The Ultimate Guide to Visiting Petra, Jordan, with a Baby

One of the seven new wonders of the world also means a lot of walking, which could require someone to walk some exhausted little legs back to hotel if they decide they are going to spend their day running trails with no actual end in sight. Kudos to you! With a baby, going to Petra can seem like wanting to be the next Indiana Jones but let me tell you it is possible and it is all worth the trip. It necessitates a bit more planning to navigate the dusty trails and monumental tombs with a baby, but with us (wink!), you will transform this epic journey into smooth family outing. From crossing borders to nap times in the shadow of giant rock formations, I got you. So buckle up, pull out your baby gear and get ready to discover how you can make the most of Petra — without all the hassle!

Visit to Petra from Israel

Therefore, you are decided to go visit one of the most famous places on Earth — Petra, rose rock carved ancient city…. but you have no idea how to get there from Israel? I have your back so do not worry about that! Are you dreaming of galloping through the desert atop a camel, or just want to gaze upon the Treasury in peace? Follow these tips for a seamless experience.

Traveling to Petra from Israel

Be in Israel, to go to Jordan. Allenby Bridge / King Hussein Bridge Demo This is usually not difficult, but expect border checks to be the only slow link in this chain. If you have a baby, then patience will be your best buddy here. Keep all of your documents close by and, naturally, with a lot of snacks for your baby.

Traveling to Petra by Local Bus

You can then pick up a local bus to Petra from anywhere in Jordan. Amman, the capital of Jordan, has a central bus station. And of course, traveling by bus involves pretty wide seats, which could make the journey much more enjoyable for your baby (or at least give you a tiny bit of a snooze opportunity) It is good to look up a schedule beforehand because these buses don’t come around as frequently as your favorite coffee shop. Bring along your baby’s favorite toy to keep them busy during the journey.

Taking a Minibus to Petra

There are more direct minibuses if you wish to save time on travel. You are sharing them with other travelers, and that can be a hit or miss—socially, you might end up in a cool conversation, but otherwise, there is an awkward silence. In any case, minibuses are a

quicker form of transportation from Amman to Petra than buses. However, when you do sit inside of one, rest assured that it’s a tighter squeeze with compact-quites in mind.

Renting a Car in Jordan

Feeling adventurous? The ability to rent a car in Jordan means you can see the country at your leisure. Now the road is also pretty scenic; from Amman to Petra, you will drive through a lot of desert landscapes for Instagram. In return, you will occasionally have to navigate Jordanian road signs and the odd wandering goat. It goes without saying that your baby car seat is also mandatory.

Private Taxi To Petra

Alternatively, a little luxury and added convenience are offered if you book a private cab. Although a little more expensive, it’s worth it for a non-stop solution. The best part? You even won’t have that backseat driver—unless it’s your preschooler. But ensure the cab is safe, not only for you but for your kid too.

Book an Organized Trip to Petra

TourWhen you simply want to relax and enjoy the experience, your best bet is to take a guided tour. The tours generally include transportation and a stick-breaking opinionated guide with also snacks for your little ones. It is almost like having your own Petra concierge, and it will provide some pretty cool factoids about Petra’s history, which might otherwise slip through the cracks.

This just sums up the adventure that is getting to Petra from Israel; this so-called long way, but with some proper planning and transportation mode, will have you soaking in those amazing views before you know it! Fill them with those basic essentials, pack your bags for a dusty desert, and prepare to embark on the journey of a lifetime!

Tips for Travel to Wadi Musa/Petra with a Baby

The Ultimate Guide for Your Trip to Petra with a Baby! So it will be exciting, but I have some tips to make traveling by land from Israel to Wadi Musa (the city that serves as the gateway to Petra) easier. Here are some of our expert recommendations on how to prioritize your baby when you travel.

Crossing the Border: King Hussein/Allenby Bridge

Your first part of the journey is to cross the Israeli-Jordan border. Allenby Bridge: This is the principal entrance, and although passport control proceeds quickly enough, be prepared for a queue of some sort. Keep the baby entertained, especially during the border crossing, so prepare some snacks and maybe a few more toys. Breathe, as the waiting is worth it once you arrive at the ancient ruins of Petra.

