I opted not to take a guided tour to Petra.
For one, it was unreasonably expensive (with regards to price, my “unreasonable” threshold is relatively low), and for two, I hate guided tours (with the exception of free city tours). I made the trip to Wadi Musa alone and stayed two nights in a hotel near Petra (a two bed room for less than the price of a hostel).
The first morning I woke up and it was raining. I was only in Wasi Musa for two nights – the weather was not going to stop me from seeing Petra. The rain turned out to be more a gift than a bother (except for when I was soaked by a man pouring water from a roof), as it drove away crowds and gave me a unique look at the ancient city.
Morning two I met up with some friends and hit the Petra gate before sunrise. We wanted to be the first inside, and to get to the Monastery as early as possible. We were and we did. Note: this is something you cannot do with a tour group leaving from Israel – the border typically opens at 8:00AM.
My second day turned out clear, sunny, and warm – a nice contrast to the previous day's rain.
Here are some of my favorite shots of my time spent exploring Petra.
Where you buy your tickets. I was skeptical.
Obelisk Tomb on way to Al-Siq.
Al-Siq in the rain.
Rain makes some things better.
The Treasury at dawn.
The incredibly overpriced snack shop across from the Treasury.
Rainy day means flooding (and possible closure of the Monastery trail).
Morning commute on the trial to the Monastery.
Like a little lion on the prowl.
First of the day to the Monastery. Worth it.
Might as well.
Supposedly the best view in Petra.
Stray dog at the Monastery.
If you look really closely, you can see the mountain goats.
HEY! How did you get over there!?
Jordanian flag.
Ripped my pants for this one. Worth it.
Panoramic from the trails opposite the Monastery.
The Urn Tomb.
Silhouette at the Urn Tomb.
Be ready to walk, this place is huge.
Inconspicuous selfie.
Keeping it cool with camels.
You will be hassled to ride donkeys and camels – walk.
Not all the strays were nice.
A vandalized carving deep within Petra.
ONE DINAR! PLEASE BUY!! ONLY ONE DINAR, BUY!!!
You basically have free rein inside Petra (don't go with a tour).
Petra in the rain – better than expected.
Colonnaded Street.
The Treasury – Indiana Jones, anyone?
Note to self. More jumping pics.
Indiana Jones snack shop? Seems legit.
