Little Petra (Siq al-Barid)
Petra, Jordan
About This Activity
Siq al-Barid — 'Little Petra' — is a miniature version of Petra located 8km north of the main site, and entry is free. The short gorge contains Nabataean carved façades, cave dwellings, and triclinia (dining rooms) used by traders traveling the Incense Route. The highlight is the Painted House — a small cave with remarkably preserved frescoes depicting birds, vine tendrils, and a central figure holding a wine goblet, painted in the 1st century CE. Little Petra sees a fraction of the main site's crowds and is a peaceful, contemplative counterpart to the bustle of the main Petra archaeological park.
See This in an Itinerary
This activity appears in 19 of our curated itineraries.
Best 5 Days in Jordan — Walking Tours
Amman → Petra → Wadi Rum
Best 5 Days in Jordan — Without Photography
Amman → Petra → Wadi Rum
Best 7 Days in Jordan — Walking Tours
Amman → Petra → Wadi Rum
Best 7 Days in Jordan — Budget
Amman → Petra → Wadi Rum
Best 7 Days in Jordan — Without Photography
Amman → Petra → Wadi Rum
Best 7 Days in Jordan — Solo Travel
Amman → Petra → Wadi Rum
More Activities in Petra
The Treasury (Al-Khazneh)
Walk the Siq canyon to Petra's iconic Treasury — the rose-red Nabataean façade carved directly into the cliff
The Monastery (Ad-Deir)
Hike 850 rock-cut steps to Petra's largest carved monument — the Monastery, even more dramatic than the Treasury
The Siq Canyon Walk
Walk the 1.2km Siq — Petra's dramatic narrow gorge lined with ancient water channels and carved votives
Petra by Night
Walk the candlelit Siq after dark to see the Treasury illuminated by 1,500 candles — a magical evening experience
Royal Tombs of Petra
Explore the dramatic Royal Tombs — Petra's grandest royal burial chambers carved into the eastern cliff face
High Place of Sacrifice
Hike to Petra's ritual altar on the mountain summit for panoramic views over the ancient city
Free Day in Petra
A free day to explore Petra's more remote trails, Little Petra, or simply relax in Wadi Musa