Cheap flights to Petra: Jordan's Rose-Colored Mystery

The ancient city of Petra, carved into rose-colored stone and hidden within Jordan's mountainous landscape, stands as one of the world's most breathtaking archaeological treasures. Finding Cheap flights to Jordan is the first step in unveiling this historical wonder that has captivated travelers for centuries. Petra's magnificent facades, intricate carvings, and rich history make it a destination that belongs on every adventurer's bucket list.

In this comprehensive guide, we'll explore everything you need to know about visiting this UNESCO World Heritage site, from securing Cheap flights to Petra's nearest airports to navigating the ancient city itself. We'll uncover the mysteries of the Nabataean kingdom and provide practical insights to make your journey to Jordan's crown jewel both memorable and affordable.

Finding Cheap flights to Jordan

The journey to Petra begins with finding affordable airfare to Jordan. Queen Alia International Airport (AMM) in Amman serves as the primary gateway to the country, while King Hussein International Airport (AQJ) in Aqaba offers another entry point closer to Petra for travelers coming from certain regions.

When searching for Cheap flights to Jordan, timing can significantly impact prices. The shoulder seasons of March to May and September to November often offer the sweet spot of reasonable weather and more affordable airfare. Using Valor Flights can help you navigate the complexities of flight pricing, as their AI-powered search examines various routes and dates to help identify potential savings opportunities.

Consider flexibility with your travel dates, as mid-week departures often yield cheaper flights than weekend travel. Additionally, connecting flights, while extending your journey time, can sometimes provide substantial savings compared to direct routes to Jordan.

Best Time to Book Cheap flights to Petra

Planning ahead is crucial for securing the best deals on flights to Jordan. Generally, booking 3-5 months in advance can yield significant savings, especially if you're planning to visit during peak season (October to November and March to May). During these popular months, Petra welcomes optimal weather conditions, but flight prices tend to rise accordingly.

Summer months (June to August) often offer cheaper flights to Jordan as temperatures in Petra can soar above 100°F (38°C), deterring many travelers. If you can tolerate the heat and plan your explorations for early morning or late afternoon, this could be an opportune time to find budget-friendly airfare.

Winter (December to February) presents another window for Cheap flights, though you should be prepared for cooler temperatures and occasional rainfall. The benefit of visiting during this season extends beyond just flight savings—you'll also encounter fewer crowds at Petra's most iconic sites.

From Arrival to Petra: Transportation Options

After landing in Jordan with your Cheap flights secured, you'll need to make your way to Petra. From Amman's Queen Alia International Airport, you have several transportation options to reach Petra, which is located about 236 kilometers (147 miles) south of the capital.

Public Transportation

For budget-conscious travelers who've prioritized finding Cheap flights to maximize their travel funds, public buses offer the most economical option. The JETT bus service runs daily routes from Amman to Petra (Wadi Musa), taking approximately 3-4 hours and costing around 7-10 JOD ($10-14 USD). These buses depart from the JETT bus station in Amman, not directly from the airport, so you'll need to factor in a taxi ride from the airport to the bus station.

Local minibuses are even cheaper but less predictable in terms of schedules and comfort. They typically depart from the South Bus Station in Amman when full, making them less ideal if you're on a tight schedule after arranging Cheap flights.

Private Transportation

If comfort and convenience are priorities after your potentially long flight journey, private taxis can take you directly from the airport to Petra for approximately 75-100 JOD ($105-140 USD). This option eliminates the need to navigate public transportation and allows for direct door-to-door service.

Another popular option is hiring a driver or joining a shared taxi service, which offers a middle ground between convenience and cost. These typically cost 20-25 JOD ($28-35 USD) per person when shared with other travelers, making them a reasonable option for those who prioritized finding Cheap flights but still want some comfort on the ground.

Rental Cars

For travelers who value independence, renting a car at the airport provides the freedom to explore Jordan at your own pace. The drive from Amman to Petra follows the Desert Highway and takes approximately 3 hours. This option becomes particularly cost-effective if you're traveling with companions to split the expense, helping to balance the investment you made in finding Cheap flights to Jordan.

The roads in Jordan are generally well-maintained, and signs are in both Arabic and English. Just remember that Jordan drives on the right side of the road, and an International Driver's Permit is recommended alongside your regular license.

Accommodation Options Near Petra

After securing Cheap flights to Jordan, finding suitable accommodation near Petra is the next crucial step in planning your journey. The town of Wadi Musa serves as the gateway to Petra and offers a range of lodging options for every budget.

Budget Accommodations

For travelers who prioritized finding Cheap flights to maximize their overall travel budget, Wadi Musa offers numerous budget-friendly hostels and guesthouses. Places like "Rocky Mountain Hotel" and "Valentine Inn" provide dormitory-style rooms starting from around $10-15 USD per night, with private rooms available for $25-40 USD. These establishments typically include basic amenities and often feature communal areas where you can meet fellow travelers.

