When I planned my Jordan itinerary – an 8-day journey from Amman → Petra → Wadi Rum → Aqaba → Amman – I thought Wadi Rum would just be a quick stop. Our original plan was to spend one night in the desert before heading south, but Wadi Rum had other ideas. After arriving and taking a jeep tour on our first day, we were so tired that we barely made it through dinner before falling asleep – and missed what would have been our first chance to see the incredible starry desert sky.
The next morning, after a proper rest, we decided to stay an extra night – and it was the best decision we made on the whole trip. With a full day of exploring behind us, we finally sat around the fire with other travelers, shared stories and tea with our Bedouin hosts, and watched the Milky Way stretch across the night sky.
Over three days, we explored some of the best spots in Wadi Rum, visited several Bedouin camps and tents, and tried different tours – from sunrise jeep rides to magical sunset viewpoints. After this immersive Wadi Rum Bedouin experience, I’m ready to share everything you need to know: how to get to Wadi Rum, the best time to visit, what to expect from a stay in a Bedouin camp, and honest Wadi Rum Bedouin camp and tour reviews to help you plan your own unforgettable trip.
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Quick Facts About Wadi Rum
Wadi Rum isn’t just a beautiful desert — it’s a place full of history, culture, and fascinating natural features. Here are some fun facts that will make you appreciate your trip even more:
UNESCO World Heritage Site – Wadi Rum was inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage site in 2011 for both its natural beauty and cultural significance. It’s recognized as a mixed site because it combines incredible desert landscapes with human history that dates back thousands of years.
Cinematic Fame – You’ve probably seen Wadi Rum without even knowing it. Its otherworldly landscape has been the backdrop for movies like Lawrence of Arabia, The Martian, Dune, and Star Wars: The Rise of Skywalker. And yes, in Wadi Rum you can still see ruins of the house where Lawrence of Arabia (the real person) used to live.
Not Just Red Sand – While Wadi Rum is famous for its red desert, there are also areas with striking white, yellow, and even black sand. Each color comes from different types of sandstone and volcanic rock found in the area.
Sand from Afar – Most of the sand you see in Wadi Rum didn’t form there. It was carried by the wind from the Arabian Desert over thousands of years, giving Wadi Rum its unique, soft texture.
Ancient Petroglyphs & Inscriptions – The desert is like an open-air museum. You can find over 25,000 petroglyphs and 20,000 inscriptions, some dating back to the Thamudic and Nabataean civilizations, offering a window into early human history. We had a small canyon with lots of petroglyphs on the walls on the other side of the desert from our camp.
Goat-Hair Bedouin Tents – The traditional tents you’ll see in Bedouin camps are woven from goat hair. This material is perfect for the desert climate — it keeps the tent cool in the heat and warm during cold nights, and it’s naturally water-resistant when it rains.
The Meaning of Wadi Rum – The name “Wadi Rum” likely comes from the Arabic word “ruml” (رمل) meaning sand, translating to “Valley of Sand.”
The Valley of the Moon – Wadi Rum is often called “The Valley of the Moon” because of its surreal, almost alien landscape. Many visitors say it feels like stepping onto another planet.
Home to Jebel Umm Ad Dami – Wadi Rum is home to Jordan’s highest peak, Jebel Umm Ad Dami (1,854 m / 6,083 ft), which offers panoramic views all the way to Saudi Arabia on a clear day.
A Living Desert – Despite its arid climate, Wadi Rum supports desert wildlife like camels, ibex, foxes, lizards, and even rare birds like the Sinai rosefinch, Jordan’s national bird. During the day, you see almost no sign of life around you, but in the morning, you will see a lot of small animal marks on the sand, like lizards and small snakes. Don’t worry, you’re not in danger. As locals say, scorpions are very rare and bigger animals don’t approach human populated areas.
How to Get to Wadi Rum
Reaching Wadi Rum is easier than you might think, and there are several ways to get there depending on where you’re coming from and your budget. Here’s a practical guide with estimated travel times and costs:
From Amman
By Car: The drive from Amman to Wadi Rum takes about 4–5 hours (320 km) via the Desert Highway. Renting a car gives you the most flexibility and is ideal if you plan to explore Petra or Aqaba as well. Rental cars in Jordan cost around 35–45 JOD per day ($50–65), and gas is relatively affordable.
By Bus: JETT buses run daily from Amman to Aqaba, and you can arrange a transfer or taxi from Aqaba to Wadi Rum. JETT buses from Amman to Aqaba cost around 10 JOD per person ($14).
By Tour: Many Jordan tour companies offer multi-day packages that include Amman–Petra–Wadi Rum–Aqaba transfers.
