Wadi Rum: Day Trips and Tours from Amman

While you may recognize the landscape of Wadi Rum from multiple popular films, it’s even more thrilling to visit this unparalleled region yourself.

A day trip to Wadi Rum from Amman offers a unique opportunity to discover history, culture and adventure, all in the middle of the desert.

This UNESCO World Heritage Site spans 74,000 hectares in the south of Jordan. Wadi Rum is the largest wadi, or valley, in the country and remains the home of nomadic Bedouin communities.

Here's all you need to know about Wadi Rum, one of the most exciting day trips from Amman.

How to get to Wadi Rum from Amman?

Wadi Rum is located just over 300 kilometers from Amman and can be accessed via car or plane.

From Amman to Wadi Rum by car

A car trip to Wadi Rum from Amman will take approximately 3.5 to 4 hours along the Desert Highway. You can easily rent a vehicle in Amman for the journey.

From Amman to Wadi Rum by airplane

There is the option to reduce the travel time to Wadi Rum by flying but at a higher cost. The flight only lasts 55 minutes, departing from Amman and landing in Aqaba. From there, you would have to drive to Wadi Rum.

Guided tour to Wadi Rum from Amman

A popular option is taking a private tour to Wadi Rum from Amman. This will include pickup and drop off at your accommodation in a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle.

On a full-day trip, other locations in Jordan may be included in the tour.

How much does the entrance ticket to Wadi Rum cost?

There is a standard entrance fee to the Wadi Rum reserve. This does not cover the costs of any activities within the reserve but goes toward supporting local Bedouin communities in their preservation of the area.

• International visitors: JD5 (US$7)
• Jordanians and residents: JD1 (US$1)
• Jordanian students: JD0.5 (US$0.7)
• Children (under the age of 12): free

What is the typical itinerary?

A day tour from Amman to Wadi Rum will begin with pickup from your accommodation before embarking on the 300-kilometer drive.

At Wadi Rum, you will encounter a spectacular desert landscape. Known as the “Valley of the Moon,” this protected area is home to archeological and geographical marvels. Numerous films have been shot here, including “Lawrence of Arabia” and “The Martian.”

There are opportunities to traverse the terrain on a thrilling 4x4 safari that will cover large distances. Or, follow local Bedouin traditions and ride on camelback as they have done for years. You can even opt to gain a bird’s-eye view of Wadi Rum from a hot air balloon.

Across the region are numerous sights to behold. Visit the ruins of the Nabataean Temple or natural Lawrence Spring. Climb to the top of the Um Fruth Rock Bridge or discover the petroglyphs and inscriptions on the walls of Khazali Canyon.

After a day in the desert, you can relax in a Bedouin tent. Sit with locals and your group and share in tea, coffee or a traditional meal.

Some day tours include the option of stopping over in the ancient city of Petra, another UNESCO World Heritage Site. Alternatively, book a multi-day trip to spend a night in Wadi Rum. Sleep in a Bedouin tent beneath a clear night sky.

What kinds of tours are available to go to Wadi Rum?

Most tours leaving from Amman to Wadi Rum are private single- or multi-day trips. These tours include pickup and drop off at your accommodation and will often include other locations in Jordan along the way.

Private tour to Wadi Rum from Amman

On a private day tour to Wadi Rum, you can expect to be picked up and dropped off at your accommodation in an air-conditioned vehicle. Your driver will be able to provide you with insightful information about your trip.

Given the length of the drive to Wadi Rum, these tours can last up to 13 hours. This still gives you ample time to explore the expanse of Wadi Rum. Join a jeep tour or ride a camel, and end the day by savoring a cup of tea or coffee with local Bedouins.

Many day tours also include the option of visiting the ancient city of Petra to discover the remarkable monuments of the Nabataean Kingdom.

Multi-day tours to Wadi Rum from Amman

There are numerous multi-tour day tour options from Amman to Wadi Rum, ranging from 2 to 6 days. On these tours, you will be able to cover many of the major attractions in Jordan.

