Need to get from Wadi Musa to Aqaba? This guide details the top travel options, including buses, taxis, and private cars.
We have tried and ranked all transport options between Wadi Musa and Aqaba from the cheapest to the most comfortable. This is what we learned.
Key Takeaways
- Wadi Musa and Aqaba are located at a distance of 125 kilometres from each other with the fastest transfer taking less than 2 hours. Be prepared to pay between 8 JODs and 60 JODs depending on the mode of transport you choose.
- Public buses are the cheapest option from Wadi Musa to Aqaba, taking between 3 and 4 hours, but plan ahead as they don’t run on Fridays – Muslim Sunday 😉
- JETT buses offer the best value-for-money, offering comfortable transfers for 15 JODs per person.
- For more comfort and flexibility, consider hiring a private car or taking a taxi, which costs more but offers door-to-door service.
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- Key Takeaways
- Make the Most of Your Jordan Trip.
- Buses From Wadi Musa Bus Station
- Bus Schedules and Ticket Prices
- Private Car Hire
- Taxi Services
- Arrival at Aqaba Bus Station
- Beyond Aqaba – Getting to Wadi Rum and Egypt
- Summary
- Frequently Asked Questions
Buses From Wadi Musa Bus Station
Public buses offer an affordable travel option from Wadi Musa to Aqaba. Buses depart several times a day from the Wadi Musa Bus Station, with the first leaving at 5:00 AM, ideal for early risers. The buses depart on a as-full-as-possible basis.
Therefore, it can take quite some time for the bus to depart after you have gotten your ticket. Note that buses typically do not run on Fridays, so plan your trip accordingly.
The journey takes approximately 3-4 hours, covering around 115 kilometres. Local mini buses usually don’t take the conventional highway route. Instead, they opt for local roads, stopping at multiple villages along the way. While this makes the ride more panoramic, it also means it will be a bit more bumpy.
If you value comfort, opting for a JETT Bus, might be your choice. The Jordanian JETT Bus company, Jordan’s FlixBus (or Greyhound) operates a fleet of modern, climatized buses between all major tourist destinations, including Aqaba.
JETT Bus offers daily connections between Wadi Musa and Aqaba, departing in the early evening around 5 p.m. Unlike the local mini buses, JETT buses depart on the street right in front of the entrance of the Petra Visitor Center, making it a lot more convenient option for travelers staying close to Petra.
In comparison with the local mini buses, JETT buses also offer more leg room, more space for luggage and overall more comfort. For solo travelers or small groups who don’t mind a fixed schedule, public buses provide an economical and straightforward way to travel from Wadi Musa to Aqaba.
Bus Schedules and Ticket Prices
Knowing the bus schedules and ticket prices helps in planning your trip. Local mini buses usually operate in the morning, with the first leaving at 5:00 AM, and the journey can take 3-4 hours depending on traffic and stops. Services are limited after noon, so missing the morning bus may mean waiting until the next day.
A bus ticket from Wadi Musa to Aqaba on a local mini bus costs around 8 JOD to 10 JOD, making it the cheapest option to get from Wadi Musa to Aqaba by a mile. To secure a seat, arrive at the bus station as early as possible and ask around to find the correct bus. Public transportation can be unpredictable, so being early is better than missing your bus.
Taking a JETT bus, on the other side, is a lot more hassle-free. Just visit the JETT Bus website at least a day before your trip and book your ticket from Wadi Musa to Aqaba. Note that the connection is labelled as “Petra to Aqaba” on the website, because it departs right ins front of the entrance of the Petra Visitor Center.
Tickets from Petra to Aqaba cost 15 JODs per person, making them the best value-for-money option. On the day of your bus trip, make sure to be at the bus station on time and be prepared to show your digital ticket to the driver. After that, all that is left to do, is to take your seat and enjoy the ride.
Private Car Hire
If comfort and flexibility are more important than cost, hiring a private car is a great option. Rental cars are affordable in Jordan and you can rent them without a problem at any of the international airports. Just search your dates on your preferred rental car platform and make your booking in advance.
After picking up your rental car, make your from Amman to Petra and continue your journey from there. The drive from Petra to Aqaba takes about 2 hours, making it one of the fastest ways to travel. You can reach your destination in around two hours without any hassle.
A major advantage of hiring a private car is the flexibility it offers. You can customise your route, make stops, and travel at your own pace. For inspiration for your Jordan road trip, we highly recommend you to check out our 10-day Jordan itinerary.
Taxi Services
Taxis offer another convenient way to travel from Wadi Musa to Aqaba. Easily found outside Petra or at the Wadi Musa bus station, a one-way trip costs around 60 JOD. You can negotiate fares for additional stops. The taxi ride takes about 2 hours, similar to a private car hire, providing a quick and comfortable option.