From Petra
By Taxi: This is what we did and it worked perfectly! The drive from Petra to Wadi Rum takes about 1.5–2 hours, and a taxi costs around 35–45 JOD per car ($50–65). Since we were four people, splitting the cost made it very affordable.
By Car: Renting a car in Petra is also possible if you want to continue driving to Aqaba afterward.
By Bus: There’s a daily bus between Petra (Wadi Musa) and Wadi Rum village, but it usually departs in the morning and must be booked through your hotel. The daily Petra–Wadi Rum bus costs around 10 JOD per person ($14).
From Aqaba
By Car: Wadi Rum is just 1 hour away (70 km), making Aqaba the most convenient starting point. Renting a car in Aqaba costs about the same as in Amman (35–45 JOD/day).
By Taxi or Transfer: Many Aqaba hotels can arrange private transfers to Wadi Rum, perfect if you don’t want to rent a car. Taxis from Aqaba cost around 20–25 JOD per car ($28–35).
By Bus: Minibuses run from Aqaba to Wadi Rum village for 5–7 JOD per person ($7–10), though schedules can be irregular.
Entrance Fees
Wadi Rum Entrance Fee: 5 JOD per person ($7)
With Jordan Pass: Entrance is free (make sure to have your pass ready at the Visitor Center).
Practical Tips
All visitors must stop at the Wadi Rum Visitor Center to pay the entrance fee (or show your Jordan Pass) and arrange transportation into the protected area.
If you’re staying at a Bedouin camp, let your hosts know your arrival time — they’ll usually pick you up from the Visitor Center or Wadi Rum Village.
What to See in Wadi Rum
Wadi Rum is full of incredible sights — from natural arches and towering cliffs to hidden canyons and prehistoric rock art. Here are the highlights you shouldn’t miss during your Wadi Rum Bedouin experience:
Lawrence’s Spring – Named after T.E. Lawrence (Lawrence of Arabia), this small spring is a great first stop. You can hike up a short trail for panoramic views over the desert.
Lawrence of Arabia’s House – The ruins of a stone structure said to have been used by T.E. Lawrence during the Arab Revolt. Although little remains, it’s a popular stop and gives you a glimpse into the area’s history.
Khazali Canyon – A narrow canyon famous for its ancient petroglyphs and inscriptions. You can walk inside and see carvings of humans, animals, and early Arabic texts.
Seven Pillars of Wisdom – An iconic rock formation near the entrance to Wadi Rum, named after Lawrence’s book. It’s especially beautiful at sunrise or sunset.
Burdah Rock Bridge – One of the highest natural rock arches in the world. You can either admire it from below or take a challenging hike to the top for breathtaking views.
Umm Fruth Rock Bridge – A smaller, more accessible natural arch that you can climb for photos. It’s one of the most popular stops on jeep tours.
Red Sand Dunes – Perfect for running, sandboarding, or just watching the sunset. The most famous one is near Khazali Canyon and offers a great view over the valley.
Jebel Umm Ad Dami – Jordan’s highest peak (1,854 m / 6,083 ft). A guided hike takes about 3-4 hours round trip, and on clear days you can see all the way to Saudi Arabia.
Anfishiyyeh Inscriptions – A site with a large concentration of Thamudic inscriptions and rock carvings, showing camels and hunting scenes from thousands of years ago.
Sunset & Sunrise Viewpoints – Ask your Bedouin guide to take you to the best spots for catching golden-hour colors over the desert. Each camp has its favorite location.
Stargazing Spots – Wadi Rum is a Dark Sky Reserve with almost no light pollution. Stay out late to see the Milky Way and countless shooting stars.
Best Time to Visit Wadi Rum
Wadi Rum is a year-round destination, but the time of year you visit will shape your experience — from the temperature during your jeep tours to how many other travelers you meet by the campfire.
Spring and Autumn: The Ideal Seasons
The most popular times to visit Wadi Rum are spring (March–May) and autumn (September–November). During these months, the weather is pleasant, with daytime temperatures ranging from 20–30°C (68–86°F) — perfect for hiking, climbing, or just enjoying a jeep tour without overheating. Nights are cool but comfortable, which makes sitting by the campfire or stargazing a delight. Because these are peak seasons, you’ll find more travelers around and camps may book up quickly, so it’s a good idea to reserve in advance.
Summer: Hot but Quiet
From June to August, the desert can get very hot, often reaching 35–40°C (95–104°F) during the day. Touring in the early morning or late afternoon is recommended to avoid the midday heat. On the plus side, summer sees fewer tourists, so you might have popular sights all to yourself and find better deals on camps. Nights remain fairly warm, so you won’t need too many layers around the fire. We visited in June and we were ok with the weather, but we also don’t mind the heat as much. There were few tourists and all the tours we did were private, which was nice, because we got to choose what to see and when.
