Do I need hiking poles?

If you have bad knees, bring them. The descent from the High Place of Sacrifice and the stairs to the Monastery are steep and can be slippery.

You can, but lightweight hiking pants are recommended to protect your legs from the sun and occasional thorny desert brush.

How to pack for hiking in Petra

Focus on high-quality footwear and sun protection to handle the 10-15 miles of walking required to see the site properly. Carry a lightweight backpack with enough water capacity to keep you hydrated in the high-desert sun.

Select the right footwear. Wear broken-in trail runners or hiking boots with deep tread. The paths are uneven, rocky, and covered in loose gravel (sandstone grit), so ankle support is helpful but grip is non-negotiable.
Layer for desert extremes. Start with a synthetic, moisture-wicking base layer. The mornings can be cool (around 50°F/10°C), but the afternoon sun is intense. A long-sleeved, breathable linen or synthetic shirt is better than a tank top to prevent sunburn.
Optimize your pack weight. Limit your pack to 10-12 pounds. You will be climbing stairs—specifically the 800+ steps to the Monastery—so every ounce counts. Use a hydration bladder (2-3 liter capacity) to stay hands-free.
Pack for sun exposure. Bring a wide-brimmed hat, polarized sunglasses, and at least 30ml of sunscreen. There is almost zero shade on the main trail once you pass the Siq.

Do I need hiking poles?: If you have bad knees, bring them. The descent from the High Place of Sacrifice and the stairs to the Monastery are steep and can be slippery.
Can I wear shorts?: You can, but lightweight hiking pants are recommended to protect your legs from the sun and occasional thorny desert brush.