Ma'an Governorate is Jordan's largest governorate by area, encompassing the legendary rose-red city of Petra, the dramatic desert landscapes of Wadi Rum, and the historic market town of Ma'an city. This southern region is home to some of the ancient world's most extraordinary monuments, carved by the Nabataean civilization over two millennia ago. From rugged desert canyons to Crusader-era castles, Ma'an offers an unparalleled journey through layers of human history set against spectacular natural scenery.
- Public
- Public transport is limited in Ma'an. JETT buses serve the Amman-Wadi Musa route reliably; beyond this, minibuses and service taxis fill the gaps but schedules are irregular.
- Taxi
- Taxis are the backbone of transport in Ma'an Governorate. Most drivers speak basic English and are experienced at serving Petra visitors. Always agree on a price before departure.
- Rental
- A rental car opens up Dana, Humayma, Shoubak, and the King's Highway independently. Roads are in good condition. Book at Queen Alia Airport or in Aqaba.
- Walking
- Wadi Musa itself is very walkable. Petra requires significant walking (up to 10km per day). Dana village is best explored on foot.
Transport at a glance
Airport transfers
Getting from the airport to your accommodation.
- Taxi
- JOD 65-80, 3 hours from Amman (AMM) to Wadi Musa
- Taxi Info
- Fixed price negotiated with driver; use hotel-recommended drivers for reliability
- Shuttle
- JOD 7, JETT bus service (daily)
- Shuttle Info
- JETT buses depart from Amman South Station daily, approximately 6:30 AM and 3:00 PM
- Bus
- JOD 7, JETT direct bus
- Bus Info
- Most convenient public option; book tickets at Amman South Bus Station
- Private
- JOD 70-90, pre-booked private car with driver
- Private Info
- Book through hotel or reputable operators; comfortable and flexible
Local transport
Getting around the city.
Bus
Minibuses run between Wadi Musa, Ma'an city (JOD 1), and Aqaba (JOD 3). Departure when full.
Alternatives
Taxis dominate local transport. Horse-drawn carriages are available at Petra entrance (JOD 3-5 to Siq).
Taxis & rideshare
What to expect from taxis and apps.
- Regular
- JOD 1.50 start + JOD 0.50/km within Wadi Musa; fixed prices for longer routes
- Apps
- Careem
- App Names
- Careem (limited coverage in Wadi Musa — mainly Amman-based)
- Typical Fare
- JOD 3-5 for in-town Wadi Musa rides; JOD 8-12 Wadi Musa to Ma'an city
Intercity travel
Getting between cities and regions.
Bus
JETT: Amman–Wadi Musa JOD 7, Aqaba–Ma'an JOD 3-4
Shared
Service taxis Ma'an–Wadi Musa JOD 2; Ma'an–Shoubak JOD 1.5
Flights
No domestic flights to Ma'an — nearest airports are Amman (AMM) and Aqaba (AQJ)
Private
Private car hire with driver from JOD 40-60/day for regional exploration
Transportation details
Full breakdown of how to get around.
Ma'an Governorate has no airport and no rail service. The main access point is by road from Amman (3-4 hours) via the King's Highway or Desert Highway. Within the governorate, taxis and minibuses connect Wadi Musa (Petra), Ma'an city, Shoubak, and Dana. A rental car provides the most flexibility for exploring the region's remote sites.
Airports
Queen Alia International Airport
King Hussein International Airport (Aqaba)
Useful apps
Download before you arrive.
Careem
Ride-hailing app available in major Jordanian cities; limited coverage in Wadi Musa
JETT App
For booking JETT bus tickets in advance on the Amman-Petra route
Google Maps
Surprisingly accurate for Jordanian roads; works offline in most areas
Transport tips
Travel smarter, not harder.
Buy the Jordan Pass before flying — saves the cost of a Jordanian visa (JOD 40+)
The JETT bus from Amman to Wadi Musa is by far the easiest public transport option
Negotiate all taxi fares before getting in the car — meters are rarely used
A rental car from Aqaba airport is often cheaper than from Amman and cuts drive time to Petra
The King's Highway route (via Karak, Dana, Shoubak) is scenic but adds 1-2 hours vs Desert Highway
Petra by Night horse-drawn carriages are strictly limited — walking the Siq at night is atmospheric
Book private taxis through your hotel for the most reliable and fairly priced service