Private Petra Back Trail Adventure: Hidden Route to the Monastery with Local Guide
Explore Petra through its legendary Northern Back Door on a private guided hike from Little Petra to the Monastery. Trek through rugged mountains, hidden valleys and spectacular sandstone landscapes before arriving at Ad Deir. Continue through Petra Valley, passing the Theatre and Street of Facades, then reach the Treasury. Finally, descend through the Siq to the Visitor Center.
Itinerary
This itinerary can be customized to meet your needs and preferences. Send me a message with your requests!
Meeting Point
Petra Visitors Centre
- For your convenience, your guide will contact you via **WhatsApp one day before your tour** to confirm your meeting point and start time. You can meet your guide at your hotel or accommodation in the Petra/Wadi Musa area, or at another mutually agreed location. Please ensure that the phone number provided when booking is **active on WhatsApp** so we can easily coordinate the final details and ensure a smooth, hassle-free start to your Jordan adventure. Your guide will meet you at the agreed starting point, usually near **Little Petra** or at a convenient location in Wadi Musa, depending on your hotel and arrival arrangements. From there, you will begin your journey along the hidden back-trail route leading to the magnificent Monastery. **Hotel Pickup:** If needed, pickup from your hotel in Wadi Musa can be arranged for maximum convenience. Your guide will be easily identifiable and will contact you in advance to confirm the exact meeting location and timing. Important Notes • Exact meeting point: Can be confirmed after booking • Flexible pickup: Available within the Petra/Wadi Musa area • Please arrive: 10–15 minutes before the agreed departure time • Recommended: An early morning start for cooler temperatures, better hiking conditions, and a more peaceful experience
Departure & Little Petra Transfer
Your private guide coordinates pick-up from your Wadi Musa accommodations. Embark on a brief, scenic 15-minute drive north toward Little Petra (Siq al-Barid). Here, enjoy a quick visual introduction to the smaller canyon outposts of the Nabataeans before registering your entry tickets.
Wilderness Entry (4x4 Shortcut)
Start your trek from Little Petra. For a more leisurely mountain experience, board a local Bedouin 4x4 transport. Drive 15 minutes across the dramatic sandy plateaus of Wadi Ghurab, arriving directly at the official wilderness trailhead gate. This shortcut reduces the overall hiking distance from 7.0 km to just 2.3 km. the truck cost is JOD. 5 per person despite age.
The Sandstone Ascent & Canyon Climb
Begin climbing the mountain trail on a continuous set of sandstone stairs carved directly into the multi-colored canyon walls. Surrounded by stunning, pale rock domes, your guide will share stories of Nabataean trade networks and local Bedouin culture, pacing the climb to suit your personal comfort and fitness level.
Arriving at Ad Deir (The Monastery)
• Arriving at Ad Deir (The Monastery):** A final turn reveals the colossal 48-meter-high façade of Ad Deir, Petra’s largest carved monument. Arrive early, before the main crowds enter from the traditional entrance, and enjoy a more peaceful experience of this spectacular Nabataean masterpiece.
• Bedouin Cave Café: Take a short break at a nearby Bedouin cave café and enjoy a refreshing cup of mint tea while admiring the magnificent rock-carved monument.
• **Monastery Viewpoint:** Explore the area around the Monastery, with the option to climb to a nearby viewpoint for breathtaking panoramic views across Petra’s rugged mountains and valleys.
• Refreshments: Short breaks in shaded areas along the trail, with time to rest and enjoy the surrounding scenery.
Mountain Descent (The 800-Step Path) - Petra’s Heart
- Mountain Descent – The 800-Step Path: Begin your descent along the ancient trail leading into Petra’s main valley. Follow the approximately 800 hand-cut stone steps, enjoying spectacular views of the northern gorges, dramatic sandstone cliffs, and isolated rock monoliths along the way.
- Exploring Petra’s Central Archaeological Heart: Reach the valley floor near Qasr al-Bint, one of Petra’s most significant ancient temples. Continue along the monumental Colonnaded Street, explore the remarkable remains of the Great Temple, and admire the magnificent Royal Tombs carved high into the sandstone cliffs of Jabal al-Khubtha. Discover the architectural achievements of the Nabataeans and the fascinating layers of history that make Petra one of the world’s most extraordinary archaeological sites.
Exploring the Central Archaeological Heart
• Exploring Petra’s Central Valley: Reach the valley floor near Qasr al-Bint (The Castle of the Pharaoh’s Daughter), one of Petra’s most important ancient monuments. Stroll along the monumental Colonnaded Street, admire the excavations of the Great Temple, and view the magnificent Royal Tombs carved high into the rock face of Jabal al-Khubtha.
• Nabataean Theatre: Continue towards the impressive Nabataean Theatre, carved directly into the mountainside and capable of accommodating thousands of spectators.
• Street of Facades: Cross the Street of Facades, lined with monumental Nabataean tombs carved into the sandstone cliffs, as you make your way deeper into the ancient city.
