Wadi Rum
Jordan's Mars-like desert of towering sandstone cliffs, natural rock bridges, and Bedouin camps under some of the clearest night skies on Earth. Lawrence of Arabia's playground.
Tours & Experiences
Browse bookable tours, activities, and day trips in Wadi Rum
π Points of Interest
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πThe Rundown
Wadi Rum is a 720 square kilometer protected desert wilderness in southern Jordan, known as the Valley of the Moon for its otherworldly sandstone and granite landscape
The desert served as the base for T.E. Lawrence (Lawrence of Arabia) during the Arab Revolt of 1917-1918 β the towering rock formation at the entrance is named the Seven Pillars of Wisdom after his book
Wadi Rum has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 2011, recognized as a mixed natural and cultural property with 25,000 rock carvings and 20,000 inscriptions spanning 12,000 years
The Zalabia and Swalheh Bedouin tribes still call Wadi Rum home, maintaining a semi-nomadic lifestyle and running most of the desert camps and jeep tours
The Mars-like terrain has stood in for the Red Planet in films including "The Martian," "Star Wars: Rogue One," and "Dune," earning it the nickname "Mars on Earth"
Wadi Rum boasts some of the darkest skies in the Middle East β on a clear night you can see the Milky Way stretching from horizon to horizon with the naked eye
ποΈMust-See Spots
Seven Pillars of Wisdom
πΏThe iconic multi-pillared rock formation at the entrance to Wadi Rum, named after T.E. Lawrence's memoir. Best viewed from the visitor center area at sunrise or sunset when the sandstone glows deep red and orange.
Khazali Canyon
πA narrow siq (canyon) carved into a towering rock face, its walls covered in Thamudic and Nabataean petroglyphs depicting humans, animals, and ancient text dating back thousands of years. Walk about 150 meters into the cool shade.
Burdah Rock Bridge
πΏThe highest natural rock arch in Wadi Rum at 35 meters, requiring a challenging scramble to reach the top. The climb takes 2-3 hours round trip with a Bedouin guide and rewards with sweeping views of the desert below.
Um Frouth Rock Bridge
πΏA smaller and more accessible natural rock bridge that most visitors can climb with minimal effort. Standing on top offers panoramic views of the surrounding red sand valleys and sandstone towers.
Lawrence's Spring
πA natural spring partway up a cliff face, traditionally associated with T.E. Lawrence during his time in the desert. A short scramble up leads to the water source and Nabataean rock carvings nearby.
Anfashieh Inscriptions
πA large open-air gallery of ancient rock art featuring Thamudic inscriptions, Nabataean text, and drawings of camels, ibex, and human figures spanning thousands of years of desert habitation.
Red Sand Dunes
πΏDramatic dunes of fine red-orange sand piled against the base of Jebel Um Ishrin. A popular spot for sandboarding, running down the slopes, and photographing the contrast between red sand and dark rock.
Jebel Um Ad Dami
πΏAt 1,854 meters, this is the highest peak in Jordan. The summit hike takes 3-4 hours round trip with a guide and offers views into Saudi Arabia on a clear day.
πΊοΈWhere to Next
Amman
Jordan's capital city blending ancient Roman ruins with modern Middle Eastern energy. The Citadel and Roman Theatre anchor a city of steep hills, bustling souks, and outstanding Levantine cuisine.
Petra
The rose-red Nabataean city carved into sandstone cliffs, one of the New Seven Wonders of the World. Just 100 km from Wadi Rum, combining both sites is the classic Jordan itinerary.
Aqaba
Jordan's only coastal city on the Red Sea, offering excellent diving and snorkeling on coral reefs, waterfront restaurants, and duty-free shopping. The natural launching point for Wadi Rum visits.
πHidden Gems
Midnight Stargazing from Camp
Most Bedouin camps offer mattresses on the roof or outside the tent for sleeping under the stars. Wadi Rum has virtually zero light pollution, making it one of the best stargazing locations in the Middle East.
Set an alarm for 2-3 AM when the Milky Way is directly overhead. The silence of the desert combined with a sky dense with stars is an experience that stays with you forever.
Bedouin Tea in a Hidden Canyon
Bedouin guides will often stop at a sheltered spot between rock walls to brew sweet sage tea over an open fire. The unhurried ritual of tea-making is central to Bedouin hospitality.
Ask your guide to take you to their favorite personal spot rather than the standard tourist stops. The quieter canyons far from the main routes feel like another world entirely.
