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Wadi Rum offers several unique experiences. Here are the top things to do:
Wadi Rum is Jordan's most spectacular desert landscape, also known as the "Valley of the Moon" because of its lunar-like tranquility. It's a classic example of pure sand desert, with massive, weathered rocks resembling castles. It's located east of Aqaba Governorate.
A haven for eco-adventure travelers and a mountaineering and hiking enthusiast, it has become one of Aqaba Governorate's most important tourist destinations, with tourism as its primary industry. It's also a haven for wildlife like camels and horses. You can enjoy the desert scenery on a camel ride or challenge yourself with extreme activities like rock climbing. At night, you can camp under the stars and end the day gazing at the sky.
Subtropical desert climate
Best in autumn and winter
5JD
Wadi Rum, also known as the Valley of the Moon, has been a significant cultural and historical site for centuries. It is known for its association with T.E. Lawrence (Lawrence of Arabia) and has served as a backdrop for several films. The desert is home to ancient petroglyphs and inscriptions, showcasing its importance to past civilizations and the Bedouin tribes who have lived there for centuries.
Wadi Rum is located in southern Jordan, near Aqaba. The easiest way to get there is by taxi or private car from Aqaba (about 1 hour), or from Petra (about 1.5 hours). Public transport options are limited, so it is best to arrange a guided tour or a private transfer in advance.
Wadi Rum is open year-round. The best times to visit are during the spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) when the weather is cooler. Summer can be extremely hot, and winter nights can be very cold, so packing appropriately for the weather is essential.
The entrance fee to Wadi Rum is approximately 5 JOD (Jordanian Dinars) per person. Tickets can be purchased at the visitor center at the entrance of the protected area. Some tours may include the entrance fee as part of their package.
It is not mandatory to book tickets in advance for Wadi Rum, but booking a guided tour or accommodation in advance is recommended, especially during peak tourist seasons. Booking a day or two in advance should suffice.
To explore the main highlights of Wadi Rum, a full-day tour is recommended. This will allow time for a jeep ride, camel ride, and visiting significant landmarks like Lawrence's Spring and the Khazali Canyon. If you're camping, you can extend your stay for a more immersive desert experience.
The must-see highlights in Wadi Rum include:
Guided tours are widely available in Wadi Rum, and most guides speak English, though Arabic-speaking guides are also common. Tours can be customized to include jeep safaris, camel rides, or hiking excursions. Audio guides are not commonly available.
Some of the best photography spots in Wadi Rum include:
A typical itinerary would start at the Wadi Rum Visitor Center, where you'll arrange a jeep safari. The route usually includes stops at Lawrence's Spring, Khazali Canyon, and Mushroom Rock, with a visit to the Jebel Um Ishrin for panoramic views. You can also include a camel ride and spend the night camping under the stars for a full desert experience.
While Wadi Rum does not have light shows, it offers a unique opportunity for stargazing. Guided night tours are available, where visitors can enjoy the desert's beauty under the stars and experience the Bedouin culture around a campfire.
Wadi Rum can be crowded during peak tourist seasons, especially in spring and autumn. To avoid crowds, visit early in the morning or during weekdays. Weekends tend to be busier, especially with local visitors.
There are basic facilities available at the Wadi Rum Visitor Center, including toilets and a small shop. Water and snacks are available for purchase. For food, you can find traditional Bedouin meals in local campsites, or bring your own supplies for desert excursions.
Wadi Rum's terrain is rugged, and while some areas are accessible by jeep, there are limited facilities for elderly, children, or disabled visitors. It's recommended to check with tour operators for accessibility options before visiting.
Cash is preferred for most transactions, especially in local campsites and small shops. Credit and debit cards are accepted at the Wadi Rum Visitor Center and some larger hotels or tour operators, but it's best to carry cash, especially when venturing into the desert.
There are no large restaurants inside Wadi Rum, but many Bedouin camps offer traditional Jordanian meals. Nearby Aqaba has a variety of restaurants, offering international and local cuisine.
Vegetarian and halal food options are widely available in Wadi Rum's Bedouin camps and nearby Aqaba. Traditional Jordanian dishes like hummus, falafel, and salads are commonly served.
There are several campsites in Wadi Rum offering traditional Bedouin-style tents, with basic amenities and meals. For a more luxurious experience, you can stay in nearby Aqaba, which offers a wider range of hotels.
Nearby attractions include:
Souvenir shops can be found at the Wadi Rum Visitor Center and in the Bedouin camps, offering items such as traditional Bedouin jewelry, scarves, and handcrafted pottery. Popular souvenirs include items made from local materials like wood, leather, and camel wool.
From Wadi Rum, the best options to continue your trip are private taxi or rental car. If you're heading to Petra, Aqaba, or the Dead Sea, taxis are the most convenient method of transportation.