• The Treasury: Continue through the dramatic canyon toward Al-Khazneh (The Treasury), Petra’s most iconic monument, where your journey culminates with one of the most spectacular views in the entire ancient city.
Treasury (Al-Khazneh
• Arriving at the Treasury (Al-Khazneh): Discover the magnificent Treasury, one of Petra’s most iconic monuments and an extraordinary masterpiece carved into rose-red sandstone by the Nabataeans. Standing approximately 39.5 meters high, its impressive façade commands the entrance to the Siq. According to local Bedouin legend, the Pharaoh concealed a treasure inside the stone urn at the top. Look closely, and you can still see bullet marks left by people who shot at the urn hoping to retrieve the legendary treasure.
• Treasury Photographic Experience: Arrive as the late-morning sunlight illuminates its intricate carvings, creating spectacular photo opportunities. Take time to admire this unforgettable monument before continuing your journey.
• Farewell from Your Petra Guide: At the Treasury, your Petra guide will say farewell and conclude the guided portion of your journey. From here, continue at your own pace and enjoy the final part of your walk through Petra.
• Descending Through the Siq: After saying farewell to your guide, begin your descent through the narrow, winding Siq, Petra’s dramatic natural entrance. Walk between towering sandstone cliffs for approximately 1.2 kilometers, enjoying the rock formations, changing colors, and ancient Nabataean features.
• Petra Visitor Center: Continue descending through the Siq until you reach Petra’s main entrance and Visitor Center, completing your journey through the ancient Nabataean city.
Descending Through the Siq to the Visitor Center
• Through the Siq: From the Treasury, continue through the narrow, winding Siq, the dramatic natural entrance to Petra. Walk between the towering sandstone cliffs, following the ancient passage for approximately 1.2 kilometers while enjoying the changing colors, rock formations, and Nabataean features along the way.
• Petra Visitor Center: Continue through the Siq until you reach the main entrance and Petra Visitor Center, completing your spectacular journey through the ancient Nabataean city.
Ending Point
The treasury
Want to personalize this tour?
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This tour can be customized to meet your needs and preferences. Click below to send me a message with your requests.
Inclusions & Exclusions
• Fully licensed, English & or your desired bilingual local tour guide (10+ years professional experience)
• Customizable hiking pace matching physical needs
• Coordination of the Bedouin 4x4 wilderness transfer permits and logistics from Little Petra
• Informative cultural presentation covering ancient Nabataean architectural secrets and local customs
• Arrangements for local Bedouin mint tea or coffee breaks at the Monastery plateau viewpoints
• Bedouin cultural insight along the trail
• Fully customizable pace and stops.
Taxi Fees if used
Personal Expenses
Tips
All other expenses not mentioned in the inclusions.
Tour Important Information
Why Travelers Book This Experience
- Experience Petra’s most hidden and scenic back trail away from the crowds
- Reach the Monastery (Ad-Deir) through a dramatic and rewarding approach route
- Enjoy a fully private experience with a licensed local Petra guide
- Discover viewpoints, canyon paths, and desert landscapes most visitors never see
- Learn authentic Nabataean history and Bedouin stories directly from a local expert
- Avoid main tourist congestion for a more peaceful, immersive hike
- Perfect balance of adventure, culture, and photography moments
- Flexible pace tailored to your fitness level and interests
** This experience is available daily throughout the day until 2:00 PM, allowing flexibility for morning or late-morning departures depending on your preference.
** Limited daily private guiding availability due to restricted access and personalized hiking pace.
** Advance booking is strongly recommended to secure your preferred time slot.
Important message from the supplier
Hello and welcome! I’m Jehad, a licensed local guide in Petra, Jordan.
My tours blend authentic Bedouin culture, hidden gems, and breathtaking views—offering more than just facts, but a true Petra experience. Whether you seek adventure, culture, or photography, I’ll make your visit personal, memorable, and unforgettable.
Beyond guiding, I can assist you with all your Jordan travel logistics—from airport transfers and hotel bookings to private, luxury, or group transportation. Think of me as your trusted ground service handler, ensuring a smooth and worry-free journey from arrival to departure.
Cancellation Policy
- Free cancellation - 8 days prior to meeting time
- 50% Refund - 3 to 7 days prior to meeting time
- No Refund - Within 2 day(s) prior to meeting time
About Tour Guide Jehad S.
Hello and welcome!
Experience Jordan Through the Eyes of a Local Guide & Bedouin Storyteller | Private Full-Country Tours.
Welcome to Jordan! I’m a licensed local tour guide born and raised among the majestic rose-red cliffs of Petra. While Petra is my heart and home, my passion extends across our entire country—from the vibrant streets of Amman down to the silent, starry deserts of Wadi Rum.
Over the years, I’ve had the privilege of guiding travelers, photographers, adventurers, and culture seekers from every corner of the globe. My goal is to show you the real Jordan far beyond standard guidebook stops.