Barrah Canyon
A dramatic 5 km canyon with towering 500-meter walls on either side, creating a cathedral-like corridor of rock. Much quieter than the main tourist circuit and excellent for hiking.
While most jeep tours skip Barrah in favor of the popular stops, hiking through this canyon on foot gives you the solitude and scale that makes Wadi Rum extraordinary.
Sunset at Jebel Um Ishrin
The 20-domed mountain that forms the western wall of central Wadi Rum turns from orange to deep crimson at sunset. Many camps are positioned to face this mountain for exactly this reason.
Rather than watching from camp, ask your guide to drive you to the base of Um Ishrin at golden hour. The scale of the mountain is lost from a distance β up close, it is overwhelming.
Abu Khashaba Canyon
A lesser-visited canyon requiring some scrambling over boulders, with ancient inscriptions tucked into hidden alcoves and narrow passages that open into wider chambers.
This canyon sees a fraction of the visitors of Khazali. The inscriptions here are just as impressive, and the sense of discovery β finding carvings in a hidden alcove β is unmatched.
βοΈWeather
Wadi Rum has an arid desert climate with extreme temperature swings between day and night. Summer days are scorching while winter nights can drop below freezing. Rain is rare (averaging 50 mm per year) but when it falls, flash floods can sweep through canyons without warning. The desert sun is intense year-round β shade is scarce.
Spring
March - May54-86Β°F
12-30Β°C
The most pleasant season with warm days and cool nights. Occasional wildflowers appear after rare winter rains. April is ideal with comfortable hiking temperatures and clear skies.
Summer
June - August68-108Β°F
20-42Β°C
Extremely hot during the day with temperatures regularly exceeding 40Β°C. Activities are best confined to early morning and late afternoon. Nights cool down to around 20Β°C, making evenings enjoyable.
Autumn
September - November50-90Β°F
10-32Β°C
Temperatures ease from the summer extreme. October and November are excellent for visiting with warm days and cool, comfortable nights perfect for desert camping.
Winter
December - February32-59Β°F
0-15Β°C
Cold, especially at night when temperatures can drop below freezing. Days are mild and sunny. Desert camps provide heavy blankets and heaters. Occasional rain and rare snowfall can occur.
π‘οΈSafety
Very Safe
out of 100
Wadi Rum is generally very safe. The Bedouin community is welcoming and hospitality is deeply ingrained in the culture. The main risks are environmental: extreme heat, dehydration, getting lost in the vast featureless desert, and the occasional scorpion. Always travel with a guide and carry more water than you think you need.
Things to Know
- β’Carry at least 3 liters of water per person per day β dehydration is the biggest risk in the desert and hits faster than you expect
- β’Never venture into the desert without a Bedouin guide β the landscape is vast, tracks are unmarked, and GPS signals can be unreliable
- β’Shake out shoes and clothing before putting them on, especially in the morning β scorpions shelter in dark, enclosed spaces overnight
- β’Apply high-SPF sunscreen frequently and wear a hat and sunglasses β the desert sun reflects off sand and rock with intense UV exposure
- β’Flash floods can fill narrow canyons with little warning after rain β avoid hiking in siqs during or after rainfall
Natural Hazards
Emergency Numbers
Police
911
Ambulance
911
Tourist Police
+962-3-209-0600
Wadi Rum Visitor Center
+962-3-209-0600
πTransit & Transport
There is no public transportation within Wadi Rum Protected Area. The desert is accessible only by 4x4 vehicle, camel, or on foot with a guide. All visitors must arrange transport through a registered Bedouin guide or tour operator. Most experiences are organized as guided jeep tours ranging from 2 hours to full-day excursions.
4x4 Jeep Tour
JOD 35-75 (~$49-106) per vehicle for half/full dayThe standard way to explore Wadi Rum. Open-back Toyota pickup trucks driven by Bedouin guides cover the major sites and remote areas inaccessible on foot. Tours range from 2-hour highlights to full-day deep desert explorations.
Best for: Covering the most ground and reaching remote sites like Burdah Bridge and Um Ad Dami
Camel Trekking
JOD 15-30 (~$21-42) for 1-2 hours; multi-day treks negotiableA slower, more traditional way to experience the desert as the Bedouin have for centuries. Rides range from 1-hour sunset excursions to multi-day treks with overnight camping.
