Petra to Wadi Rum: Taxi & Transport Guide

Jordan is a land steeped in ancient history and breathtaking natural beauty, and for many, the pinnacle of a visit lies in exploring the iconic rock-cut city of Petra and the majestic desert landscapes of Wadi Rum. These two spectacular destinations, often referred to as the 'Rose City' and the 'Valley of the Moon', are relatively close, making travel between them a crucial part of any well-planned itinerary. But how exactly does one navigate this desert route? What are the costs involved, particularly for a taxi, and what other transport options are available? This comprehensive guide aims to shed light on all your travel queries, ensuring your journey through Jordan’s southern gems is as smooth and enjoyable as the scenery itself.

The Journey Unveiled: Distance and Time

Petra and Wadi Rum are undoubtedly two of Jordan's most famous attractions, and conveniently, they are not far apart. The distance between Wadi Rum and Petra is approximately 68 miles (about 110 kilometres). This relatively short distance translates to a travel time of roughly two hours by car, making it an entirely manageable part of your trip. The journey itself is a visual treat, traversing stunning desert landscapes that showcase the raw, untamed beauty of Jordan. Whether you're planning a day trip or integrating it into a longer exploration of the region, understanding the travel options is key.

Taxi Travel: Convenience at a Cost

For those prioritising speed, comfort, and directness, a taxi is often the preferred choice for travelling between Petra and Wadi Rum. It offers a hassle-free experience, allowing you to sit back and enjoy the spectacular views without the stress of navigating or adhering to bus schedules.

From Petra to Wadi Rum by Taxi

Upon leaving the Petra Visitor Centre, you'll find a taxi rank with drivers eager to offer their services for a private transfer to Wadi Rum Visitor Centre. The average price for a taxi from Petra to Wadi Rum is approximately 40 Jordanian Dinars (JD), which equates to roughly 51 Euros or 56 US Dollars. It's crucial to agree on the fare in advance to avoid any surprises, as haggling is a common practice in Jordan. For peace of mind and a fixed price, you might consider pre-arranging a private transfer through a local tour operator, such as Wadi Tribe, who guarantee transfers at the 40 JD rate. The taxi duration is typically about two hours, and drivers are usually well-versed in the route, often offering to communicate with your desert camp to ensure a smooth drop-off.

To help cut down on costs, especially if you're travelling on a budget, consider grouping with other travellers. Petra to Wadi Rum is a highly popular route, and you'll likely find other passengers in Wadi Musa (the town nearest Petra) looking to share a ride, effectively splitting the 40 JD fare amongst you. This is a great way to enjoy the convenience of a taxi at a more affordable price point.

From Wadi Rum to Petra by Taxi

While the detailed pricing information is largely focused on the Petra to Wadi Rum route, you can expect the cost and duration for a taxi from Wadi Rum to Petra to be very similar, around 40 JD for a direct transfer. Taxis are readily available at the Wadi Rum Visitor Centre, and the same principles of agreeing on the fare beforehand apply.

Bus Options: Budget-Friendly Journeys

For backpackers and budget-conscious travellers, buses offer a significantly more economical way to travel between these two iconic destinations. While they might take a little longer and require more planning, they provide an authentic travel experience.

JETT Bus: The Tourist-Friendly Option

JETT Bus, the Jordan Express Tourist Transportation Company, is Jordan's equivalent to Europe's long-distance coach services. While there isn't a direct JETT Bus connection between Petra and Wadi Rum, the journey is still relatively straightforward, albeit requiring a transfer in Aqaba, a vibrant city on the Red Sea coast. From Wadi Musa Bus Station (near Petra), you'll first take a JETT Bus to Aqaba. This leg costs approximately 15 JD (around 19 Euros or 21 US Dollars). After potentially spending a night in Aqaba (highly recommended by many travellers), you can then board another JETT Bus from Aqaba to Wadi Rum Village, which costs an additional 15 JD. The total cost for the two JETT Bus legs is 30 JD (approximately 38 Euros or 42 US Dollars), making it a more affordable option than a solo taxi ride.

JETT buses are known for their comfort, often equipped with air conditioning and on-board facilities. They depart from the front of the Petra Visitor Centre daily, typically at 11:30 am (though it's always wise to check the latest schedule). The journey offers plenty of scenic views of the desert and, for part of the route, the Dead Sea.

Local Minibuses: The Cheapest Way

For the absolute lowest cost, local minibuses are your go-to. These are the public transport options primarily used by locals and offer a genuine slice of Jordanian life. From Wadi Musa bus terminal, you can catch a local minibus. The cost for a local minibus from Wadi Musa to Aqaba is around 8 JD (approximately 10 Euros or 11 US Dollars) per person. Similar to the JETT Bus, you'll need to transfer in Aqaba for the second leg of your journey to Wadi Rum. The second leg from Aqaba to Wadi Rum Rest House will also cost around 8 JD.

The total cost for local minibuses from Petra to Wadi Rum is roughly 16 JD (around 20 Euros or 22 US Dollars), making it the most budget-friendly choice. However, be prepared for a longer journey, as these minibuses make frequent stops in small villages along the way, typically taking around three hours for the entire trip. If you're unsure about the fare, simply observe what other passengers are paying or politely ask. Travelling by local transport not only saves money but also provides a unique opportunity for local insight and interaction.

