Wadi Rum, the “Valley of the Moon”, is a UNESCO-listed desert of sandstone mountains and red sand, made famous by T. E. Lawrence and many sci-fi films.
Things to do
- Jeep tours: Lawrence’s Spring, Khazali Canyon inscriptions, Um Fruth rock bridge and the red dunes.
- Sunset from a rock outcrop, then stargazing far from city lights.
- Camel rides and short hikes.
- Hot-air balloon flights at dawn (seasonal).
- Zarb, a Bedouin barbecue cooked underground.
Where to stay
Choose from simple Bedouin camps to “Martian” bubble tents with sky views. Most include dinner, breakfast and pickup from the Rum Village visitor centre.
Compare hotel prices in Wadi RumGetting there
Drive yourself to the visitor centre and leave your car there; camps collect you in 4x4s. Taxis from Petra or Aqaba can be arranged through your camp. Rum station is also close to the Aqaba–Amman highway.
Best time
March–May and September–November. Desert nights are cold from November to March, so bring warm layers.
FAQ: Wadi Rum
Is one night in Wadi Rum enough?
Yes for most travellers: a jeep tour, sunset and stargazing fit into 24 hours.
Can you drive in Wadi Rum yourself?
No, not into the protected desert; use local Bedouin guides and drivers.
More Petra guides
- Petra travel guide
- 15 best things to do in Petra
- Petra itinerary: 1 or 2 days
- Where to stay in Petra
- Best time to visit Petra
- Amman to Petra
- Petra tickets and Jordan Pass
- Jordan itinerary: 7 days
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