Introduction to Wadi Rum
Wadi Rum, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is one of the most extraordinary desert landscapes in the world. Located in the southern part of Jordan, it is a vast, breathtaking expanse of sand dunes, towering rock formations, and deep valleys. Known for its mesmerizing beauty, Jordan Wadi Rum is often referred to as the “Valley of the Moon” due to its stunning landscape. Wadi Rum village is the largest ‘wadi’, dry valley, in Jordan. Many civilizations have inhabited the area, however always sparsely due to its tough and inhabitable nature. Today, only a handful of Bedouin tribes live in the area, mostly in the Rum Village, which is the only population center for the area.
Wadi Rum rose to fame in the West following the movie Lawrence of Arabia, which followed the story of T.E. Lawrence when he fought in then Transjordan during the Second World War. In recent years, Wadi Rum has become a popular filming location for movies looking for lunar, moon-like landscapes. Notable recent movies filmed here include The Martian and scenes from Star Wars: Rogue One.
In this article, we will cover the following:
- Wadi Rum in Jordan: A Desert Paradise
- Jordan Wadi Rum: A Top Desert Destination in The Middle East
- The Best Things to Do in Wadi Rum
- Activities to do in the Wadi
- FAQ: Your Questions About this Wadi in Jordan Answered
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Wadi Rum in Jordan: A Desert Paradise
Wadi Rum in Jordan is not just a place, it’s an experience. This stunning protected area spans over 720 square kilometers.
Since getting around on public transportation in Jordan is a bit difficult, most visitors to the Wadi arrive either by private taxi or private transfer or as part of an organized tour (private or with a group). Wadi Rum is around 45 minutes north of Aqaba, and 1 hour south of Petra. Anyone traveling by road from Aqaba to Petra will see a view of the this Wadi desert from the main highway.
The best time to visit the Wadi Protected Area to try all the activities in Wadi Rum is during the cooler months from October to April. During this period, daytime temperatures are more moderate, ranging from 20°C to 25°C, making it ideal for exploring the desert and participating in outdoor activities. The nights can be cold, so it’s advisable to bring warm clothing. Visiting during these months also allows you to avoid the scorching summer heat, which can exceed 40°C and make outdoor activities uncomfortable.
Dressing appropriately for the desert environment is essential for a comfortable and enjoyable experience in Wadi Rum in Jordan. Lightweight, breathable clothing is essential to keep cool during the day, while layers are necessary to stay warm in the cooler evenings.
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Jordan Wadi Rum: A Top Desert Destination in The Middle East
Jordan Wadi Rum is accessible by various means of transportation, allowing you to choose the option that best suits your travel style and the things to do in Wadi Rum. Here are the most common ways to reach the Wadi:
- By Car: Renting a car is a convenient way to reach Wadi Rum. From Amman (cost: $30-$50), it’s a 3.5-hour drive, while from Aqaba (cost: $30-$50), it takes about an hour. The roads are well-maintained, and the drive offers scenic views of the Jordanian landscape.
- Hiring a Driver: If you prefer not to drive, you can hire a private driver from major cities like Amman (cost: $100-$150) or Aqaba (cost: $50-$70) for a one-way trip. This option provides comfort and flexibility.
- Public Transportation:
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- From Amman to Aqaba: Take the Jett Bus, which takes approximately 4 hours and costs around $10-$15 one way. The bus departs several times daily from Jett bus offices.
- From Aqaba to the Wadi: After reaching Aqaba, you can take a taxi to Wadi Rum, which takes approximately 1 hour and costs around $30-$50 one way. Alternatively, you can book another Jett trip from Aqaba to this Wadi, which costs approximately $21.
At the Visitor Center you will need to purchase a ticket to enter to Wadi Rum village. Wadi rum entrance fee for Adults are 7 JD and it’s free for children under 12. Visitors entering with a 4WD rental car will be asked to pay an additional 25JD, however non-4WD vehicles can enter for free. If you have the Jordan Pass, you do not have to pay the entrance fee.
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The Best Things to Do in Wadi Rum
Things to do in Wadi Rum offer a variety of ways to experience the beauty and culture of the desert. Here are the top experiences to enjoy:
1. Jeep Tours
A jeep tour is the best way to explore the vast landscapes of this Wadi. These tours, often led by experienced Bedouin locals, take you to iconic sites such as Lawrence’s Spring, the Seven Pillars of Wisdom, and ancient rock carvings. The cost of a basic 2-hour jeep tour is 35 JOD, and it covers the main spots in Wadi Rum village. However, the Bedouin locals also offer other tours with different details and additional spots, such as the famous Mushroom Rock.
You can book the jeep tour either from the Visitor Center or directly from the camp where you’re staying. This gives you the flexibility to arrange the tour that best suits your interests and schedule.
