Amman, the capital city of Jordan, is a bustling hub of activity, and its airport is a major entry point for tourists and travelers alike. One of the most popular destinations for visitors to Jordan is Petra, the ancient city carved into the sandstone cliffs. Getting from Amman Airport to Petra can seem daunting, but there are several options available to suit different budgets and preferences. In this article, we will explore five ways to get a taxi from Amman Airport to Petra, highlighting the benefits and drawbacks of each option.
Understanding Your Options
Before we dive into the different ways to get a taxi from Amman Airport to Petra, it's essential to understand the basics. Amman Airport, also known as Queen Alia International Airport (AMM), is located about 30 kilometers south of Amman city center. Petra, on the other hand, is situated in the southwestern part of Jordan, approximately 240 kilometers from Amman Airport. The journey can take around 4-5 hours by car, depending on traffic and road conditions.
Option 1: Private Taxi
One of the most convenient ways to get from Amman Airport to Petra is by hiring a private taxi. This option is ideal for those who value comfort and flexibility. Private taxis can be booked in advance through various online platforms or at the airport upon arrival. The cost of a private taxi from Amman Airport to Petra can range from JOD 80-120 (approximately USD 113-170), depending on the type of vehicle and the driver's experience.
Benefits of Private Taxi
- Door-to-door service
- Flexibility to choose your own schedule
- Comfortable and spacious vehicle
- Opportunity to enjoy the scenic views along the way
Drawbacks of Private Taxi
- More expensive than other options
- Requires advance booking or negotiation at the airport
Option 2: Shared Taxi
Shared taxis, also known as service taxis, are a popular option for travelers on a budget. These taxis operate on a fixed route, picking up passengers from the airport and dropping them off at various locations along the way. The cost of a shared taxi from Amman Airport to Petra can range from JOD 20-30 (approximately USD 28-42) per person, depending on the number of passengers and the route taken.
Benefits of Shared Taxi
- Affordable and budget-friendly
- Opportunity to meet fellow travelers
- Environmentally friendly option
Drawbacks of Shared Taxi
- Less comfortable and spacious than private taxis
- May involve multiple pickups and drop-offs along the way
- Limited flexibility in terms of schedule and route
Option 3: Airport Shuttle
Airport shuttles are another option for travelers looking for a convenient and affordable way to get from Amman Airport to Petra. These shuttles operate on a fixed schedule, picking up passengers from the airport and dropping them off at designated locations in Petra. The cost of an airport shuttle from Amman Airport to Petra can range from JOD 30-50 (approximately USD 42-70) per person, depending on the service provider and the route taken.
Benefits of Airport Shuttle
- Convenient and hassle-free
- Affordable and budget-friendly
- Opportunity to enjoy the scenic views along the way
Drawbacks of Airport Shuttle
- Limited flexibility in terms of schedule and route
- May involve multiple pickups and drop-offs along the way
- Less comfortable and spacious than private taxis
Option 4: Public Transportation
Public transportation is a budget-friendly option for travelers looking to get from Amman Airport to Petra. Buses and minibuses operate from the airport to various locations in Petra, including the town of Wadi Musa. The cost of public transportation from Amman Airport to Petra can range from JOD 5-10 (approximately USD 7-14) per person, depending on the route and the type of vehicle.
Benefits of Public Transportation
- Extremely affordable and budget-friendly
- Opportunity to experience local culture and interact with locals
- Environmentally friendly option
Drawbacks of Public Transportation
- Less comfortable and spacious than private taxis or airport shuttles
- May involve multiple transfers and changes along the way
- Limited flexibility in terms of schedule and route
Option 5: Renting a Car
Renting a car is a great option for travelers who want to explore Jordan at their own pace. Several car rental companies have desks at Amman Airport, offering a range of vehicles to suit different budgets and preferences. The cost of renting a car from Amman Airport to Petra can range from JOD 40-100 (approximately USD 56-140) per day, depending on the type of vehicle and the rental duration.
Benefits of Renting a Car
- Flexibility to create your own itinerary and schedule
- Opportunity to explore Jordan's scenic routes and attractions
- Comfortable and spacious vehicle
Drawbacks of Renting a Car
- More expensive than public transportation or shared taxis
- Requires a valid driver's license and insurance
- May involve additional costs for fuel, parking, and tolls
Gallery of Taxi from Amman Airport to Petra
What is the best way to get from Amman Airport to Petra?
+The best way to get from Amman Airport to Petra depends on your budget, preferences, and schedule. Private taxis, shared taxis, airport shuttles, public transportation, and renting a car are all viable options.
How long does it take to get from Amman Airport to Petra?
+The journey from Amman Airport to Petra can take around 4-5 hours by car, depending on traffic and road conditions.
How much does it cost to get from Amman Airport to Petra?
+The cost of getting from Amman Airport to Petra varies depending on the option chosen. Private taxis can cost around JOD 80-120 (USD 113-170), while shared taxis and airport shuttles can cost around JOD 20-50 (USD 28-70) per person. Public transportation can cost around JOD 5-10 (USD 7-14) per person, while renting a car can cost around JOD 40-100 (USD 56-140) per day.
We hope this article has provided you with valuable insights and information on how to get from Amman Airport to Petra. Whether you choose to take a private taxi, shared taxi, airport shuttle, public transportation, or rent a car, we wish you a safe and enjoyable journey to one of Jordan's most iconic destinations.