Many 2-day tours include stops at Petra and the Dead Sea on a day trip from Amman. A highlight of the trip is not just visiting but staying overnight in Wadi Rum in a Bedouin tent.

On a 3- to 4-day tour, expand your experience of Jordan with overnight stays in Wadi Rum, Petra, and the Dead Sea. Some of these tours provide either small group or private options.

For a fully comprehensive trip, 5- to 6-day tours include stops at notable attractions such as Jerash, Mount Nebo, Madaba, and the Bethany baptism site.

How much does a day trip to Wadi Rum from Amman cost?

The cost of a private day tour to Wadi Rum typically starts at US$175, including fees and taxes, per person for a group of two.

Multi-day trips to Wadi Rum start at US$250 per person for a group of two for a 2-day tour.

A 3-day small group tour can also start at US$250 per person for a group of seven.

On a 4-day tour, costs start at US$350 per person for a group of six.

Costs for a 5-day tour can start at US$410 per person for a group of seven.

This increases to US$520 per person for a group of seven on a 6-day tour.

What will you see and do?

From ancient petroglyphs to remarkable rock formations, Wadi Rum is home to countless fascinating attractions and exciting ways to see them.

Seven Pillars of Wisdom

One of the most famous landmarks in Wadi Rum, the Seven Pillars of Wisdom is among the first of numerous spectacular sights you’ll encounter. This towering rock formation was named after archeologist T.E. Lawrence’s book.

Um Fruth Rock Bridge

Standing 15 meters above the ground, the Um Fruth Rock Bridge is an iconic location in Wadi Rum. This arch is one of many natural phenomena in the area, and you can climb to the top for a view across the desert.

Khazali Canyon

Encounter numerous petroglyphs and inscriptions on the walls of Khazali Canyon. Dating back hundreds of years, discover depictions of animals and people, as well as written script.

Nabataean Temple

Dedicated to the goddess Allat, this temple is evidence of the Nabataeans' early inhabitance of the Wadi Rum region. Its remains are an enduring reminder of the significant cultural legacy of the kingdom.

Lawrence’s Spring

This natural spring is named after T.E. Lawrence who made Wadi Rum famous through his writings. His journey was later depicted in the epic film “Lawrence of Arabia.”

Jeep tour

One of the most popular ways to explore Wadi Rum is on a jeep tour. Hop into a 4x4 and cross the desert to discover its most spectacular sites over a couple of hours.

Camel ride

For a more traditional form of transport, you can traverse Wadi Rum on a camel’s back as Bedouins have done for years. Camels play an important role in Bedouin culture as they previously supported their nomadic lifestyle.

Hot air balloon ride

Nothing beats a hot air balloon ride — this will undoubtedly open your eyes to the expanse and beauty of Wadi Rum. Opt for a sunrise trip to witness the desert colors transform in the light.

Stargazing

Due to the remoteness and lack of light pollution in Wadi Rum, you will be able to witness the stars in all of their glory in the nighttime. You can join a stargazing tour to gain a better understanding of the constellations you see.

Petra excursion

The ancient city of Petra is located just under 2 hours away from Wadi Rum. Discover the history and prowess of the Nabataean Kingdom among temples and monuments.

What are the opening times?

The Wadi Rum visitor center is open daily from 8 AM to 4 PM.

When is the best time to visit Wadi Rum?

The best times to visit Wadi Rum would be spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November). This is when temperatures will be moderate and pleasurable outside of the extremes of winter and summer.

Are there any tours to Wadi Rum from other cities in Jordan?

Yes, there are tours departing from another city in Jordan:

• Day Trips to Wadi Rum from Aqaba

Travel tips

• Pack your passport or ID to present when purchasing your entrances.
• Bring along a good pair of walking shoes to navigate the desert terrain.
• Wear loose, comfortable clothing to move around in. Longer-length shirts and pants are recommended for extra protection from the elements.