Visiting Petra at Night: Benefits of Late Excursions
Imagine exploring the lost city of Petra by night, illuminated by the soft glow of thousands of candles. Experience the Treasury, Siq, and surrounding areas in a breathtaking new light, enhanced by Bedouin music and storytelling. This captivating show, offered three times a week for 17 Jordanian Dinars, provides a unique and unforgettable perspective on this world heritage site. Discover a deeper connection with Petra’s history and capture stunning photos with our helpful photography tips. While the Jordan Pass doesn’t cover this event, the magic of Petra by Night is an experience you won’t want to miss. Read on to learn more and plan your visit.
Important information
- Petra by Night features the Treasury, Siq, and surrounding areas lit by candles, with Bedouin music and stories.
- The show takes place on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays, starting at 8:30 PM and lasting 30 minutes.
- Tickets cost 17 Jordanian Dinars and must be purchased separately, as the Jordan Pass does not cover this event.
- Comfortable, closed-toe shoes are recommended, along with layers for warmth during the cool desert nights.
- While the experience is often magical, crowds can be an issue. Arriving early or staying later can offer a more tranquil experience.
The Unique Experience of Petra by Night
Experience the magic of Petra by Night. The Treasury, Siq, and surrounding areas are bathed in the soft glow of thousands of candles, creating a truly magical atmosphere. See Petra’s beauty in a whole new light, enhanced by Bedouin music and storytelling that add a rich cultural dimension. This captivating experience, amplified by the tranquility of the night, encourages reflection and a deeper connection with Petra’s history. Petra by Night offers a fresh perspective on this incredible world heritage site, making it an unforgettable experience.
Exploring the Candlelit Siq Trail
Embark on a magical journey through Petra by Night. Your adventure begins with a stroll through the Siq, a narrow gorge that acts as a gateway to the lost city. Hundreds of flickering candles illuminate your path, casting a warm glow on the towering sandstone walls and creating an ethereal atmosphere. This enchanting candlelit path leads you to the Treasury, where you’ll witness its iconic facade bathed in the soft glow of candlelight. This unique and intimate perspective of this ancient wonder is truly an unforgettable experience.
Surreal Atmosphere and Historical Significance
Candlelight illuminates the Siq and Treasury, casting an otherworldly glow and creating a surreal ambiance. The rich history of Petra further enhances this extraordinary experience, making it feel like a journey through time. This sight is simply breathtaking.
Capturing the Moment: Photography Tips
To capture crisp photos in low light, a tripod is essential for camera stability.
A fast lens with a wide aperture (low f-number) is also crucial, allowing ample light to reach the sensor.
Boosting the ISO brightens the image, but be cautious of noise at higher ISO settings, as this can compromise quality.
Shutter speed offers creative control: a slower speed captures the gentle flicker of candlelight, while a faster speed freezes motion.
Benefits of Late Excursions at Petra
Experience the magic of Petra by Night. As the crowds disperse and twilight descends, a serene atmosphere unfolds, inviting personal reflection and a deeper connection with the ancient city’s history. Studies show that this tranquility reduces stress and encourages contemplation, enhancing your experience.
Candlelit pathways create a magical ambiance, leading you through the ancient city. The Treasury, bathed in a soft glow, is particularly stunning, its rock-cut architecture enhanced by the unique lighting, adding an air of mystery and romance.
Petra by Night offers a completely different perspective. The interplay of shadows and candlelight transforms this World Heritage Site, revealing a new dimension that complements a daytime visit. This experience provides a comprehensive understanding of Petra’s beauty and historical significance.
Imagine yourself exploring this ancient wonder beneath a starlit sky.
Quiet Solitude and Personal Reflection
Experiencing Petra by Night is truly special. The quiet, even amidst other visitors, fosters a sense of tranquility, perfect for reflection. The site’s history and beauty become even more profound, allowing you to fully appreciate Petra’s magic.
Magical Experience Enhanced by Candlelight
As darkness descends, Petra undergoes a dramatic transformation. Thousands of candles illuminate the Siq and Treasury, casting a soft, surreal glow that enhances the magic of this ancient city.
This unique ambiance adds a mystical dimension to the site’s rich history, offering a fresh perspective on the intricate rock-cut architecture. Details unseen during daylight hours emerge, while the tranquil setting fosters a truly personal and reflective experience.
