Housed in a building that incorporates a Nabataean cave, the Petra Guest House is arguably the most atmospheric mid-range option in Wadi Musa. The Cave Bar on the ground floor is set inside a 2,000-year-old Nabataean tomb — a remarkable and memorable experience. Rooms are comfortable and the location at the Petra entrance is hard to beat.
Petra Guest House occupies one of the most coveted positions in Wadi Musa, situated directly at the entrance to Petra in Jordan's Ma'an Governorate, steps away from the main visitor gate and the beginning of the Siq — the narrow canyon gorge that leads to the Treasury. This proximity means guests can reach the site entrance in under five minutes on foot, making it possible to arrive before the daily crowds and experience the Siq in relative quiet during the early morning light.
The property is built into and around a Nabataean cave structure, a design feature that sets it apart from every other mid-range option in the area. The building incorporates authentic ancient rock formations into its walls and architecture, creating an atmosphere that connects the stay directly to the 2,000-year-old Nabataean civilisation that carved Petra from the sandstone cliffs. Rooms are comfortable and modern in their facilities while maintaining the historic character of the structure.
The defining feature of Petra Guest House for many visitors is the Cave Bar on the ground floor, which is set inside a genuine Nabataean tomb carved from rose-red rock. The bar serves drinks, light snacks, and local mezze in an atmosphere that is completely unlike any other drinking establishment in Jordan. It is open to non-guests as well as hotel residents and tends to fill with travellers exchanging stories of the day's Petra explorations. The combination of atmospheric setting and social energy makes the Cave Bar a Wadi Musa institution.
An on-site restaurant handles breakfast and dinner, with a menu oriented toward Jordanian and Levantine dishes. The tour desk assists guests with a wide range of activities including licensed Petra guides, the Petra by Night experience (which runs Monday, Wednesday, and Thursday), and day trips to Wadi Rum and Aqaba. Service is attentive and the front desk is experienced in managing the logistics of Petra visits for guests with varying interests and fitness levels.
Amenities
- wifi
- cave bar
- restaurant
- tour desk
- historic building
Location
Petra Entrance, Wadi Musa, Ma'an Governorate
30.3325, 35.4763 View on map
Highlights
- Cave Bar set inside a 2,000-year-old Nabataean tomb — one of Jordan's most unique evening experiences
- Unbeatable location directly at the entrance to Petra, steps from the visitor centre and the Siq
- Mid-range rooms in a building incorporating authentic Nabataean cave rock formations
- On-site tour desk arranging guided walks, Petra by Night, and regional day trips
- Atmospheric historic property blending ancient architecture with modern hospitality
Tips for visiting
- Visit the Cave Bar in the evening even if not staying — it opens to non-guests but fills quickly, so arrive early
- The proximity to the Petra gate allows guests to enter at opening without an early taxi ride
- Book well in advance during peak seasons (March–May and September–November) as this location is highly sought after
- Ask at the tour desk about the Petra by Night experience, which runs Monday, Wednesday, and Thursday evenings
- Bring earplugs if sensitive to noise — the Cave Bar can remain lively until late in the evening
Accessibility
Petra Guest House is built into ancient cave structures with multiple levels and uneven rock surfaces throughout. Wheelchair access within the property is very limited due to the historic building fabric and the natural Nabataean rock formations incorporated into the structure. Guests with mobility requirements are strongly advised to contact the hotel before booking.
Visit, book or contact
Frequently asked questions
Is the Cave Bar open to non-guests?
Yes, the Cave Bar at Petra Guest House is open to non-guests and is one of the most atmospheric spots in Wadi Musa. Set inside a 2,000-year-old Nabataean tomb, it serves drinks and snacks in the evenings and is a popular gathering point for travellers in the area.
How close is the hotel to the Petra entrance?
The hotel is situated directly at the entrance to Petra, making it the closest mid-range accommodation to the main visitor gate. Guests can walk to the visitor centre in under five minutes, allowing early-morning access before the daily crowds arrive.
What room types are available at Petra Guest House?
The hotel offers standard and superior rooms, some incorporating original cave rock formations into the décor. Rooms are comfortable with modern amenities while retaining an atmospheric historic character that reflects the building's Nabataean origins.
Does the hotel arrange guided tours of Petra?
Yes, the on-site tour desk arranges licensed guides for Petra, including specialised routes such as the High Place of Sacrifice and the monastery hike. Regional day trips to Wadi Rum and Aqaba are also bookable through the desk.