justify every effort made to find those Cheap flights to Jordan.

As you plan your journey to this remarkable destination, remember that while finding Cheap flights to Petra starts your adventure on a budget-friendly note, the experiences that await are truly priceless.