Mid-Range Options

Mid-range accommodations like "Petra Moon Hotel" and "Petra Sella Hotel" offer comfortable rooms with private bathrooms, air conditioning, and often impressive views of the surrounding mountains. Prices generally range from $50-100 USD per night, representing good value for those who found Cheap flights but want comfortable accommodations.

Luxury Experiences

If you've saved on Cheap flights and wish to splurge on accommodation, the "Mövenpick Resort Petra" located directly at the entrance to the ancient city offers five-star luxury. Alternatively, the "Petra Marriott Hotel" provides stunning views of the Petra Valley from its elevated position. These premium options typically range from $150-300 USD per night depending on the season.

Unique Stays

For a truly memorable experience, consider spending a night at "Seven Wonders Bedouin Camp" or "Petra Bubble Luxotel," where you can sleep under the stars in traditional Bedouin tents or modern bubble domes. These unique accommodations generally cost between $70-200 USD per night and often include dinner and breakfast, making them an interesting option for those who prioritized finding Cheap flights to spend more on unique experiences.

Exploring Petra: The Rose City

Now that you've arrived in Jordan using your Cheap flights and settled into your accommodation, it's time to explore the magnificent ancient city of Petra. Often called the "Rose City" due to the color of the stone from which it is carved, Petra offers visitors an unparalleled journey through time.

Entry Tickets and Opening Hours

Petra is open daily from 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM in summer and 6:00 AM to 4:00 PM in winter. Entry tickets cost 50 JOD (approximately $70 USD) for one-day visitors, 55 JOD for two days, and 60 JOD for three days. If you're planning to spend multiple days exploring Petra, the multi-day passes offer excellent value, especially after investing in Cheap flights to reach Jordan.

Consider purchasing the Jordan Pass before your arrival if you plan to visit other attractions in Jordan. Starting at 70 JOD, it includes your tourist visa (worth 40 JOD) and entry to Petra and over 40 other attractions, potentially saving you significant money alongside your Cheap flights.

Must-See Attractions in Petra

The Treasury (Al-Khazneh): This iconic facade, standing nearly 40 meters tall, is Petra's most famous structure. Carved directly into the rose-colored sandstone cliff, it greets visitors as they emerge from the narrow Siq passageway. The Treasury is particularly magical in the early morning light, making it worth arriving early after your journey on those Cheap flights to Jordan.

The Siq: This dramatic natural gorge, with walls rising up to 80 meters, serves as the main entrance to Petra. The 1.2-kilometer walk through this narrow chasm builds anticipation as you approach the ancient city, with glimpses of carvings and ancient water channels along the way.

The Monastery (Ad-Deir): Larger than the Treasury but less ornately decorated, the Monastery sits atop a mountain requiring a climb of about 850 steps. The effort is well rewarded with both the magnificent structure and panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. After finding Cheap flights to Jordan, this physical challenge offers a different kind of journey.

The Royal Tombs: This series of impressive facades carved into the eastern cliff face includes the Urn Tomb, Silk Tomb, Corinthian Tomb, and Palace Tomb, each showcasing different architectural styles and details.

The High Place of Sacrifice: This ancient altar sits atop Jebel Madbah and requires a moderately challenging hike. The breathtaking views and well-preserved sacrificial platform offer insight into Nabataean religious practices.

Practical Tips for Visiting Petra

After securing Cheap flights to Jordan, maximize your experience at Petra with these practical insights:

• Arrive early to avoid crowds and heat, especially during summer months.
• Wear comfortable walking shoes with good traction, as many pathways are uneven.
• Bring plenty of water, sunscreen, and a hat, particularly in warmer months.
• Consider hiring a local guide for deeper historical context (approximately 50-70 JOD for a full day).
• Respect the local Bedouin community who have historical connections to the site.
• Plan for at least two full days to explore the vast archaeological park properly.

Beyond Petra: Other Jordanian Treasures

While Petra undoubtedly stands as Jordan's crown jewel, the country offers numerous other spectacular destinations worth exploring after your Cheap flights bring you to this Middle Eastern gem. Extending your itinerary to include these sites transforms your Petra trip into a comprehensive Jordanian adventure.

Wadi Rum

Often called the "Valley of the Moon," Wadi Rum's vast desert landscape of red sand and towering rock formations lies just a two-hour drive from Petra. This protected area gained fame through films like "Lawrence of Arabia" and "The Martian" due to its otherworldly appearance. After finding Cheap flights to Jordan, spending a night in a Bedouin camp under the stars in Wadi Rum creates an unforgettable complement to your Petra experience.

