Wadi Musa

Wadi Musa, a small town in southern Jordan, is located just 3.5 km from the ancient city of Petra. The town, whose name means "Valley of Moses," serves as a gateway to the famous archaeological site. In Wadi Musa, you can drink from the legendary Moses Spring, learn about local history at the new Petra Museum, or begin your journey into the ancient city of Petra itself.

Location and Proximity to Petra

Wadi Musa is situated in the Ma'an Governorate of southern Jordan, approximately 240 km from Amman, the capital city. The town extends along a 4 km road that leads directly to the entrance of Petra, making it a convenient base for exploring the ancient Nabataean city. Most hotels in Wadi Musa are within walking distance or a short drive from Petra's visitor center, allowing for easy access to the archaeological site.

Accommodation in Wadi Musa

With over 50 hotels, Wadi Musa caters to a wide range of budgets and preferences. You'll find everything from international luxury chains to local guesthouses. Many rooms provide views of the surrounding mountains. It's advisable to book in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons, to ensure you secure your preferred lodging option.

Local Points of Interest

While Petra is the primary reason most visitors come to Wadi Musa, the town itself has several interesting sites. The Petra Museum, opened in 2019, houses artifacts and exhibits that provide context for your visit to the ancient city. You can also visit Ain Musa, the spring associated with Moses, which is now protected by a small domed structure. For relaxation after a day of exploring, you can try one of the Turkish baths in town, where you'll experience a traditional Middle Eastern spa treatment.

Getting to Wadi Musa

Several transportation options connect Wadi Musa to other parts of Jordan. If you're coming from Amman, you can take the JETT bus, which departs daily at 6:30 AM and arrives in Wadi Musa around 10:30 AM. Alternatively, you can rent a car, hire a private driver, or join an organized tour. The drive from Amman takes about three hours via the Desert Highway. From Aqaba, the journey is shorter, taking approximately 1 hour and 45 minutes by car.

Climate and Best Time to Visit

Wadi Musa has a semi-arid climate with hot summers and cool winters. The average annual temperature is 15.5°C (59.9°F), with most rainfall occurring in winter. Spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) have milder temperatures, making exploration more comfortable. These seasons also tend to have lower accommodation prices compared to the peak summer months.

Historical Significance

The name Wadi Musa translates to "Valley of Moses" in Arabic, reflecting the area's biblical connections. According to local legend, Moses passed through this valley and struck a rock to bring forth water for his followers. This event is commemorated at Ain Musa, or "Moses' Spring," which you can visit in the town. The Nabataeans later built channels to carry water from this spring to their capital city of Petra, demonstrating the area's long-standing importance as a water source in the desert region.