Car Rental in Petra, Jordan

Where to drive

• Explore Wadi Rum: Drive south for about 1.5-2 hours (≈100 km) to the breathtaking desert landscapes of Wadi Rum, famous for its dramatic sandstone mountains and Bedouin camps.
• Visit Aqaba: Head to Jordan's only coastal city, Aqaba, a drive of approximately 2-2.5 hours (≈130 km) for snorkeling in the Red Sea or enjoying its beaches.
• Day trip to Dana Biosphere Reserve: Discover one of Jordan's largest nature reserves, about 1.5 hours (≈70 km) north of Petra, offering stunning views and hiking opportunities.
• Discover Little Petra (Siq al-Barid): Just a 10-15 minute drive (≈8 km) from the main Petra site, this smaller archaeological site offers a glimpse into Nabataean life with fewer crowds.
• Journey to Shobak Castle: Drive approximately 1 hour (≈50 km) north of Petra to explore this impressive Crusader fortress perched atop a mountain.
• Scenic King's Highway: Take a portion of the historic King's Highway towards Amman, enjoying panoramic views and passing through traditional villages.

What documents you need

To rent a car in Jordan, you will typically need a valid national driving license from your home country, held for at least one year. An International Driving Permit (IDP) is highly recommended and often required by rental agencies, especially if your license is not in English or Arabic. A passport and a major credit card in the driver's name are also essential. The minimum age for renting is generally 21, though some companies may require drivers to be 25 for certain vehicle categories or charge a young driver surcharge.

How much rental costs

Car rental prices in Petra can vary significantly based on vehicle class and seasonality. Economy cars might start from around 30-40 USD per day during the low season, while SUVs or premium vehicles could range from 70 USD to over 120 USD daily. Prices generally peak during the spring and autumn months, reflecting higher tourist demand.

Demand by month

Traffic rules and fines

In Jordan, driving is on the right-hand side of the road. Speed limits are typically 60-80 km/h in urban areas and 90-120 km/h on highways, but always observe local signage. The legal blood alcohol limit for drivers is effectively zero (0.00% BAC). Headlights should be used during bad weather or at night. Seatbelts are mandatory for all occupants, and child seats are required for young children, though availability from rental companies can vary, so it's advisable to bring your own if possible.

Parking

In Petra (Wadi Musa), parking is generally available near the Petra Visitor Center, often for a fee. In other towns and cities, street parking might be available, but always check for restrictions. Many hotels offer free parking for guests. When visiting smaller sites or rural areas, parking is usually informal and free.

Fuel stations

Fuel stations are widely available along major routes and in towns. The price of petrol (gasoline) and diesel is regulated by the government and is generally consistent across the country, though prices are subject to change. As of 2026, expect approximate prices to be around 1.0-1.2 JOD per liter for unleaded petrol. Payment is usually cash, but some larger stations accept credit cards.

Which car to choose

For most travel around Petra and southern Jordan, a compact or economy car is sufficient for city driving and well-maintained main roads. If you plan to venture into more rural areas or want extra comfort for longer drives to Wadi Rum or Dana, a mid-size sedan or a small SUV would be a better choice. An SUV is particularly recommended if you anticipate any unpaved roads, though off-road driving in rental cars is usually prohibited. Manual transmission cars are more common and generally cheaper, but automatics are readily available.

Frequently asked questions