6 Tips for Visiting Wadi Rum in Jordan

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The Wadi Rum desert in Jordan is one of the most beautiful deserts in the world. Unlike many other deserts, Wadi Rum is much more than just a sandy desert. With its rugged landscape and large sandstone rock formations, you’ll feel like you’re on a different planet. Wadi Rum is rightly nicknamed ‘The Valley of the Moon’. Just like in Petra, the Nabateans once lived here, and you can still see some rock drawings, inscriptions, and ruins. Today, a few Bedouins still reside in Wadi Rum. Jump in a jeep and explore the desert, then spend the night in a traditional Bedouin tent in the middle of the desert. Here are all our tips for an amazing time in Wadi Rum.

Take a 4×4 jeep tour

There are multiple ways to explore Wadi Rum, but the best way is with a 4×4 jeep tour. This allows you to visit many different places in one day. You can choose to join a group tour or book a private tour. Keep in mind that a private tour will cost you more. At each stop, you’ll have plenty of time to take photos and enjoy the beautiful scenery. You don’t need to book a tour in advance. Upon arrival at your camp or in Wadi Rum Village, you can check out the various options available.

Parking at Wadi Rum

If you’re traveling around Jordan by rental car and planning to visit Wadi Rum, you’ll need to park your car in Wadi Rum Village. The parking lot is located at the very beginning on the right side next to Wadi Rum Rest House. From there, someone from your Bedouin camp, whom you have pre-booked, will pick you up, and you’ll continue into the desert with them. There are always locals in the parking lot who can help you make a call to your hotel so that they know you’ve arrived.

Be prepared for heat and cold

Except for the summer months, the nights in Wadi Rum can be very cold. In winter, temperatures can drop to freezing point. In spring and autumn, it’s still chilly at night, around 10 degrees Celsius, while daytime temperatures average around 28 degrees Celsius. The summer months are the hottest, with daytime temperatures reaching up to 40 degrees Celsius or higher, and dropping to around 17 degrees Celsius at night. Therefore, dress in layers and bring a sweater with you in the jeep, especially if you’re going to watch the sunset. In Wadi Rum, we also recommend dressing appropriately. Women should dress modestly, even if it’s hot.

Stargazing at Night

Wadi Rum is not only beautiful during the day. When night falls and the sky is clear, a magical starry sky appears. Especially when there is no full moon, you’ll see thousands of twinkling lights in the sky and occasionally a shooting star. Walk a bit away from your camp so you won’t be disturbed by the lights. Don’t rush to see the starry sky right after sunset, but wait until it’s been dark for a few hours. With some luck, you may even see the Milky Way. This will truly complete your visit to Wadi Rum!

Bring Sufficient Cash

There is no ATM in Wadi Rum Village, so it’s advisable to withdraw cash beforehand. Make sure you have enough money for the Wadi Rum tour and other expenses like tips and dinner. Tours usually cost between 55 JD and 75 JD for a full-day tour.

The Best Accommodations in Wadi Rum

You simply can’t leave Wadi Rum without spending one or two nights there. Overnight stays in Wadi Rum are done in the traditional way: in a Bedouin tent camp. There are numerous camps in Wadi Rum, and while they may seem similar, they can vary significantly in terms of location and service. Due to the wide range of options in Wadi Rum, it can sometimes be overwhelming to choose.

One of the best accommodations in Wadi Rum is the Wadi Rum Bedouin Camp, located in a beautiful desert location. It is run by a highly hospitable family who will make your stay in Wadi Rum unforgettable. You’ll sleep in a beautiful tent equipped with air conditioning, heating, a comfortable bed, and a terrace. From the tent, you can enjoy a phenomenal view. Another fantastic option is the Wadi Rum Dream Camp. Imagine waking up, opening the curtains, and gazing at the majestic mountains. That’s a truly breathtaking experience! For an authentic desert adventure in Wadi Rum, consider staying at the Wadi Rum Magic Nature Camp. Here, you’ll spend the night in a remarkable location and receive warm hospitality. In the evening, a cozy campfire is lit, and don’t forget to marvel at the clear starry sky.