Best things to do in Petra

Petra: Jordan's Rose-Red Riddle (Where Ancient Architects Were Basically Superheroes!) - Your Hilariously Honest Travel Guide to a Wonder of the World!

Yabba dabba doo, fellow adventurers! Get ready to dust off your fedoras and channel your inner Indiana Jones, because we're heading to Petra, tucked away in the dramatic canyons of southern Jordan’s Shara Mountains. This isn't just another dusty pile of old rocks; this is one of the Seven Wonders of the World! And no, that's not just some travel blogger hyperbole – in 2007, the ancient monument officially snagged a spot on the New Seven Wonders of the World list, rubbing shoulders with legends like the Taj Mahal and the Great Wall of China. Pretty impressive company, right?

Imagine this: breathtaking sandstone treasuries, majestic temples carved directly into the rock face, and royal tombs that look like they were designed by ancient rockstars. What makes Petra even more evocative is the delightful lack of detailed historical information. It's like the ancient Nabataeans who built this place decided to keep their secrets, turning the entire setting into a glorious dreamscape of epic proportions. You'll be wandering through these incredible structures, half historian, half imaginative storyteller, piecing together your own theories about who lived here and what they were ordering for takeout (probably not pizza).

While the main city of Petra today is understandably buzzing with tourists from every corner of the globe, all eager to witness its rose-red magic, fear not, intrepid explorer! Just a short hop, skip, and a camel ride away lies the nearby ruin of Little Petra (Siq al-Barid). Thought to be an agricultural settlement that kept its much larger namesake well-fed (think of it as Petra's ancient farm-to-table operation!), Little Petra is a hidden gem that's blissfully off the main tourist trail. Here, you can wander through smaller-scale but equally impressive rock-carved structures in a more tranquil setting, feeling like you've stumbled upon Petra's secret hideout.

Petra is a place that will ignite your sense of wonder, challenge your historical knowledge (in a fun way!), and leave you utterly speechless by its sheer scale and beauty. It's a testament to the ingenuity of ancient civilizations and a reminder that sometimes, the most incredible places to visit are the ones carved right into the heart of the earth.

Our hilarious (and incredibly helpful!) travel guide is here to navigate you through the best places to visit and the most exciting things to do in this awe-inspiring ancient city and its surroundings. Get ready for some truly unforgettable sightseeing, from marveling at iconic rock-cut facades and exploring hidden canyons to uncovering lesser-known gems and imagining the lives of the people who once called this incredible place home, all while uncovering the top attractions that make Petra a truly special and hilariously awe-inducing destination.

Top Attractions: Rose-Red Wonders Carved in Stone!

Petra is a treasure trove of ancient marvels waiting to be discovered:

The Treasury (Al-Khazneh): Petra's Iconic Face

Prepare for your jaw to drop at The Treasury, Petra's most iconic and photographed facade, carved intricately into the sandstone cliff. A must-see attraction for your Petra sightseeing.

The Siq: The Dramatic Entrance

Walk through the Siq, a narrow and winding canyon that serves as the dramatic main entrance to Petra. The towering sandstone walls on either side are a top attraction in themselves.

The Monastery (Ad Deir): Petra's Majestic Peak

Hike (or take a donkey ride!) to The Monastery, Petra's largest rock-cut monument, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains. A rewarding thing to do and a spectacular place to visit.

The Royal Tombs: Ancient Resting Places

Explore the impressive Royal Tombs, a series of grand tombs carved into the eastern cliff face, showcasing the wealth and power of the Nabataean kings. A significant place to visit for historical sightseeing.

Little Petra (Siq al-Barid): The Hidden Gem

Discover the quieter charm of Little Petra, with its smaller-scale rock-cut structures and more tranquil atmosphere. A fantastic place to visit for a less crowded experience.

Things to Do Beyond the Iconic Landmarks: Hikes, Views, and Local Encounters!

Our travel guide wouldn't be complete without suggesting some other fantastic things to do to truly experience the Petra vibe:

• Hike to the High Place of Sacrifice: Enjoy panoramic views of Petra from this ancient ritual site.
• Explore the Street of Facades: Admire the numerous tombs and monuments lining this impressive street.
• Visit the Petra Archaeological Museum: Learn more about the history and culture of the Nabataeans.
• Experience a Bedouin Dinner and Storytelling: Immerse yourself in local culture with a traditional Bedouin meal under the stars.
• Take a Camel or Horse Ride: Experience Petra from a different perspective with a ride through the ancient city.

So, if you're looking for places to visit that offer a breathtaking blend of ancient history, stunning natural beauty, and a sense of mystery, Petra is calling your name! Our travel guide promises an unforgettable adventure filled with incredible sightseeing and exciting things to do. Just be prepared to be amazed at every turn and maybe develop a slight obsession with sandstone architecture! Enjoy your journey to this wonder of the world!