Unique Perspective of a World Heritage Site
Experience the magic of Petra by Night and witness this World Heritage Site in a truly unique way. The Treasury, illuminated by the warm glow of hundreds of candles, is a breathtaking and unforgettable spectacle. This special perspective reveals the site’s rich history, fostering a deeper connection with the ancient Nabataean city.
Details of the Petra by Night Show
Experience the magic of Petra by Night, a captivating 30-minute show offered three times a week. Featuring cultural presentations and the enchanting sounds of Bedouin music, it’s a truly unique sensory experience. The event begins promptly at 8:30 pm. For ticket details and purchase, visit the official Petra visitor center. While the Jordan Pass offers excellent value, it doesn’t include Petra by Night, so a separate ticket is required.
Show Schedule and Duration
Experience the magic of Petra by Night, held three times a week on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays. This captivating show begins at 8:30 pm and offers a unique, half-hour view of the ancient city.
Cultural Presentation and Bedouin Music
Experience the magic of Petra by Night, where the Siq and Treasury are bathed in a breathtaking candlelight glow. The show also features a captivating cultural presentation with traditional Bedouin music, enhancing the mystical atmosphere.
Entrance Time and Ticket Pricing
Petra by Night starts at 8:30 PM, with an entrance fee of 17 Jordanian Dinars.
Is Petra by Night Included in the Jordan Pass?
While the Jordan Pass grants access to many attractions, Petra by Night requires a separate ticket.
Practical Tips for Visiting Petra at Night
Experience the enchanting Petra at Night. Plan your visit between September and May to enjoy cooler temperatures and avoid the summer’s intense heat. This magical event is offered every Monday, Wednesday, and Thursday. Arriving early secures a prime viewing location.
What to wear
- Comfortable, closed-toe shoes are crucial for navigating the uneven terrain,
- desert nights can be surprisingly cold, so dressing in layers is recommended,
- a light jacket or shawl offers extra warmth.
Tickets
Purchase tickets at the visitor center or online for approximately 17 Jordanian Dinars. Please note: the Jordan Pass does not include this special event. Entering through the main gate, you’ll be greeted by the mesmerizing, candlelit Siq, creating a truly unforgettable experience.
Best Time to Visit and Avoid Crowds
To truly savor Petra by Night, arrive early for the best viewing locations and smaller crowds. Alternatively, linger after the crowds depart for a serene and immersive experience.
What to Wear for Comfort and Safety
Pack sturdy, closed-toe shoes, they are essential for navigating Petra’s rocky terrain, especially in areas like the Siq. Comfortable walking shoes are also crucial for safety, particularly in low light. Given the drop in evening temperatures, layering, such as a light jacket or sweater, is advisable for warmth during the surprisingly cool desert nights.
- Sturdy, closed-toe shoes are essential for navigating Petra’s rocky terrain, especially the Siq.
- Comfortable walking shoes are crucial for safety, particularly in low light.
- Layering with a light jacket or sweater is advisable for warmth during the cool desert nights.
How to Purchase Tickets and Access the Site
Purchase your Petra by Night tickets at the conveniently located Petra Visitor Center near the main entrance. Tickets can be purchased on the day of the event, which begins at the Visitor Center. From there, follow the Siq trail, romantically illuminated by hundreds of candles, leading to the Treasury for a truly magical experience.
Evaluating the Worth of Petra by Night
Experience the magic of Petra by Night with a unique tour through the candlelit Siq and Treasury. This breathtaking experience offers a different perspective of the World Heritage site, but it’s important to manage expectations. While generally safe and often unforgettable, the higher ticket price and potential crowds should be considered. Organized tours provide safety and structure, so weigh your priorities to determine if Petra by Night is the right choice for you.
Balancing Expectations with Experience
Experience the magic of Petra’s Treasury at night, but manage your expectations. Some find the candlelit ambiance enchanting, while others feel it’s too brief or crowded. Consider your comfort level with large groups and your preference for atmospheric experiences versus historical immersion. Reading reviews can provide valuable insights from other visitors, helping you decide if Petra by Night is right for you.
Insights from Previous Visitors
Experiencing Petra by Night is truly magical, often described as surreal. The unique atmosphere differs dramatically from the daytime bustle, offering a more intimate experience with smaller crowds. This tranquility creates a perfect space for reflection.
However, larger crowds can sometimes make the visit feel rushed. Ultimately, each visitor’s experience is unique and personal.
