An adventurer’s paradise, Wadi Rum is a crown jewel of Jordan’s ancient desert. Explore the rugged landscape from the back of a Jeep, ride a camel, or take a hike: no matter how you go, you won’t be disappointed by this remote wonderland.
Wadi Rum, a breathtaking expanse of unparalleled beauty, stands as one of the world’s most magnificent deserts. It is far more than simply a sea of gently undulating dunes. This protected wilderness, nestled near Jordan’s southern border, possesses a distinctive character, a unique allure stemming from the dramatic sandstone and basalt mountains that rise majestically from its sandy foundation. Affectionately known as “The Valley of the Moon,” a name richly deserved, the area boasts an endless natural intrigue. The combination of stunning rock formations, each a testament to the passage of time, the presence of fascinating rock art, whispering tales of ancient civilizations, and the sheer brilliance of the night sky, creates an unparalleled and profoundly worthwhile destination. We invite you to delve deeper, continuing to explore this comprehensive guide to Wadi Rum, which aims to assist you in meticulously planning your perfect and unforgettable trip.
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History and Culture
Beyond the inherent and undeniable beauty that defines Wadi Rum, the desert’s storied history and a rich tapestry of cultural elements further contribute to its allure as a premier destination. Petroglyphs, ancient inscriptions etched into stone, and scattered ruins, whispering tales of bygone eras, can be discovered throughout the vast expanse of the desert. These remnants serve as tangible links to the prehistoric Nabatean society, offering glimpses into their lives and beliefs. In more recent times, Wadi Rum was famously introduced to the western world through the writings and exploits of T.E. Lawrence, an iconic figure widely known as “Lawrence of Arabia.” This British officer-turned-author was periodically based in the area during the tumultuous period of the Arab Revolt of 1917, leaving an indelible mark on the region’s history.
Nearly all of the current residents of Wadi Rum are Bedouin. These ancient Bedouin tribes were historically nomadic, their lives intrinsically linked to the herding of their goats and sheep across the vast and unforgiving desert landscape. They moved frequently, establishing temporary settlements as they traversed the region. While a small number of Bedouin families continue to uphold a traditional nomadic lifestyle, the majority have now established a more permanent presence in Rum Village, which represents the only established settlement within the protected area. These residents are now heavily involved in the area’s burgeoning tourism industry, contributing significantly to its growth and development. Despite these changes, many elements of traditional Bedouin life remain ubiquitously present in Wadi Rum, affording visitors the unique opportunity to immerse themselves in an authentic and enriching cultural experience during their visit.
Creating Your Wadi Rum Itinerary
Encompassing nearly 300 square miles of diverse terrain, Wadi Rum is sufficiently expansive to potentially occupy your entire vacation. However, recognizing that most travelers typically allocate only a day or two to this remarkable destination, it becomes crucial to strategically prioritize your desired activities. Meticulous planning and thoughtful selection are essential to maximizing your limited time and ensuring an unforgettable experience. Consider factors like your budget and mobility level when choosing which options you can participate in.
For travelers contemplating a day trip from either Aqaba or Wadi Musa, a guided Jeep tour of the area emerges as the optimal choice for maximizing your available time. This efficient mode of exploration allows you to cover a significant portion of the desert landscape and encounter many of its most iconic landmarks. Begin your journey with a departure from Rum Village, heading towards the renowned Lawrence Spring, where a short but rewarding scramble will reward you with sweeping and breathtaking desert vistas. From there, proceed to stops at Khazali Canyon and Anfishiyyeh, where you can marvel at the ancient inscriptions adorning the impressive rock walls, testaments to the region’s rich history. Following this cultural immersion, indulge in an authentic Bedouin lunch, savoring traditional flavors in the shade of the desert landscape. Afterward, embark on a scenic drive to Um Fruth rock bridge, a natural wonder of remarkable beauty, before continuing your exploration to the lush Abu Khashaba canyon, an oasis of greenery amidst the arid surroundings. Enrich your experience by delving into local lore with a stop at Lawrence House, a historical landmark with intriguing stories to tell. Finally, ensure that your itinerary includes a visit to at least one of the area’s massive sand dunes, offering unparalleled opportunities for panoramic views and memorable photographs, before culminating your day with a breathtaking sunset at Um Sabatah and the return journey.
