Planning a trip to Petra? Here’s how to do it responsibly

Carved with care from the stunning rose-hued sandstone cliffs, the ancient city of Petra stands as Jordan’s premier attraction, a must-visit for travelers worldwide.

Ironically, this delicate site, once a well-guarded Bedouin secret lost to Western awareness for over a millennium, now grapples with the effects of overtourism. Often referred to as being loved to death, Petra frequently appears on the World Monument Fund’s list of the most endangered locations globally. The primary concern is the surge in tourism, with annual visitors exceeding 1 million in 2019 and hovering around 900,000 in the post-pandemic era.

We must prioritize the preservation of Petra to prevent its deterioration beneath our feet and before our eyes. Here are ways to explore the site responsibly.

Choose to visit during the off-peak season

Petra experiences two peak seasons—March to April and September to October—when daily visitor numbers can reach around 4,000. For a chance to witness the Treasury in solitude or stroll through the Siq without the throngs, consider visiting in winter from December to February. You’ll need to dress warmly, but you could explore Petra’s wonders in peace. If your travel plans are fixed, arrive early in the morning to avoid crowds; the site opens at 6:30 AM year-round. Visiting during quieter times benefits both site management and your personal experience.

Think twice before opting for a ride.

The picturesque sight of camels resting near the Treasury has lured many travelers to wander through the Siq, the 1.2 km (0.75-mile) winding gorge at the main entrance. However, some return from this journey with a sobering perspective after witnessing the treatment of the camels, horses, and donkeys at Petra.

Collaboration between local Bedouins and the Jordanian government has led to improvements for working animals, but challenges remain. While many owners genuinely care for their animals, there are still instances of mistreatment, such as young handlers giving excessive commands, and the Street of Facades sometimes resembling a racetrack as the so-called 'Bedouin Ferraris' are hurried back and forth to meet visitor needs.

Recognize that the ancient city of Petra spans a vast area of 264 sq km, so attempting to explore it all in one visit, especially if you're only there for the day, is unrealistic. Be mindful of your limits and pace yourself, particularly if you're planning to ascend the 850 fragile steps to the Monastery, which have been worn down by increasing donkey traffic. If you choose to ride, find an adult provider (not a child) with healthy animals that can safely carry their passengers. Pay the correct fare (as indicated at the Petra Visitor Centre) and refrain from haggling, as this pressures the Bedouin animal-handlers to hurry back and recoup lost earnings. Report any incidents of abuse, preferably with photographic or video proof, to the tourist police at the visitor center.

Walk softly and leave no trace behind.

The ancient Nabataean civilization meticulously crafted the stunning facades of Petra from large slabs of pliable sandstone, a material that is remarkably easy to carve by hand, rain, or hiking boots. Aware of Petra’s susceptibility to the elements, the Nabataeans built an intricate system of aqueducts and cisterns to shield the site from nature’s erosive forces.

What the Nabataeans did not anticipate was the arrival of millions of tourists flooding their capital, trampling the pathways with advanced footwear designed to grip the ground. During your visit, choose shoes with a softer tread and leave behind hiking poles with sharp tips. Sadly, you may also encounter other visitors, and occasionally local Bedouin, climbing on monuments, carving their names and love messages into the stone facades, and touching the ancient masonry, especially in the Siq. Allow Petra to leave its impression on you instead of the other way around.

Practice ethical shopping.

Petra, the thriving trade capital of the Nabataeans, still resembles a lively bazaar where vendors sell their goods to a constant flow of visitors. Makeshift stalls line the Street of Facades starting from the Treasury, cascade down the ledges in front of the Royal Tombs, and precariously rest on the steps leading up to the Monastery.

As the number of travelers visiting Petra—a historic crossroads for trade—grows, it’s important that the local community benefits economically. However, there are several things to be aware of and avoid while browsing.

• Exercise caution with 'authentic artifacts,' which are often looted from tombs and illegal to purchase.

• Steer clear of natural souvenirs like colorful striped stones and jars of sand, which detract from Petra’s environment.

• Some shops are operated by children. Buying small items from them encourages their parents to keep them from attending school.

Bring your own water and skip the plastic bottles.

There's nothing quite like the Bedouin tradition of savoring a hot cup of sweet black tea, and many restaurants and cafes in Petra provide a chance to rest during your journey. While we can’t resist a warm drink, we advise against buying plastic water bottles, which are transported in and contribute to the growing global plastic problem. Instead, bring a large water bladder from home to stay hydrated throughout your visit.

Venture away from Petra's main thoroughfare.

Petra boasts over 800 registered sites, including approximately 500 tombs, many of which are located along well-trodden paths. While fully exploring Petra could take days, most visitors stick to the main street, leading to congestion at the popular highlights. Just a few steps into the surrounding valleys can transform your experience: even well-marked trails like Al Kubtha offer breathtaking views of the Treasury, yet attract only a small fraction of the crowd.

A rewarding but challenging secret is entering through the 'back door' near the Monastery, part of the extensive 675km-long (420-mile) Jordan Trail. If you start early, you'll likely have this area to yourself before the most enthusiastic adventurers make their way from the Siq. Another delightful route is through Wadi Farasa to the High Place of Sacrifice, where you can see several lesser-known but equally impressive tombs, including the Roman-columned Garden Triclinium. It’s advisable to hire a local guide if you plan to explore off the beaten path, as the signage can be lacking.

Extend your visit.

Although the number of visitors to Petra is rising swiftly, many only allow for a brief visit, which places additional strain on water resources at local accommodations in this arid region, necessitating daily replacements for new guests. You might also maximize your Jordan Pass – the Jordan Expert version allows for three consecutive days at Petra. By staying longer, you can help safeguard one of the world’s most remarkable and endangered ancient sites, enriching both your own experience and that of future visitors.

Lauren Keith's journey to Jordan was supported by Intrepid. Contributors to Dinogo Planet do not accept freebies in exchange for favorable reviews.