Cairo to Petra: Top 3 Travel Routes

When traveling from Cairo to Petra, there are several options. You could enjoy a scenic bus journey through desert landscapes or opt for the flexibility of a self-driven road trip along picturesque routes. Another convenient choice is to take a quick flight from Egypt’s Cairo to Jordan’s Amman, followed by a brief drive to Petra. The choice of transport mode for your Cairo to Petra tours will ultimately depend on factors such as cost, time, distance, and personal preferences.

By bus

Traveling from Cairo to Petra by bus can offer a cost-effective and immersive journey. The distance between the two cities is about 600 kilometers. The duration of the bus ride between Cairo and Petra can vary depending on factors, such as border crossing times and traffic conditions, but expect a travel time of 12 to 13 hours. Several bus companies operate between Cairo and Petra, offering direct and indirect service options. Ticket prices typically range from USD 25 to USD 85, depending on the level of comfort and service provided.

Distance covered: 600 kilometers

Duration: 12 to 13 hours

Pro tips:

• Look for reputable bus companies operating between Cairo and Petra. Companies like JETT offer reliable services.
  
• Secure your ticket in advance, especially during peak travel seasons, to avoid last-minute problems.
• Make sure you have all required travel documentation, such as passports and visas for border crossings.
• Ensure you have enough local currency for border fees and expenses on your trip to Jordan and Egypt.
• Be prepared for a long bus journey by bringing entertainment, snacks, and water. Pack light but include essentials like a jacket, travel pillow, and essential medicines.
• Choose overnight bus travel so that you are fully rested and have enough time to explore Petra.
• Keep a watch on your belongings throughout the travel, particularly at breaks and border crossings.

By car

Can you drive from Cairo to Petra? Absolutely! Going on a road trip allows you to make stops at various points between the two cities, making your trip more fun and rewarding. The distance between Cairo and Petra is around 600 kilometers, which can be covered in 8 to 10 hours. It may take even longer if you make several stops along the way. Popular routes may include traveling through the Sinai Peninsula and crossing the border into Jordan at the Taba Crossing. Renting a car for the trip can cost between USD 120 and USD 150 per day, depending on the type of vehicle and rental duration.

• Distance covered: 600 kilometers
• Duration: 8 to 10 hours

Pro tips:

• Plan your route carefully, considering border crossing requirements and driving regulations on your trip to Egypt and Jordan.
• Explore car rental agencies in Cairo offering cross-border services to Jordan. Ensure the rental agreement permits international travel.
• Make sure your vehicle is in a good condition and fill up your tank before beginning your drive.
• Consider using GPS navigation or offline mapping, as certain regions may have limited connectivity.
• Carry enough local currencies for border crossing fees and other expenses along the way.
• Familiarize yourself with road signs and local driving regulations to ensure a smooth journey. Be aware of road conditions, especially if traveling at night.

By flight

Opting for a Cairo to Petra flight is a convenient and comfortable option, particularly if you have limited time. While there are no direct flights between Cairo and Petra, connecting flights are available with layovers in cities such as Amman in Jordan. The flight distance from Cairo to Amman is approximately 600 kilometers, with a flight time of around 6 hours, depending on the layover duration. The ticket can cost anywhere from USD 140 to USD 315. From Amman, Petra is easily accessible by road, with a driving distance of approximately 240 kilometers. It takes around 3 to 4 hours to reach Petra from Amman, and costs USD 35 to USD 55.

• Distance covered: 600 kilometers
• Duration: 6 hours

Pro tips:

• To cut down on travel time, look for connecting flights with short layovers.
• To find the most practical and economical route for your vacation, use websites like Skyscanner to research and compare airline alternatives.
• For cheaper airfare consider booking your flight well in advance.
• To account for possible delays, security checks, and check-in, get to the airport at least an hour before your scheduled departure.
• Make travel plans in advance for your means of getting from Amman to Petra, whether it is by private vehicle, public transport, or rental car.

A quick overview of traveling from Cairo to Petra

Mode of transport	Time taken	Why choose this?
Bus	12 to 13 hours	Scenic route through the Sinai Peninsula and Jordanian desert, potential stops at historical sites like St. Catherine's Monastery or Wadi Rum for hiking or sightseeing.
Car	8 to 10 hours	Flexibility to explore various stops along the route, such as the Dead Sea, Wadi Mujib, and Dana Biosphere Reserve, and opportunity for spontaneous detours to lesser-known attractions.
Flight	6 hours (flight) + 3-4 hours (drive)	Quick and convenient option, saves time, stunning aerial views of the Sinai Peninsula and Jordanian landscapes during the flight.

If you are traveling from Cairo to Petra, you can choose between diverse transport modes, each offering unique advantages. Opting for a scenic bus ride presents an immersive, cost-effective experience through desert landscapes, albeit with a lengthy travel time of around 12 to 13 hours. Conversely, a self-driven road trip allows freedom to stop and explore various sites along the way. Taking a flight, on the other hand, is the quickest and most comfortable—although expensive—way to travel between the two destinations.

If you are intrigued by the ancient wonders of Petra, embarking on a Petra tour offers a captivating exploration of Jordan's rich history and remarkable landscapes. For a more personalized experience, you can collaborate with one of our local travel experts to create a customized trip to Jordan.

Dive into our guides on the best time to visit Petra and things to do in Jordan for more ideas and inspiration for your trip. Our article on places to visit in Jordan will also come in handy.