Wadi Rum
"Vast, echoing and God-like". These are the words T. E. Lawrence used in describing Wadi Rum. The largest and most magnificent of Jordan’s desert landscapes, this is a stupendous, timeless place, virtually untouched by humans. A maze of monolithic rocks capes rise up from the desert floor to heights of 1,750 meters creating a natural challenge for serious mountaineers.
Hikers can enjoy the tranquility of the boundless empty spaces, explore the canyons and water holes to discover 4000-year-old rock drawings and the many other spectacular treasures this vast wilderness holds in store. Also known as ‘The Valley of the Moon’, this is the place where Prince Faisal Bin Hussein and T.E. Lawrence based their headquarters during the Arab Revolt against the Ottomans in World War I, and their exploits are intrinsically woven into the history of this amazing area.
What To See:
First and foremost, come to Wadi Rum to experience the desert itself. Wadi Rum is the classic picture of sandy desert, with sandstone jabals (mountains) rising sheer out of the valley floor. They tower over a small Bedouin village, which includes the Desert Patrol Fort (now a Badiya or desert police station). The men of the Desert Police are a spectacle in themselves, traditionally dressed in khaki uniform, many still riding camels.
Wadi Rum Visitor’s Center has a souvenir shop with handicraft products of excellent design placed in the historical train wagons next to the Rest House.
There are several options for exploring Wadi Rum. Visitors should head for the Visitors Center where, apart from visitors’ facilities, they can hire a 4x4 vehicle, together with driver/guide, and then drive for two or three hours to explore some of the best known sites. Alternatively they can hire a camel and guide. the duration of the trip can be arranged beforehand through the Visitors’ Center.
Once transport has been arranged, there are various excursions available - for example, a trip to Burdah Rock Bridge, the highest in Wadi Rum, via the Seven Pillars of Wisdom and many other interesting sights, is a full day by car or an overnight trip by camel. There are many alternative routes.
Accommodation:
There are two types of accommodation available in the Wadi Rum area: camping and bed and breakfast. Campers can choose either the 'wild campsites', which are without facilities and visitors must bring their own tents and equipment, or alternatively, there are Bedouin-style campsites with all facilities and entertainment. Bed and breakfast facilities are available in Rum Village. Camping trips can be arranged according to your requirements and size of group. We can also supply transport (4x4 vehicles), guides, camels, food and equipment.
Dining:
Because Wadi Rum is a nature reserve, there are no facilities available within the site. However, there are shops and a restaurants at the Visitors’ Center.
Directions:
Wadi Rum makes a perfect combination before or after a visit to Dana, Petra or Aqaba. From Amman, head south on the Desert Highway or the more-scenic Kings’ Highway. Allow around four hours for the journey. From Aqaba, head north - the journey time is less than one hour.