I fell in love with the Lost City of Rose the moment I saw it on the movie screen. It was the third instalment of Indiana Jones, as on horseback, Harrison Ford emerges from the Canyon of the Crescent Moon to the spine tingling sight of the temple built into the rock face; the resting place of the Holy Grail. I was 7.
You've likely seen photos of the famous Siq; barely visible through the narrow canyon, this ancient and mythical structure looms over you as you emerge, tired yet eager for adventure, from the winding red canyon. After walking for over 2 miles through the arid, 50ft deep canyon, you are suddenly faced with an incomprehensible scene. Civilisation!
At over 2,000 years old, the sight of this ancient and inconceivable act of the human capability to create civilisation in the most unlikely of places, instills a rousing desire in countless travellers to put their engines on 'full steam' to experience the Lost City of Rose for themselves.
I can't express how much of a good idea this is!
So before you head out to pretend you're Indiana Jones, here are some top tips for visiting Jordan and the Lost City of Rose.
1. Timing & Temperature - I can't stress the importance of timing your trip to Petra. We visited in July i.e. peak time for tourists and temperatures. While it didn't impact on our overall visit, we found we struggled with the relentless 42C temperature. We wanted to see so much more of the site but simply found ourselves drained and overheated. Time your trip for the shoulder seasons, Spring/Autumn for the cooler temperatures so you're able to enjoy your exploring.
2. One More Day - I'd strongly recommend visiting the Lost City of Rose over 2 or 3 days. The site is huge and there are so many new buildings to explore! Plus, you can now experience the new 'Petra by Night' for a contrasting experience.
3. Crossing Boarders - We entered Jordan via boat from North East Egypt. Crossing the Gulf of Aqaba which separates Egypt and Saudi Arabia, its a great start to a day of exploring. The usual documents are required when crossing a border, Passport and Visas. We tagged onto a local tour operator to make the process easier. After entering the country (and passing the military manned machine guns on the back of pick-up trucks), you will make your way through the rugged and winding roads toward Petra. Approx 2-3 hr journey.
4. Walking Distance - Pack your best hiking shoes as you will spend the day on your feet! To make your journey into the Lost City you will walk through a winding canyon for approximately two miles. There is a lot to see on the way with carvings and buildings worked into stone. Once you've reached the Siq or Treasury, you will continue through into the city itself to view the other amazing sites including the amphitheatre, monastery, tombs and traditional Nabatean homes.
5. Locals - Like at any tourist destination, there are locals selling their wears and experiences to the tourists with heavy pockets. Extremely polite people, however we were advised in particular not to accept 'gifts' from any of the locals, in particular from the children. I came across this when I stopped in the shade for less than a minute and was soon approached by a lovely little girl, who was intent on receiving money from me. It's a sad situation and in all honesty, one I didn't know how to handle. If I'd given her money, more children would come over and 'a scene' would soon ensue. However I didn't have it in my heart to turn my back on this little girl. I was wearing a plastic bracelet which she took a liking too. I slipped off the inexpensive bracelet, gave it to her and quickly left.
6. Toilets - Take toilet paper. And when you think you've packed enough, pack some more. Seriously.
What I would do differently:
Different time of year when its cooler and quieter.
Stay overnight at a hotel to explore a second day. With over 10,000 caves and new discoveries every day, its not possible to have the true experience in just one visit.
Experience Petra at night
Take more photos (isn't that always the case?)
I went to Petra looking for an experience that would make me feel like and intrepid explorer, to push my comfort zone and to witness first hand a culture far beyond anything I'd ever seen or known. It ticked all those boxes and more. The scale and grandeur of Petra's Lost City is simply astounding. Attempting to grasp the size, scale and intricacy of the buildings and city as a whole is not only difficult, but leaves you feeling humbled by the feat of those who once lived here.
It's no wonder why Petra's Lost City of Rose is declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site and I can safely say I will be back to experience it once again.
For now,
Jones x
