Petra – The Rose-Red City of Wonders, where ancient Nabatean architecture, vibrant culture, and breathtaking landscapes create an unforgettable experience.
Carved into rose-colored rock more than 2,000 years ago, Petra is not only a UNESCO World Heritage Site but also a living hub of Bedouin culture. Beyond its archaeological marvels, visitors can experience authentic local traditions, cuisine, music, and hospitality — immersing themselves in the soul of Jordan’s most iconic destination.
Location: Petra Town – Cultural & Beauty Tradition Experience
Discover the ancient beauty rituals of the Middle East with a hands-on henna and kohl session guided by local artisans. Learn about the symbolism behind henna patterns used in body art, and the preparation and application of kohl for eye decoration — a practice rooted in beauty, protection, and desert life. This immersive activity connects visitors to centuries-old Arabian traditions while offering a creative and memorable cultural experience.
Location: Petra or Umm Sayhoun Village – Culinary & Cultural Experience
Meet a Bedouin woman and witness the traditional art of bread-making over open fire. Smell the aromatic dough baking in sand or iron domes, and taste warm, earthy bread served with olive oil, thyme, or tea. This simple culinary ritual reflects Bedouin generosity and hospitality, providing an authentic, hands-on connection to desert life and Jordanian culture.
Location: Umm Sayhoun Village – Home Dining & Cultural Exchange
Enjoy an authentic home-cooked meal with a local Bedouin family. Guests are welcomed into their home to share dishes such as mansaf, maqluba, and stuffed vegetables while learning about daily life and traditions. The intimate atmosphere creates meaningful cultural exchange and lasting memories, offering a true taste of Petra’s hospitality and community spirit.
Location: Petra Archaeological Park – Private Dining & Cultural Experience
Experience an unforgettable evening amidst Petra’s ancient rock formations. Set beneath the stars, the gala dinner features candlelight, traditional rugs, and live Bedouin music. Guests savor authentic Jordanian cuisine while soaking in the timeless beauty of the Nabataean city — a magical combination of gastronomy, culture, and desert ambiance.
Location: Petra Archaeological Site – Romantic & Cultural Celebration
Celebrate a dream wedding in one of the world’s most mystical settings. Exchange vows surrounded by candlelit canyons and rose-red cliffs during the Petra by Night event. Complete the celebration with Bedouin music, traditional cuisine, and the spiritual ambiance of the desert — an unforgettable way to honor love amid ancient history.
Location: Petra to Wadi Rum Route – Adventure & Outdoor Experience
Embark on a multi-day horseback journey from Petra to the desert of Wadi Rum. Led by experienced guides, the trail passes through dramatic canyons, open plateaus, and historic trade routes, offering an immersive adventure that combines heritage, freedom, and the raw beauty of Jordanian landscapes.
Location: Petra – Culinary & Historical Experience
Dine in a unique venue — the Cave Bar, located inside a 2,000-year-old Nabataean tomb. Guests enjoy local and international cuisine amidst ancient stone walls and ambient lighting. This extraordinary setting combines history, culinary excellence, and comfort, making it the perfect stop after exploring Petra’s Lost City.
Location: Petra Town – Culinary Workshop & Group Experience
Join local chefs for a hands-on cooking workshop and prepare classic Jordanian dishes such as hummus, maqluba, and baba ghanoush. Guests cook, share stories, and enjoy their meal in a communal setting, celebrating culinary heritage, culture, and the joy of cooking together.
Location: Petra Archaeological Site – Nighttime Cultural Experience
Witness the Treasury illuminated by thousands of candles under the desert sky. The Petra by Night experience includes traditional Bedouin music, storytelling, and lantern-lit Siq paths, offering a spiritual and reflective evening that brings Petra’s magic to life after dark.
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Location: Petra or Local Camp – Music & Cultural Performance
Join locals in the energetic Dabke dance, a beloved Arab folk tradition. Accompanied by drums, singing, and rhythmic clapping, guests learn the steps and participate in this communal celebration of joy, heritage, and togetherness — a lively cultural experience in Petra’s heart.
Location: Petra or Local Home – Culinary & Cultural Experience
Discover Jordan’s national dish, mansaf, prepared in the traditional Bedouin style with lamb, rice, and jameed yogurt sauce. Guests participate in cooking, learn dining etiquette, and enjoy this communal meal — a culinary ritual representing generosity, unity, and Jordanian identity.
Location: Petra Town – Wellness & Relaxation Experience
After a day exploring Petra, unwind with a traditional Turkish Hammam. The two-hour session includes steam, exfoliation, and a therapeutic massage, rejuvenating both body and mind. This wellness ritual blends ancient Middle Eastern practices with modern comfort, providing a peaceful conclusion to an adventurous day.
Thakafat Jo is a woman-led cultural initiative connecting travelers with Jordanian heritage through authentic, community-based experiences. Guests can dine with local families, participate in traditional cooking and craft workshops, and support women-led social enterprises. Each visit fosters cultural exchange, empowers local communities, and offers an immersive glimpse into Jordan’s living traditions.
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