That first trot near Petra feels unreal. This 3-hour horse ride threads Little Petra backcountry trails with stops at Siq Ghrab and Siq Al Barid, then adds the human side with a Bedouin tea break. I especially liked the way the route connects ancient places in a logical flow, and I also liked how the ride mixes big scenery with local hospitality. One thing to weigh: this is weather-dependent, and one review raised safety concerns about horse suitability and control—so you’ll want to ask direct questions before you mount.

What you’re really buying is a small, guided adventure—not a long waiting game. You’ll get hotel or camp pickup in Wadi Musa, an English-speaking horse guide, and a light snack during the ride, plus transportation to the riding site around Little Petra. The only real drawback on the practical side: horse-riding equipment like helmets and chaps isn’t included, so if you want that extra gear, plan ahead.

Key highlights to know before you ride

• Private group experience: only your group rides, not a mixed crowd shuffle.
• Little Petra horse meetup: you transfer from Wadi Musa to meet the horses, then head out into the backcountry.
• Route stops with named sites: Kharoubat Al Fajjah to Siq Ghrab, then onward toward the Neolithic village and Siq Al Barid.
• Bedouin tea stop: you’re not just passing through—you spend time with local hosts and have tea.
• Sunset-style timing: the ride is designed to end with a late light feel as you head back out.

From Wadi Musa to Little Petra: how the ride starts

The day begins in Wadi Musa (Petra), where your guide meets you at your hotel or camp. That pickup matters here because Petra logistics can eat time fast, and you don’t want your adventure starting with taxis and guesswork. Once you’re collected, you transfer to the riding area connected to Little Petra, where you meet the horses.

You’ll notice the whole plan is built around rhythm: short transfer, meet the horses, then settle into a ride that lasts about 3 hours. You’re not just getting a quick ride around a pen; the route is set to move through multiple named areas. Also, the tour uses a mobile ticket, which is a small thing, but it keeps the process simple when you’re bouncing between Petra sights.

The 3-hour route: Kharoubat Al Fajjah to Siq Al Barid

This is where the tour earns its value. Instead of turning you loose on a random trail, the ride follows a sequence tied to the Petra region’s older passages.

You start from the Kharoubat Al Fajjah area, then head toward Siq Ghrab. From there, the plan continues through the kind of terrain that makes you slow down just to take it in—old structures, rocky paths, and mountain views that change as you move. The itinerary also includes time near a Neolithic village area, which is the sort of stop that makes your brain go from scenery mode to history mode without turning into a lecture.

Then you ride onward toward Siq Al Barid. Even if you’re not a “take notes” traveler, places like Siq Al Barid tend to make the route feel more connected, not just scenic. And toward the end, the ride is set to flow into a late-day feel, described as riding off into the sunset.

Practical note: because you’re covering multiple areas on horseback, you’ll want to be comfortable with sustained sitting time and occasional uneven footing. If you’re expecting a totally level, gentle stroll, you might be surprised by the reality of backcountry paths.

The snack and the light lunch stop in the mountains

One of the underrated parts of a horse ride is fuel. This tour includes a light snack during the ride, and it also includes a light lunch stop in the mountains while you’re out on the route.

That lunch break is more than just eating. It’s a reset point. You get off the horse, refocus, and then roll back into the ride with less fatigue. It also helps you enjoy the quiet moments between stretches—especially when the group pauses, the guide talks you through what’s next, and you’re not constantly thinking about time.

You should plan for this to be light rather than a full meal experience. If you have a sensitive stomach or specific dietary needs, bring that mindset with you, because what’s included here is clearly described as snack and light lunch—not a big sit-down dinner.

Bedouin tea with local hosts: the human moment

Here’s one of the best reasons to pick this tour instead of just another Petra activity: you get a tea with the Bedouin after you’ve been riding for a while.

That stop changes the tone. The ride itself is physical and outdoorsy, but the tea moment slows things down. It gives you a human contact point with local culture, not just passing wildlife or empty views. You can also tell the tour is designed for more than photos, because the tea is a full stop in the day, not a 30-second interaction.

If you’re the kind of traveler who likes seeing how daily life shows up in hospitality, this is the moment you’ll likely remember most clearly. It’s also a nice contrast to Petra’s main sites—this part feels more personal, more local, less crowded.

Horses, safety, and what to ask before you mount

The tour rides Arabian horses, guided by an English-speaking horse riding guide. In general, the idea is straightforward: you ride, you follow the route, the guide manages the group and keeps you moving safely.

Here’s the balanced part. The review rating is 4.2 (based on 5 reviews), and while the majority of comments praise the experience, there is one serious red flag in a negative review. That complaint says the experience felt like false advertising, with horses described as not trained for tourists and control described as difficult, including a mention that a rider fell.

