Wadi Rum is a place from another planet. That endless red earth, along with those varied rock formations, creates the illusion of being on Mars. You don't have to travel on Elon Musk's SpaceX ships to go to space; you just have to go to the Wadi Rum desert.
I remember planning to visit this place many years ago. The culprit? Lawrence of Arabia movieThat epic 1960s film had a splendid photography and artistic production that has remained etched in my retina. It's one of those films that, after watching it, you think, where was this filmed? And the answer is here, in the Wadi Rum desert.
This article is part of a series of posts about me. 2020 Trip to Egypt, Jordan, and IsraelTo see all related entries, please go to the itinerary.
Table of Contents
Where is the Wadi Rum desert?
Wadi Rum is located in southern Jordan, approximately:
– 60 km (1 hour) from Aqaba
– 110 km (1.5 hours) from Petra (Wadi Musa)
– 320 km (4 hours) from Amman, the capital
The entry point to the desert is the Wadi Rum Visitor Center, where travelers must register before entering and where Bedouin guides will pick you up to take you to the camps.
How to get to Wadi Rum from major cities
We arrived from Aqaba, the city located far to the south on the shores of the Red Sea on the Jordanian side. As I mentioned in the article about Dahab and the Red SeaWe entered Jordan from Israel's southern border, Eilat-Aqaba. Until a few years ago, it was a very simple crossing; we even crossed the Egypt-Israel-Jordan border in a couple of hours. But as of today, 2025, I don't know its current status due to the ongoing conflict between Israel and several of its neighboring countries.
That same day we arrived in Aqaba, we chose a hostel and spent the night. The next day we took a taxi to the Wadi Rum Visitor Center, where our host, the Bedouin owner of the camp Wadi Rum Jordan Camp that we booked, he would be waiting for us with his 4×4 to take us from there to his camp.
There are several alternatives for reach the Wadi Rum desert, depending on where and with what medium.. These are some of those options:
From Amman, the capital of Jordan, to Wadi Rum (320 km, 4 hours)
1. Rental car
- You can rent a car in Amman and drive to Wadi Rum via the Desert Highway (Highway 15).
- It is the most comfortable and flexible option if you plan to explore other places like Petra and the Dead Sea.
- There are parking lots in the Wadi Rum Visitor Center, where you can leave your car before entering the desert.
2. JETT Bus
- There are no direct buses to Wadi Rum, but you can take a bus Amman → Aqaba and then another to Wadi Rum.
- The company JETT has daily departures from Amman to Aqaba (5 hours, approx. 10 JOD).
- From Aqaba, follow the options explained below.
3. Taxi or private transfer
- You can hire a taxi or a private transfer from Amman to Wadi Rum, although it is the most expensive option (90-120 JOD).
- Ideal if you are traveling in a group and want comfort.
From Petra (Wadi Musa) to Wadi Rum (110 km, 1.5 hours)
1. Local bus (JETT or minibus)
- There are daily minibuses from Petra to Wadi Rum, which come out between the 6:00 – 7:00 AM from Wadi Musa bus station.
- The journey lasts 1.5 hours and costs around 10 JOD.
- Make sure to book with your hotel or directly with the bus station, as schedules may vary.
2. Taxi or private transfer
- A private taxi costs between 30-40 JOD and can be a good option if you are traveling in a group.
- Many hotels in Petra offer this service.
3.: Rental car
- Driving from Petra to Wadi Rum is straightforward; just follow the main road to the Visitor Center.
From Aqaba to Wadi Rum (60 km, 1 hour)
1. Local bus (JETT or minibus)
- There are daily minibuses leaving from Aqaba to Wadi Rum around 8:00 – 9:00 AM.
- The journey lasts 1 hour and it costs 5-10 JOD.
- You can check with your hotel in Aqaba to confirm the schedule.
2. Taxi or private transfer
- A taxi from Aqaba to Wadi Rum costs around 25-30 JOD.
- It's a convenient option if you're traveling in a group or want to save time.
3. Rental car
- If you have a rental car, the journey is quick and easy along the main road.
What to do in Wadi Rum: A guide to exploring Jordan's desert
Wadi Rum, known as the “Valley of the Moon”, is one of the most impressive destinations in JordanThis vast desert, famous for its rock formations, surreal landscapes and its connection with Lawrence of Arabia, is a paradise for lovers of adventure, Bedouin culture and photography.
Unfortunately, we only had one day to visit Wadi Rum. We barely arrived at the camp. Wadi Rum Jordan CampWe spoke with the friendly Bedouin host and booked a 4x4 jeep tour to explore the desert and its main attractions. The tour lasted approximately four hours.
If I could go back, I would definitely stay at least two days. I felt rushed, and it was quite intense to do everything in one day. Traveling from Aqaba to the visitor center, then to the camp, having a quick brunch, and then heading out on the hike. Then returning to watch the sunset from one of the hills near the camp and finally having dinner in the tents… too much for me!
Everything is so beautiful, and I loved every minute of that day. But it seemed like a lot. Even more so if I'm in a desert, where the little life there is happens in slow motion. I wanted to get lost walking in that vast desert, to be in total solitude and enjoy that wonderful, movie-like landscape for a while.
It is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful deserts I have ever been to, and I seriously recommend staying at least two days to enjoy it as it deserves.
If you are planning a visit, here is a list of the best activities to do in Wadi Rum.
1. Take a jeep tour through the desert
The most exciting way to explore Wadi Rum is on a 4×4 jeep tour with Bedouin guides. It will take you to iconic sites such as:
- He Um Fruth Rock Bridge, an incredible natural formation.
- He Khazali Canyon, with ancient Nabataean inscriptions.
- The red dunes, perfect for stunning photos.
2. Sleep in a Bedouin camp
Spend a night in a Bedouin camp in Wadi Rum It's an unforgettable experience. You'll be able to:
- Enjoy a traditional dinner “Zarb” (cooked under the sand).
- Contemplate an impressive starry sky.
- Experience the hospitality and culture of the Bedouins.
3. Hiking and climbing in Jebel Umm Ad Dami
If you like trekking, you can't miss the climb to Jebel Umm Ad Dami, the highest mountain in Jordan (1,854 m). From the top, you'll have spectacular views of Saudi Arabia and the endless desert. But if you're looking for a shorter route, try the Jebel Burdah and its famous natural rock bridge.
4. Photographing movie landscapes
Wadi Rum has been the setting for films such as:
- Lawrence of Arabia (1962)
- The Martian (2015), with Matt Damon
- Star Wars: The Rise of Skywalker (2019)
Every corner of the desert looks like something out of another planet, so bring your camera and capture the magic of Wadi Rum.
5. Go sandboarding in the dunes
If you like adventure sports, try the sandboarding in the red dunes. Many camps and guides include this activity in their tours.
6. Enjoy the sunrise and sunset in Wadi Rum
The sunrises and sunsets In Wadi Rum, they are magical. The sky is tinged with shades of red, orange, and purple, creating a unique spectacle.
7. Discover the story of Lawrence of Arabia
Explore the places linked to TE Lawrence, the legendary British officer:
- The Lawrence's House, a historic ruin with incredible views.
- The Seven Pillars of Wisdom, an impressive rock formation.
Some excursions that can be booked online are:
Conclusion: Wadi Rum, a must-do adventure in Jordan
Along with the city of Petra, Wadi Rum It is a destination that you can't miss it on your trip to JordanIt's among my top deserts to visit, primarily for its inhospitable beauty, its variety of unique rock formations, and the friendly Bedouins, who have hosted this place for centuries. Whether you're looking for adventure, otherworldly landscapes, or a unique cultural experience, this desert has something for everyone.
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