How to get to/by bus Amman > Wadi Musa

Once you reach Jordan, it is to travel to Wadi Musa—the town that leads up directly into Petra. Here’s how:

Taking the Local Bus

From Amman, you can also try to grab a local bus that heads to Wadi Musa. The scenery throughout the ride is beautiful and can be a nice change from what your little one is used to. Balancing Act Just be warned, buses can get cramped and aren’t the most baby-friendly, so bring a warm blanket & their favorite stuffed animal to keep them comfy.

Minibus Adventure

Mini-buses are a faster direct option. Sometimes with other travelers, so that can result in some fun company. You might have to get a bit close, but oh well, everyone around you just has to deal with that baby giggling in your lap. Sure, it can be a bit of a crush in the minibus, but hey, at least you’ll get there sooner.

Renting a Car

Still, if you want a little more liberty, then car rental is an equally good option. Wadi Musa (Petra) The drive from Amman to Wadi Musa is an out-of-this-world, desert landscape with dramatic rock formations. Remember to pack that car seat safely and some baby needs for the road. Oh, and remember to make way for the occasional goats and camels that saunter along—you are in no urgent rush, after all.

Private Taxi

Alternatively, you can have a more relaxed journey by hiring a private taxi. A direct train (slightly more expensive). You will have more room to spread out, the comfort of knowing your baby’s car seat is correctly placed, and a chance to enjoy some downtime on the road with few interruptions. You have to remember to take a cab from the right driver who knows his or her way and can give you a comfortable ride with you baby.

Booking a Guided Tour

You may also think that going on a Petra tour with an infant or toddler is a nightmare, but let me assure you, it can be done almost as (and sometimes even more) enjoyably crushing and breathtaking as you imagine it to be! First things first: learn to love your stroller (the better the shocks, the kinder it will be on the cobblestone feature). Or take on a great workout—if yours is more of a carrier baby, that works too!). The key is to pace yourself, enjoy the beautiful views, and constantly remind yourself that snack breaks are your only friend. The guides are also fabulous with kids and will write lots of interesting bits for adults to keep all entertained. While you might not be charging up to the monastery, at least you’ll still take on some of Petra’s halls—albeit toddler-speed. And there’s something quite magical about sharing that epic journey with your mini-explorer.

Eating and Drinking in Petra

Whilst wandering through Petra is a feast for the senses, what does eating look like as you are staring in awe at ancient wonders? Experience has trained me well to keep myself fueled up, I only enjoy when perfect. Well, I hope this easy step-by-step guide on where to drink/eat in Petra makes it more accessible so that you do not have to miss any of the playing!

Grab a Snack at the Entrance

Petra has no shortage of vendors too; it is near the entrance where you will first see such stalls. Consider it your pre-adventure munch area. Here you can get some fast wat bites like a fruit, nut, or local pastry. And a damn good falafel wrap, which nearly made me forget we were exploring!

The Petra Kitchen

A local favorite for a sit-down meal is Petra Kitchen. Read: This place is located close to the main site and serves good traditional Jordanian dishes. With generous helpings of hummus and beautifully cooked kebabs, it is the ideal place to fill your stomach for the coming day.

Pro Tip: the portions are big; come hungry!

In-Site Cafés

Small cafés are scattered inside the Petra archaeological site. Use these for fast coffee or quick bites in between levels of wandering and rock climbing. I had a nice Arabic coffee and fresh juice. Not exactly gourmet, but it hits the spot. A break from the norm!

Bring Your Own Water

You absolutely cannot be in Petra without keeping well-hydrated. Given that … well, the desert sun is no joke — ERIC BENSON Obviously, nothing beats the relief of cool water after a long hike. Some of the cafes also have water stations, but it’s best to bring ur own bottles.

Pack Some Energy Snacks

Make sure you pack portable snacks to take with you on the go, like granola bars, trail mix, or crackers. Seriously, these things are lifesavers when you need a little pick-me-up. I know better now that a hungry traveler is not a happy traveler — so have some trusty snacks on hand!

Expect Local Treats

Try street food if you like to take risks with flavours This would be so much cheaper and a food adventure like freshly baked breads and pastries of Malaysia are fun. Only thing: make sure to try them out before taking them on those epic long hikes— uhh, yeah, they might put you to sleep.

Respect the Local Culture

Eat great food, but do not be rude. The Jordanians are among the kindest people in the region, and a smile along with a thank you is appreciated everywhere. Also, watch where you eat—keep it clean and do not litter. Its main attraction is its beauty and we all want to keep it that way

Summary: Eating & drinking in Petra can beat anything you see here among the ancient ruins! With a little effort, you can ensure that you are well-fed and watered whilst taking in the beautiful views. So pack your snacks, taste the local cuisine, and don´t forget that water bottle; have fun discovering!

