Wadi Musa holidays

Local dishes in Wadi Musa

One highlight of visiting Jordan is sampling the local cuisine, which is rich in flavour and deeply rooted in Bedouin traditions. Here are some of the top dishes to try on Petra holidays:

Some typical dishes

• Mansaf: Jordan’s national dish is a must-try. Chunks of boiled lamb are served on a bed of rice with pine nuts sprinkled on top and a tart yoghurt on the side to pour over it.

• Maqluba: This hearty choice translates to “upside-down” and is a mixture of chicken or lamb, rice and fried vegetables cooked together, then flipped onto a plate to create a layered dish.

• Mujaddara: A simple but hearty dish made from lentils, rice and fried onions, perfect for vegetarians.

• Mezze: A common way to eat is to order a variety of mezze (small dishes) to be shared by everyone, and good restaurants might offer up to 30 different choices, both hot and cold. Favourites are tabbouleh (parsley salad), fattoush (salad with crunchy fried bread), stuffed vine leaves and hummus. Hot options include falafel and the mini-mains of kibdet djaj (fried chicken liver), jawaneh (chicken wings) and kibbeh (minced meat and bulgur shaped into patties). Bread and pickles are always free.

Local drinks

• Arabic coffee: Strong, thick and flavoured with cardamom, Arabic coffee is a key part of Jordanian culture and hospitality. It’s often served in small cups and is perfect for a post-meal pick-me-up.

• Bedouin tea: Made with black tea and flavoured with sage or mint, Bedouin tea is a staple in the Petra region. Visitors will often be offered this sweet, aromatic tea as a gesture of hospitality.

Best things to do in Wadi Musa

Wadi Musa offers a wealth of experiences that extend beyond Petra, providing visitors with a unique blend of history, culture, and adventure. Here are some must-do activities while in Wadi Musa:

Viewpoints and panoramas

• The Monastery (Ad Deir): After a scenic hike up 800 steps, you'll be rewarded with incredible views of Wadi Musa's surrounding landscape. The Monastery is Petra's largest monument, and its secluded location provides panoramic vistas that make the climb well worth the effort.

• High Place of Sacrifice: One of the easiest viewpoints to access, this mountaintop altar offers sweeping views over Petra. A short, stepped hike leads you to this sacred spot, where you can capture the entire valley’s majesty.

• Jabal Haroun: For more adventurous travellers, Jabal Haroun, believed to be the burial site of Aaron, Moses’ brother, offers a six-hour trek to Petra’s highest peak. The remote location and spiritual atmosphere make it an excellent choice for those seeking solitude and reflection.

Historical monuments

• The Treasury (Al-Khazneh): A highlight of any visit, the Treasury is the first glimpse visitors have of Petra after walking through the Siq. This monumental structure, carved into the cliffs, is an iconic representation of the region’s ancient Nabataean heritage.

• The Siq: This narrow gorge serves as the dramatic entrance to Petra, with towering cliffs on either side. Along the way, you’ll encounter ancient carvings and remnants of water channels that once supplied the city.

• Royal Tombs: A cluster of grand tombs carved into the rock, the Royal Tombs offer a glimpse into Petra’s noble past. These structures glow a deep red at sunset, creating a truly magical atmosphere.

• The Great Temple: Spanning over 7,000 square metres, the Great Temple stands as a testament to Petra's grandeur. This site once served as a religious and political hub, reflecting the architectural brilliance of the Nabataeans.

Activities for families in Wadi Musa

Wadi Musa is a family-friendly destination, offering a mix of educational and interactive experiences for all ages.

• Interactive Tours: Children can enjoy engaging storytelling tours at key sites like the Treasury and the Monastery, bringing Petra’s history to life in a fun and educational way.

• Petra Kitchen: Take part in hands-on cooking classes where families can learn to prepare traditional Jordanian dishes like hummus, falafel, and maqluba. This is an excellent opportunity to engage with local culture while having fun in the kitchen.

• Petra By Night: Experience the magic of Petra at night, with candlelit walks through the Siq to the Treasury, accompanied by the soft sound of Bedouin music. This atmospheric experience is a must for families looking for a quieter, more serene side of Petra.

Free things to do in Wadi Musa

While Petra itself can be an expensive visit, there are several free activities in Wadi Musa that add value to your trip.

• Petra Museum: Located near the Visitor Centre, this free-entry museum provides fascinating insights into the Nabataean people, their culture, and Petra’s historical significance.

• Exploring Little Petra: A smaller version of Petra, Little Petra offers a quieter, free-to-explore experience with stunning carved facades in a short and accessible gorge.

• Hiking: Wadi Musa’s surrounding landscape is perfect for hiking. One of the most popular hikes is the climb to the Monastery, with its 800 steps leading to spectacular views. For more adventurous hikers, the challenging ascent of Umm al-Biyara offers panoramic views of Petra and beyond.