Winter: Cool Days, Cold Nights
Winter in Wadi Rum (December–February) brings daytime temperatures that are still pleasant for exploring, but nights can get quite cold — sometimes close to freezing. Camps usually provide extra blankets and sometimes even stoves inside the tents, but you’ll want to pack warm layers if you visit during this time. The clear winter skies can offer some of the best stargazing of the year, and the desert looks magical after a rare winter rain.
Special Note on Ramadan & Local Holidays
If you’re visiting during Ramadan, expect a slower pace of life. Many Bedouin hosts will still provide meals and tours for visitors, but you may notice fewer activities during the day and a special festive atmosphere at night when everyone breaks the fast. Eid holidays (especially Eid al-Fitr and Eid al-Adha) can be busy times for domestic tourism, so camps might fill up more quickly.
Wadi Rum Bedouin Experience
One of the highlights of any trip to Wadi Rum is staying overnight in a Bedouin camp. This is more than just accommodation — it’s a cultural experience that lets you connect with the people who have called this desert home for generations.
What to Expect in a Bedouin Camp
A typical stay includes:
- Warm Bedouin hospitality: From the moment you arrive, you’ll be welcomed with a cup of sweet Bedouin tea and a friendly smile.
- Traditional tents: Most camps use goat-hair tents that keep you cool during the day and warm at night. Some camps also offer luxury “Martian domes” with glass walls for stargazing from your bed.
- Delicious meals: Dinner is often a Zarb — a traditional Bedouin meal cooked underground in a sand oven. Breakfast is usually simple but filling, with bread, hummus, eggs, and tea or coffee.
- Evenings around the fire: After sunset, everyone gathers around the campfire. This is the heart of the experience — drinking tea, listening to Bedouin music, and sharing stories with travelers from around the world.
- Incredible stargazing: With almost no light pollution, Wadi Rum is one of the best places to see the night sky. On a clear night, you can spot the Milky Way and countless shooting stars.
Daytime Adventures
Your hosts can organize tours for you, such as:
- Jeep tours: The most popular way to see Wadi Rum’s highlights — natural arches, canyons, dunes, and petroglyphs.
- Camel rides: A slower, traditional way to cross the desert, perfect for sunrise or sunset. We personally didn’t want a camel ride because our whole group forgot to buy medical insurance and we feared accidents. Also, we didn’t like how camels were treated in Petra, so we decided to skip this experience, but to be honest, from what we’ve seen from our host, in Wadi Rum the bedouins take much more care of their camels, so our fears were not really founded.
- Hiking & rock climbing: Guided treks to places like Burdah Rock Bridge or Jebel Umm Ad Dami for more adventurous travelers. Make sure you’re not afraid of heights and wear proper footwear before agreeing to this experience.
Cultural Etiquette Tips
- Dress modestly (especially women) — light, loose clothing is best for both comfort and respect.
- Always accept the first cup of tea offered — it’s a symbol of hospitality.
- Ask before taking photos of your hosts or their families.
Why Spend More Than One Night
While many visitors only stay one night, spending at least two nights lets you enjoy Wadi Rum at a slower pace. You can rest after your first tour, enjoy the campfire without rushing, and explore different parts of the desert the next day. This was our experience, and we were so glad we stayed longer — it turned our trip into a truly immersive Bedouin experience.
Wadi Rum Bedouin Camp Reviews
With so many camps scattered across Wadi Rum, choosing the right one can feel overwhelming.
Some camps are located deep inside the protected area, far from light pollution and perfect for stargazing. Others are closer to Wadi Rum Village or the Visitor Center, which can be more convenient if you’re short on time or arriving late.
Also, camps range from basic goat-hair tents with shared bathrooms to luxury bubble tents with private bathrooms, air conditioning, and panoramic windows. We wanted a more rustic experience over comfort, so we were ok with the traditional tents with shared bathroom.
Most camps include Zarb dinner and breakfast in the price, as there are no shops or other restaurants around the desert. If you’re picky about your food, it’s best you make sure the camp you choose offers good and plentiful meals.
Please note that in most places they serve the same type of food every day, so if you’re staying for more than 2 days it can get repetitive.
Always check reviews before booking, as they often highlight the warmth and friendliness of the hosts. The best camps make you feel like family, share stories, and create a welcoming atmosphere.
Many camps offer jeep tours, camel rides, and even stargazing packages. Booking a camp that includes or organizes tours can save time and money. Over the three days we spent there, we had the same tour guide. He welcomed us when we first set foot in Wadi Rum Village, took us in his house to give us tea, drove us to the camp and organized all the jeep tours, taking into consideration what we wanted to see and do around the Wadi Rum desert. He even included us in the games he played with his fellow bedouins and organized our transport to Aqaba.
