Petra is truly an incredible site to behold—a rose-red city hewn from the rock of the surrounding mountains. This ancient Nabatean capital, which flourished in biblical times, was virtually impregnable and dominated the Middle East caravan routes for four centuries before being assimilated into the Roman Empire in 106 A.D.

While it is possible to start the journey on horseback, we recommend travelling on foot for the entirety of your time in Petra. You will meet your guide at the visitor centre, and then it is a short 800-metre journey to the start of the site. Enter through the narrow canyon known as the Siq. The first sighting of the Treasury as you round the corner is awe-inspiring. Petra is undoubtedly one of the world’s greatest tourist attractions, and you will spend two hours with your private guide exploring all of the key sites in the central area and perhaps a few hidden secrets while learning about its history.

Your tour will finish at the end of the main thoroughfare. After your tour, you will have the rest of the day to explore the site at your leisure. Not to be missed is the Monastery, one of the most spectacular monuments, as well as the High Place of Sacrifice.