has anyone used "desert eco tours" for a day trip? they seem very good per their website. i would like to book, but it seems that there is a non refundable deposit and i am interersted in anyone's tour guide experiences before i commit.

I can't remember who we used for our day trip. We just used the company used by the travel desk at our hotel and booked it the night before. I don't think there is that much difference in the different companies operating from Eilat, but don't quote me on that. It's just that it's kind of one of those types of things that allow for x,y, and z, and that's about it. Sorry I can't be more help. I think it's around US$250 pp or thereabouts. If you will be staying in a hotel in Eilat, try sending them an email and ask if they have a company that they recommend. They might even answer your email. Only joking. Well, not really.

Eco Tours is one of several companies offering tours to Petra which are all around the same price. Since January this is an additional tax which needs to be paid by those who depart from Eilat and are not staying in a hotel in Jordan, which increases the cost of the tour by close to $90 (more than previous prices). Therefore, the price runs between $250-$325 for a day tour including everything. And,any company that wants your business will answer you in a timely fashion. But give them a day or so (there is a time difference after all).

lol and thanks tiny dancer and chako chako. we did make reservations with eco tours and they were very patient and responded very quickly with all my questions.

*just one chako!

Have fun!

We went to Wadi Rum and Petra from Eilat last year and the 2 guides that Deserteco gave us were unsatisfactory. I hope your experience will be better. We would all benefit with your evaluation when you return.

i will report back.