About this experience
Petra has many things to offer visitors who come to explore its dramatic tomb facades and the many ancient temples and buildings situated along the city’s main colonnaded thoroughfare. Petra’s beauty and grandeur, however, can only be fully appreciated from above, especially when seen from one of the scenic trails that ascend to the summits of the surrounding mountains. The most well-known hikes are those to Ed-Deir (the Monastery) and the High Place of Sacrifice. But if you’re looking for a less frequented and secluded hike, the one to the top of Umm Al-Biyara is for you.
At a glance
- Duration: 5 hr–6 hr 40 min
- Private experience
Plan your experience
Set aside 5 hr–6 hr 40 min for the experience itself, with additional time to reach your meeting or pickup point.
Before you go
- Travelers should have a high level of physical fitness
What is included
- One bottle water per person
- English Speaking Guide for 6 Hrs Approx.
Not included
- Gratuities
- Entrance Fee to Petra
Itinerary and highlights
Jabel Umm Al Biyara overlooking Petra ancient city, the Mother of the cisterns. The trail start from Petra city center, Qasr el Bint, climb to reach the peak, visit an Edomite stronghold with cisterns and storage and houses bell shaped cisterns, view Petra from the top of the Summit, back same way.
Umm Al-Biyara (“Mother of Cisterns”) is Petra’s highest and most prominent mountain and looks directly over the ancient city center. It is topped by a flat plateau that slopes slightly downward toward the city. On top are the remains of Edomite buildings from the seventh–sixth centuries B.C., and more recent excavations have revealed a splendid Nabataean/Roman bath complex that overlooks the entire city.
The hike to the top of Umm Al-Biyara is a minimum 07 hours , but takes 08 hrs with the distance from the visitors center and back . Good walking shoes, sun screen, a hat, and plenty of water are essential, as the ascent is quite steep and challenging, especially during the heat of the day. Since Umm Al-Biyara is at the heart of Petra, hikers should account for the walk in and out of the park as well.
Languages and tickets
- English — Guide
- Mobile Only
Tour operator
- Jordan Horizon Tours
Accessibility and practical details
- Travelers should have a high level of physical fitness
Cancellation policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
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