For an even more immersive experience, staying overnight in Wadi Rum for at least one evening is highly recommended. Sleeping under the desert stars is an unforgettable experience that will create lasting memories. In addition, you will be treated to an immersive Bedouin experience, allowing you to connect with the local culture and traditions on a deeper level. Tour providers typically have associated overnight camps that range from the rustic to the luxurious, catering to a wide spectrum of preferences and budgets. Most overnight camps offer delicious Bedouin dishes for dinner, accompanied by captivating storytelling and live music performed on traditional instruments, providing an authentic taste of local culture. However, perhaps the best aspect of spending the night in Wadi Rum is the opportunity to witness the brilliant night sky, a celestial spectacle that is only second to the comforting cup of hot tea you will savor the next morning as you greet the rising sun.
Adding another day or two to your itinerary will allow you to see even more of the area’s best-loved attractions. Consider spending a morning ascending to the summit of Burdah Rock Bridge, the tallest natural arch in Wadi Rum, where you will be handsomely rewarded with breathtaking and panoramic views that stretch across the desert landscape. Following lunch, embark on a scenic stroll to your second arch of the day at Um Fruth, another remarkable natural formation that offers unique photo opportunities. Another option for travelers with extra time is a leisurely walk through Wadi Nuqra, a picturesque canyon that provides a refreshing contrast to the open desert. Eventually, you can hop in a Jeep for a ride to the Bedouin dams and to admire Cow Rock, an aptly named natural formation that resembles a cow, showcasing the unique geological features of the area.
You can also infuse your agenda with some more adventurous activities, adding an element of thrill and excitement to your Wadi Rum experience. Consider riding a camel to some of the area’s most well-known sights, providing a unique and traditional mode of transportation. Alternatively, you can go rock climbing with a guide on the ancient sandstone walls, challenging yourself physically and mentally while immersing yourself in the natural beauty of the surroundings. For a truly unforgettable experience, consider taking in the sunrise from a hot air balloon, providing a bird’s-eye view of the majestic desert landscape as it awakens with the dawn. With such a diverse array of options, the sky is literally the limit when it comes to crafting an unforgettable adventure in Wadi Rum.
Touring Wadi Rum with a Guide
There are a few different ways to make your way through the dunes and valleys of Wadi Rum’s otherworldly landscape. Whether you prefer a Jeep, camel, or your own two feet, you’ll need a guide to show you around; private vehicles aren’t recommended beyond the Wadi Rum visitor center. Navigating independently is difficult due to the nature of the desert terrain, and finding your way around can be tricky even if you have modern technology to assist you.
Booking an organized tour is your best bet to ensure ease and reliability. A number of excellent providers exist with tour, lodging, and activities packages; custom-crafting an itinerary ahead of time ensures hassle-free travel and fair pricing. Working with experienced professionals means that you can expect your trip to be safe, smooth and memorable.
It’s also possible to book tours once you arrive at the visitor center. Jeep tours are the most efficient way to see it all, and range from two hours to multiple days of sightseeing. Bedouin cooperatives have vehicles and guides available for hire each day, and the price of a four-hour tour sets you back about $95 USD. It’s important to clarify what your tour will include before you go. If you’re interested in making any extra stops, it will likely cost an extra fee that can be negotiated with your guide. Making the most of your time is key when there is so much on offer.
You can also book a guided camel ride at the visitors center. While you won’t cover as much ground as you would in a vehicle, it’s a fun and memorable activity that is unique to the region. Camel rides cost around $30 USD per hour; follow the aforementioned advice for negotiating the terms. This gentle way of seeing the landscape harks back to earlier days and is a great way to immerse yourself in Bedouin culture.
Hiking is also an incredibly popular option for getting around in Wadi Rum. From gentle walks to more advanced scrambles and multi-day treks, exploring by foot affords intrepid travelers a more intimate and adventurous experience. There are two mellow nature trails that begin and end at the visitor center and are easy to follow; if you plan on hiking anywhere else in the wilderness, a hired guide is necessary. Serious hikers can indulge in an endless variety of guided treks, from strolling through a canyon for a single afternoon to nine-day wilderness expeditions. Walking through the sand is much harder than it looks, so you must be reasonably fit and well prepared for your adventure.
Wadi Rum’s Top Sights
Wadi Rum has no shortage of things to see and do. Take a look at our curated list of must-see attractions, both on and off the beaten path. There are hidden gems to be found around every corner, so it’s worth doing your research and deciding what you want to see the most.
Lawrence Spring: Marked by a water tank near the entrance of Wadi Shallalah, this spring is named for T.E. Lawrence, “Lawrence of Arabia,” who famously made the area his military base and home. The official name of the small spring is Ain Abu Aineh, and views are spectacular from the top. This tranquil location is the perfect place to reflect on the history of the area.
