Petra Guided Trails ( Little Petra via Siq al-Barid )
Active
1h - 2h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Manual confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Little Petra , Petra’s northern suburb of Siq al-Barid, 9km north of Wadi Musa town, is often touted to tourists as “Little Petra” – which, with its short, high gorge and familiar carved facades, isn’t far wrong. However, although it sees its share of tour buses, the place retains an atmosphere and a stillness that have largely disappeared from the central areas of Petra. Adding in its location in gorgeous countryside and its proximity to Beidha (a rather less inspiring Neolithic village), it’s well worth half a day of your time. The route to Little Petra follows the road north from the Mövenpick hotel. A short way along, where the road curves left, you can park on the shoulder for one of Petra’s best views, a breathtaking sweep over the central valley of the ancient city, with many of the monuments in view, dwarfed by the mountains.
Available options
Petra Guided Trails ( Little Petra via Siq al-Barid )
What's included
One bottle water per person
Transfer From Petra visitor Center to Little Petra and vice versa
English Speaking guide for one Hour Approx.
Detailed itinerary
1
Stop 1
Pass by
Pick you up from Petra any time and drive you 15 min to Little Petra , Petra’s northern suburb of Siq al-Barid, 9km north of Wadi Musa town, is often touted to tourists as “Little Petra” – which, with its short, high gorge and familiar carved facades, isn’t far wrong. However, although it sees its share of tour buses, the place retains an atmosphere and a stillness that have largely disappeared from the central areas of Petra. Adding in its location in gorgeous countryside and its proximity to Beidha (a rather less inspiring Neolithic village), it’s well worth half a day of your time. The route to Little Petra follows the road north from the Mövenpick hotel. A short way along, where the road curves left, you can park on the shoulder for one of Petra’s best views, a breathtaking sweep over the central valley of the ancient city, with many of the monuments in view, dwarfed by the mountains.
Further on, past the Bdul village Umm Sayhoun, the road heads on across rolling, cultivated uplands that are breathtakingly beautiful after Petra’s barren rockscapes. About 8km from the Mövenpick, at a T-junction, head left for 800m to the end of the road. You are now beyond Bdul territory in the lands of the Ammareen tribe; a signpost points off the road to the Ammareen campsite. In the small car park you’ll likely be approached by Ammareen kids hawking trinkets and guides offering their services.
The site
This whole area was a thriving community in Nabatean times, and there’s evidence in almost every cranny of Nabatean occupation. Just before you reach the Siq entrance, there’s a particularly striking facade on the right, with a strange, narrow passage for an interior.
As you enter, you’ll realize why this was dubbed Siq al-Barid (the “Cold Siq”): almost no sun can reach inside to warm the place. It’s only about 350m long, with alternating narrow and open sections, and differs from most areas of Petra, firstly in the density of carved houses, temples and triclinia – there are very few blank areas – and secondly in the endearingly quaint rock-cut stairs which lead off on all sides, turning it into a multistorey alleyway that must once have hummed with life. Feel free to explore. In the first open area is what was probably a temple, fronted by a portico, below which is a little rock-cut house. The second open area has four large triclinia, which could have been used to wine and dine merchants and traders on their stopover in Petra. A little further on the left, stairs climb up to the Painted House, a biclinium featuring one of the very few Nabatean painted interiors to have survived the centuries: on the ceiling at the back is a winged cupid with a bow and arrow; just above is a bird, to the left of which is a Pan figure playing a flute. The third open area culminates in rock-cut stairs which lead through a narrow gap out onto a wide flat ledge; the path drops down into the wadi (Petra is to the left), but you can scramble up to the right for some excellent views.
Drive back to Petra and drop off .
What's not included
Entrance fee to Petra
Gratuities
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
Reviews breakdown
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Important information
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
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
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
