Wadi Rum

Wadi Rum, a stunning desert in southern Jordan, lies 60 km (37 miles) east of Aqaba and is about a four-hour drive from Amman.
 

In winter, you can fly directly from Heathrow to Aqaba, while in summer flights typically connect via Amman. Wadi Rum is highly recommended as a stopover when visiting Amman for a city break or enjoying a beach holiday in Aqaba.

Wadi Rum is a year-round destination that can be visited at any time. However, the most temperate climate occurs between March and May and between September and November, making these months ideal for exploring the desert.
 

In spring, the weather is particularly pleasant as desert plants bloom, beautifying the valley. For those seeking a quieter experience, visiting in the summer or winter months offers fewer crowds. However, be prepared for more extreme weather—summer brings very high temperatures, while winter can be windy and cold.

The stunning desert landscape boasts a rich history and heritage that can only be truly appreciated in person. As you explore the desert, you will encounter petroglyphs, inscriptions, and ruins that are remnants of the ancient Nabataean culture. More recently, Wadi Rum was introduced to the Western world by T.E. Lawrence, famously known as “Lawrence of Arabia.” He was a British officer and author who spent time in the area in 1917 during the Great Arab Revolt.

Wadi Rum is home to the Zalabia Bedouins, who have formed strong partnerships with climbers and trekkers, helping to develop tourism as the area’s primary source of income. The current residents are predominantly Bedouins, once nomadic herders who moved their animals across the desert. Most Bedouins now live in Rum Village, the area’s only settlement, although some still maintain a traditional nomadic lifestyle. The enduring heritage and traditions of the Bedouins are prominent features that attract tourists, offering an authentic glimpse into Bedouin life and culture.

A stay of one or two nights in Wadi Rum offers an unforgettable experience the whole family can cherish, making it a wonderful addition to a diverse family holiday.
 

There are many activities the whole family can enjoy together, including camel rides, hiking, trekking, jeep tours, dune drives, buggy rides, nature walks, and even a hot-air balloon ride over Wadi Rum’s breathtaking landscape.

Wadi Rum offers numerous opportunities to experience and closely observe its majestic attractions. You can explore Lawrence Spring, named after T.E. Lawrence; Khazali Canyon, famous for its remarkable ancient petroglyphs and carvings on the rock walls; and the Anfishiyyeh inscriptions, which feature ancient drawings. Don’t miss the tallest natural rock bridge, Burdah Rock Bridge, and the Seven Pillars of Wisdom, a rock formation named after T.E. Lawrence’s book.

For those seeking adventure, there are hiking trails, mountain-climbing opportunities, and options to see the stunning landscape by 4×4 or from a hot-air balloon.

Staying in Wadi Rum is an experience that allows guests to reconnect with life’s essentials. At the camps we feature, you can expect to enjoy authentic meals made from locally sourced ingredients, all freshly prepared by skilled camp chefs.
 

Dine under a starlit sky, surrounded by magnificent sandstone mountains, while enjoying traditional Arabic music. Some camps even offer Wi-Fi, depending on the location.