The entrance fee to Petra includes a ‘free’ ride on various forms of animal transport and you will be offered this transport by a number of local Bedouin on the walk into the ancient city. While free to ride, there is a strong expectation that you will need to tip the animals' owners.In 2018 the animal rights group PETA (People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals) launched an international campaign highlighting the mistreatment of working animals in the ancient city of Petra. The animals – horses, donkeys and camels - carry both tourists and supplies to the city and through it.The situation is a complex one – Jordanian organisations and their international partners are trying to improve the conditions for the animals, and for many local Bedouin this activity provides their only income, yet issues around animal cruelty are raised on a regular basis. UNESCO themselves have stated that switching to motorised transport is not the preferred option in the ancient city.It is Intrepid’s request that our travellers avoid riding these animals where possible, due to the poor working conditions. On Intrepid trips, animal rides included in our itineraries are only undertaken once animal wellbeing has been previously established by a professional team. You can read our Animal Welfare policy for more information.