How to Visit Petra Responsibly: Essential Tips for Sustainable Travel
Hand-carved from rose-colored sandstone cliffs, the enchanting ancient city of Petra stands as Jordan's premier attraction and a bucket-list essential for travelers worldwide. Tragically, this fragile wonder—once a closely guarded Bedouin secret lost to Western knowledge for over 1,000 years—now faces threats from overtourism.
At risk of being 'loved to death,' Petra frequently appears on the World Monuments Fund's list of the world's most endangered sites. With annual visitors nearing one million, preservation must guide every traveler's visit to prevent irreversible damage.
Follow these expert tips to explore Petra responsibly.
Reconsider Animal Rides
The iconic image of camels before the Treasury draws many down the 1.2km Siq gorge. However, concerns persist about the welfare of camels, horses, and donkeys. Recent collaborations between local Bedouin and Jordanian authorities have improved conditions, but challenges remain, including overzealous handling and rushed transport on the Street of Facades.
Petra spans 264 sq km—don't rush to see it all in one day. Pace yourself, especially on the 850 worn steps to the Monastery. If opting for a ride, choose adult handlers with healthy, capable animals. Pay the posted fares from the Petra Visitor Centre without bargaining, and report any abuse to tourist police with evidence.
Tread Lightly
The Nabataeans masterfully sculpted Petra's facades from soft sandstone, building aqueducts and cisterns to protect against erosion. Modern tourists' aggressive footwear and touching accelerate damage—a 2005 study showed the Treasury facade eroded 40mm in 10 years from handling alone. Choose shoes with minimal tread, skip pointed hiking poles, and avoid climbing or touching monuments. Let Petra inspire you, not vice versa.
Visit Off-Season
Visitor numbers have surged 1700% since the 1980s, peaking at 3,000 daily in March-April and September-October. For crowd-free moments at the Treasury or a serene Siq walk, visit in winter (December-February) or arrive at 6am opening. Off-peak travel benefits site management and your experience.
Shop Ethically
Petra's vendor stalls echo its Nabataean trade legacy. Support locals but avoid looted 'artifacts,' colorful rocks, sand jars, or child-sold trinkets that keep kids from school. Instead, visit ethical spots like Umm Raami's Shop for fair-trade silver jewelry by local women, inspired by Nabataean designs.
Skip the Plastic
Enjoy Bedouin tea at cafes, but bring a large water bladder to avoid single-use plastic bottles straining the site's resources.
Get Off the Beaten Path
With over 800 sites, including 500 tombs, venture beyond the main trail to trails like Al-Khubtha for Treasury views or Wadi Farasa to the High Place of Sacrifice. Enter via the 'back door' near the Monastery on the Jordan Trail. Hire a local guide for poor signage and fewer crowds.
Stay Longer
Extended stays ease pressure on desert water resources and maximize your Jordan Pass (fourth day free with a three-day pass). Linger to cherish and preserve this UNESCO gem for future generations.
Lauren Keith traveled to Jordan with support from Intrepid. Lonely Planet contributors do not accept freebies for positive coverage.
