A complete guide to Wadi Rum: Jordan’s Red Desert

The word ‘spectacular’ is so often used in travel, but when it comes to Wadi Rum – a uniquely stunning valley in Jordan’s iconic desert landscape – it feels redundant to use any other term. With prehistoric rock formations, copper-toned sands, gigantic dunes and a clear night sky loaded with stars, this expanse truly is spectacular. If you’re planning a trip to Jordan and don’t want to miss out on the stark beauty of the Red Desert, join us as we explain all about this prehistoric natural wonder in our essential Wadi Rum guide.

What makes Wadi Rum so unique?

Wadi Rum is unique because Jordan’s expansive desert land is almost Martian, with its red and orange sandstone mountains, abundance of ancient rocky outcrops, and the soft glow of the endless horizon. The history of this area reaches back almost to the dawn of man; the powerful trade routes that once existed here, and the huge influence of the Nabataean and Bedouin peoples. Their desert-dwelling traditions have infiltrated so much of today’s North African and Middle Eastern cultures, from Jordan and Morocco to Saudi Arabia and beyond. The entire area is UNESCO-protected due to its outstanding natural environment, rich culture and archaeological significance. A visit to Wadi Rum means not only experiencing an incredible natural wonder, but being part of its long, historic legacy that continues to this day.

Wadi Rum guide: the history and culture of Jordan’s Red Desert

The desert may seem an arid and unforgiving environment, but this unique section of the Arabian Peninsula has been inhabited by humans for over 12,000 years. Evidence of man’s presence in the desert has been found as rock art, with 25,000 petroglyphs and 20,000 inscriptions etched into the cliffs – some dating back as early as 4,000 B.C.

Since then, the desert’s well-positioned water holes meant trade routes for spices, incense and textiles were established, and numerous peoples passed through and had influence. From the 4th century B.C. to 106 A.D., the Nabataeans were one such civilisation; they built temples in the desert with hydraulic engineering, implementing water channels and cisterns which allowed them to collect and store rainwater. The most famous example of the Nabataeans’ architectural prowess is Petra, the sublime rose-hued city carved into the cliffs. Though not as obvious, you’ll also find remnants of the succeeding Roman Empire in Wadi Rum, such as roads, forts and more.

From the 5th century until the present day, the only people to have lived in Wadi Rum are the Bedouins, nomadic desert tribes that live traditional, from-the-land lifestyles. Incredibly skilled at adapting to the harsh desert conditions, the Bedouins of the past constructed goat-hair tents, herded camels and other livestock, and relied on natural springs for water. Today, they’re still known for their unmatched knowledge of the desert and their skills in navigating its vast wilderness, and many of them are involved in tourism.

Natural wonders of the desert

A handful of natural and historical sites in Wadi Rum must grace your sightseeing checklist, and are usually included on a locally-guided tour of Jordan:

The Seven Pillars of Wisdom: author T.E. Lawrence, also known as Lawrence of Arabia, has significant historical ties to Wadi Rum due to his involvement in the Arab Revolt against the Ottoman Empire during World War I. Named after his renowned autobiography, The Seven Pillars of Wisdom is a breathtaking and enormous rock formation that rises dramatically from the desert floor.

Jebel Khazali and Khazali Canyon: jebel means ‘mountain’ in Arabic, and this peak of Wadi Rum is great for climbing; alongside it, the steep walls of the Khazali Canyon are home to incredible prehistoric etchings and petroglyphs.

Um Fruth Rock Bridge: this naturally-formed sandstone arch stands at 30m tall, and is a captivating sight for visitors and photographers. Those brave enough can walk across the ‘bridge’ and enjoy panoramic views of the desert landscape.

Lawrence’s Spring: another ode to Lawrence of Arabia, this oasis is surrounded by lush plants and tree life; it’s a peaceful sight among such an arid landscape. Legend has it that Lawrence and his men stopped here regularly to drink during World War I.

How to explore Wadi Rum

What are the best ways to experience the Red Desert? Let’s explore some of the most memorable activities and experiences in Wadi Rum, which will enable you to absorb the desert landscape and the age-old traditions of the locals who reside within it.

Journey by jeep safari

By far one of the most popular ways to embark into Wadi Rum’s wilderness is by jeep. This way you can cover large areas of the desert while soaking in the incredible scenery. Guided jeep tours typically last several hours, and weave between iconic sites such as Lawrence’s Spring, the Seven Pillars of Wisdom, and Um Fruth Rock Bridge. The thrill of bouncing over the sandy dunes and navigating rocky terrain on four wheels is not to be missed.

Hike and climb for scenic views

Wadi Rum is a hiker’s paradise, offering a huge variety of trails for all skill levels – and the desert provides spectacular views at every turn. Popular hikes include the trek to Jebel Um ad Dami, the highest peak in Wadi Rum. If you prefer ropes and grips, the stunning rock formations and natural arches here make the perfect playground for climbing enthusiasts.

Stay in a Bedouin desert camp

This is a classic Wadi Rum experience. Staying in a traditional overnight camp offers the chance to truly immerse yourself in Bedouin culture and hospitality – as your hosts will often be a Bedouin family who have lived in the desert for generations. After your food is cooked over an open fire, you may be treated to dance performances, folklore storytelling and a tea ceremony, before you sleep in a tent under a peaceful night sky.

Given how central and important camels are to the Bedouin way of life, camel rides and treks are commonly included as part of these desert experiences. If you’re interested, be sure to do your research and carefully seek out responsible and authentic tours; as well as having the animals’ best interests at heart, these will help you learn about how camels – also referred to as Ships of the Desert – are embedded in Bedouin life. We don’t typically offer camel treks as part of our tours, but speaking to our knowledgeable local experts for their advice will help steer you in the right direction.

Desert-based gastronomy

When out on a guided tour of Wadi Rum, you’ll likely have lots of chances to eat like the Bedouin – their traditional cuisine utilises desert-honed techniques that have influenced so much of modern Middle Eastern and North African fare.

One of the most iconic culinary experiences in Wadi Rum is zarb, where food (usually marinated chicken or lamb with potatoes and vegetables) is slow-cooked in a makeshift underground oven. The perfectly-roasted result is then served family-style on large platters. This Bedouin style of sharing food is immensely important to them; it’s traditionally a time to wind down, share stories and bond, often while sitting on the floor on cushions.

Don’t forget Bedouin tea – black tea flavoured with herbs such as sage or cardamom, which may be served during a traditional tea ceremony. Arabic coffee, prepared in a special pot known as a dallah, also plays an important social role as it’s often shared while gathering around the campfire.

Wadi Rum guide: travel tips before you go

When is the best time to visit Wadi Rum?

The best time to visit Wadi Rum is during the spring (March – May) and autumn (September – November). During these periods, daytime temperatures reach around 20-25 degrees Celsius, and nights are cool without being uncomfortably cold. If you travel outside of these times, you might struggle with conditions. Summers can be extremely hot in the desert, reaching 40 degrees Celsius, while winters can be chilly, even below freezing at night. The cooler seasons of spring and autumn allow for more comfortable exploration of the desert and greater enjoyment of outdoor activities.

How do I get to Wadi Rum?

Wadi Rum is in southern Jordan, and is best reached from the city of Aqaba (around 43 miles or 70km away). Lots of tours operate from the capital, Amman (around 186 miles or 300km away). If you don’t take a private car or book a tour, buses are available, though these may require transfers if you’re travelling from Amman.

Make it happen

To help you experience the magic of Wadi Rum without the stress of logistics, our local travel experts based in Jordan can organise an itinerary that will include all activities and transfers for you. Get in touch with them today to chat about your dream trip to Jordan.