Petra & Jordan: Private Hiking Trails, Secret Paths & Custom Tours

Summary

Winding through Petra’s Siq canyon to the Monastery’s hush

You’ll follow winding trails through Petra’s Siq canyon with a local guide, spot ancient carvings most visitors miss, climb toward the Monastery’s quiet heights, and share small moments with Bedouin locals along secret paths or Little Petra’s golden rocks. Expect surprises—sometimes even laughter—on these private hiking tours shaped around your pace and curiosity.

What’s the experience like?

The first thing I remember is the echo — footsteps bouncing off the rose-colored walls of Petra’s Siq, somewhere between a shuffle and a hush. Our guide, Ahmad, walked ahead with this quiet confidence, pausing every so often to point out carvings I’d have missed. There was this faint smell of dust and wild herbs in the air — not sure if it was sage or something local. The Treasury appeared suddenly, almost like it was waiting for us to look up at just the right moment. I actually laughed out loud, which earned me a few smiles from a group of Bedouin kids selling postcards (I bought two, couldn’t help it).

We took the main trail at first — past tombs that looked both ancient and weirdly familiar, maybe because you see them everywhere in photos but never quite like this. Ahmad told stories about Nabatean traders and Roman columns; he even showed us where to refill our water from an old spring (tasted slightly metallic but cold). Later, we talked about taking the backway hike up to the Monastery. It’s a climb, honestly — my legs were burning by halfway up — but when we reached the top it was so quiet except for wind scraping across stone. There were just three other people there; one woman had tears in her eyes. Didn’t expect that part.

The afternoon light made everything glow pinkish-gold as we wandered toward Little Petra. The rocks felt warm under my hand. Some goats wandered across the path and an old man waved at us from his stall selling tea — I tried to say thank you in Arabic and he grinned (probably butchered it). We ended up sitting on a rock ledge watching sunset shadows stretch over the valley below. I still think about that view sometimes when things get noisy back home.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Explore Petra main and secret trails

• Enter Petra through Siq canyon
• Visit the Treasury
• See the theater and tombs
• Explore temples inside Petra
• Hike extension trails inside city

Top questions

How long does the main Petra hiking tour take?

The classic front way tour usually takes several hours, depending on your pace and any trail extensions discussed with your guide.

Can I customize my Petra tour based on fitness level?

Yes, tours can be tailored to your available time and physical condition—just discuss preferences when booking or on arrival.

What is included in these private Petra tours?

Guiding fees are included; transportation or meals may vary depending on your custom itinerary.

Is there a backdoor route to see the Monastery?

Yes, there is a backway hiking tour that enters via mountain trails behind Petra to reach the Monastery, usually starting early morning.

Are countrywide tours of Jordan available?

Yes, full itineraries around Jordan can be arranged with private guides and flexible schedules.

Can infants join these walking tours?

Infants and small children can ride in prams or strollers during suitable sections of the tour.

Are service animals allowed on these hikes?

Yes, service animals are permitted on all walking routes within Petra.

Is this tour recommended for travelers with heart conditions?

No, it is not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health due to hiking requirements.

What’s included

Your day covers guiding fees throughout all walking or hiking tours—whether you choose classic routes through Petra’s Siq canyon or secret trails toward Little Petra—with options to adjust timing and distance based on your needs. Countrywide itineraries include private transportation and flexible planning with some of Jordan’s best guides ready to shape each step around you.