Best for: A quieter, more authentic desert experience at a slower pace
Guided Hiking
JOD 25-50 (~$35-70) per day with guideWalking through the desert with a Bedouin guide, exploring canyons, scrambling up rock formations, and reaching spots inaccessible by vehicle. Essential for canyon exploration and rock bridge climbs.
Best for: Canyon exploration, rock climbing, and immersive desert trekking
Camp Transfer
Usually included in camp bookingMost desert camps include pickup from Wadi Rum Village (at the visitor center) as part of their package. Arrange this in advance with your camp operator.
Best for: Getting from the visitor center to your desert camp
πΆ Walkability
Wadi Rum Village itself is a small settlement near the visitor center with a few shops and restaurants within walking distance. The protected area, however, requires 4x4 transport or guided hiking β distances are vast and there are no marked trails or roads beyond the initial access track.
βοΈGetting In & Out
βοΈ Airports
King Hussein International Airport (Aqaba)(AQJ)
60 km south of Wadi Rum VillageTaxi or pre-arranged transfer to Wadi Rum Village (JOD 25-35 / ~$35-49, 1 hour). Some camps arrange airport pickup. No public bus directly to Wadi Rum.
βοΈ Search flights to AQJQueen Alia International Airport (Amman)(AMM)
330 km north of Wadi Rum VillageJETT bus from Amman to Aqaba (JOD 15 / ~$21, 4-5 hours) then taxi to Wadi Rum. Or rent a car and drive the Desert Highway (4 hours). Some tour operators arrange direct transfers.
βοΈ Search flights to AMMπ Bus Terminals
Wadi Rum Village (Highway Junction)
Minibuses run along the Desert Highway between Aqaba and Amman and can drop you at the Wadi Rum junction on the highway. From the junction, it is 7 km to Wadi Rum Village β arrange a pickup with your camp or take a local taxi (JOD 3-5).
ποΈShopping
Wadi Rum is not a shopping destination, but Bedouin handicrafts are available at the visitor center, in Wadi Rum Village, and sometimes at desert camps. The items are handmade by local Bedouin families and purchasing directly supports the community.
Wadi Rum Visitor Center
handicraft shopThe visitor center has a small shop selling Bedouin jewelry, woven textiles, sand art bottles, and postcards. This is the most reliable place to find souvenirs.
Known for: Sand art bottles, Bedouin silver jewelry, woven rugs
Wadi Rum Village
local shopsA handful of small shops in the village sell basic supplies, cold drinks, and a modest selection of Bedouin crafts. Some families sell handmade items from their homes.
Known for: Keffiyehs (traditional headscarves), handmade jewelry, camel-hair products
Desert Camps
camp gift shopsSome of the larger camps have small displays of Bedouin crafts for sale. Purchasing here directly supports the Bedouin families who run the camps.
Known for: Hand-woven items, desert sand bottles, traditional tea sets
π Unique Souvenirs to Look For
- β’Layered sand art bottles made with naturally colored desert sands
- β’Bedouin silver jewelry with turquoise and coral stones
- β’Hand-woven Bedouin rugs and camel bags
- β’Traditional keffiyeh (headscarf) in red-and-white Jordanian style
- β’Arabic coffee pots (dallah) and small cups
- β’Locally made goat-hair products and leather goods
π΅Money & Tipping
Jordanian Dinar
Code: JOD
1 JOD is approximately $1.41 USD (the dinar is pegged near this rate). The Jordanian Dinar is one of the strongest currencies in the world. There are no ATMs or exchange offices in Wadi Rum β bring enough cash before arriving. ATMs are available in Aqaba and Amman.
Payment Methods
Wadi Rum operates almost entirely on cash. There are no ATMs, card machines, or banks in the village or desert. Bring Jordanian Dinars from Aqaba or Amman. Most camp bookings can be paid in advance online, but tips, extra activities, and village purchases require cash. US dollars are sometimes accepted at camps but at a poor rate.
Tipping Guide
JOD 5-10 (~$7-14) per person per day is customary for a good guide. Tipping is appreciated and forms a significant part of guides' income.
JOD 2-5 (~$3-7) per person for camp hosts who prepare meals and set up the camp.
JOD 3-5 (~$4-7) for a camel ride, especially for longer treks.
10% is standard for table service. Some restaurants add a service charge β check the bill.
