Petra — the rose-red city carved into pinkish-red rock, the capital of the Nabataeans 2,000 years ago — is one of the most spectacular tourist sites in the world. And from Eilat, the border is just around the corner.
Logistics: From Eilat to Petra
Yitzhak Rabin (Arava) Border Crossing: The fastest border crossing from Eilat. Open Sunday-Thursday 06:30-20:00, Friday-Saturday 08:00-20:00.
What to do at the border:
- Israeli side: Passport control (valid for at least 6 months)
- Short bus ride to the Jordanian side
- Fill out an entry form and arrange a visa (in advance with an authorized Jordanian agent)
Average border crossing time: 1-2 hours. During peak season, up to 3 hours. Israeli border crossing fee: 120 ₪ per person (2026 rate).
Getting to Petra
Service Taxi (recommended): From the border to the station in Aqaba, then to Wadi Musa. Approximately 55-70 JOD for a private taxi each way.
Organized Tour from Eilat: Local tour companies offer day packages including transportation, a guide, and entrance. Convenient but less flexible than an independent trip.
Jordan Pass: If you plan to stay overnight and also visit Jerash/Amman — 70-80 JOD including visa + entrances (visa exemption conditional on a stay of at least 3 nights).
Petra Itself — What to See
The Siq
A narrow passage between rock walls tens of meters high. A spectacular 1.2 km walk ending with the discovery of the Treasury.
The Treasury (Al-Khazneh)
The monumental facade carved into the rock — what you saw in "Indiana Jones." 40 meters high.
The Colonnaded Street
The main street of the Nabataean city with Greek columns. Bedouin shops, camels for photos.
The Monastery (Al-Deir)
The highlight of Petra. 850 steps carved into the rock. At the end: a structure larger than the Treasury, with views of the Negev. 1.5-2 hours ascent-descent.
Petra by Night
Three times a week — the Siq is lit by 1,500 candles. Absolutely magical. 17 JOD, not included in the regular ticket.
Summary of Costs
| Expense | Cost |
|---|---|
| Israeli border crossing fee | 120 ₪ |
| Jordanian visa | In coordination with the Jordanian agent (usually free at Rabin crossing) |
| Getting to Petra (taxi) | 55-70 JOD each way (for a taxi) |
| Petra entrance ticket | 50 JOD with overnight stay / 90 JOD for a day visit |
| Food in Petra | 15-25 JOD |
Tips
- Arrive at 6:30 — less crowded border, less hot in Petra, good light for photography
- Bring water
- Walking stick — the steps to the Monastery are steep
- Hat and sunscreen — around 30°C and more in summer, Petra is completely open
- Where to sleep before and after — those who leave for the border early in the morning save a long drive if they sleep in Eilat the night before. A family or group can rent a villa in Eilat as a base for the trip and return to it at the end of the trip. Want help choosing accommodation before heading to the border? Send us a WhatsApp message with how many people and your dates.
FAQ
Do I need a visa for Jordan?
Israelis receive an entry visa at the border itself, but entry to Jordan via the Rabin crossing requires prior coordination with an authorized Jordanian agent or guide — those who arrive without coordination may be returned to Israel. At the Rabin crossing, the visa for Israelis is usually granted free of charge for a short stay, but conditions vary — confirm with your agent before departure.
How much does a Petra entrance ticket cost?
Tourists staying at least one night in Jordan: 50 Jordanian Dinars (approx. 250 ₪). Those arriving for a day visit without an overnight stay: 90 Dinars (approx. 450 ₪). Jordan Pass (includes visa + Petra entrance): From 70 Dinars — exempts from visa fees only for those staying in Jordan for at least 3 nights.
How long does it take to get from Eilat to Petra?
Border crossing: 1-2 hours. Travel from the border to Petra: 2-2.5 hours. Total: approx. 4-5 hours. A day trip is possible but exhausting — an overnight stay in Wadi Musa is recommended.
What to see in Petra in one day?
The Siq → The Treasury → The Colonnaded Street → If you have the energy: The Monastery (Al-Deir) — 850 steps but worth every one.
Is it safe to travel in Jordan?
As of September 2026, the National Security Headquarters defines Jordan as travel warning level 4 (high threat) and recommends that Israelis avoid visiting. Before any planning — check the updated travel warnings from the National Security Council.
עודכן לאחרונה: October 1, 2026