Petra Visitor Center is the main arrival point for Petra Archaeological Park in Wadi Musa, Jordan. Pick up a map, get oriented and visit the nearby Petra Museum before walking into the ancient Nabataean city. The center has restrooms, a gift shop and staff who can help with directions. Starting here gives you context for the route ahead, from the narrow Siq to the Treasury and other carved monuments. Arrive early to begin before the busiest part of the day, and be ready to decline unsolicited offers from sellers or unofficial guides.
Start with the Petra Museum
The Petra Museum is across the plaza from the Visitor Center, so it is easy to include before entering the archaeological park. Opened in 2019, it presents objects found in and around Petra, with displays tracing the area’s history from early settlement through the city’s decline. Interactive exhibits add context about Nabataean life.
The museum occupies an air-conditioned interior of 1,800 square metres, with an outdoor area beside the building. Its contemporary design was created by Japanese architects Yamashita Sekkei. Allow time here before your walk: the exhibits can help make sense of the remains you will encounter in the ancient city.
Tickets, maps and entry
The Visitor Center is the starting point for entry to Petra Archaeological Park. Tickets are sold at the ticket office beside the main parking area. Bring your passport or another form of identification, since staff use it to verify the applicable ticket rate. Cash in Jordanian dinars or US dollars and credit cards are listed as payment options.
Maps and guidebooks are available at the center. A map can help you plan your route, and a guidebook is useful if you intend to explore independently. The center also has restrooms and a gift shop, giving you a chance to take care of basic needs before setting off.
Planning your walk through Petra
From the entrance, the route leads into Petra, the ancient Nabataean city carved into sandstone. The Siq, a narrow canyon, is the dramatic approach to the Treasury. Further into the site are the Theatre, Royal Tombs and the Monastery, as well as routes such as the trail to the High Place of Sacrifice.
The park covers a large area, so choose your priorities before you start and leave time for walking between monuments. Early arrival can help you get underway before the busiest hours. Around the approach and inside the site, people may offer guiding services, rides or goods for sale; a clear, polite refusal is useful if you are not interested.
FAQ
Where is the Petra Visitor Center?
It is in Wadi Musa, Jordan, at the entrance to Petra Archaeological Park.
Can I buy Petra tickets at the Visitor Center?
Yes. The ticket office is beside the main parking area. Bring your passport or ID so staff can check the applicable ticket rate.
Is the Petra Museum inside the Visitor Center?
No. The museum is across the plaza from the Visitor Center, close to the site entrance.
What is the best time to start a Petra visit?
Arrive early to begin before the site gets busier and to give yourself more time to explore.