π°Budget
budget
$40-65
Basic Bedouin camp with shared tent, included dinner and breakfast, half-day jeep tour, bring your own water and snacks
mid-range
$90-150
Private tent at a quality camp with meals, full-day jeep tour, camel ride at sunset, stargazing experience
luxury
$250-500+
Luxury bubble tent or premium camp (e.g., Memories Aicha), private jeep with dedicated guide, multi-activity package, premium dining
Typical Costs
| Item | Local | USD |
|---|---|---|
| AccommodationBasic Bedouin camp (shared tent, dinner & breakfast) | JOD 25-40 | $35-56 |
| AccommodationPrivate tent at mid-range camp | JOD 50-80 | $70-113 |
| AccommodationLuxury bubble tent | JOD 150-350 | $212-494 |
| TransportHalf-day jeep tour (2-3 hours) | JOD 35-45 per vehicle | $49-63 |
| TransportFull-day jeep tour (6-7 hours) | JOD 55-75 per vehicle | $78-106 |
| TransportTaxi from Aqaba to Wadi Rum | JOD 25-35 | $35-49 |
| ActivitiesCamel ride (1-2 hours) | JOD 15-30 | $21-42 |
| ActivitiesGuided rock climbing / scrambling | JOD 30-50 | $42-70 |
| AttractionsWadi Rum Protected Area entry | JOD 5 (free with Jordan Pass) | $7 |
| AttractionsJordan Pass (covers visa + Petra + Wadi Rum) | JOD 70-80 | $99-113 |
π‘ Money-Saving Tips
- β’Buy the Jordan Pass before arriving in Jordan β it covers your visa fee (JOD 40), Petra entry (JOD 50), Wadi Rum entry (JOD 5), and 40+ other sites for one price
- β’Share a jeep tour with other travelers to split the per-vehicle cost β camps often group solo travelers together
- β’Book directly with Bedouin camp operators rather than through hotel middlemen or international booking platforms
- β’Bring your own water and snacks from Aqaba β supplies in Wadi Rum Village are limited and marked up
- β’Camp overnight rather than visiting as a day trip β the overnight camp rate includes dinner, breakfast, and usually the jeep tour
- β’Visit in shoulder season (March-April or October-November) when camp prices are lower and the weather is ideal
- β’Negotiate politely β prices for jeep tours and camel rides are often flexible, especially in quieter months
ποΈWhen to Visit
Best Time to Visit
March through May and September through November are the best times to visit Wadi Rum, with warm days, cool nights, and comfortable temperatures for jeep tours, hiking, and camping. Summer (June-August) is brutally hot with daytime temperatures regularly exceeding 40Β°C.
Spring (March - May)
Crowds: Moderate β one of the two peak seasonsWarm and pleasant with occasional wildflowers after winter rains. April is the sweet spot with temperatures perfect for hiking and camping. Evenings are cool but comfortable.
Pros
- + Ideal temperatures for all activities
- + Possible wildflower blooms in March
- + Comfortable camping weather
- + Clear skies for stargazing
Cons
- β Higher camp prices than winter
- β Occasional sandstorms in March
- β Book camps in advance for April-May
Summer (June - August)
Crowds: Low β too hot for most visitorsExtremely hot with daytime highs above 40Β°C. The desert is punishing in midday heat. Activities are only practical in early morning or late afternoon. Nights are warm but bearable.
Pros
- + Lowest prices and fewest crowds
- + Long daylight hours
- + Warm evenings for stargazing
- + Easier to negotiate rates
Cons
- β Dangerously hot during the day
- β Dehydration risk is extreme
- β Limited activity window
- β Some camps reduce operations
Autumn (September - November)
Crowds: Moderate β the other peak seasonHeat eases through September and October brings ideal conditions. November is cooler but still comfortable during the day. One of the best windows for photography as the light turns golden.
Pros
- + Excellent temperatures for hiking and climbing
- + Beautiful golden light for photography
- + Clear skies and low humidity
- + Great stargazing conditions
Cons
- β October-November can book up quickly
- β Higher prices than summer
- β Nights get cold by November
Winter (December - February)
Crowds: Low to moderateDays are mild and sunny (around 10-15Β°C) but nights drop near or below freezing. Desert camps provide blankets and heaters. Rare rain or even snow can occur. The desert has a stark, beautiful quality in winter light.
Pros
- + Mild daytime temperatures
- + Dramatic winter light and atmosphere
- + Lower prices than spring/autumn
- + Quiet desert with fewer visitors
Cons
- β Very cold nights (can drop below 0Β°C)
- β Need serious warm layers for camping
- β Shorter daylight hours
- β Occasional rain disrupts plans
π Festivals & Events
Jordan Trail Thru-Hike Season
March - AprilThe 650 km Jordan Trail passes through Wadi Rum. Spring is the prime season for thru-hikers, and the Wadi Rum section is one of the most spectacular segments.
