Navigating Petra with Kids
Visit Petra with children by arriving at the gate by 6:00 AM to beat the heat and crowds. Prioritize the main trail to the Treasury and keep the hike to under 4 miles round trip to avoid burnout, using the local donkey or camel services only if necessary.
- Start at dawn. The Visitor Center opens at 6:00 AM. Arrive by 5:45 AM. You will have the Siq (the narrow gorge leading into the site) almost to yourself, which is magical and much cooler for little legs before the midday sun hits.
- Manage the main trail. The walk from the Visitor Center to the Treasury is about 1.2 miles. It is mostly flat and manageable for children aged 5 and up. Bring a lightweight stroller if your child is a toddler, but be aware that the path is gravel and can be uneven.
- Use authorized transport. If your children get tired, you can hire a donkey or a carriage from the official kiosk at the entrance. Agree on the price before you start and ensure the animal looks well-cared for.
- Plan for shade and hydration. There is very little shade inside Petra. Pack 1.5 liters of water per person and plan to head back toward the Visitor Center by 11:00 AM before the heat becomes dangerous.
- Can I bring a stroller to Petra?
- A sturdy jogger-style stroller with air-filled tires works for the Siq and the main path to the Treasury, but it is not recommended if you plan to climb to the Monastery.
- Are there bathrooms inside the site?
- Yes, there are basic public restrooms located near the Treasury and near the Basin restaurant, but bring your own toilet paper and hand sanitizer.