The Dead Sea

As the lowest point on Earth at 430 meters below sea level, the Dead Sea offers the unique experience of effortless floating due to its exceptionally high salt concentration. The mineral-rich mud is known for its therapeutic properties, making this a relaxing destination after walking Petra's extensive pathways. Many visitors who secure Cheap flights to Jordan include both Petra and the Dead Sea in their itinerary, as they represent two distinctly different Jordanian experiences.

Amman

Jordan's capital city blends ancient history with modern urban life. The Citadel hill contains ruins from multiple civilizations, while the restored Roman Theater demonstrates the city's historical significance. Contemporary Amman offers vibrant markets, art galleries, and exceptional dining experiences. Since most Cheap flights to Jordan arrive in Amman, spending a day or two here before or after visiting Petra allows you to experience urban Jordanian culture.

Jerash

Often called the "Pompeii of the East," Jerash houses some of the best-preserved Roman ruins outside of Italy. The ancient city features intact colonnaded streets, theaters, temples, and public squares dating back to the 1st century AD. Located just an hour north of Amman, Jerash makes an excellent day trip for those who secured Cheap flights with enough time to explore beyond Petra.

Cultural Insights and Etiquette

When you book Cheap flights to Jordan, you're not just visiting archaeological sites but immersing yourself in a rich cultural landscape. Understanding and respecting local customs enhances your experience and demonstrates appreciation for your host country.

Dress Code

Jordan is a predominantly Muslim country with relatively moderate social customs. In tourist areas like Petra, dress codes are more relaxed, but it's still respectful to avoid overly revealing clothing. Women should consider carrying a light scarf for visiting religious sites or more conservative areas. Men should avoid wearing shorts in non-tourist areas. After finding Cheap flights to Jordan, packing appropriately helps ensure a respectful and comfortable visit.

Social Customs

Jordanians are known for their hospitality and friendliness toward visitors. You may be offered tea or coffee in shops or by locals—accepting is considered polite and opens doors to genuine cultural exchange. When taking photographs of people, especially Bedouins in Petra, always ask permission first.

If invited to a home, bringing a small gift is appreciated. Remove shoes before entering if you notice shoes at the entrance. Using your right hand for eating, passing objects, or shaking hands is customary, as the left hand is traditionally considered unclean.

Language

Arabic is Jordan's official language, but English is widely spoken in tourist areas, hotels, and restaurants. Learning a few basic Arabic phrases demonstrates respect and usually elicits warm responses from locals. Simple greetings like "Marhaba" (hello) and "Shukran" (thank you) go a long way in creating positive interactions after your Cheap flights bring you to Jordan.

Planning Your Budget for Petra

After securing Cheap flights to Jordan, understanding other costs helps you plan a comprehensive budget for your Petra adventure.

Daily Expenses

Beyond your Cheap flights and accommodation, daily expenses in Jordan vary based on your travel style. Budget travelers can manage on 30-50 JOD ($42-70 USD) per day, covering basic meals, local transportation, and modest accommodations. Mid-range travelers should budget 75-150 JOD ($105-210 USD) daily for comfortable hotels, restaurant meals, and occasional guided experiences.

Meals range from 3-5 JOD ($4-7 USD) for street food or casual eateries to 15-25 JOD ($21-35 USD) for restaurant dining. Local transportation is affordable, with short taxi rides in Wadi Musa costing around 2-5 JOD ($3-7 USD).

Money-Saving Tips

After finding Cheap flights to Jordan, continue saving with these practical tips:

• Purchase the Jordan Pass before arrival if visiting multiple attractions
• Stay in accommodations that include breakfast
• Carry water and snacks when exploring Petra to avoid premium prices inside
• Consider shared transportation between major destinations
• Eat where locals eat for authentic and affordable dining experiences
• Negotiate prices for souvenirs, but do so respectfully

Conclusion: Your Journey to the Rose City

Petra stands as one of humanity's most remarkable achievements—a city literally carved from mountain stone that has withstood the test of time. Finding Cheap flights to Jordan is your first step toward experiencing this archaeological wonder that continues to captivate visitors with its beauty, history, and mystery.

From the moment you emerge from the Siq to behold the Treasury's rose-colored facade, to your explorations of hidden tombs and towering monuments, Petra offers a journey through time unlike any other destination. The combination of Nabataean ingenuity, natural beauty, and cultural significance creates an unforgettable experience worth every effort to find those Cheap flights to Jordan.

As you plan your adventure to this UNESCO World Heritage site, remember that Petra is more than just ancient stones—it's a window into a sophisticated civilization that thrived at the crossroads of culture and commerce. With careful planning, from securing Cheap flights to understanding local customs, your journey to Jordan's rose-colored mystery will surely become one of your most treasured travel experiences.