Wadi Musa Eat & Drink

Thus, you have finally reached Wadi Musa, the access town to awe-inspiring Petra. The most important part…what to eat while you are here? I’ve spent plenty of time in Wadi Musa to know where the locals eat and how they drink — so here are my recommendations. Below is a casual guide to experiencing the pleasant, quaint town through good food and drinks.

Eat Near the Petra Entrance

After all, when you are all ready to embark on your Petra journey, there are some quick eat joints at the entrance. Consider it your gasoline before you go exploring. I had a falafel wrap here last year that, in theory, should have been generating its own gravitational field. It’s quick, it’s delicious, and it will help power you through some serious ancient awe.

Explore Local Eateries

Get stuck into small eateries in and around Wadi Musa too, sampling local food. My advice would be to try out a local restaurant serving traditional Jordanian cuisine.

While favorites like lamb kebabs rub shoulders with snappy tabbouleh, the flavors on offer at these local joints could just transform how you think about food. And make sure you don’t miss out on hummus—it’s the best ever.

Cozy Up at a Café

Craving coffee or want to hang out? The entire city of Wadi Musa is dotted with cozy little cafés. Then, I came across a place where I had some of the best Arabic coffee and sweet pastry that was the icing on the cake. They are great for slowing down, people people-watching while tucking into some nice beverage.

Stay Hydrated

Staying hydrated is key because, baby—this desert sun can be brutal. Take Wadi Musa, for example, where water is your friend. Make sure to have a water bottle as well; you can see lots of filling stations out there. Hydration means hydration, whether you are walking down the village or off to Petra.

Try the Street Food

This is the must-try—street food— Street Food if you are the one with adventurous taste buds like me. I also encountered vendors selling fresh-from-the-oven bread, such as sweet rolls and other local nibbles. Just warp that bad boy around your pancreatitis new friend and go slowly. Make sure you have a napkin; it could get messy. Wadi Musa is a good place to try street food, and this is probably the cheapest option.

Search for International Opportunities

Wadi Musa offers international restaurants for those seeking a taste of home. You can enjoy your favorite comfort foods, from pizza to burgers. After a full day of Sunken City adventure, I treated myself to a slice of pizza that tasted better than the last time. Sometimes you simply get to have a little bite from home.

Respect Local Customs

Eat with care and according to the culture in which you are eating, so pay clients for that food. Jordanians are super friendly and polite, so a bit of courtesy will get you further. And please leave the area as you found it; no one wants to see trash at such a beautiful location. What better way to bring satisfaction and enjoyment to your meal than by being mindful of a local culture you have, albeit temporarily, become a part of?

The Bottom Line: The eating and drinking in Wadi Musa is every bit as enjoyable a part of visiting Petra. Whether it is a fast bite at the entrance or in gratifying and native cafes that preserve your stomach full and spirits excessive. So get eating, keep drinking water, and enjoy the journey, both views and mouthfuls!

Best Time to Visit Petra with a Baby

Traveling to Petra with a baby? Where is that desert wonderland you call Petra? Oh yeah, and so are nap time, snack time, and three possible temper tantrums. Therefore, just how long should you spend in Petra after traveling there with a toddler? Well, in this post, I want to share my experience on how and what we did to balance the ancient wonders of the world with having a life with a baby.

A Flexible Day Plan

I discovered the hard way when all that baby learned to laugh in Petra, so trust me on this. Replicating Marathon Day This Workout: A Full Day Of Running How Long Should I Do It For? Petra is huge and beautiful, but also super-hero-escalating for everyone involved with a newborn or a single-digit-tot. Try and stick to around 4 hours to up to 6 hours in order not to exhaust anyone.

Morning Magic

My strategy is to start early. The mornings are cooler for the grown-ups and less stimulating due to there being fewer people around. I realized arriving at Petra when it opens will have you ahead of the game and used to a more calm approach. You can also do more peaceful exploration while the temperatures rise and the crowds set in.

Prioritize the Essentials

When you have a baby, it’s all about picking what you must see. The Treasury, the Monastery, and the Royal Tombs are highlighted in Petra that can take hours to enjoy. If you’re moving slower, pick your highlights and create a route that will allow you to get from each without backtracking too much. You do not need to see every site ever to have a fabulous time.

