Wadi Rum Holidays

There’re many sightseeing opportunities in Wadi Rum, so look out for these when setting out on your desert journey.

• Jabal Ram – One of the most recognisable sights in Wadi Rum, this mountain is a picturesque spot within the desert landscape.
• Jabal Umm ad Dami – The highest point in Jordan, head to this mountain for amazing views and hiking.
• Lawrence’s Spring – This area was named after the soldier T.E. Lawrence, also known as Lawrence of Arabia, who was said to bath at this spring.
• Burdah Rock Bridge – You can hike up to the top of this archway which is not only a challenge but offers great panoramic views too.
• Seven Pillars of Wisdom – These seven distinctive pillars are amazing to see up-close.

Wadi Rum itself doesn’t offer any beaches, however, this national park isn’t too far from Jordan’s top beach destination – Aqaba. Head to Aqaba to experience Jordan’s selection of private and public beaches. South Beach is perfect for families due to its clear waters, making it the perfect spot for snorkelling. Similarly, Coral Beach is another popular choice for snorkelling and diving. It has a variety of colourful coral to explore, appealing to those looking to discover the depths of Jordan’s waters.

Families with older kids will appreciate all that Wadi Rum has to offer. Especially, families who are adventurous and enjoy active holidays. Wadi Rum includes hiking, climbing and exhilarating rides in 4x4s. Admire the vast desert surroundings and striking colours that Wadi Rum offers whilst climbing to the top of red, sandstone rocks. Kids will also enjoy hopping onto a camel and riding into the sunset. Plus, with so many sights to see along the way, there’s plenty to tick off your list as you roam around the desert with your Bedouin guide.

Adventurous couples will also love a trip to Jordan’s Wadi Rum. Climb to the top of rocks and mountains to admire the striking views and colours of the desert. Hop in a 4x4 for a thrilling ride around the sandy landscape or choose to hike or ride a camel. Aside from encountering amazing canyons and cliffs along your journey in Wadi Rum, you may want to add a sense of romance to your couples holiday in the desert. In that case, enjoy camping in traditional Bedouin style at one of their campsites. Enjoy a typical meal and stargaze into the clear night skies.

Wadi Rum is very much still occupied by the traditional Bedouins of Jordan. Many Bedouin people spend their time in the villages near Wadi Rum, but sometimes they may venture out into the desert. Although, tourism has become a big part of living in and around Wadi Rum, the Bedouins have still maintained their cultural roots and are welcoming of those who wish to experience their history and culture. Wadi Rum is the perfect setting to understand and witness Bedouin culture. This can be achieved with and overnight stay in the desert with a Bedouin camp and guide. Your guide will always be willing to teach you more about Bedouin culture. Remember to dress modestly when visiting Bedouin areas.  

With a holiday in Wadi Rum, you’ll be able to taste great Bedouin dishes including zarb – barbecued meat and veg. Mansaf is also a popular dish amongst Bedouins and is usually a standard family meal. It includes lamb cooked in a fermented dried yoghurt sauce. But you can also head to the Rum Gate Restaurant located at the visitor centre. You can fill up on food and drink after a long day of hiking and exploring.

Wadi Rum doesn’t offer the typical nightlife activities in the form of bars and clubs. In fact, it is much more suited to those who are looking for laid-back activities to spend the evening. Experiencing Wadi Rum at night time is simply unique and fascinating. If you’re not spending the evening in a luxury tent, you could be stargazing up into the night’s clear skies. Wadi Rum offers plenty of opportunities to enjoy the sombreness and stillness of the dark desert surroundings.

How long is the journey from Wadi Rum to Aqaba?

It is about an hour’s drive away.

Can you explore Wadi Rum without a guide?

Yes, that option is available. Although, it is highly recommended you pre-book a tour or book a tour at the visitor centre when you arrive. It is easy to get lost due to the sheer size of the desert. It will also be hard to find the top attractions when in Wadi Rum by yourself. Plus, the Bedouin guides are a great addition to exploring the culture of the place.