Wadi Rum Ultra Marathon
OctoberAn annual desert ultramarathon through the protected area, attracting endurance runners from around the world to race through the dramatic sandstone landscape.
Eid al-Fitr Celebrations
Varies (end of Ramadan)Bedouin families celebrate the end of Ramadan with communal feasting and hospitality. Visitors during this time may be invited to share in celebrations.
π¬Speak the Language
Jordanian Arabic is the local dialect. Many Bedouin guides in Wadi Rum speak basic to good English, but learning a few Arabic phrases earns genuine warmth and respect. Arabic is written right-to-left but the phonetic guides below use Latin script.
| English | Translation | Pronunciation |
|---|---|---|
| Hello / Peace be upon you | Ψ§ΩΨ³ΩΨ§Ω ΨΉΩΩΩΩ (As-salaam alaykum) | as-sa-LAAM a-LAY-kum |
| And peace be upon you (reply) | ΩΨΉΩΩΩΩ Ψ§ΩΨ³ΩΨ§Ω (Wa alaykum as-salaam) | wa a-LAY-kum as-sa-LAAM |
| Thank you | Ψ΄ΩΨ±Ψ§Ω (Shukran) | SHOOK-ran |
| Please / You're welcome | ΨͺΩΨΆΩ (Tafaddal) | ta-FAD-dal |
| Yes / No | ΩΨΉΩ / ΩΨ§ (Na'am / La) | NA-am / LA |
| How are you? | ΩΩΩ ΨΨ§ΩΩΨ (Keef halak?) | keef HA-lak? |
| Good / Fine | Ω ΩΩΨ (Mneeh) | muh-NEEH |
| How much? | Ψ¨ΩΩ Ψ (Bikam?) | bi-KAM? |
| Beautiful | Ψ¬Ω ΩΩ (Jameel) | ja-MEEL |
| God willing | Ψ₯Ω Ψ΄Ψ§Ψ‘ Ψ§ΩΩΩ (Inshallah) | in-SHAH-lah |
| Welcome | Ψ£ΩΩΨ§Ω ΩΨ³ΩΩΨ§Ω (Ahlan wa sahlan) | AH-lan wa SAH-lan |
| Delicious | Ψ²Ψ§ΩΩ (Zaki) | ZAH-ki |
πVisa & Entry
Jordan requires a visa for most nationalities, but the Jordan Pass is a game-changer: it bundles the visa fee, Petra entry, Wadi Rum entry, and access to 40+ sites into a single purchase. Buy it online before arrival and present it at immigration. You must stay at least 3 consecutive nights in Jordan to qualify for the visa waiver.
Entry Requirements by Nationality
| Nationality | Visa Required | Max Stay | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| US Citizens | Yes | 30 days | Visa on arrival (JOD 40) or free with Jordan Pass (minimum 3-night stay). Passport must be valid for at least 6 months beyond entry date. |
| UK Citizens | Yes | 30 days | Visa on arrival or Jordan Pass. Same 6-month passport validity requirement. |
| EU Citizens | Yes | 30 days | Most EU nationalities receive visa on arrival. Jordan Pass recommended for cost savings. |
| Canadian Citizens | Yes | 30 days | Visa on arrival available. Jordan Pass covers the visa fee and offers significant savings if visiting Petra. |
| Indian Citizens | Yes | 30 days | Visa must be arranged before travel through a Jordanian embassy or consulate. Jordan Pass is available but visa on arrival is not guaranteed for all Indian passport holders. |
Visa-Free Entry
Visa on Arrival
Tips
- β’Buy the Jordan Pass online before your trip β it saves money compared to paying for the visa and attraction entries separately
- β’The Jordan Pass requires a minimum 3 consecutive night stay in Jordan to waive the visa fee
- β’Choose the Jordan Pass tier based on how many days you want at Petra: Wanderer (1 day), Explorer (2 days), or Expert (3 days)
- β’Register at the Wadi Rum Visitor Center upon arrival β all visitors must check in and arrange an authorized guide
- β’Keep your passport and Jordan Pass accessible β you may need to show them at military checkpoints on the Desert Highway
- β’If arriving via Aqaba (ASEZA zone), entry is visa-free for all nationalities with stays of at least 2 nights in Aqaba