Petra to Wadi Rum: Top 2 Travel Routes

There are several different ways to get to Wadi Rum from Petra. Traveling between the two destinations is easy, comfortable, and quick, thanks to the many options available.

By bus

Petra and Wadi Rum are separated by an overland distance of about 110 kilometers, a bus journey of nearly three hours. You can catch a bus in Wadi Musa, the nearest town to Petra, before traveling along the picturesque King's Highway and Desert Highway. En route, the bus will make occasional stops, providing opportunities to savor the views and stretch your legs. Upon reaching Wadi Rum Visitor Center, you are at the threshold of one of the world's most surreal desert landscapes. This center marks the beginning of your exploration in Wadi Rum, a place of unparalleled beauty and intrigue. You can either board a local minibus that charges USD 10 to USD 15 for the trip, or a more comfortable JETT bus that costs USD 21.

• Distance covered: 110 kilometers
• Duration: 3 hours

Pro Tips:

• The local minibus usually runs once a day, and it won't leave Wadi Musa until it's full.
• Passengers might be asked to pay a bit more if the bus departs with empty seats, and there might be an additional charge for large bags.
• If you want to reach Wadi Rum for a tour before 9 a.m., travel a day in advance because you may run behind schedule.
• For more comfort, choose a higher-class bus like the JETT with amenities like bathrooms, Wi-Fi, and air conditioning.
• Keep in mind that most public buses do not run on Fridays or certain holidays unless there's enough demand. Plan accordingly.
• To guarantee a decent bus seat, purchase tickets in advance.

By car

Hiring a taxi or a car is a great option if you prefer traveling on your schedule and making pit stops along the way. Typical fare for a one-way trip will cost you around USD 50. You can also hire a car for a round trip that takes you from Petra to Wadi Rum and back. The cost of renting a car will typically range from USD 40 to USD 60 per day, but renting an SUV or a larger vehicle may incur a slightly higher cost. Additionally, you should factor in the expense of gasoline. The drive from Petra to Wadi Rum by taxi or car takes only about two hours. If you have booked a hotel outside the protected area, you can drive the car straight to the hotel.

• Distance: 110 kilometers
• Duration: About 2 hours

Pro Tips:

• Cars can be hired for a one-way journey or for a round trip.
• When you arrive in Wadi Rum, you will have to leave the rental car at the Visitor Centre. Rental cars are typically very safe to leave at the visitor center.
• You will find taxis easily lined outside the Visitor Center. You can pre-arrange a taxi through your hotel in Petra or hail one by flagging it down along the road.
•  Due to competition among drivers, you can negotiate and agree upon a reasonable fare before getting into the taxi.
•  Politely request that the taxi driver turn on the meter; this is required by Jordanian law. If the driver declines to use the meter, it is perfectly acceptable to leave the taxi and select another one.
• Many taxi drivers in Jordan prefer cash payments, so make sure to have some small change on hand.
• If you are hiring a taxi, you can also share it with another passenger to split the fare.

A quick overview of traveling from Petra to Wadi Rum

Transportation Mode	Distance Covered	Duration	Why Choose This
Bus	110 kilometers	About 3 hours	Cost-effective, scenic route.
Car	110 kilometers	About 2 hours	Flexible, allows pit stops, and faster travel.

Embarking on a trip from Petra to Wadi Rum offers diverse transportation options to suit various preferences and travel goals. Opting for a bus ride allows you to engage with locals and relish the scenic landscapes. It is also a cost-effective travel option. For those desiring a blend of exploration and independence, renting a car or hiring a taxi grants you the freedom to chart your own course, set your pace, and uncover hidden gems along the way. 

Embark on an unforgettable adventure through the captivating landscapes of Wadi Rum with our carefully curated tours. Designed by the seasoned team at Bookmundi, these all-encompassing Wadi Rum tours ensure a seamless travel experience, taking care of every detail from accommodations to transportation.

For a personalized touch on your trip to Jordan, we provide customization options. Be it desert hikes, or stargazing, collaborate with our travel experts to design a customized trip to Jordan. If you are looking to explore more, there are several other destinations in Jordan. You can also check out the articles on things to do in Jordan and the best time to visit Jordan.