🇯🇴 Jordan
Wadi Rum travel guide
Wadi Rum, the Valley of the Moon, is a breathtaking desert wilderness of towering sandstone mountains, vast red sand plains, and ancient petroglyphs. This UNESCO World Heritage Site served as a backdrop for Lawrence of Arabia and recent Mars-set films. Bedouin camps offer immersive stargazing experiences under some of Earth's clearest night skies.
Language
Arabic (English with guides)
Currency
Jordanian Dinar (JOD)
Timezone
AST (UTC+2), ADT in summer (UTC+3)
Best time
March to May, September to November
Budget/day
$50-150/day
When to visit
Jan
5°C - 15°C
Feb
7°C - 18°C
Mar
10°C - 23°C
Apr
15°C - 28°C
May
20°C - 33°C
Jun
23°C - 38°C
Jul
25°C - 40°C
Aug
25°C - 39°C
Sep
22°C - 35°C
Oct
17°C - 30°C
Nov
12°C - 23°C
Dec
7°C - 17°C
Safety
very safeWadi Rum is very safe. Jordan overall is one of the Middle East's most stable and tourist-friendly countries. All visits to the desert reserve are through registered Bedouin operators who are responsible for visitor safety. The primary hazards are natural: heat, sun exposure and summer sandstorms.
Women travellers
Bedouin camps are safe and hospitable. Desert tours with licensed operators recommended.
Culture & etiquette
- + Respect Bedouin hospitality (accept tea!)
- + Ask before photographing people
- + Dress modestly
- + Tip guides generously
- - Don't refuse tea (it's hospitable)
- - Don't wander alone without telling camp
- - Don't touch ancient inscriptions
- - Don't leave trash
Food to try
Zarb
Traditional underground BBQ in sand pits
Mansaf
Jordan's national dish - lamb with yogurt sauce
Bedouin tea
Sweet sage tea, hospitality symbol
Fresh bread
Baked in camp over fire
Arabic coffee
Cardamom-spiced, served ceremonially
Hidden gems
Details are indicative and may change. Verify visa, safety, and entry requirements before travel.