Embrace Breaks and Naps

You will need to nap sooner or later, and a tired baby is the worst tour guide. I also made sure to allow myself time to stop and feed my newborn or change him every two hours.

There are some places in Petra that have shade and some benches so you can sit down and relax while your baby sleeps. We would sometimes find a place to sit, look at the views for a bit, and just let the baby sleep.

Hydration and Snacks

Ensure everyone stays hydrated and fed. Remember, you will need an ample supply of water and a snack or two for you and your little one. The desert sun can be brutal, so it is very important to keep your little one hydrated. I packed a cooler bag full of essentials, and then I would eat fast food at the stalls spread throughout Petra.

Be Ready to Pivot

THE PLANS MAY BE DIFFERENT; IT IS VERY FINE. If baby moments arise—a surprise nap or an unforeseen, prescient diaper change—swerve your schedule accordingly. Reassure yourself of the fact that Petra will still be waiting for you, and maybe having a more relaxed visit can actually make your trip feel more enjoyable! Instead of worrying about making your way to every site, concentrate on giving you and your baby a good time.

To Sum Up: How to Get The Most Out of Your Petra Trip With a Baby — The (Im) Perfect Balance Between Travelling and F*cking Parenting. Expect 4 to 6 hours (easily more), get up early, and note your top sites. That is, after all, the whole point of getting an eyeful of Petra — but not at the expense of your little one. Your Petra trip can be as memorable and manageable with a little preparation and a lot of patience.

I reflect on all these years associated with caring for a baby, and one thing sticks out in my mind, especially when it comes to creating a bond with them: Jordan.

If you are wondering about what that is going to mean in Jordan, fear not—Jordan’s pro-baby culture will blow your mind. I felt like I was carrying a mini-celebrity the moment my foot stepped off the plane. People made an effort to smile, hold the door for me, or even feed my kid lunch while I took a break. I found the places to be heartwarming; whether it was a crowded marketplace or a quiet café, the way they showed warmth and kindness towards children was beautiful. Nor would you be in the least bit surprised if one (or three) of them offered to “pop the kettle on” so everyone can sit down and admire your new little baby together… and said adorable newborn returns home with slightly redder cheeks from all that prodding and tickling! Jordan literally makes traveling with a baby (or toddler) look easy af (kinda)!

Last advice for those who intend to visit Petra with a baby or toddler

Car Rental: A car is likely the best investment you can make while traveling to Jordan with a baby or toddler. That way, you can stop to change a diaper (or two or three), soothe a fussy little one, and just get out of your car and stretch. You may want to rent a car seat if needed, as not all rentals have them. Oh, and in case you forget, the roads are kind of rough so there may be some off-key lullabies happening along the drive!

Wear easy-to-put-on, well-fitting clothes for you both Because you will be doing a lot of walking in Petra, the best choice here is lightweight and breathable. A hat and sunscreen are essential to guard against the desert sun. And, mothers, bring good walking shoes because those ancient stones are not friendly to strollers!

Jordan Pass: If you are visiting Petra, the Jordan Pass is a must. It includes your visa cost and entrance to more than 40 sites, but not Petra. It is a godsend—one less thing to have rolled around in the back when you are struggling with baby gear.

Amman: Stay a day or two before heading to Petra. This is how you get a feel of the culture and get all the necessary items for last-minute touch-ups. Besides, Amman has a chill life that is an awesome introduction to Jordan.

Where To Stay: The best place is the town of Wadi Musa, which lies just next to Petra and offers accommodations for all budgets. Search for hotels that list cribs and high chairs Some of them will babysit your kids too, so you can still get out and do a little exploring on your own if you need to.

Where to Eat: There are many family-friendly options, all located in Wadi Musa. Many restaurants are kid-friendly and provide high chairs and special menus for children. Feel free to ask for a small [portion] or even something that is not on the menu—even locals will help.

Petra is clearly the number one priority, but this area offers more than just Petra. Check out Little Petra instead for a quick and less busy option, especially with a little one! Another great idea, if you do visit Petra (and I highly recommend visiting Petra), is the experience: go for it unless you have kids with you as this is a late-night event.

Dead Sea: A must-visit after Petra, indulge in some leisure time Its water is highly buoyant, making it suitable for all ages, and the resorts are family-friendly. However, be careful with babies, and salty water is not the best for their skin.