Khazali Canyon: A long, narrow canyon known for the impressive number of ancient petroglyphs and inscriptions on the rock walls. The first 100 yards are accessible to all visitors; beyond that point, you’ll need rock climbing skills (and gear). This beautiful spot is not to be missed.
Anfishiyyeh Inscriptions: Located on the side of a mountain, this is an especially impressive collection of Thamudic and Nabataean petroglyphs, complete with ancient drawings of camel caravans. Here, you can feel like you are stepping back in time.
Barrah Canyon: At five kilometers in length, this expansive canyon is a popular tour stop, perfect for a variety of activities: hiking, rock climbing, and camel tours to name a few. This canyon is well worth a visit and is sure to impress.
Burdah Rock Bridge: The tallest natural rock bridge in Wadi Rum, worth the moderately challenging climb to the top for the fantastic views. The views from the top will remain in your memory for years to come.
Um Fruth Rock Bridge: Another unique arch, and one of the most photographed landmarks in the area, this fifteen-meter high bridge is featured on many guided tours. This stunning sight is popular amongst tourists and locals alike.
Seven Pillars of Wisdom: A rock formation named after the famous book by T.E. Lawrence, accessible by hike or easily visible from the visitor center. The views here will not disappoint.
Um Sabatah: An ideal perch for sunset views, this hilltop affords gorgeous vistas of the desert. This is the perfect way to end your day in Wadi Rum.
When To Go
Wadi Rum is a year-round destination, though March-May and September-November are the most temperate months for full days of exploration. Springtime is especially welcoming as desert plants come alive, carpeting the valley floor with bright streaks of wildflowers, and Bedouin herds are once again dotted with adorable baby goats and camels. Paying a visit in summer and winter can be less comfortable weather-wise, with temperatures in the triple digits on the hottest days and hovering in the mid-forties on cold December nights. If you’re willing to brave the elements, however, you will be rewarded with significantly smaller crowds. The ideal time to visit depends on your tolerance of very hot and cold temperatures, as well as your preference for crowded or less populated tourist hotspots.
Getting There
Whether you have one afternoon or multiple days to spend, Wadi Rum is a convenient stop on your travels through Jordan. You’ll probably fly into Amman, making it a great place to start. Take a couple of days to see the capital city and Northern Jordan before heading south, stopping at landmarks like Mount Nebo and the town of Madaba. Spend plenty of time at the ancient city of Petra before finally arriving at Wadi Rum. After a few high-impact days of adventure, you’ll be ready to chill out in the nearby resort town of Aqaba or head straight to the Dead Sea for a swim and some high-end spa treatments. Be sure to schedule your route to optimize travel time as well as the weather conditions.
If you have limited time and want to prioritize Wadi Rum, you can travel there directly via pre-arranged private transport, taxi or public bus from the nearby tourist hubs in Jordan. From Aqaba you can expect to pay anywhere from $28-36 USD for a private taxi, a one hour ride door-to-door. If you’re interested in a same-day roundtrip arrangement, plan to spend around $60. If you prefer to travel by bus, you can depart from the main station in Aqaba. There is one bus per day that leaves for Wadi Rum between 1:00 and 3:00 PM.
Travelers coming from Wadi Musa, the village just outside of Petra, can catch a daily bus for $10 USD one way. Book your trip through a hotel concierge; the bus makes its rounds each morning at 6:00 AM, picking up travelers at all the local lodges before heading straight to Wadi Rum. Alternatively, a two-hour taxi ride from Petra to the major entry points of Wadi Rum will set you back $50.
You’ll be dropped off in Rum Village or at Wadi Rum’s beautiful visitor center: the central hub for tourist activity, located about 25 kilometers after the clearly marked highway turn off to the protected area. In addition to the visitor information desk, you’ll find a few souvenir shops. Most importantly, this is a main meeting spot for a la carte day tours and where you’ll pay the $7 USD park entry fee for international guests.
Spending The Night in Wadi Rum
Your options for spending the night in Wadi Rum vary from luxury glamping to sleeping bags in the open air. Regardless of where your budget and interests fall, the remoteness of this desert paradise means you’ll feel close to nature in even the cushiest of camps. Don’t be deterred by the lack of Western-style lodging; the charming Bedouin hospitality and awe-inspiring beauty of the desert make for a comfortable and enjoyable experience. Remember to carefully check the weather forecast and pack accordingly.
