An ancient trade road past Crusader castles and canyons to Petra. That is what King's Highway promises, and it delivers. At about 175 miles (282 km), it is a drive best taken slowly, over 2–3 days, with time to pull over whenever the view demands it on the way from Madaba to Petra.
Open this route in XCRSNSetting out from Madaba
Start early, with a full tank and a loose plan. Madaba is where the road begins, and the first miles set the rhythm for everything that follows.
The first big moment is Mount Nebo. Give it the time it deserves; it is why many people make this trip at all.
Along the way
The road strings together Karak and Dana. Each one makes a natural break, and Dana sits close to the middle if you want to split the drive with a night's sleep.
Do not miss Wadi Mujib overlook.
Arriving in Petra
Save energy for the final stretch: Karak Castle and Petra are still ahead.
By the end you will have seen Mount Nebo, Wadi Mujib overlook, Karak Castle and Petra, and you will understand why King's Highway belongs on any list of great drives.
When to go and how to pace it
The best time to drive it is March–May or September–November. Plan on 2–3 days so the drive never feels rushed.
Check route weather and fuel stops on the Plan tab before you go.
XCRSN prices fuel for every leg in the local currency, finds stops along the way and books overnights near each town.
