Heritage & monuments
Tomb of Aaron
Overview
The Tomb of Aaron is a small shrine marking the traditional burial place of Aaron, brother of Moses. Located atop Mount Hor at 1,350 meters above sea level, it represents the highest point in the Petra area. Visitors make the trek for its historical religious significance and broad views across the surrounding desert terrain.
Getting There
Reaching the peak requires an unpaved, uphill hike starting from the Petra valley floor near the city centre. The one-way trek across rugged terrain typically takes between 2.5 and 3.5 hours on foot.
Time to Allow
Plan for 30 to 45 minutes at the summit to rest and view the shrine and landscape. In total, budget 5 to 7 hours for the entire round trip from the central ruins.
When to Visit
Start early in the morning to avoid peak sun exposure, particularly during hot summer months. Spring and autumn offer cooler hiking weather. Due to the physical effort required to reach it, the site is rarely crowded.
Nearby Attractions
The visit can be paired with other destinations in the area:
- Mount Hor (0.2km) and Mount Haroun (0.2km): The high ridge and mountain area surrounding the site.
- Ad Deir (3.1km): The prominent cliff-carved monument.
- Qasr al-Bint (3.4km): The historic temple complex in the ancient city center.
Updated September 8, 2026 · Edited by the World by City editors