Embrace the Desert in Wadi Rum, Jordan
A short journey from Petra brings you to Wadi Rum, in the far south of Jordan. This UNESCO-listed desert is a land of striking red dunes and towering sandstone cliffs. The Bedouin know it as the "Valley of the Moon". Unsurprisingly, its otherworldly landscape has served as a backdrop for numerous films. It remains one of Jordan's most spectacular natural wonders.
Exploring the Desert
You can choose a 4×4 jeep tour or a gentle camel ride. Either way, the vastness of Wadi Rum invites reflection and adventure. Routes wind between towering rock formations and natural rock bridges. Along the way, you will also see ancient Nabataean and Thamudic inscriptions. People carved these into the cliff faces thousands of years ago.
A Night Under the Stars
Consider staying overnight in a Bedouin camp. Here, traditional hospitality, shared meals, and stories under a star-filled sky create lasting memories. Because it is far from any city lights, Wadi Rum has some of the clearest night skies in the Middle East. Consequently, it is a superb spot for stargazing.
Activities in Wadi Rum
- Jeep safaris exploring the valley's canyons, dunes, and rock arches.
- Camel trekking, following in the footsteps of the Bedouin traders who have crossed this desert for centuries.
- Hiking and rock climbing for those seeking a more active adventure.
- Overnight stays in a traditional Bedouin camp, complete with a communal dinner cooked in the sand.
Visiting Wadi Rum, Jordan
- Getting there: Wadi Rum is around a two-hour drive south of Petra, and about four hours from Amman.
- Best time to visit: spring and autumn offer the most comfortable desert temperatures.
- What to bring: warm layers for the evening, because desert temperatures drop sharply after dark. Also pack sun protection for the day.
Wadi Rum's vast, silent landscape is a highlight for many travellers to Jordan. Moreover, it offers a striking contrast to the ancient stone of Petra and the mineral waters of the Dead Sea.
Ready to Explore Jordan?
Get in touch with our expert travel consultants to include Wadi Rum in your itinerary.
See it on our tours: The Wonders of Jordan Tour and Saudi Arabia and Jordan Combined Tour.