Wadi Rum, often called the "Valley of the Moon," is a breathtaking desert landscape in southern Jordan, renowned for its vast red sands, towering rock formations, and endless horizons.
This awe-inspiring destination, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, has been the backdrop for iconic films like Lawrence of Arabia and The Martian due to its unearthly beauty. For Lykkers looking to explore, here’s a detailed guide to make the most of your Wadi Rum adventure.
Entry and Fees
To enter Wadi Rum, there’s a straightforward fee structure:
Entry Fee: 5 Jordanian Dinars (JOD) for adults, free for children under 12. This includes access to the main protected area.
Jordan Pass: Travelers with the Jordan Pass can enter Wadi Rum for free, as the pass includes the entry fee, along with other attractions in Jordan. The pass costs between 70-80 JOD and is ideal if you plan to visit multiple sites in the country.
The entrance to Wadi Rum is through the Wadi Rum Visitor Center, where you’ll receive information, maps, and meet local guides if you’ve booked a tour.
Best Times to Visit
Wadi Rum is open year-round, but the best times to visit are during spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November). Temperatures are mild, averaging 20-30°C during the day, with cooler nights. Summer (June to August) can be scorching, with temperatures reaching above 40°C, while winter nights (December to February) can dip close to freezing. Visiting during spring and autumn offers a comfortable climate to fully enjoy the beauty and outdoor activities.
Getting There
Wadi Rum is accessible from major cities in Jordan:
From Amman: By car, it’s about a 4-hour drive (320 km) south along the Desert Highway (Route 15). Private taxis are available, with prices typically around 100 JOD for a one-way trip.
From Aqaba: The drive is shorter, around 1 hour (70 km) by car, and taxis usually cost about 30 JOD one way. Aqaba also has bus services to Wadi Rum, with ticket prices around 5 JOD, making it an economical option.
From Petra: It’s a 1.5-2 hour drive (110 km) from Petra. Shared taxis between Petra and Wadi Rum are popular, costing around 20 JOD per person.
Experiences in Wadi Rum
1. Jeep Tours
A Jeep tour is the most popular way to explore Wadi Rum, taking you across vast landscapes and iconic spots like Lawrence’s Spring, Khazali Canyon, and the Seven Pillars of Wisdom rock formation. Tours range from 2-hour quick trips to full-day explorations, with prices starting around 35 JOD per person for a 2-hour tour. A full-day Jeep tour can cost around 70-100 JOD, depending on the group size.
2. Camel Rides
For a traditional experience, camel rides allow you to travel like Bedouins across the desert. Short rides around Wadi Rum village are about 20 JOD, while longer rides that take you deeper into the desert cost around 50-70 JOD. Camel rides offer a peaceful way to take in the landscape and are particularly magical at sunrise or sunset.
3. Hiking and Rock Climbing
Wadi Rum is a paradise for hikers and climbers, with routes for every skill level. Hikes to places like Burdah Rock Bridge or Um Fruth Rock Arch provide unforgettable views, and the climbs are challenging but rewarding. It’s best to go with a guide, especially for longer treks, as they cost around 60-80 JOD per person and ensure a safe experience.
4. Stargazing and Overnight Camps
Wadi Rum’s remote location makes it one of the best places for stargazing, with clear skies and minimal light pollution. Staying overnight in a Bedouin camp is highly recommended; camps vary from traditional tents to luxury bubble tents with panoramic views of the stars. Prices range from 40 JOD for a simple camp to 120+ JOD for luxury accommodations, with meals included. Many camps offer a guided stargazing experience, letting you witness the desert night sky in its full glory.
Tips for Exploring Wadi Rum
To make the most of your time in Wadi Rum, consider these tips:
Dress Comfortably: Wear light, breathable clothing for the day, as well as warm layers for the night. A hat and sunglasses are essential to shield yourself from the sun.
Bring Plenty of Water: The desert climate can be dehydrating, so always carry water, especially on hikes.
Book Tours in Advance: Popular tours and camps can fill up quickly, so booking in advance, especially in peak seasons, is recommended.
A Glimpse into Wadi Rum’s History
Wadi Rum has a rich history and has been inhabited by various nomadic tribes for thousands of years. The Nabateans, who also built Petra, left inscriptions and petroglyphs on the rocks, offering a glimpse into ancient life. Guided tours often stop at these sites, where you can see carvings of animals and symbols, showing how people once thrived in this challenging environment.
In summary
Wadi Rum is more than just a desert; it’s a world of adventure, beauty, and tranquility. For Lykkers and other explorers, this destination promises a unique experience—from its Mars-like landscapes to the warm hospitality of the Bedouins. Whether you’re drawn by the Jeep tours, the quiet beauty of a camel ride, or the awe of stargazing under a vast sky, Wadi Rum is a destination that leaves a lasting impression.
