Jordan

Amman to Petra

Ancient kingdoms of the desert

Plan This Trip

Distance

230 km (145 miles)

Duration

3-4 hours direct, 1-2 days via King's Highway

Best Time

March to May, September to November

Route

Amman → Petra

About This Drive

The drive from Amman to Petra follows the ancient King's Highway through Jordan's biblical landscapes. Pass Crusader castles, the stunning Wadi Mujib canyon, and arrive at the rose-red city of Petra—one of the New Seven Wonders of the World carved into sandstone cliffs.

Stops Along the Way

1

Madaba

30 km from start

Byzantine mosaics including famous map

2

Mount Nebo

40 km from start

Where Moses viewed the Promised Land

3

Wadi Mujib

90 km from start

Jordan's Grand Canyon with canyoning

4

Kerak Castle

140 km from start

Imposing Crusader fortress

5

The Treasury

230 km from start

Petra's iconic carved facade

Driving Tips

  • 1

    The King's Highway is scenic; Desert Highway is faster

  • 2

    Book 2 days minimum for Petra—it's massive

  • 3

    Visit Petra early morning or late afternoon for best light

  • 4

    Petra by Night (candles in the Siq) is magical but crowded

  • 5

    Wadi Rum desert can be added for an extended trip

Alternate Routes

  • King's Highway scenic

  • Desert Highway direct

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