Wadi Rum Protected Area, located in southern Jordan, is a surreal desert landscape filled with towering sandstone cliffs, sweeping dunes, and ancient petroglyphs.
Often referred to as the “Valley of the Moon,” this UNESCO World Heritage site offers a stunning blend of natural beauty and cultural history.
For adventurous Lykkers seeking a unique desert experience, Wadi Rum is a must-visit destination, perfect for exploring dramatic rock formations and feeling the magic of the vast desert.
How to Get to Wadi Rum
Wadi Rum is easily accessible from Jordan’s main cities, making it convenient for travelers. It is located about 60 kilometers north of Aqaba, a coastal city, and 320 kilometers south of Amman, the capital of Jordan. If you're coming from Aqaba, the drive takes about 1 hour, while from Amman, it's a 4-hour journey by car. Bus services from Aqaba or Amman are available, with tickets ranging from $10 to $20 per person, depending on the type of bus. Alternatively, taxis or private transfers are an option for a faster and more comfortable journey, costing around $50 from Aqaba.
Once you reach the Wadi Rum Visitor Center, you will need to purchase an entry ticket to access the protected area. The entrance fee is $7 (5 Jordanian Dinars) per person. The Visitor Center is open daily from 8 AM to 4 PM, and it's advisable to arrive early to avoid the midday desert heat and fully enjoy the day.
Best Time to Visit and Weather Conditions
The best time to visit Wadi Rum is from March to May or from September to November, when the temperatures are milder and more pleasant for outdoor activities. In spring, the desert blooms with wildflowers, adding color to the sandy terrain. Summers in Wadi Rum can be extremely hot, with temperatures soaring above 40°C (104°F), while winter nights can be quite chilly, sometimes dropping below freezing. It's recommended to pack layers of clothing for evening excursions, even during warmer months.
What to Do at Wadi Rum
Desert Jeep Tours: One of the best ways to explore Wadi Rum is by embarking on a 4x4 jeep tour. These tours take you deep into the desert, covering iconic landmarks such as Lawrence’s Spring, Khazali Canyon, and the massive rock formation known as Jebel Umm Fruth Bridge. Jeep tours typically cost between $50 and $100 per person, depending on the duration (half-day or full-day tours) and whether meals are included. Make sure to bring your camera, as the views are breathtaking, especially during sunset when the desert takes on a golden glow.
Camel Rides: For a more traditional experience, camel rides are a popular way to traverse the desert, offering a slow-paced and tranquil way to take in the landscape. Many tours combine a short camel ride with jeep explorations, and prices for camel rides start around $25 per hour. It’s a great opportunity to imagine life as a Bedouin, traveling across the vast desert.
Hiking and Rock Climbing: Wadi Rum’s cliffs and mountains are a paradise for hikers and climbers. For adventurous Lykkers, hiking up Jebel Burdah or Jebel Umm Ad Dami (Jordan’s highest peak) offers stunning panoramic views of the desert. Hiking tours usually start at $40 per person, and guided rock-climbing experiences are available for around $75, depending on the difficulty level and duration. If you're an experienced climber, Wadi Rum offers some of the best rock climbing in the region, with routes suited to both beginners and experts.
Camping Under the Stars: Spending the night in Wadi Rum is a magical experience. The desert is known for its incredible night sky, unpolluted by city lights, making it perfect for stargazing. Several campsites offer traditional Bedouin-style tents with modern amenities, where you can enjoy local hospitality, a warm meal, and Bedouin music around the campfire. Prices for an overnight stay, including meals, start from $50 per person. Luxury desert camps are also available, providing private tents with comfortable beds and en-suite bathrooms.
Wadi Rum, Jordan [Amazing Places 4K]
Video by Amazing Places on Our Planet
Dining and Refreshments
After a day of exploring the desert, you can enjoy a traditional Bedouin meal at one of the camps or designated rest areas. Mansaf (a lamb and rice dish), grilled chicken, and mezze (a variety of small appetizers) are commonly served. Meals typically cost around $10 to $20, depending on the campsite and the dining options available. Freshly brewed mint tea is often offered, which is refreshing after a long day in the sun.
For those planning a picnic, make sure to bring enough water and snacks, as there are limited food options within the protected area outside of the camps.
Cultural Highlights
Wadi Rum is not only a place of natural beauty but also holds significant historical and cultural value. The area is home to over 25,000 petroglyphs and 20,000 inscriptions, many of which date back to ancient civilizations. You can view these ancient carvings at sites like Khazali Canyon, where inscriptions tell the stories of early desert dwellers. Some tours also include visits to Bedouin communities, where you can learn about their traditions and lifestyle that have remained unchanged for centuries.
Final remarks
Wadi Rum is a destination like no other. Its striking desert landscape, rich cultural heritage, and variety of outdoor activities offer a unique adventure for Lykkers seeking something extraordinary. From jeep tours and camel rides to stargazing and Bedouin hospitality, Wadi Rum provides an unforgettable experience that connects visitors to the heart of the Jordanian desert.
