Wadi Musa: The Main Hub
This is where most people end up, and honestly, it makes sense. Wadi Musa is the town that wraps around Petra’s entrance, clinging to the hillsides with hotels stacked at every level.
- What I liked: The variety. You’ve got everything from family-run guesthouses to polished hotels. Restaurants are easy to find, and you’re walking distance (or a quick taxi ride) from the Petra Visitor Center.
- What to know: It can feel touristy. During high season, the streets are packed. And if your hotel is higher up the hill, prepare for a workout – or budget for taxis. Prices here run higher than elsewhere in Jordan, but you’re paying for convenience.
Heads up: The hillside location means some properties have killer views, but also means stairs. Lots of stairs.
Little Petra (Siq al-Barid): The Quiet Alternative
About 15 minutes north of Wadi Musa, Little Petra offers a totally different vibe. It’s quieter, less developed, and feels more remote.
- What I liked: The peace. Fewer tourists, lower prices, and a chance to experience something closer to the desert landscape. You can explore the mini version of Petra (Little Petra itself) practically alone.
- What to know: You’ll need a car or arranged transport to reach the main Petra site each day. Dining options are limited – most visitors eat at their hotel or camp. This works if you want stillness, but not if you want a quick walk to dinner.
I met a couple staying at a Bedouin camp here, and they said the stargazing made up for the isolation. If that sounds like your thing, this could be perfect.
Where I'd Stay (And Why)
I loved being near the entrance in Wadi Musa. Getting into Petra at sunrise, ahead of the tour groups, was one of the best decisions I made. The light on the Treasury at 6:30 AM? No crowds blocking your view? Worth every early alarm.
But if you’re traveling on a budget or you like having options for dinner and nightlife (Jordan-style), stay closer to Wadi Musa’s town center. You’ll save money and have more freedom to explore on foot.
Types of Places You'll Find
- In Wadi Musa: Expect budget hostels, mid-range family hotels, and a handful of luxury resorts. Quality varies, so read recent reviews.
- For something unique: Consider a Bedouin camp near Little Petra or just outside Wadi Musa. You’ll sleep in traditional goat-hair tents, eat Bedouin meals, and fall asleep to silence. It’s rustic, but memorable.
[PRO TIP]: Book hotels on the lower slopes of Wadi Musa if you don’t want to deal with steep climbs after a long day hiking Petra. Your legs will thank you.
