The cheapest option is probably to make your own way to Jordan (either via bus to Eilat > cross Aqaba or taking the bus Nazareth > Amman), visit Petra from there (you'll need to ask on the Jordan forum about transport) then return to Israel via the Allenby bridge and get the minibus back to Jerusalem (unless you want to return to Eilat orTravel advice for Lebanon; Israel and Egypt border. There have been security incidents in the southern city of Eilat and the surrounding area near the Gulf of Aqaba. This includes the border crossing with Egypt near Eilat. There have been deaths and injuries. More information: Travel advice for Egypt; Israel and Syria border Location: Israel, the West Bank, and Gaza. Event: Security Alert #4 (October 9, 2023) The U.S. Embassy continues to closely monitor the dynamic security situation in the Gaza periphery (the areas of Israel near Gaza) and in Gaza. There are active military operations in the Gaza periphery and Gaza, as well as rocket and mortar fire in the Gaza
1- Go to the bus station at least a day (and up to a week) before your ride and order a ticket from the ticket booth. You can also come on the same day and try your luck. There might be an empty seat, but might not be. 2- Dial +972-3-6948888 and reserve your seat through customer service.
Save. Israel is safe and specifically Eilat is very safe. Many English speaking tourists visit Eilat so you will have no problem meeting other tourists. Usually the hostels are the best place for meeting other single travelers. Regarding Egypt, there are some serious security issues in Sinai specifically regarding tourists. Ew3kom.