Wadi Rum Desert

Overview

Wadi Rum, known as the Valley of the Moon, is a large granite and sandstone valley in southern Jordan whose sands are a distinctive rose red. It has been a filming location for Lawrence of Arabia, The Martian and many other films. Crossing the desert by Bedouin jeep, riding a camel at sunrise or sunset and staying in a transparent tent camp beneath the stars are among the most unforgettable experiences in Jordan.

History

Wadi Rum has been inhabited since prehistoric times, and thousands of petroglyphs and inscriptions record the passage of Nabataean, Thamudic and other ancient peoples. It was the base of T. E. Lawrence during the Arab Revolt in the First World War, which brought it lasting fame. It became a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2011 and is today the largest protected area in Jordan.

Highlights

• •Jeep safaris across the desert
• •Camel rides at sunrise
• •Stargazing from a transparent camp

Practical tips

• •Nights are cold even in summer, so bring layers
• •Book a licensed Bedouin guide

Practical information

Best time

March to May, September to November

Tickets

About JOD 20 including a jeep tour

Opening hours

Open all day

Local food

Seafood, grilled meat and hummus

Getting around

Aqaba is the gateway to the Red Sea, with long-distance buses linking Petra and Amman

Visa

A visa on arrival is available. The Jordan Pass waives the visa fee and includes entrance to Petra.

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