Wadi Rum is a destination in its own right, both for its surreal landscape and pleasantly isolated location. You’ll want to spend the night to get the most out of your experience. Whether you want to feel like you’ve landed on Mars or prefer something a bit more down to earth, this list has you covered.
## Immerse Yourself in the Magic of Wadi Rum: Unique Stays for Every Traveler
Wadi Rum, a protected desert wilderness in southern Jordan, offers an otherworldly experience unlike any other. From its towering sandstone mountains to its sweeping red dunes, this landscape captivates the senses and invites adventure. For those seeking an unforgettable stay, Wadi Rum presents a diverse range of lodging options, each offering a unique perspective on this mesmerizing destination. Let’s explore some of the best places to stay, from luxurious bubble tents to secluded bivouac camping trips.
**Stargaze & Watch the Sunrise from a Luxury Bubble Tent**
Imagine drifting off to sleep under a blanket of stars, nestled in a comfortable bed, and waking up to the breathtaking panorama of the Wadi Rum desert. This dream becomes reality at Wadi Rum Night Camp, a glamping haven located just a 15-minute truck ride from Rum Village. This journey itself is an experience, traversing the roadless desert landscape and building anticipation for the unique accommodation that awaits.
Wadi Rum Night Camp is renowned for its “Full of Stars Hotel,” a collection of inflated, domed structures crafted with transparent plastic. These “bubbles” offer an immersive experience, bringing you as close to the outdoors as possible while maintaining the comforts of a luxury hotel room. Guests can revel in the stunning night sky from the plush comfort of real beds, complete with high-end linens, ensuring a restful and indulgent sleep. The sensation of waking up within the bubble, bathed in the soft glow of the desert sunrise, is truly unforgettable.
Each bubble is meticulously designed for comfort and convenience. The temperature is carefully controlled to ensure a pleasant stay regardless of the desert’s extremes, and each bubble boasts a private bathroom, allowing for a comfortable and private experience. A small patio extends the living space outdoors, providing the perfect spot to savor a morning coffee or simply soak in the majestic scenery.
With only 25 reservations available each night, Wadi Rum Night Camp offers a boutique and intimate atmosphere. The camp’s smaller size contributes to a personalized experience, where guests can truly connect with the surroundings and fellow travelers. The buffet is a culinary delight, particularly at breakfast. Guests are treated to freshly made *shrak* (flatbread similar to lavash), prepared before their eyes by skilled chefs. This culinary display is a testament to the camp’s dedication to providing an authentic and memorable experience.
Due to the limited number of bubbles, and their increasing popularity, it is highly recommended that you book well in advance. The demand for these unique accommodations is high, and securing a reservation early ensures you won’t miss out on this extraordinary opportunity.
**Book a “Martian Dome” at this Family-Friendly Tourist Camp**
For a different take on glamping in Wadi Rum, SunCity Camp provides a fantastic alternative. This established camp is a popular choice for tourists, especially those traveling with families or in large groups. With a variety of accommodations to choose from, including spacious, family-size tented chalet suites, SunCity Camp caters to diverse needs and preferences. The wide array of activities available ensures that there is something for everyone to enjoy.
SunCity Camp is not a hidden secret, but its popularity is well-deserved. The accommodations offer modern amenities, even in the most basic tents, where private bathrooms with showers are standard. The camp exudes a lively atmosphere, filled with the energy of travelers from around the globe. One of the most captivating aspects of SunCity is its embrace of Bedouin traditions.
A highlight is the large-scale cooking of *zarb*, a traditional Bedouin dish consisting of meat and vegetables cooked in an underground oven. The preparation of *zarb* is a spectacle in itself, culminating in the grand unveiling of the tower of food to a gathered crowd of onlookers. The dramatic presentation, complete with oohs and aahs, is a memorable experience.
The most exceptional accommodation at SunCity Camp is undoubtedly the “Martian Domes.” Named in honor of the 2015 blockbuster film that was filmed nearby, these domes offer a unique and luxurious stay. Similar in concept to the bubble tents, the Martian Domes are designed to provide guests with a comfortable and immersive experience. Each dome is fully air-conditioned, equipped with a mini-bar offering non-alcoholic beverages, and features a spacious terrace with unparalleled mountain views.
Even if you are unable to secure a Martian Dome, a stay at SunCity Camp remains a rewarding experience. The sight of the dome-dotted desert is wildly photogenic, providing ample opportunities to capture stunning memories.
**Get the Best of Both Worlds at a Resort-Style Lodge**
If you crave the amenities of a resort while still being immersed in the beauty of Wadi Rum, Bait Ali Lodge is the perfect choice. Situated between the Desert Highway turnoff and Rum Village, this sprawling compound offers a unique blend of desert adventure and resort-style comfort.
Bait Ali Lodge features air-conditioned chalets, ensuring a relaxing stay in the desert heat. A shopping bazaar offers a chance to purchase souvenirs and local crafts, while its own amphitheater provides a space for cultural performances and entertainment. One of the most surprising features of Bait Ali Lodge is its swimming pool, a welcome oasis in the arid landscape.
While the lodge also offers a campground, the focus is undoubtedly on providing a luxurious and comfortable experience. The restaurant at Bait Ali Lodge boasts a wider range of dining options than many other camps in Wadi Rum. Guests can savor organic produce, indulge in ice cream, and enjoy other familiar continental dishes. On Fridays, the lodge comes alive with a party atmosphere, complete with a DJ and traditional barbecue.
**Get (Far) Away From It All on a Digital Detox Retreat**
In recent years, wellness-focused retreats have gained popularity throughout Jordan. The dramatic and ancient desert landscape of Wadi Rum provides an ideal setting for yoga and meditation. A “digital detox” yoga retreat in the desert near Wadi Rum offers a unique opportunity to disconnect from the digital world and reconnect with yourself.
You will be transported to an area with limited cell service and no Wi-Fi, facilitating a complete escape from digital distractions. A skilled chef will prepare healthy and nourishing meals, and you’ll sleep under the vast open sky. Depending on the group’s interests, you can participate in a range of activities, including meditative walks, vinyasa flow yoga sessions, a fire ceremony, and a drum circle. Alternatively, you can simply spend your evenings stargazing, immersing yourself in the quiet beauty of the desert night.
The digital detox experience can be tailored to your preferences. You can opt for a one-night excursion or partake in a multi-day yoga retreat or horseback riding tour that incorporates an off-the-grid experience.
**Have the Desert to Yourself on a Bivouac Camping Trip**
For those who seek solitude and a truly immersive desert experience, a *bivouac* camping trip is an excellent choice. A knowledgeable Bedouin guide will lead you to a secluded spot, setting up a simple campsite with mattresses and blankets. You’ll have the opportunity to explore the surrounding area, hike through stunning landscapes, scramble on unique rock formations, or even ride the dunes on sandboards.
As the sun sets, you can enjoy sweet sage tea and traditional Bedouin cuisine around a crackling fire. As the stars emerge, you’ll find yourself drifting off to sleep in the quiet silence of the remote wilderness, experiencing a level of peace and tranquility that is rare in the modern world. Waking up to the sunrise over the vast desert landscape is an unforgettable experience. The memories forged in the heart of Wadi Rum will stay with you long after you leave.
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