Petra: Back Trail Archeological Tour & Al Siq Return

Summary

Explore Petra’s hidden trails, ancient tombs and temples with a personal guide

You’ll walk Petra’s quieter back trail with a local guide, see ancient caves and temples like Qasr Al-Bint, then emerge through the dramatic Al Siq to face the Treasury. Expect stories you won’t find in guidebooks—and moments that linger long after you leave.

What’s the experience like?

The first thing I remember is the crunch of gravel under my boots as we left the usual crowds behind—our guide, Khaled, grinned and said something about “the Indiana Jones way.” It wasn’t the main entrance; instead, we wound through quiet paths where pink rock walls pressed close and the air smelled faintly of dust and wild sage. At one point I stopped just to listen—nothing but our footsteps and a distant call to prayer echoing off stone. I didn’t expect to feel so small here, honestly.

Khaled pointed out tiny carvings in the rock that I would’ve missed—he told stories about Nabataean traders and how they’d channel water from Wadi Musa (I tried to picture it, but mostly just admired how cool the shade felt). We reached Qasr Al-Bint after what felt like hours (in a good way), its columns rising up out of nowhere. There was this moment where he handed me a map covered in scribbles—his own notes on which tombs were worth peeking into. I still have it folded in my bag somewhere.

After passing through the Royal Tombs—their facades almost glowing in late afternoon light—we finally entered Al Siq from the opposite side. The walls soared above us, streaked with orange and violet. Khaled laughed when I tried to pronounce “Alkhazneh” (I definitely butchered it), but then there it was: the Treasury, almost too tall to fit in my camera frame. We stood there for a while without saying much. On the way back, I noticed how quiet everyone got—like even the tourists knew this place deserved some silence.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Explore Petra via alternative trail

• Meet at horse riding point
• See Petra caves and attractions
• Reach and walk through the Siq
• View remains of city gate and water channels
• Arrive at Alkhaznh Treasury facade
• Visit Nabataean temple of Qasr Al-Bint
• Discover chambers with balcony roofs
• Explore row of Nabataean tombs past Treasury
• See burial interfaces with decorations
• Visit Byzantine church with colonnades and niches

Top questions

Is hotel pickup included for this Petra archeological tour?

No, hotel pickup is not included; you meet at the horse riding point inside Petra.

How much of Petra do you see on this day trip?

You’ll explore about 80% of Petra Archeological Park during this tour.

Does this tour include entry tickets to Petra?

No entry tickets are mentioned as included; check before booking.

Is bottled water provided during the tour?

Yes, bottled water is included for participants.

Is this private Indiana-Jones archeological trail suitable for all fitness levels?

The tour is suitable for all physical fitness levels but not recommended for those with spinal injuries or pregnant travelers.

Are service animals allowed on this Petra back trail tour?

Yes, service animals are allowed on this tour.

Will we visit both Qasr Al-Bint and Royal Tombs?

Yes, both Qasr Al-Bint temple and Royal Tombs are part of the route.

Can public transportation get me to the meeting point?

Yes, public transportation options are available nearby.

What’s included

Your day includes bottled water throughout your walk, guidance from a local expert who shares stories along less-traveled trails, plus maps with personal notes highlighting key archaeological sites before returning via Al Siq toward evening.