Top 10 Things to Do in Wadi Rum
Discover the best activities and experiences in Jordan's spectacular desert wilderness.
Wadi Rum, also known as the Valley of the Moon, offers some of the most spectacular desert scenery in the world. This vast wilderness of red sands and towering rock formations has captivated travelers for centuries. Here are the top 10 things you absolutely must do when visiting this magical place.
1. Take a Jeep Tour Through the Desert
The classic way to explore Wadi Rum is on a 4x4 jeep tour with a Bedouin guide. These tours take you to the most spectacular rock formations, ancient inscriptions, and natural arches scattered throughout the desert. Most camps offer half-day or full-day tours that can be customized to your interests.
2. Spend a Night in a Bedouin Camp
From basic tents to luxurious "glamping" domes with clear roofs for stargazing, spending at least one night in the desert is essential. The silence of the desert and the brilliance of the night sky create an unforgettable experience.
3. Ride a Camel Across the Sands
For a more traditional desert experience, take a camel trek through Wadi Rum. The slower pace allows you to truly absorb the landscape and imagine what it was like for travelers crossing these sands centuries ago.
4. Climb Jebel Umm Adaami
For adventure seekers, climbing Jordan's highest mountain (1,854 meters) offers incredible panoramic views that extend into Saudi Arabia on clear days. The hike takes about 2-3 hours each way and is best done with a guide.
5. Watch the Sunset from Lawrence's Spring
Named after T.E. Lawrence (Lawrence of Arabia), this natural spring is surrounded by lush vegetation that stands in stark contrast to the red desert. It's one of the most picturesque spots to watch the sunset transform the desert colors.
6. Explore Khazali Canyon
This narrow fissure in the mountain contains ancient Thamudic and Nabataean inscriptions dating back thousands of years. The 100-meter long canyon is easy to explore on foot and offers a glimpse into the area's rich history.
7. Stargaze Under the Desert Sky
With minimal light pollution, Wadi Rum offers some of the best stargazing opportunities in the world. Many camps offer stargazing sessions with telescopes, but even with the naked eye, the night sky is spectacular.
8. Try Traditional Bedouin Cuisine
Experience a traditional zarb dinner—meat and vegetables cooked underground in a sand oven. This ancient cooking method produces incredibly tender and flavorful food, typically enjoyed communally around a fire.
9. Hot Air Balloon at Sunrise
For a truly special experience, take a hot air balloon ride at sunrise to see the desert awakening from above. The changing colors of the landscape as the sun rises create magical photo opportunities.
10. Visit the Seven Pillars of Wisdom
This iconic rock formation was named after T.E. Lawrence's famous book. Located near the visitor center, it's often the first impressive sight visitors see when entering Wadi Rum and makes for a perfect introduction to the area's dramatic geology.
Tips for Visiting Wadi Rum
- Bring plenty of water, sun protection, and a hat—the desert sun is intense
- Wear comfortable shoes suitable for walking on sand
- Pack warm clothes for the evening, as desert temperatures drop significantly at night
- Book your camp in advance, especially during high season (March-May and September-November)
- Most activities can be arranged through your camp, but it's good to research options beforehand
Whether you're seeking adventure, tranquility, or a connection with nature and ancient cultures, Wadi Rum offers experiences that will stay with you long after you've left the desert behind. The timeless landscape has a way of putting life into perspective and creating memories that last a lifetime.
