Rent a Car for Your Petra Trip

Tips for renting a car in Petra

Because Petra is located in southern Jordan and many of the country's major attractions are connected by scenic highways, renting a car is an excellent option for independent travelers. A rental vehicle provides flexibility for combining Petra with Wadi Rum, Aqaba, the Dead Sea, Amman, ancient ruins, desert castles, and nature reserves.

Major international and local rental companies operate at Queen Alia International Airport, King Hussein International Airport, and throughout Amman and Aqaba. Vehicle choices generally include compact cars, sedans, SUVs, premium models, and family vehicles.

A rental car makes it easy to travel along the King's Highway or Desert Highway and visit attractions such as Little Petra, Wadi Rum, Shobak Castle, Dana Biosphere Reserve, Kerak Castle, Aqaba, the Dead Sea, Madaba, Mount Nebo, and Amman. The King's Highway is particularly scenic but requires more travel time than the faster Desert Highway.

Road conditions on Jordan's principal highways are generally good, although drivers should remain cautious on mountain roads, rural routes, and after dark. Visitors should observe local traffic laws, speed limits, and parking restrictions. Renting a car provides one of the most flexible ways to explore Petra and Jordan's wider cultural landscape.