**Where We Can Go Together Across Jordan:**
* **The Historic North:** Explore the Greco-Roman wonders of Jerash, the pine forests and medieval fortress of Ajloun, and the bustling energy and cuisine of Amman.
* **The Sacred & Scenic King's Highway:** Discover the ancient mosaics of Madaba, stand where Moses stood at Mount Nebo, and float in the soothing, mineral-rich waters of the Dead Sea.
* **The Majestic South:** Unlock hidden trails, secret viewpoints, and ancient legends in Petra, then journey into the dramatic, sun-drenched valleys of Wadi Rum for an unforgettable desert experience.
Whether you want an immersive cultural itinerary covering the entire kingdom, a scenic road trip, or an energetic trek through mountain passes, I tailor every step of the journey to your pace, style, and interests.
Join me to experience Jordan not just as a traveler, but as a welcomed guest. Let’s make your journey through our country truly unforgettable!
Reviews
Derrick F.
“A Trip of a Lifetime to Jordan!”
When looking to tour the sites in Jordan we had on our "bucket" list, I knew that it would be a daunting task. Even as an experienced traveler, there was some apprehension on my side as we had only 5 days to try to see and experience the places on our list, Petra, Wadi Rum, Amman and the Dead Sea. There were 8 of us, so arranging for transportation between the above sites was going to be extremely challenging. After a good amount of research, I decided on choosing Jehad for our journey. He was quick to reply to my requests and did not flinch one bit in trying to accommodate our wishes and goals. For every question I had, he offered sound advice with his experience resonating in his responses. Now that we are all back and I am writing this review, I can say unequivocally that it was probably the best trip overseas in my almost 25 years of traveling internationally. From meeting us at the airport in Amman and getting us on our way expeditiously to Petra to begin our journey and experience at the start, l knew that he had to put together this trip together with extremely detailed planning and timing. Coordination along with what I soon found out to be his consummate contacts, made each leg come together in a manner that made me and my members confident in our choice of selecting him from the onset and throughout our whirlwind journey. Now bear in mind that there were eight in our group so there were bound to be some challenges and some missteps, like one of our group losing our passport, some mobility issues, etc. but Jehad handled them all. As I stated above, it was one of the most enjoyable trips I've experienced. Seeing the wonders of Petra in person, from the pure serenity and adventure of being in the Wadi Rum and then onwards, it was impactful and meaningful in so many ways for all of us. So to say it was an experience of a lifetime sounds like a cliché but it was that. For me, many of the moments are imprinted in my mind and memory that will last a lifetime.
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Jehad S.
Dear Derrick, Wow… reading this truly means the world to me. Thank you so much for trusting me with such an important journey and reading that this was one of the best trips in your 25 years of international travel is the highest compliment I could receive. That’s exactly the experience I aim to create — seamless, meaningful, and memorable. Jordan will always be here to welcome you back… and so will I. Until we meet again, my friend.
Alex T.
“Exceptional 6-days journey in Jordan ”
We had an exceptional 6-days journey in Jordan with our driver and guide, covering Amman, Jerash, Ajloun, Madaba, the Dead Sea, Petra, Wadi Rum, and Aqaba. From start to finish, everything was smooth, well-organised, and enjoyable. Starting from Amman to Jerash and Ajloun and back to Amman, then continuing through Madaba and the Dead Sea to Petra, followed by Wadi Rum and Aqaba, he handled every long drive with professionalism and care. The driving was safe and comfortable, and the vehicle was always clean and well maintained. He was extremely knowledgeable about Jordan’s history, culture, and landmarks, sharing interesting insights along the way without ever being overwhelming. He was also very patient and flexible, allowing us to move at our own pace and always ensuring we were comfortable, well-rested, and enjoying ourselves. More than just a driver, he was a wonderful guide and a genuinely kind person who made our trip stress-free and memorable. We highly recommend him to anyone planning to explore Jordan — he truly made our experience unforgettable.
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Jehad S.
Thank you so much Alex for this wonderful feedback It was truly a pleasure hosting you in Jordan. I’m very happy to know the journey was smooth, comfortable, and memorable for you. Your kind words about the guiding, driving, and overall experience mean a lot to me. I hope to welcome you again in the future, and I truly appreciate your recommendation Kind regards, Jehad
Harris K.
“Wonderful Tour”
Jihad was wonderful to work with. He prompt and very responsive. Communication by WhatsApp was easy and smooth. He answered all of my questions and helped us with the right route. He was excellent and highly recommended.
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Jehad S.
Dear Harris, Thank you so much for your wonderful feedback. I truly appreciate your kind words and am very happy to hear that you enjoyed the tour. It was a pleasure working with you, and I’m glad the communication and planning made your experience smooth and enjoyable. Your recommendation means a lot to me. I wish you all the best and hope to welcome you again in Jordan in the future. Warm regards, Jihad
$299/ per group
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