Petra Guided Trails ( Jabel Umm Al Biyara Trail )

Petra , Jordan

Petra Guided Trails ( Jabel Umm Al Biyara Trail )

Active

5h - 6h

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Manual confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Petra has many things to offer visitors who come to explore its dramatic tomb facades and the many ancient temples and buildings situated along the city’s main colonnaded thoroughfare. Petra’s beauty and grandeur, however, can only be fully appreciated from above, especially when seen from one of the scenic trails that ascend to the summits of the surrounding mountains. The most well-known hikes are those to Ed-Deir (the Monastery) and the High Place of Sacrifice. But if you’re looking for a less frequented and secluded hike, the one to the top of Umm Al-Biyara is for you.

Available options

Petra Guided Trails ( Jabel Umm Al Biyara Trail )

What's included

One bottle water per person

English Speaking Guide for 6 Hrs Approx.

Detailed itinerary

Jabel Umm Al Biyara overlooking Petra ancient city, the Mother of the cisterns. The trail start from Petra city center, Qasr el Bint, climb to reach the peak, visit an Edomite stronghold with cisterns and storage and houses bell shaped cisterns, view Petra from the top of the Summit, back same way.

Umm Al-Biyara (“Mother of Cisterns”) is Petra’s highest and most prominent mountain and looks directly over the ancient city center. It is topped by a flat plateau that slopes slightly downward toward the city. On top are the remains of Edomite buildings from the seventh–sixth centuries B.C., and more recent excavations have revealed a splendid Nabataean/Roman bath complex that overlooks the entire city.

The hike to the top of Umm Al-Biyara is a minimum 07 hours , but takes 08 hrs with the distance from the visitors center and back . Good walking shoes, sun screen, a hat, and plenty of water are essential, as the ascent is quite steep and challenging, especially during the heat of the day. Since Umm Al-Biyara is at the heart of Petra, hikers should account for the walk in and out of the park as well.

What's not included

Gratuities

Entrance Fee to Petra

Available languages

Guide guide

Important information

Travelers should have a high level of physical fitness

About Petra

Petra is an ancient city carved into the rose-red sandstone cliffs of southern Jordan. Known for its stunning rock-cut architecture and water conduit system, Petra is one of the New7Wonders of the World and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, offering a unique blend of history, culture, and natural beauty.

Top Attractions

Al-Khazneh (The Treasury)

The Treasury is the most iconic monument in Petra, famous for its dramatic façade carved into the sandstone cliff. It is the centerpiece of the site and a must-see for all visitors.

Historical/Architectural 2-3 hours (including the walk from the entrance) Included in the Petra entry fee

Ad Deir (The Monastery)

Ad Deir is one of the largest monuments in Petra, carved into the sandstone cliffs. It is a stunning example of Nabatean architecture and offers panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.

Historical/Architectural 3-4 hours (including the hike) Included in the Petra entry fee

The Siq

The Siq is the dramatic entrance to Petra, a narrow gorge with towering cliffs that leads to the Treasury. The Siq is adorned with ancient Nabatean carvings and water channels.

Natural/Historical 30-45 minutes (walking time) Included in the Petra entry fee

The Royal Tombs

The Royal Tombs are a series of elaborate tombs carved into the cliffs, believed to be the burial sites of Petra's elite. These tombs showcase the Nabateans' advanced architectural and artistic skills.

Historical/Architectural 1-2 hours (including the walk and exploration) Included in the Petra entry fee

Little Petra (Siq al-Barid)

Little Petra is a smaller, less crowded site with its own impressive rock-cut facades and ancient ruins. It is believed to have been a suburb or trading outpost of Petra.

Historical/Architectural 1-2 hours (including the walk and exploration) Included in the Petra entry fee

Must-Try Local Dishes

Mansaf

The national dish of Jordan, mansaf is a bedouin-style dish made with lamb cooked in a yogurt sauce, served with rice and pine nuts. It is traditionally eaten with hands and is a must-try for any visitor.

Main Course Contains lamb and dairy, not suitable for vegetarians or vegans.

Falafel

Deep-fried balls or patties made from ground chickpeas, herbs, and spices. Falafel is a popular street food and is often served in pita bread with vegetables and sauces.

Snack/Appetizer Vegetarian and vegan-friendly.

Knafeh

A sweet, cheesy pastry soaked in sugar syrup and topped with crushed pistachios. Knafeh is a popular dessert in the Middle East and is a must-try for anyone with a sweet tooth.

Dessert Contains cheese and sugar, not suitable for those with dairy allergies.

Popular Activities

Hiking in Petra and Wadi Rum Jeep tours in Wadi Rum Camel trekking in Wadi Rum Diving and snorkeling in Aqaba Beach relaxation in Aqaba Spa treatments in Petra or Wadi Musa Coffee and tea at local cafes Exploring the ruins of Petra

Best Time to Visit

March to May, October to November

These months offer pleasant weather with mild temperatures, making it ideal for exploring the archaeological site. The crowds are moderate, and the scenery is lush and vibrant.

15-30°C (59-86°F) 59-86°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Arabic
Widely spoken: English
English: Moderately spoken

Currency

Jordanian Dinar (JOD)

Time Zone

GMT+3 (EET - Eastern European Time)

Electricity

230VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Petra is generally safe for tourists, with low crime rates and a welcoming atmosphere. However, as with any destination, it is important to be aware of your surroundings and take precautions to protect yourself and your belongings.

Important Precautions:

• Be aware of your surroundings and keep an eye on your belongings
• Use reputable tour operators and taxis
• Avoid carrying large amounts of cash

Getting there

By air

Queen Alia International Airport • 240 km (150 miles) from Petra
Ovda International Airport • 150 km (93 miles) from Petra

By bus

Amman, Aqaba

Getting around

Public transport

Local buses operate between Wadi Musa and the Petra Visitor Center, but schedules can be irregular.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Uber, Careem

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Wadi Musa Umm Sayhoun

Day trips

Wadi Rum

60 km (37 miles) from Petra • Full day

Wadi Rum is a stunning desert landscape known for its dramatic rock formations, ancient petroglyphs, and Bedouin culture. Visitors can explore the desert on foot, by jeep, or on camelback, and experience traditional Bedouin hospitality.

Aqaba

120 km (75 miles) from Petra • Full day

Aqaba is Jordan's only coastal city and a popular destination for diving, snorkeling, and beach relaxation. The city offers a variety of water sports, as well as a range of restaurants, cafes, and shops.

Little Petra (Siq al-Barid)

8 km (5 miles) from Petra • Half day

Little Petra is a smaller, less crowded site with its own impressive rock-cut facades and ancient ruins. It is believed to have been a suburb or trading outpost of Petra.

Festivals

Petra International Nabatate Festival • Annually in May Aqaba International Dive Festival • Annually in June Wadi Rum Festival • Annually in October

Pro tips

Arrive early to beat the crowds and the heat, especially during peak season
Wear comfortable shoes and bring plenty of water, as Petra is a large and rugged site
Hire a local guide for a more in-depth and personalized experience, with insights into the history and culture of the site
Bring a map or download an offline map, as cell service can be spotty and the site is large and complex
Respect the site and its rules, including no touching or climbing on the monuments, and no smoking or littering