How to Travel to Petra from the United States: A Comprehensive Guide

Petra, one of the New Seven Wonders of the World and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a must-visit destination for history buffs, adventure seekers, and those captivated by the majesty of ancient civilizations. If you are planning a trip to Petra from the United States, you’re in for an unforgettable journey. This comprehensive guide will walk you through various travel options, including flying via Jordanian airlines, traveling through Israel, and other possible routes to reach Petra, which is located in southern Jordan.

Flying to Petra via Jordanian Airlines

The most straightforward way to get to Petra from the United States is by flying into Amman, the capital of Jordan, and then making your way south to Petra. Jordan’s national carrier, Royal Jordanian Airlines, provides direct flights from major U.S. cities to Amman, making it one of the most convenient options.

Step 1: Booking Flights from the U.S. to Amman

Royal Jordanian Airlines operates flights from major U.S. cities like New York (JFK) and Chicago (ORD), offering convenient connections to Amman. Below are some details to help you with your flight planning:

• New York (JFK) to Amman (AMM): Royal Jordanian offers direct flights from John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK) in New York to Queen Alia International Airport (AMM) in Amman. The flight typically lasts around 10-11 hours.
• Chicago (ORD) to Amman (AMM): Royal Jordanian also offers flights from Chicago O’Hare International Airport (ORD) to Queen Alia International Airport (AMM). The journey usually takes around 11-12 hours, with one or two stops depending on the itinerary.

Booking a direct flight on Royal Jordanian Airlines ensures that your journey is more comfortable, and you can rest assured that the airline has extensive experience in connecting travelers to Jordan from the United States.

Step 2: Traveling from Amman to Ma’an

Once you arrive in Amman, your next step is to travel south to Ma’an, the governorate where Petra is located. The distance from Amman to Ma’an is about 230 kilometers (143 miles), which can be covered by several means of transportation.

Option 1: Travel to Petra By Bus

One of the most affordable options is to take a Jordanian public bus from Amman to Ma’an. The bus ride takes around 3.5 to 4 hours and typically departs from the Abdali Bus Station in Amman. There are a few bus companies operating on this route, including Jett Bus. The buses are comfortable and have air conditioning, making them a convenient and budget-friendly option.

Option 2: Travel to Petra By Taxi or Private Car

For a more comfortable and private journey, consider hiring a taxi or booking a private car. The drive from Amman to Ma’an takes around 3 to 3.5 hours, depending on traffic conditions. Taxis are readily available at the airport, or you can arrange a private transfer through a travel agency or your hotel in Amman.

Option 3: Travel to Petra By Rental Car

If you prefer flexibility and the chance to explore Jordan on your own, renting a car is another option. Major international car rental agencies operate at Queen Alia International Airport, so you can easily pick up a rental car when you arrive. The drive from Amman to Ma’an is straightforward, and the roads are generally well-maintained. Keep in mind that driving in Jordan requires an International Driving Permit (IDP) along with your U.S. driver’s license.

Step 3: Traveling from Ma’an to Wadi Musa (Petra)

Once you arrive in Ma’an, the next step is to continue your journey to Wadi Musa, the town closest to Petra. Wadi Musa is located just 10 kilometers (6 miles) north of Petra, and there are several ways to reach it:

• Taxi: Taxis are available in Ma’an, and a short taxi ride to Wadi Musa costs around 5-10 Jordanian Dinars (JOD). It takes about 15-20 minutes to reach the town from Ma’an.
• Private Transfer: If you’re looking for convenience and comfort, you can arrange a private transfer with your hotel or a local tour operator. Many services offer door-to-door transfers from Ma’an to your accommodation in Wadi Musa.
• Rental Car: If you rented a car in Amman, you can continue your journey to Wadi Musa, following the main road to Petra. The drive is easy and scenic, and you’ll be able to enjoy the desert landscape along the way.

Once in Wadi Musa, you’ll be just minutes away from Petra’s entrance, and you can explore this ancient wonder at your leisure.

Alternative Route: Traveling to Petra via Israel

Another option for traveling to Petra is by entering Jordan through Israel. This is a viable route if you’re already in Israel or prefer flying into Tel Aviv before heading to Petra.

Step 1: Flying into Tel Aviv, Israel

The primary international airport in Israel is Ben Gurion International Airport (TLV), located near Tel Aviv. If you choose to fly to Israel first, you can book a direct flight from the United States to Tel Aviv. Airlines such as El Al, American Airlines, and United Airlines operate direct flights from major U.S. cities like New York, Chicago, and Los Angeles.

Step 2: Crossing the Border into Jordan

Once you arrive in Tel Aviv, your next step is to cross into Jordan. The most popular crossing point is the Allenby Bridge (also known as the King Hussein Bridge), which connects Israel to Jordan. This bridge is located about 50 kilometers (31 miles) east of Tel Aviv and is the most direct route for travelers heading to Jordan from Israel.

Crossing the Border

To cross the border, you will need to follow these steps:

1. Travel from Tel Aviv to the Allenby Bridge: You can take a taxi or public bus to the border crossing. The journey usually takes about 1.5-2 hours.
2. Passport Control: Once at the border, you will go through immigration and customs on both the Israeli and Jordanian sides. Ensure that you have your visa for Jordan ready, as you will need to pay a fee at the Jordanian border (if you haven’t already obtained a visa in advance).
3. Traveling to Petra: Once you’ve crossed into Jordan, you can continue your journey south to Petra. The easiest way to reach Petra from the border is by taxi or private transfer, which will take about 3-3.5 hours. Alternatively, you can take a bus to Amman and then travel to Petra from there.

Step 3: Exploring Petra from the Border

After crossing into Jordan, you’ll be able to make your way to Petra via the same transportation methods outlined earlier (bus, taxi, private transfer, or rental car). The experience is slightly longer than entering Jordan directly from Amman but still feasible and offers a chance to see another part of the region.

Other Tips for Traveling to Petra

• Visas: Most U.S. citizens can obtain a visa upon arrival in Jordan for a stay of up to 30 days. However, if you plan to enter Jordan through Israel, you may need to get a Jordanian visa in advance. Make sure to check visa requirements before your trip.
• Currency: The official currency of Jordan is the Jordanian Dinar (JOD). Be sure to have some local currency on hand for purchases, although credit cards are widely accepted in most tourist areas.
• Travel Insurance: It’s a good idea to purchase travel insurance that covers health, cancellation, and emergency services before your trip.
• Best Time to Visit: The best times to visit Petra are during the spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) when the weather is mild and pleasant. The summer months can be very hot, especially in the desert.

Conclusion

Traveling to Petra from the United States is an exciting adventure, and there are multiple routes you can take to reach this ancient wonder. Whether you choose to fly directly to Amman via Royal Jordanian Airlines or opt for a scenic journey through Israel, you are guaranteed to experience the awe-inspiring beauty of Petra. By following this comprehensive guide, you’ll be well on your way to discovering one of the world’s most remarkable cultural treasures. Safe travels!

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