Petra Back Trail to the Monastery: Private Guided Hike
4.9 / 5 · 35 traveler reviews
* **Enter Petra by the Back Trail** — begin your adventure away from the main entrance and approach Petra through spectacular mountain scenery. * **Hike from Little Petra to the Monastery** — follow an ancient route through dramatic landscapes before reaching Petra’s magnificent Monastery. * **Experience a quieter side of Petra** — step away from the classic route and discover a different perspective of this extraordinary ancient city. * **Go beyond the famous landmarks** — discover Petra’s history, archaeology, landscapes, and local stories with a knowledgeable local guide. * **Enjoy breathtaking mountain views** — capture unforgettable photos along valleys, rock formations, and panoramic viewpoints. * **Perfect for adventurous travelers** — combine hiking, history, nature, and authentic local insight in one memorable Petra experience. * **Make your Petra visit more than a sightseeing stop** — choose the Back Trail and experience Petra from a unique local perspective.
Your experience
Stop 1
**What to Expect** **The Scenic Back Approach:** Enjoy a 20-minute ride to Petra Heritage Village near Little Petra. The free shuttle runs every 30 minutes starting at 7:30 AM (earlier starts require a taxi costing 15 JD per car). From there, we take a local 4x4 to the trailhead (5 JD per person). **The Wilderness Hike:** Begin a spectacular trek toward the Monastery along dramatic mountain trails. * Experience wild landscapes and panoramic vistas over the Wadi Araba desert on a quiet path far from the crowds. *The Majestic Monastery (Ad Deir): ** Arrive at the breathtaking Monastery, one of Petra’s largest and most impressive rock-cut monuments, revealing itself at the end of the trail. * **Hidden Caves & Viewpoints: ** Explore Nabataean caves. Your guide will show you the best spots for photos, including the iconic shots framed by the cave opposite the monument.
Stop 2
After enjoying the Monastery and the surrounding, The tour will then take us down where we may have buffet lunch at the Basin restaurant or a bite somewhere else. Afterwards we will be seeing Qaser Albent and enjoy the views overlooking the colonnaded street and the great temple.
Stop 3
The street represents an original Nabataean creation, later refurbished during the period of Roman occupation. It would have been one of the principal shopping streets of ancient Petra. The street was rebuilt in 106 BC with a width of 6 meters.
Stop 4
Perched above Petra's heart, the "Royal Tombs" stand tall, a majestic collection of grand mausoleums carved into the western face of the Jabal al-Khubtha rock massif, their stunning facades a testament to ancient craftsmanship.
Stop 5
Thereafter to the theater which was carved into th e side of the mountain at the foot of the High Place of Sacrifice, the theatre consists of three rows of seats separated by passageways. Seven stairways ascend the audi torium and it can accommodate 4000 spectators. the monument was carved in the mountainside during the reign of King Aretas IV (4BC-AD27) the Romans rebuilt the stage back wall.
Stop 6
Final Stop: The Treasury (Al-Khazneh) & Main Siq Exit **Description:** Our journey culminates at Petra's most iconic masterpiece: The Treasury (Al-Khazna). Standing nearly 40 meters high, this breathtaking monument is intricately carved directly into the rose-red cliffside, adorned with Corinthian capitals, detailed friezes, and mythological figures. Constructed in the 1st century BC, the Treasury's true original function remains shrouded in mystery, though historians believe it served as a royal memorial. Your guide will unpack the fascinating engineering marvels of the Nabataeans and separate fact from fiction—including the famous local legend of the Pharaoh’s treasure hidden inside the stone funerary urn crowning the structure. Take your final photos in front of this world wonder before we say goodbye. From here, your guide will direct you through the dramatic, winding main Siq toward the visitor center exit, leaving you with unforgettable memories of history, nature, and wonder.
What’s included
- Transportation, free WIFI, Botteld Water for the tour from Amman Option only
- Guiding Fees
- English Speaking Guide
Not included
- Tea and coffee
- Gratuities
- Animals Ride
- Meals
- 4X4 truck ride to the stairs of the trail.
- Any thing not mentioned in the inclusions
- Entrance fees
Meeting and pickup
Our meeting point will be at the Cultural Village.
Meeting point and time can be arranged to suit your schedule. The free shuttle starts at 7.30 AM. For tours starting earlier than that, a taxi (JOD 15) is needed. From Little Petra, a truck ticket (JOD 5 per person) is required too
Before you go
- Service animals allowed
- Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
- Not recommended for pregnant travelers
- Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
- Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
Cancellation policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Check the policy for your selected date and option before booking.
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