Petra by night: see it or skip it?
This is one of those experiences that tends to get mixed reviews, so if you’re wondering is Petra by Night worth it, I’m here to share my honest review. Here’s exactly what to expect and how to decide if it’s right for your trip.
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What Is Petra by Night Like?
Petra by Night is a special evening experience that takes place after the main site closes. You’ll walk through the Siq, the famous canyon leading to the Treasury, lit entirely by candles.
The walk takes about 30 minutes, and it’s truly magical. The canyon is softly illuminated by candles, the stars are bright above you, and the whole atmosphere feels surreal.
It’s beautiful, but also a little dark and slightly questionable at times.
Why I Think Petra by Night Is Worth It
If you’re still asking yourself “Is Petra by Night worth it?”, here’s why my answer is yes:
It’s the perfect introduction to Petra.
I recommend going the night before your full day trip. Seeing the Treasury for the first time by candlelight makes the daytime reveal even more special.The atmosphere is unlike anything else.
Walking through candlelit canyons under a star-filled sky is an experience you simply can’t experience during the day.The Treasury performance is beautiful.
Once you arrive, there’s about a 30-minute performance at the Treasury with music and different light settings illuminating the facade.Free tea and time to explore.
You’ll get complimentary tea, and at the end, you can walk around, take photos, and enjoy the Treasury glowing in different colors.
I found the entire experience to be very memorable and would recommend adding it to your Jordan itinerary. You can read more about my Jordan itinerary here.
Important Tip: Watch Your Step
Quick but important tip:
On the walk to the Treasury, there are sections of the path with large, uneven stone blocks. You won’t see them in the dark, but you will feel them. It would be very easy to trip and hurt yourself so make sure you wear proper footwear and pay attention in the darker sections. However, this was where my friend and I spent the most time laughing as we tried to maneuver ourselves across the uneven path without breaking an ankle.
Who Should Skip Petra by Night?
While I loved it, Petra by Night might not be worth it if:
You dislike walking in the dark
You’re unsteady on uneven terrain
You prefer fast-paced or highly interactive experiences
Final Verdict: Is Petra by Night Worth It?
For me, Petra by Night is absolutely worth it.
It’s peaceful, beautiful, and a unique way to experience one of the world’s most iconic landmarks. If you go in with the right expectations and plan it before your daytime visit, it can be a really special addition to your Jordan itinerary. If you’re on the fence, I’d say: go. It’s a magical and memorable experience. You can also book a guided Petra by Night Tour here.
Packing List for Jordan
- Lightweight hiking shoes for Petra and Wadi Rum
- Supergoop is my go-to face sunscreen
- I recommend using a small hiking backpack for your time in Wadi Rum and Petra
- Scarves if you are visiting mosques
- Packable jacket for chilly desert nights
- Cargo pants for desert exploration
- Linen pants to beat the head
- Airalo eSIM (only works on unlocked phones)
- Ekta Travel Insurance