Where to stay in Petra for a family trip

Recommended Areas for Families

When visiting Petra with children or multi-generational groups, the choice of location typically falls between the town of Wadi Musa and the outskirts near the site entrance.

Wadi Musa Town Center

The town center is the primary hub for visitors. It is suitable for families who prefer proximity to pharmacies, supermarkets, and a variety of dining options. This area offers a wider range of apartment-style accommodations, which provide more space and kitchen facilities than standard hotel rooms.

The Site Entrance Perimeter

Staying near the Visitor Center entrance is ideal for families with young children or elderly members to minimize the commute to the archaeological park. This area is quieter than the town center and allows for easier early-morning entries to avoid crowds and heat.

Transport and Accessibility

• To the Sights: Most accommodations in Wadi Musa provide shuttle services to the Petra Visitor Center. If staying in the town center, you will likely rely on these shuttles or local taxis to reach the entrance.
• Local Movement: Taxis are the primary mode of transport within the town. For families, pre-arranging a dedicated driver for the duration of the stay is often more efficient than hailing individual rides.
• Airport Connection: From Ramon Airport (ETM), families should arrange private transfers or rental cars, as the drive across the desert requires a reliable vehicle with sufficient luggage space.

Family-Specific Booking Checklist

• Room Configuration: Check for interconnected rooms or family suites, as many traditional rooms are designed for couples.
• Accessibility: Verify if the property has elevators or ground-floor rooms, as some traditional buildings in Wadi Musa have steep stairs.
• Dining Options: Confirm if the property offers kid-friendly meal options or has a kitchenette for preparing simple meals.

Timing and Availability

The peak seasons are spring and autumn. During these periods, family-sized suites and properties closest to the site entrance fill up quickly. Visiting during the shoulder seasons may offer more flexibility in room selection, though some smaller seasonal establishments may close.