You don’t have to panic, but you should treat that comment as a legitimate checklist item.

Before you book—or before you actually get on—ask questions like:

• How do they match the horse to your riding experience level?
• What happens if a horse is uncomfortable or someone needs extra support?
• Do they provide any safety gear on-site, and if not, is there any alternative plan?
• What should you do if you feel unsafe mid-ride?

Also remember: horse-riding equipment such as chaps and helmets isn’t included. That matters if you’re used to having gear or if you want extra protection. Since the tour doesn’t include it, you should plan accordingly.

If you feel even slightly unsure about the horse handling on the day, it’s okay to pause and ask for a change. Your comfort matters more than checking a box.

Price and value: is $145 worth it here?

At $145 per person, this ride isn’t the cheapest thing in Petra. But it’s also not priced like a barebones trail ticket. Here’s what you’re paying for, based on what’s included:

• Horses
• Transportation from and back to your hotel or camp in Wadi Musa to the riding site
• An English-speaking horse riding guide
• A light snack during the ride
• Plus the itinerary includes a light lunch stop and tea with Bedouin (as part of the planned experience)

What you don’t get is also clear:

• No riding equipment like helmets or chaps
• Tips aren’t included
• No other expenses are listed

So where does the value land? For most people, the best value is the blend: guided movement through multiple named areas, real time on horseback, and a cultural tea stop. If you wanted to DIY this on your own, you’d still need transportation, a guide you trust, and access to horses—so the price starts to make sense as a bundled day.

One more detail: the experience is typically booked about 5 days in advance on average. That’s a hint that the operators know demand is real. If you’re traveling in high season, don’t wait too long.

Timing and logistics: when this tour runs

This activity runs daily during the listed operating window, with opening hours from 7:00 AM to 7:00 PM (Monday through Sunday).

The big timing factor is weather. This experience requires good weather, and if it’s canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund. In a place like Petra, that weather note matters because wind, rain, or unsafe ground can affect outdoor rides.

Also, you can usually participate if you’re in general good shape for an outdoor activity—most travelers can join. It’s described as a private tour/activity, meaning only your group participates. That’s a big deal if you want your guide’s attention and you’d rather not be stuck with unknown riding speeds in your group.

Who should book this Petra horse ride?

This tour fits best if you want:

• A real horseback experience around Petra, not just a quick photo stop
• A guided route that includes multiple named areas like Siq Ghrab and Siq Al Barid
• A cultural stop that includes tea with local Bedouin hosts
• A day plan that’s paced for about 3 hours on horseback, with light food included

It may be less ideal if:

• You strongly prefer organized safety gear and don’t want to bring your own (since helmets and chaps aren’t included)
• You’re expecting total smooth, easy terrain with no uneven footing
• You have concerns about how the horses are handled for rider comfort—especially after reading the one safety-related complaint in the review set

The good news: you’re not going in blind. The guided structure, pickups, and English-speaking horse guide are there to reduce uncertainty. And some reviews highlight professionalism and friendliness—one Petra-focused comment specifically praised a guide named Adeeb as super friendly and professional, and another strongly recommended doing the tour with Sami.

Should you book this tour?

I’d book it if you’re coming to Petra for more than the main sights and you want an experience that mixes horseback time with a local tea moment. The included pickup from Wadi Musa, the structured route, and the private-group feel make it feel like a planned adventure rather than a last-minute idea.

But I’d also book it with eyes open. The negative review about horse training and safety is serious enough that you should ask how horses are handled and how riders are supported. Since helmets and chaps aren’t included, don’t assume you’ll have extra protection provided.

If you’re comfortable asking those questions and you’re riding on a good-weather day, this can be one of the more memorable ways to see Petra’s wider area from the saddle.

FAQ

Where does the horse riding start?

Your guide meets you at your hotel or camp in Wadi Musa (Petra), then transfers you to the riding site in the Little Petra area to meet the horses.

How long is the tour?

The horse riding adventure is about 3 hours.

What is the price per person?

The price is $145.00 per person.

Does the tour include pickup?

Yes. Pickup and transportation from/to your hotel or camp in Wadi Musa are included.

Is there an English-speaking guide?

Yes. The tour includes an English speaking horse riding guide.

What route does the ride cover?

The ride goes from Kharoubat Al Fajjah to Siq Ghrab, with stops that include the Neolithic village area and Siq Al Barid.

Is lunch included?

A light lunch is included as part of the ride, and there’s also a light snack during the activity.

Are helmets or chaps included?

No. Horse riding equipment such as chaps and helmets is not included.

Is this a group tour?

It’s private. Only your group will participate.

What are the operating hours?

Tours run daily from 7:00 AM to 7:00 PM (Monday through Sunday) within the listed operating period.

What if the weather is bad?

If the experience is canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.