From Wadi Rum to Petra by Bus

If you are travelling from Wadi Rum to Petra, a bus ticket is available for approximately EUR 18.96. This option, while possibly more expensive than the local minibuses for the reverse route, provides a fixed-price service, likely catering to tourists, and is a viable alternative to taxis or rental cars.

Rental Cars: Flexibility on Your Terms

Renting a car in Jordan offers unparalleled flexibility and independence, especially if you plan a multi-day adventure. Driving in Jordan is generally considered quite straightforward, particularly on the modern desert highways connecting major tourist sites.

Rental rates are reasonable, with cars available for as little as 15 Euros or 16 US Dollars per day if booked 1-2 months in advance during high season (European winter), often including full insurance. Even without the best advance offers, you can expect fair prices, typically around 25-30 JD (35-40 US Dollars) per day for a car with air conditioning and insurance.

Google Maps works well in Jordan, providing reliable navigation from Wadi Musa (Petra's nearest town) to the Wadi Rum Visitor Centre, a journey of just under two hours. Fuel is relatively inexpensive in Jordan, costing around 1.13 Euros per litre or 4.28 US Dollars per gallon, and petrol stations are conveniently located along the highways. There are no toll roads in Jordan.

However, an important point to note is that you cannot enter the Wadi Rum Reserve with your private car. You will need to leave your vehicle at the Wadi Rum Rest House (Wadi Rum Visitor Centre) and arrange for your camp hosts to pick you up from there, as desert excursions within the reserve are typically conducted via jeep tours.

While renting a car offers significant freedom, there are no rental agencies directly in Petra. Your best option is to rent a car from a larger city like Aqaba or upon arrival at Queen Alia International Airport. Jordanians drive on the right side of the road, and traffic rules largely comply with Western standards. Road signs for popular tourist destinations include English translations, so navigation should be manageable. Be aware of occasional checkpoints along highways, but these are generally hassle-free and security personnel are friendly towards tourists.

Private Drivers and Organised Tours: Luxury and Guidance

For those who prefer not to worry about anything and simply enjoy the scenic journey, a private driver is an excellent choice. While it's the most expensive option, it offers the ultimate in comfort and convenience. Your driver will handle all the navigation, allowing you to fully appreciate the stunning desert landscapes and perhaps even gain some insights into local culture and landmarks. You can arrange a private driver through your hotel reception or directly with local taxi services.

Alternatively, organised tours provide a structured and often all-inclusive experience. These tours typically include transportation from Petra to Wadi Rum, a variety of desert activities such as jeep tours and camel rides, and even overnight stays in traditional Bedouin camps or luxury bubble tents. If you prefer a guided experience where all the details are taken care of, booking an organised tour can be a fantastic option, though costs will vary significantly based on the tour's inclusions and duration.

Comparative Overview: Choosing Your Path

To help you decide, here's a comparative look at the main transport options:

Note: Costs are approximate and subject to change based on season, demand, and negotiation. Conversions are illustrative.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Is there a direct JETT Bus from Petra to Wadi Rum?

No, there is no direct JETT Bus service between Petra and Wadi Rum. The JETT Bus route requires a transfer in Aqaba, making it a two-leg journey.

How much does a taxi cost in Petra for a local trip?

While this article focuses on inter-city travel, for local trips within Petra (Wadi Musa), you can hail a taxi on the street or use a ride-hailing app. It's advisable to use an app for quality monitoring, and always agree on the fare before starting your journey.

Can I enter the Wadi Rum Reserve with my rental car?

No, private vehicles are not permitted inside the Wadi Rum Protected Area. You must park your rental car at the Wadi Rum Rest House (Visitor Centre), and your desert camp or tour operator will arrange for your pickup from there in a designated desert vehicle.

How far apart are Petra and Wadi Rum?

Petra and Wadi Rum are approximately 68 miles (110 kilometres) apart. The drive typically takes about 2 hours.

What is the cheapest way to get from Petra to Wadi Rum?

The cheapest way to travel between Petra and Wadi Rum is by using local minibuses, which cost approximately 16 JD for the entire journey (via Aqaba).

What are the main activities to do in Petra and Wadi Rum?

In Petra, you can explore the ancient Treasury, Monastery, and Royal Tombs, hike through Siq, and discover the rich history of the Nabataean city. In Wadi Rum, popular activities include thrilling jeep tours through the desert, serene camel rides, stargazing at night from a Bedouin camp, and exploring unique rock formations and canyons.

Making Your Choice: A Memorable Journey Awaits

Deciding the best way to travel from Petra to Wadi Rum, or vice versa, ultimately depends on your personal preferences, budget, and the kind of experience you're seeking. If you're travelling on a tight budget, the local minibuses offer the most economical choice, albeit with a longer travel time and the need for a transfer. For those valuing comfort and speed, a private taxi is an excellent investment. If you desire complete freedom to explore at your own pace, a rental car is ideal, provided you're comfortable driving abroad and understand the restrictions within Wadi Rum itself. Finally, for a structured, all-inclusive adventure, an organised tour takes all the planning off your hands.

No matter which option you choose, the journey between the awe-inspiring ruins of Petra and the majestic, cinematic landscapes of Wadi Rum is sure to be one of the most memorable parts of your Jordanian adventure. Plan wisely, embrace the desert charm, and prepare for an experience that will stay with you long after you've left the Kingdom of Jordan.

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