🏜️ Wadi Rum — 2025 Desert Guide

A stunning protected area of sand dunes and rose-colored rock formations often called the “Valley of the Moon”. The most popular activities include 4×4 jeep tours, sandboarding, camel rides, and stargazing. For overnight stays you can choose between Wadi Rum desert camps (including luxury bubbles) or more classic nearby hotels.

What makes Wadi Rum special

• Unique desert geology and colors that change dramatically at sunrise and sunset.
• Easy to arrange a short (2–3 hour) tour or a full 1–2 day program with an overnight stay.
• Authentic Bedouin experiences: local food, Arabic coffee, and evenings under the stars.

Popular activities (1–2 days)

• 4×4 jeep tour to visit natural rock arches, sand dunes, and viewpoints.
• Sandboarding plus camel rides.
• Light hiking on short trails with a local guide.
• Hot-air balloon (early morning — weather dependent).

For families: combine a short sunset jeep tour + overnight in a bubble or comfort camp, then add a light morning activity before you leave.

🚙 4×4 jeep tours

The best way to cover the main highlights of Wadi Rum in just a few hours. A typical tour includes stops at sand dunes, a rock arch, view points for sunset, and a short tea break at a Bedouin tent. You can choose between 2–3 hour tours, half-day, or full-day options.

Routes and prices vary by provider, so double-check what stops are included before you confirm.

🏂 Sandboarding

A fun, short activity that works very well for families. It’s usually included as a stop during jeep tours near the main dunes. Closed shoes and sunglasses are recommended to avoid sand in your eyes.

✨ Stargazing & night photography

• Clear skies far from city light pollution — ideal for astrophotography.
• The darker the moon, the better. Bring a tripod if you want serious night shots.
• Some camps offer basic stargazing sessions or telescope experiences.

🏜️ Wadi Rum tours & packages (GetYourGuide)

Book verified tours and transfers with reviewed operators. Note: dates, prices and inclusions change by season, weather and camp availability.

🏕️ Desert camps (Wadi Rum)

Camps range from simple Bedouin-style tents to “bubble” suites with glass fronts and clear views of the sky. Stays typically include dinner, breakfast, and help arranging jeep tours and activities. Book early for peak seasons (spring and autumn).

🏨 Nearby hotels

If you prefer to stay just outside the protected area (for easier access by car or a tighter budget), consider the village of Disah nearby, or Aqaba if you want to combine desert and sea.

How to get to Wadi Rum & distances

• From Amman: around 4 hours by private car or driver.
• From Petra (Wadi Musa): around 2 hours.
• From Aqaba: around 1–1.5 hours.
• JETT buses: limited routes — always check the latest schedules in advance.

Visitor Center & entrance

• Entrance is via the Wadi Rum Visitor Center, where you register and pay fees and can arrange tours.
• Entrance fees and opening times may change by season; ask about family or group options.
• You can also pre-arrange your tour through your camp or a local operator before arrival.

💡 Important tips

• Plan a short sunset tour on the day you arrive, and a lighter morning activity before you leave.
• Pack layers: warm in the daytime, cooler in the evenings — especially in winter.
• Bring extra water, sun protection, and a power bank — mobile signal can be weak.
• Agree on main stops with your guide in advance, and avoid off-trail or risky routes without a guide.

Combine Wadi Rum with Petra/Aqaba

• Petra — iconic rock façades and famous hiking routes.
• Aqaba (3 days) — beaches, snorkeling and glass-bottom boat trips.

❓ Wadi Rum FAQ

Is a 2–3 hour tour enough?
It’s enough to see the main highlights and sunset. For a deeper experience, add a half or full day plus an overnight stay.

Are the activities suitable for children?
Yes, as long as you include breaks, bring water, and choose easy routes and simple sandboarding spots.

Do I need my own 4×4?
No. Local operators provide 4×4 vehicles and experienced drivers — it’s not recommended to drive off-road on your own.

🔗 Back to the Jordan itinerary

Include Wadi Rum in your Jordan itinerary (8–12 days) together with Petra, Aqaba and Amman.