Petra is one of those bucket-list destinations that lives up to the hype. Hidden deep in the Jordanian desert, this ancient city carved into rose-red cliffs feels like something straight out of an Indiana Jones movie. Our travelers have delved into the beauty of this ancient, following the footsteps of the Nabatean and simply marveling at the palace’s beauty. As we have checked that bucket list, we know we can’t get enough of the Wonders of the World and magnificent ruins. So, we are looking forward to discovering other ancient places like Petra.
Luckily, Petra is not the only place in the world that keeps a marvelous mystery. If you’ve been to Petra or just want to explore more places with that same epic, ancient wonder vibe, here are 9 destinations you’ll want to add to your travel wish list.
Places like Petra – Summary
- Hegra, Saudi Arabia
- Wadi Rum, Jordan
- Luxor, Egypt
- Machu Picchu, Peru
- Montezuma Castle National Monument, USA
- Chichen Itza, Mexico
- Rajasthan, India
- Rajasthan, India
- Angkor Wat, Cambodia
1. Hegra, Saudi Arabia
Another marvelous Nabatean side awaiting to be discovered lies in Saudi Arabia, Petra’s neighboring country. Visiting Hegra (also known as Al-Ula or Madain Saleh) is like stepping into Petra’s long-lost twin. It’s dotted with over 100 well-preserved tombs carved into sandstone cliffs, built by the same civilization that created Petra. Moreover, the site invites history buffs to find out about the Nabatean’s innovation, which matches other powerful civilizations like the Egyptians.
Why it’s a great alternative to Petra:
- Tombs and temples carved in rose-colored rocks, similar to what you can find in Petra
- Fewer tourists, so you can explore in peace
- Both Hegra and Petra are listed in the UNESCO World Heritage
2. Wadi Rum, Jordan
Why don’t we start with the closest site? Just a two-hour drive from Petra stands an archaeological site that takes you into a Prince of Persia scene. Wadi Rum offers the same dramatic, rugged beauty as Petra—just with more sand and stars. “This desert allows us to immerse in the silence, away from the hustle and bustle we know. We can hear it speak through the rocky peaks and ancient carvings,” said TripLeader Carina, a journalist who has traveled back and forth to Jordan.
Visiting Wadi Rum means being stunned by its blend of natural charms and manmade wonders. Natural arches and sandstone mountains like Burdah Rock Bridge stun. Meanwhile, prehistoric inscriptions line the rocky caverns, like Khazali Canyon.
Why it’s a great alternative to Petra:
- It offers similar historical patterns and wonders to Petra, just without the temples
- Stunning desert landscapes and rock formations
- Bedouin culture and desert camp experiences
3. Luxor, Egypt
“Visiting Luxor means seeing history up close. Karnak and Luxor Temples are some of the most gorgeous ancient sites you can expect. They might remind you of Petra, just with a different civilization,” said TripLeader Carmen, a former producer assistant who chose to learn history in Egypt.
When talking about Egypt, our minds run straight to the Pyramid of Giza. But, if we want Petra’s intricate facade and picture-perfect scene, Luxor comes to match it. Temples, tombs, and statues are scattered along the banks of the Nile, and everywhere you turn, there’s a piece of ancient Egyptian history to uncover.
Why it’s a great alternative to Petra:
- Intricate and grandeur structure, like what Petra is offering
- Rich archaeological history and mystery
- More accessible and require less physical activity to visit
4. Machu Picchu, Peru
“I have been to Jordan, I have visited Machu Picchu – would say that Machu Picchu can match Petra’s mystery and wonders. Plus, it has a beautiful landscape of the Andes,” said TripLeader Marie, who has traveled around the world with JoinMyTrip for more than three years.
Machu Picchu is often listed as one of the best places to visit before you die. No wonder, the ancient site has an unmatched beauty and mystic energy, showcased by the distinctive stone-built ruins. It is South America’s epitome of places like Petra.
Why it’s a great alternative to Petra:
- Incredible ancient ruins in a remote setting
- Similar historical value but with a different setting (deserts for Petra, jungles for Machu Picchu)
- It offers a hiking and adventurous experience, just like what you need if you visit Petra
5. Montezuma Castle National Monument, USA
A castle-like structure carved into a cliff wall? Sure sounds like Petra! Montezuma Castle sits between the limestones of Arizona, USA. It showcases a fascinating glimpse into ancient Native American life. These 900-year-old dwellings built by the Sinagua people remind travelers of Petra’s rock-cut structures—just on a smaller scale.
Why it’s a great alternative to Petra:
- Similar architectural structure – an ancient building carved into cliffs
- Easy to explore with walking trails
- Less touristy and super accessible
6. Chichen Itza, Mexico
Telling the tale of the Maya Empire, Chichen Itza is one of the most legendary ancient sites in the world. The pyramid is very well-preserved, standing in the middle of Mexican jungle. Like Petra, it is cloaked in mysteries while showcasing the advancement of an ancient civilization. Although you cannot climb up the El Castillo pyramid, simply marveling at its structure can also trigger your curiosity.
Why it’s a great alternative to Petra:
- A UNESCO World Heritage site and New Seven Wonder of the World – like Petra
- Rich history and fascinating legends
- Accessible from popular Mexican destinations
7. Matera, Italy
This Italian town dates back as old as the prehistoric times, gaining recognition as the country’s historically rich spot. However, Matera does not only stun with its history, but also its architecture. Like Petra, Matera features buildings carved into limestone cliffs. Instead of a single building, a whole neighborhood lies inside the caverns in Matera. With all it has to offer, Matera is one of the best places like Petra to see in Europe.
Why it’s a great alternative to Petra:
- Homes, churches, and monasteries carved into rock caverns – similar to Petra
- For European travelers, Matera is a unique ancient site to visit without flying far
- A hidden gem with fewer tourists than Petra
8. Rajasthan, India
This royal Indian city might not have ancient structures carved into cliff walls, but it is majestic. “Rajasthan is one of the best places in India, known for as the residence for the maharaja (king/great ruler). It has beautiful palaces, great cuisine, and more,” said TripLeader Om, a local buddy from India. Rajasthan brings together the grandeur of ancient kingdoms and the magic of desert landscapes. From the pink city of Jaipur to the golden dunes of Jaisalmer, it offers Petra’s desert adventure feel—plus vibrant culture and color.
Why it’s a great alternative to Petra:
- Grand forts, ancient cities, and desert dunes
- Rich history, culture, and local hospitality
- Camel safaris and traditional markets
- Perfect for combining history and adventure
9. Angkor Wat, Cambodia
The temples of Angkor Wat rise from the Cambodian jungle like something from a forgotten world. Much like Petra, Angkor Wat leaves you in awe with its scale, intricate carvings, and sense of ancient mystery.
Why it’s a great alternative to Petra:
- Massive temple complex surrounded by nature
- Fascinating Khmer history and culture
- Sunrise views that rival Petra’s Treasury
- Great for exploring both history and nature
Ready to explore ancient wonders beyond Petra?
The world is full of jaw-dropping ancient sites, and these destinations prove it. From desert landscapes to hidden temples and cliffside cities, adventure is calling—are you ready to answer?
Find your perfect adventure with a group of like-minded travelers at JoinMyTrip and uncover the world’s ancient wonders together!