Weather – Jordan can have different weather, So be ready. The summer in Zadar can be very hot, whereas winters are cold enough, especially during the night. You will have the ideal temperatures for traveling, both good for you and also your little one around the spring or fall.

Duration: 2 (+) days Petra is big, so take a min of 2 whole days. That way, you can go slow and appreciate the scenery if taking your baby or toddler. Remember: breaks are crucial—do not attempt to accomplish everything in a day.

Staying at a resort by the Dead Sea following Petra. Spa services for YOU and shallow pools for babies allow you to soak in complimentary relaxation. Also, with its spectacular sights, it is a fitting way to complete your dive holiday.

Petra Photographer: One of the most ideal ways to capture memories without being stressed is putting a juggling act between a baby and a camera. They have the perfect photo nooks in mind, so you can enjoy your night without any extra stress.

Wadi Rum: If you are a little braver, then set off to Wadi Rum. It is set in a beautiful desert landscape; some camps are for the family. Though remember to pack enough and prepare for the heat.

The Destination: Petra and Wadi Rum provide a wealth of historical and cultural experiences. Knowing a little about these spots ahead of time can add to your trip, giving you tales to inform your pre-teens as they get older.

Experience 🛍️: The Mujib Resevation Team is very knowledgeable about the area when you are there to Stay/What to Do / What to EatFamily: Aberdeen Hotel in Petra Where: Wonderful Family Friendly Lodging In PetraFamily Activities: Many Things To Do With Families Everywhere. You can easily do research to find the places which might help you or else simply ask locals in person who are very friendly and hospitable.

It may seem intimidating to travel with a baby or toddler to Petra, but all you need is a little bit of planning, and it will be an unforgettable experience. You own the way, and in doing so, choose to adapt continuously; above all, relish it.

Homeschooling in Petra

Keith and Kent take their mum homeschooling at Petra. That would be cuckoo, huh? No, seriously — it goes to like an ultimate level of entertainment (ya, I just made that up). Imagine: you could be wandering through an ancient city carved into rose-red cliffs with your loved ones, learning things that no classroom could teach.
The Treasury The first site was the famed Treasury. I mean, who would not want to lead a history class with one of the most awe-inspiring buildings on Earth? The kids were fascinated, and I got to impart some random info about the Nabataeans, who built in Petra. This was like seeing their brains light up — and it was only before lunch!

The Theater: Next stop was the ancient theater of Petra. However, having this out-of-the-box setting beats trying to explain Greek-style theaters to kids who think a “play” is something that you do when it’s recess. We even paused to imagine what it might have been like watching a play here 2,000 years ago. Or, spoiler alert, it’s so much cooler than a night of Netflix binging.

The Monastery — Another place that is so worth doing the walk up to. This one was a bit of a trial for us (and the kids), but each step up the steep stairway provided us with ample opportunity to discuss how in the world they would have created such an enormous feat of engineering jutting into the side of a mountain. As an added bonus, we even spent time making it into a quick geology lesson about the sandstone cliffs. Who could’ve thought homeschooling would be so hands-on?

The key benefit of interactive learning? They never even knew they were learning. They started absorbing knowledge like sponges in the climbing, exploring, and countless “wow” moments. From the history of ancient trade routes to how water can flow down a paved street in a desert city, you have all of this learning in a setting in which you are literally surrounded by history—easily the coolest classroom ever.

In the grand scheme of things, our “homeschooling” trip to Petra was so much more than a day out. Everything was inquisitive, new, and full of discovery—a minuscule lesson on spontaneity, exploration, and practical education. Yes, the children were slightly exhausted and covered in dust but at the same time excited to share all that they had discovered—about historical cultures, rocks, and landmarks. And? I was grateful simply to have embarked on this unforgettable educational trip with them. So, would I recommend it? Absolutely! Just don’t forget the snacks.

Wrapping It Up

And there you have it—your complete guide to taking a baby to Petra! Whether it’s getting through the border or knowing where to stop and rest, I’ve got you sorted for a trouble-free transit. Traveling with a baby is hard, but done right with the correct preparation and attitude, it is an adventure more than worth every diaper change and snack break. But remember, just take it slow, see the sights, and if it doesn’t go quite to plan, then don’t stress about it❤️ because, let’s face it, things very rarely work out how you planned them when you are dealing with a 1-year-old! Before long, you’re strolling your baby through the Siq or taking snapshots at the Treasury—memories to last a lifetime. Good luck, and I hope your discovery of Petra is as amazing as the city itself!