Petra by Night offers an enchanting experience, illuminating Jordan’s ancient Nabataean city with thousands of candles. Held three nights a week, this musical and light show draws travelers to witness the Treasury, one of the Seven Wonders of the World, under starlit skies. From the candlelit Siq to the rhythmic melodies echoing in the canyon, Petra by Night is a bucket-list moment. This article explores everything you need to know about the experience, from costs to tips, inspiring you to discover Jordan’s timeless allure.
What Happens at Petra by Night?
Petra by Night is a cultural spectacle that transforms the ancient city into a dreamlike scene. Visitors walk 1.2 km through the Siq, a narrow canyon lit by over 1,500 candles, as noted by Visit Petra. Upon reaching the Treasury, guests sit on rugs before its glowing façade, enjoying:
- Traditional Music: Bedouin flute and vocal performances, evoking Jordan’s heritage.
- Storytelling: Narratives about Petra’s history, though sometimes faint due to acoustics, per dumitrip.
- Light Show: Colorful projections on the Treasury, divisive among reviewers like Tripadvisor.
- Complimentary Tea: Served hot, adding warmth to chilly evenings, as mentioned by Passport Explorers.
The event lasts about two hours, blending history and ambiance, though crowd behavior can impact the experience, per The Historian Traveller.
Is Petra Open at Night?
Petra is open at night exclusively for the Petra by Night show, held every Monday, Wednesday, and Thursday from 8:30 PM to 10:30 PM, according to Visit Petra. The event starts at the Petra Visitor Center, guided by licensed professionals. A valid daytime entry ticket or Jordan Pass is required, plus a separate night show ticket. Note that the show may be canceled due to adverse weather, such as strong winds or rain, so check schedules in advance.
How Much Does Petra by Night Cost?
A Petra by Night ticket costs 17 Jordanian Dinars (JOD) (approximately $25 USD) per person, as confirmed by The Historian Traveller and Passport Explorers. Children under 10 enter free. Some Tripadvisor reviews from May 2025 mention a price hike to 30 JOD, but this isn’t officially verified. Key details:
- Not Included in Jordan Pass: A separate ticket is needed, even with a Jordan Pass.
- Payment: Cash or credit card (some report a card surcharge).
- Purchase: Available same-day or the day before at the Visitor Center, as advance booking isn’t possible.
The cost is reasonable for a unique experience, though some, like dumitrip, argue it’s overpriced for the show’s quality.
How Many Hours Do You Need to See Petra?
Exploring Petra during the day requires 6-8 hours to cover key sites like the Siq, Treasury, Street of Façades, and Royal Tombs, as recommended by Quiltripping. Visiting the Monastery may need a second day. For Petra by Night, plan for two hours, including:
- 40 Minutes: Walking the Siq to the Treasury.
- 30-40 Minutes: The musical and light show.
- 40 Minutes: Returning through the Siq.
An overnight stay in Wadi Musa is ideal to combine daytime and nighttime visits, per The Historian Traveller.
How to Get Tickets for Petra by Night?
Tickets for Petra by Night are available through:
- Petra Visitor Center: A dedicated counter sells night show tickets, as noted by The Historian Traveller. Arrive early (afternoon or an hour before) to avoid queues.
- Local Hotels: Some, like Movenpick Petra, may offer tickets, but availability isn’t guaranteed.
- Important Notes:
- No advance reservations, per Visit Petra.
- Unlimited tickets ensure availability.
- A valid daytime ticket or Jordan Pass is required.
If the ticket counter is unmanned, ask Visitor Center staff for assistance, as suggested by The Historian Traveller.
Is Petra by Night Worth It?
Opinions on Petra by Night vary. Passport Explorers and Quiltripping praise the magical Siq walk and Treasury view, calling it unforgettable. However, dumitrip and Tripadvisor critiques highlight overcrowding, poor acoustics, and a kitschy light show. To maximize enjoyment:
- Arrive early (7:30 PM) to secure a front-row spot.
- Stay after the show for crowd-free photos, as advised by Passport Explorers.
- Avoid using phone flashes to preserve the ambiance.
Despite flaws, the chance to see Petra’s Treasury under candlelight makes it a unique draw for most travelers.
Petra by Night Review
Reviews of Petra by Night range from awe-inspired to critical. The Historian Traveller and Quiltripping laud the Siq’s candlelit path and the Treasury’s ethereal glow, creating a surreal atmosphere. Tripadvisor and dumitrip, however, note drawbacks like noisy crowds, weak sound systems, and an underwhelming show. The consensus is that the experience shines brightest when expectations are managed—focus on the setting rather than a polished performance. Waiting after the show for a quieter moment enhances the magic, per Passport Explorers.
Petra Night Tours
Petra Night Tours can be arranged through local agencies or hotels like Petra Guest House for seamless planning, including transport and tickets. For a broader adventure, join a Jordan Group Tour that pairs Petra by Night with Wadi Rum’s deserts and the Dead Sea’s shores. Alternatively, self-drive to Petra, as Passport Explorers did, using the free parking lot near the Visitor Center, a 5-minute walk from the entrance. Guided tours offer convenience, letting you soak in Petra’s mystique stress-free.
Can You Get Married at Petra?
Weddings at Petra are possible but heavily regulated due to its UNESCO World Heritage status. The Petra Development and Tourism Region Authority (PDTRA) permits private events, including weddings, with strict conditions. Couples must apply through official channels, often via event planners or luxury hotels like Movenpick Petra. Costs are high, and approvals depend on minimizing site impact. The Treasury or Monastery are popular backdrops, but expect logistical challenges. For a romantic alternative, consider a vow renewal during a Petra by Night tour, capturing the candlelit ambiance.
Why Petra by Night Inspires Travel
Petra by Night encapsulates Jordan’s blend of history and wonder. The candlelit Siq, the Treasury’s glowing façade, and the echoes of Bedouin music create a timeless experience. Despite organizational hiccups, the event’s allure lies in its rarity—few places offer such a vivid connection to antiquity. Beyond Petra, Jordan beckons with Amman’s vibrant souks, Jerash’s Roman ruins, and Wadi Rum’s starlit camps, making it a must-visit destination for cultural explorers.
Experience Petra by Night
Petra by Night is more than a show; it’s a journey into Jordan’s soul. From the Siq’s flickering candles to the Treasury’s majestic glow, this experience leaves an indelible mark. Whether you’re a history buff or a starry-eyed adventurer, Petra calls you to witness its magic. Don’t miss out—book your Jordan Group Tour today and wander through Petra’s ancient wonders, from moonlit nights to sunlit trails. Let Jordan’s heritage ignite your next adventure!