2. Camel Rides
Experience the traditional mode of desert travel by riding a camel. Camels are fascinating animals with unique characters, and they have been essential to Bedouin life in the desert for centuries. Without camels, life in the harsh desert conditions would have been nearly impossible. Spending time traveling through the desert on a camel is the epitome of the Bedouin experience.
However, it’s important to note that desert life can be tough. For longer treks, you might find yourself getting sore, as the rides can be physically demanding. But the experience is worth every moment.
All the camps in Wadi Rum village offer camel tours, whether it’s a short ride or a longer camel trek. For the camel trek, it is recommended to book at least one day in advance to ensure availability.
3. Hot Air Balloon Rides
Picture yourself floating above the stunning mountains of Wadi Rum in a hot air balloon, taking in the incredible views of the desert from a whole new angle.
Whether you’re treating yourself to something special or planning a memorable moment, like proposing to your girlfriend, this experience is truly one of a kind. In fact, hot air balloon rides usually take place early in the morning—around 5:00 am in summer and 6:30 am in winter—and last about one hour. That said, you should allow 2 to 3 hours for the whole experience.
Although flights may sometimes be canceled last minute due to bad weather, if that happens, you’ll get a full refund. Fortunately, most of the time, your booking will be confirmed the evening before your ride.
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Activities in to do in the Wadi: Memories Awaits
Activities in Wadi Rum cater to a wide range of interests, offering both thrilling adventures and tranquil moments to connect with nature.
1. Hiking and Climbing
Wadi Rum offers several incredible hiking trails. These ancient paths, traversed by locals for centuries to hunt ibex and gather medicinal herbs, weave through the rugged mountains and stunning canyons.
Jebel Um Ad Dami: This hike is perfect for those who want a challenge. It takes you to the top of Jordan’s tallest mountain. It’s a bit of a climb over rocky, uneven terrain, but the views of this Wadi, the Saudi mountains, and the distant Red Sea are worth it.
Burdah Arch: Great for hikers and photographers, this hike leads to a stunning natural rock bridge on Jebel Burdah. It’s a moderate challenge with some rock scrambling, and the views from the arch are breathtaking.
Jebel Al Hash: This trail is a winner for a more relaxed hike with amazing views. The gentle climb leads to a flat ridge with panoramic views of Wadi Sabit and the southern mountains. At the top, you might even spot some fossils and wildlife like lizards.
Rakhabat Canyon: This one’s for the adventurous types who want a challenging canyon hike. The steep ascent involves some rock scrambling, but the shaded canyon and desert plants make it worthwhile, and you’ll be rewarded with fantastic views when you reach Um Ishrin Valley.
What to pack:
- Clothing: Bring light, warm layers of clothes -t-shirts, button-up shirts, and shorts or lightweight pants.
- Sun Protection: Sunhat, sunscreen and sunglasses
- Footwear: Pack hiking shoes or sturdy sandals with good tread and support.
- Backpack: Use a small backpack to carry your water bottle and an extra layer of clothing.
2. Stargazing
Wadi Rum is one of the best places in the world for stargazing due to its unique geographic location and climate. Located far from any large cities like Amman and Jerash, the area experiences minimal light pollution, offering clear, unobstructed views of the night sky. The desert valley creates a dry and clear atmosphere, while the region’s high altitude reduces atmospheric interference, making it an ideal destination for observing the stars. Visitors to this Wadi can enjoy stunning views of the Milky Way and many constellations in all their glory.
The best time for stargazing this destination is during the winter months, from November to March. During this period, the weather is clear and dry, with very little cloud cover, providing the perfect conditions for star-gazing. With longer nights, there is more time to marvel at the night sky. However, visitors should be prepared for chilly desert temperatures after sunset.
Expect to witness the magnificence of the heavens, immerse yourself in nature far from city lights, and learn about the history of the stars from an expert astronomer. This experience will leave you with newfound knowledge about navigating the night sky with your own eyes, making it a truly unforgettable adventure.
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FAQ: Your Questions About this Wadi in Jordan Answered
- What is the Wadi Rum entrance fee? The Wadi Rum entrance fee is approximately 7 JOD (Jordanian Dinar) per person. This fee grants access to the protected area.
- Are there any guided stargazing tours in Wadi Rum? Yes, there are several companies that offer guided stargazing tours in this Wadi. These tours often include transportation, equipment, and a knowledgeable guide.
- What is the best time of year to take a hot air balloon ride in Jordan Wadi Rum? The best time of year to take a hot air balloon ride in Wadi Rum Village is during the cooler months, typically from October to April. The weather is more pleasant, with mild temperatures and less wind, creating ideal conditions for a smooth and enjoyable ride.
- What is the best time of year to visit the Wadi? The best time to visit Wadi Rum is during the cooler months, from October to April. During this period, temperatures are more moderate, making it ideal for outdoor activities such as jeep tours, camel rides, and hiking.
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