In terms of Bedouin-style camping, you have a few choices. There are a plethora of tourist camps in the area for you to select from, all with fairly similar offerings, although quality and cleanliness vary. Typically, each has a number of private tent cabins that house between 2 and 6 people and shared bathroom facilities with solar-heated water. The communal area normally includes a kitchen, indoor dining area, and outdoor lounge space around a fire. These days, most camps also offer electricity in the evenings, alleviating worries about phones and cameras that need to be charged.
You can also stay with a Bedouin host family for a night in their quaint bayt shacar: a special tent made from strips of goat hair sheep’s wool. Staying with a nomadic family allows for immersion into Bedouin customs, and a chance for deeper cross-cultural conversation. This is an adventurous experience: There are no toilets or showers and you sleep on the floor. This is a highly recommended experience for travelers who are happy to sacrifice comfort for a truly memorable experience.
Particularly adventurous folks might prefer yet another option: to sleep under the stars in the open air. Bivouac camping is incredible, but also incredibly minimalist – remote campsites are sans bathrooms or running water. It’s just your group, the stars, and a roaring fire.
For travelers in search of a true luxury experience, try the Wadi Rum Night Camp. You’ll rethink your definition of camping at this cushy outpost that boasts beautiful furniture in lavish tents, high-end bed linens, and elegant (but mostly shared) bathrooms. One attractive option is their “Full of Stars Hotel”: a collection of domed bubble tents made partially of transparent plastic, perfect for stargazing.
If full-on camping isn’t your style, you might want to try Bait Ali Lodge, an established campground just outside Wadi Rum. Their offerings include some rooms with air-conditioning, a restaurant, and even a swimming pool. You can stay in one of their structures – they have cabins and big canvas tents – or bring your own camping gear to set up. One important note: Bait Ali does not organize tours of the protected area, so you’ll need to book that separately.
Spending The Night in Aqaba
Sleeping under the stars isn’t everyone’s cup of tea. If you prefer a more standard hotel experience, the seaside town of Aqaba is your best bet. About 60 minutes from Wadi Rum, Aqaba has lots of reasonable places to stay, including full-on resorts and pleasant B&Bs.
The InterContinental Aqaba is great if you’re looking for endless amenities. This large, high-end resort has its own private beach, along with five restaurants, a fitness center, and a host of places to shop. It’s also just a quick walk from downtown (or a $2 USD cab ride). The nearby Movenpick Tala Bay is a similarly luxurious property, with highly rated spa services and no shortage of ocean-view rooms.
A good midrange option is Al Qidra Hotel, a conveniently located hotel with large, airy rooms and a welcoming staff. Breakfast is included in the cost of your stay – along with a shuttle to the beach for those who want to skip the ten-minute stroll. The same friendly vibes can be found at the Golden Rose Hotel, a clean and simple budget option in the city center.
Not interested in hanging out on the coast? Petra, though a bit further away from Wadi Rum, is also a legitimate location to consider.
Wadi Rum Pro Tips
Especially in the summer months, the desert heat can be intense. Take measures to ensure your comfort, like regularly applying sunscreen, drinking more water than you think you’ll need, and saving most activity for cooler times of the day. Early booking is essential during busy times, as is careful planning with your tour operator.
Want to bring home some amazing photographs? The brilliant hues of the desert are more striking in the early morning and just before sunset; ask your guide to schedule rest stops with awesome views accordingly. Golden hour is well worth the effort of setting your alarm early.
Dress appropriately for a long day of exploring outdoors. Wadi Rum is vast, and even if you opt out of any challenging hikes, you’ll still want to wear comfortable shoes with good grip, clothes you can move in, sunglasses, and a wide-brimmed hat. Take breaks as needed to stretch or sit and rest. It’s also useful to bring a travel first aid kit.
If you’re spending the night in Wadi Rum, double check what your tour company provides and what you need to bring with you. No matter what amenities are provided, be sure to pack a flashlight. Electricity is powered by solar panels and generators, so having a backup light source can come in handy. Temperatures can drop substantially once the sun goes down, making warm clothing layers a necessity as well. Another essential item for nights in the desert? Bug spray!
Being in the wilderness means some exposure to wildlife, which is a fun and exciting element of visiting a nature preserve. However, it’s important to be aware of your surroundings and exercise caution. Snake and scorpion encounters are extremely rare, but if you happen to come across one, observe from a distance and alert your guide and others nearby. It is better to be cautious when it comes to wildlife encounters.
People come from all over the world to experience Wadi Rum. Make new friends and enjoy the unique sense of community in the Bedouin camps; who knows, you may meet travel pals to adventure with as you continue your journey through Jordan. You are sure to make some friends for life as you traverse this majestic landscape.
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