Is It Safe to Visit Petra Jordan? Complete Safety Guide
Petra is one of the most visited places in Jordan. Every year, tourists from all over the world walk through the Siq, stand in front of the Treasury, and explore the trails.
The short answer: yes, Petra is generally considered safe for tourists when you follow basic travel and health precautions. Your main concerns are usually heat, walking distances, and common travel issues, not crime.
Let’s break it down in a clear way.
Understanding Safety: Is It Safe to Visit Petra Jordan?
Petra sits in southern Jordan, near the town of Wadi Musa. It’s a major tourist site and an important source of income for the local community and the country. Because of that, security and visitor management are taken seriously.
In normal circumstances:
- The site is monitored and controlled at the main entrance.
- You’ll see tourist police and official staff inside the area.
- The region around Petra is usually calm and focused on tourism.
Like any international trip, it’s still smart to:
- Check your government’s latest travel advice for Jordan before you go.
- Register your trip if your country offers that service.
But for most visitors, Petra feels busy, organized, and safe to walk around during opening hours.
General Safety Conditions in Petra
Inside Petra, the main risks are more practical than anything else: terrain, heat, and fatigue.
Here’s what to keep in mind:
- Crowds
- Morning and mid-day at the Treasury and main trail can get busy.
- Keep an eye on your bag like you would in any popular site.
- Terrain and walking
- Paths are mostly dirt, stone, and uneven stairs.
- Slopes and rocks can be slippery after rain or when you’re tired.
- Good shoes are more important than fancy clothes.
- Animals and unofficial services
- You’ll see horses, donkeys, and camels offering rides.
- Use only licensed services, agree on the price first, and avoid riding if you have back or joint issues.
- If something feels unsafe, say no.
- Site opening hours
- Stay inside the official opening times.
- Don’t try to sneak in early or stay alone after closing; it’s not worth the risk.
Overall, you’re walking in a large archaeological park. Treat it like a long outdoor hike with ancient monuments, not like a simple city stroll.
Health & Weather Precautions for Visitors
Most problems in Petra are related to heat, sun, and long walking distances.
Heat and sun
- In summer, temperatures can be high, especially mid-day.
- Shade is limited on some trails.
- Sunburn and dehydration are common if you’re not careful.
What to do:
- Start early in the morning if possible.
- Wear a hat, light clothing, and sunscreen.
- Drink water regularly, not only when you feel thirsty.
- Take short breaks in shaded spots.
Walking and physical effort
- The walk from the Visitor Center to the Treasury is about 2 km each way.
- If you continue to the Monastery or viewpoints, you’ll add many more steps and stairs.
Be honest with yourself:
- If you have heart, joint, or breathing issues, talk to your doctor before your trip.
- Pace yourself. You don’t have to see everything in one day.
Food and hygiene
- Drink bottled or filtered water.
- Be sensible with street snacks if you have a sensitive stomach.
If you feel unwell, tell your guide (if you have one) or seek help from staff or tourist police. There are people on site trained to respond in emergencies.
Safety Tips for Solo Travelers and Families
Petra welcomes solo travelers, couples, and families with children. The basic rules are similar, but a few details change depending on how you travel.
Solo travelers
- Stay on marked paths and main trails, especially if you’re not used to hiking in heat.
- Let someone (hotel, friend, or family) know your rough plan and expected return time.
- If you hire a guide or a local service, use official channels (hotel desk, visitor center, or registered agencies).
Families with children
- Petra is doable with kids, but:
- Avoid the hottest hours.
- Bring snacks, water, and maybe a light foldable hat or scarf for them.
- Hold hands in crowded, narrow parts like the Siq.
Strollers are difficult on the main paths. A baby carrier is often easier for small children.
Valuables
- Bring only what you need inside.
- Keep passports, extra cash, and electronics secure at your hotel when possible.
Petra feels safe, but basic common sense still applies.
Read -> Petra travel guide
Local Regulations and On-Site Guidelines
Petra is not just a tourist attraction; it’s a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a protected area. There are rules to protect both visitors and the site itself.
Typical regulations include:
- Tickets and entrance
- Buy your ticket at the official Visitor Center or via approved channels.
- Keep your ticket with you; staff may check it inside.
- Respect for the monuments
- Do not climb on fragile facades or carve anything into the rock.
- Don’t remove stones, sand, or artifacts.
- Vendors and guides
- Official guides can be booked at the Visitor Center.
- Licensed services usually have visible IDs or badges.
- If you feel pressured, stay polite but firm. You can say no and walk on.
- Drones and filming
- Drone use is restricted or requires special permits.
- Professional filming may need official approval.
If you’re unsure about something—where to go, what’s allowed—ask staff at the Visitor Center or tourist police. They are there to help.
FAQ
Is Petra safe for tourists?
In general, yes, Petra is considered safe for tourists. Security is present at the entrance and inside the site, and the area is used to hosting visitors every day.
The main risks are heat, physical exhaustion, and minor travel issues, not serious crime.
Are there any travel restrictions in Petra?
There may be temporary rules related to:
- Weather (heavy rain or flash flood risk)
- Maintenance or restoration of certain areas
- National or regional events
Before you go, check:
- Your country’s travel advice for Jordan
- Any updates from your tour operator or hotel
At the site, follow signs and listen to staff if parts of Petra are temporarily closed.
Is it safe to walk around Petra alone?
Yes, many people explore Petra independently and alone.
To keep it safe and comfortable:
- Stay on marked trails and within the main areas.
- Avoid going off into remote paths late in the day.
- Carry water, a charged phone, and some cash.
If you’d rather not be alone, you can hire a licensed guide or join a small group.
What should I avoid when visiting Petra?
A few things are better to avoid:
- Mid-day heavy hiking in peak summer without enough water or shade
- Climbing in unsafe spots just for photos
- Accepting rides or services without agreeing on a price first
- Ignoring weather warnings, especially about rain and flash floods
If you keep your expectations realistic and respect the site, you’ll avoid most problems.
Is Petra safe for female travelers?
Many women visit Petra solo, in pairs, or in groups and feel comfortable.
Common-sense tips:
- Dress in a way that respects local culture (shoulders and knees covered is a simple rule of thumb).
- If someone makes you uncomfortable, walk away and move toward busier areas or staff.
- Use official guides and transport when possible.
As with any destination, trust your instincts. If something feels off, you’re not obligated to stay in that situation or continue that interaction.
Petra is a place where safety, planning, and common sense come together. If you prepare for the heat, respect your limits, and follow the local rules, you can enjoy the site with peace of mind.
