The viewpoints of Petra have contributed, to a great extent, to spreading the fame of this tourist destination: they offer the perfect setting for an unforgettable portrait, with a monument carved in stone (usually the Treasury or the Ad Deir Monastery) as a backdrop, embraced by the canyons and rocky walls of the place. In this post, we tell you which are some of the most famous so you can immortalize your visit as it deserves.
Safety and Trust, First and Foremost
Before indicating which are the main viewpoints of Petra, you should know that safety must be paramount. These viewpoints are not accessible to people with reduced mobility or low physical fitness: in some cases it is necessary, literally, to climb the rock; and in other cases, they involve long and steep walks, which can be hard during the hottest hours.
On the other hand, you should bear in mind that these viewpoints are located in elevated positions on the cliffs, where there are no safety barriers. That is, leaning too far over the edge or tripping due to carelessness can cause a fall with fatal consequences.
You should also know that some of the ascent routes are so complicated that it is mandatory to do them with a Bedouin guide. At the beginning of the route you will see them waiting, ready to negotiate the price and assist in the ascent. But it is best to already have a trusted guide, and not depend on what you can find at that particular moment.
Elevated Viewpoint of the Treasury
It is located about 200 meters above the Treasury, which forces you to frame with a low-angle shot (from top to bottom). To reach this height, a hiking route of approximately one hour is carried out. It is the Al Kubtha Trail route, which starts next to the Royal Tombs, in front of the Theater. It is approximately one and a half kilometers, of low difficulty but demanding due to the countless steps (natural or artificial) that must be climbed.
The final point of this route is a Bedouin post where you can have a drink and, incidentally, look out at the viewpoint to take the photograph. A point in favor of this viewpoint is that the route also offers panoramic views of the surroundings and other monuments, outside the Siq such as the aforementioned Theater.
Lower Viewpoint of the Treasury
It is the viewpoint that offers a closer view of the Treasury, as both positions are at the same height and there is no need to take low-angle shots with the selfie stick. In addition, it can be accessed from the Siq, without detours. But it has a major drawback: its ascent is complicated and, for most people, it will not be possible without the help (literally, physical) of an accompanying guide. It is not signposted, although Bedouin guides will indicate it. And if you are accompanied by a trusted guide, they will be able to tell you where the start is.
Monastery Viewpoint
In reality, there are several viewpoints towards the Ad Deir Monastery. And what is really ‘hard’ is not climbing to the monastery, but getting to it: it is a route of
Although these are the three most prominent viewpoints, in reality there are many others throughout the site: some towards Petra, others towards the Monastery but also towards the wadis outside and other points of the ancient city, such as the Altar of Sacrifice.