A benefit of taking a taxi is the door-to-door service. No need to worry about bus schedules or boarding processes; just hop in and go. Many taxi driver are knowledgeable about the area and provide valuable insights and recommendations, adding convenience and enjoyment to your journey.
Though taxis are more expensive than buses, the comfort and ease they offer make them worthwhile, especially if traveling with heavy luggage or seeking a personalised experience. For a hassle-free and direct trip from Wadi Musa to Aqaba, consider taking a taxi.
For the most convenient transfer between the two cities, we recommend booking a taxi online. This way, you get a transparent price for your taxi ride without having to negotiate on the spot. Additionally, you can find many local taxi drivers offering their services on Facebook. Beware of scammers, however.
Arrival at Aqaba Bus Station
Upon arriving at Aqaba Bus Station, various options are available to reach your final destination. For one, Aqaba Bus Station is quite central already, offering itself for a little walk around the center, and possibly to your hotel.
Within Aqaba City, we recommend catching taxis to get to your destination. Taxis are quite affordable – especially once you get into the habit of negotiating prices – and a fast and comfortable option to get to any hotels and landmarks.
Popular local attractions for city explorers include Aqaba Fort and the beautiful beaches along the Red Sea coast. Aqaba also offers diverse dining options, from local Jordanian cuisine to international dishes, catering to all tastes.
We personally enjoyed the breakfast options of La Firma Restaurant, located right next to Bratus Hotel Aqaba, one of the best hotels of the cities.
Beyond Aqaba – Getting to Wadi Rum and Egypt
Aqaba is not just an endpoint; it’s a gateway to further adventures. Nearby, Wadi Rum is a popular destination known for its stunning landscapes and rich history in the middle east. Located just a short drive from Aqaba, Wadi Rum is a must-visit for those interested in Jordan’s natural beauty.
From Aqaba to Wadi Rum
Whether you are travelling by bus, rental car or taxi, Wadi Rum is the perfect next destination after your stop in Aqaba. Enjoy the Red Sea on one of Aqaba’s beaches and head into the red desert of Wadi Rum after.
For an immersive experience, explore Wadi Tribe’s packages. These tours include activities like camel rides and overnight stays in traditional Bedouin tents, offering a unique glimpse into local culture and landscape. Whether for a day trip or an extended stay, Wadi Rum has something for everyone.
On your transfer from Aqaba to Wadi Rum, you can once again trust the services of JETT bus, local mini buses, rental cars and taxis. For pricing information, schedules and insider tips, check out our guide on how to get to Wadi Rum from Aqaba.
From Aqaba to Egypt
Aqaba is not only the an interesting destination on the shores of the Red Sea and the gateway to Wadi Rum. The biggest city of Southern Jordan also serves as a transit point for travelers between Jordan and Egypt.
From Aqaba International Airport, you can catch an airplane to Cairo. A direct flight connection between Jordan and Egypt is operated by the airline Royal Jordanian and departs daily at 12.20 p.m. If you are planning to visit the Sinai Peninsula, there is no direct flight connections to Sharm El-Sheikh.
To get to the Sinai Peninsula, your best way is to get to Egypt is the Nuweiba Aqaba Ferry. We took it a couple of years ago and shared all insights you will need in our guide “How to Get From Aqaba to Nuweiba”. Check it out, fi you are planning to go to Egypt after Jordan.
Summary
In summary, whether you choose public buses, private car hire, or taxis, each transportation option from Wadi Musa to Aqaba has its own set of advantages. Public buses are the most budget-friendly, while private car hires and taxis offer more comfort and flexibility.
Ultimately, the best way to travel depends on your preferences, budget, and schedule. By considering the tips and information provided in this guide, you can make an informed decision that ensures a smooth and enjoyable journey to Aqaba.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does the bus ride from Wadi Musa to Aqaba take?
The bus ride from Wadi Musa to Aqaba usually takes about 3 to 4 hours, depending on traffic and any stops along the way.
How much does a bus ticket from Wadi Musa to Aqaba cost?
A bus ticket from Wadi Musa to Aqaba usually costs around 15 JODs It’s a pretty affordable way to travel!
Can I hire a private car from Wadi Musa to Aqaba?
Absolutely! You can hire a private car from Wadi Musa to Aqaba, and the trip takes around 2-3 hours. Ideally, you should plan to rent a car from Amman onwards.
Are taxis available from Wadi Musa to Aqaba?
For sure, you can catch a taxi from Wadi Musa to Aqaba, and it’ll set you back about 60 JOD for a one-way ride.
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