Some camps are very small and intimate (perfect for a quiet experience), while others host larger groups with a more social vibe. We opted for a medium sized one, that was still quiet and enjoyable for our group.
Note: I’m not sure why, but the names of the camps seem to be changing constantly. I’ve heard stories of scams around some of the camps and tour guides, so it might be one of the reasons. Maybe some of them are trying to escape the negative reviews by changing the name and starting with a clean slate. That’s the reason why I only included in this list trusted camps, with over 50 reviews and a score of over 9 on Booking.com.
Now that you know what to look for when choosing a camp, let’s explore some options.
1. Miral Night Camp
This camp boast very good reviews and amenities, and it’s location is near the Visitor Center, overlooking the desert and mountains. They have both traditional tents and bubble tents with private bathroom and air conditioning. If you’re not looking for luxury, this option has good value. Only breakfast is included in the price. The rooms are clean, the food is good, the WiFi is reliable and the staff will make you feel like you are surrounded by friends. The camp can organize for you stargazing tours, jeep tours and camel rides and they also have free private parking. Pets are allowed for no extra charges. Check availability and latest prices here.
2. Beauty Wadi Rum Luxury Camp
Although they market this camp as luxury, they also have budget rooms. The whole place is quiet (the camp is pretty small), people are friendly, the tents are super clean, but the budget rooms don’t have private bathroom. The tents are basic, but they provide you with everything you need to have a comfortable stay. Depending on their options, you can have breakfast and dinner included in the price or just breakfast (check in advance). What you also need to know is that here the tents don’t have electric plugs inside them(although you do have light), only in the public tent. Camel tours, 4×4 rides, hiking, rock-climbing and even stargazing activities available on request. They allow pets to stay for free. Check availability and latest prices here.
3. Rum Royal Dunes Camp & tour
This is one of the highest rated mid-range camp, with an almost perfect score of 10/10! located just outside the Wadi Rum Protected Area, this camp is located between mountains, offering a wonderful backdrop. It has free breakfast, free WiFi, air conditioner inside the tents and free parking. Pets are allowed at no extra charges. Airport shuttle is available upon request. The tents are clean and more spacious options exist, perfect for families with children. The available tours range from star gazing, to camel rides and jeep trips. Great value for money. Check availability and latest prices here.
4. Romantic Moment Rum CAMP
This is a modern, mid-range camp, with clean, spacious and comfortable tents and a magical vibe. It is located on the outskirts of the Wadi Rum Protected Area, and there are many other camps near it, so this could be a negative aspect for those looking for a more remote position. The tents are equipped with air conditioning and private bathrooms and WiFi is available in the check-in and dining areas (not in the rooms). Breakfast and dinner is included in the price. They also offer jeep tours, camel tours and sky-watching activities (not included in the price). Free public parking is available nearby. No pets are allowed in this camp. Check availability and latest prices here.
5. Bufo Rum Luxury Camp
Located right in the heart of the Wadi Rum Protected Area, this camp offers an excellent stay that will probably exceed your expectations. Unlike other camps that are located on the outskirts of the desert, this one is very clean (inside and outside the camp), very quiet and with with little light pollution, which makes it a good spot to watch the starry sky at night. Two meals per day are included in the booking price. Tents with air conditioning, private bathrooms and balcony are available. They offer jeep tours, sand boarding experiences, horse riding trips, sunset watching and camel rides. Pets are allowed in this camp, free of charge. Check availability and latest prices here.
6. Lilian rum Camp &JeepTrips
This is a small camp that has one of the lowest prices in the luxury category. Besides the usual stuff all the other camps offer, this one also has a fitness center, 2 restaurants serving French, American, Italian, and Middle Eastern cuisines and a game room. You also get free parking and can request an airport shuttle for an additional fee. Some rooms have a hot tub, a fireplace, free toiletries and a bathrobe. Fancy, right? I’m not sure why they advertise some rooms as having pool and lake view, since there’s no such thing near the campsite (as far as I know). Their only downside? The WiFi is a little bit slow, but if you’re here to have a break from your phone, this shouldn’t be a problem. The food is great, the staff is helpful. The camp is pretty far from other camps, which means less light pollution to star gaze at night. Perfect for experiencing the desert in a chill, authentic way. And of course, they can arrange all sorts of tours for you, upon request. Check availability and latest prices here.
7. Desert Jewel Camp
If you’re looking for a small, remote camp, this might be it! Desert Jewel Camp only has 5 tents and blends the magic of the desert with the comfort of a luxury stay. Rooms have fans, not air conditioning units, which can be a downside especially if you’re visiting in the summer. Guests rave about the warm, welcoming hosts who go above and beyond to arrange unforgettable jeep and camel tours, share Bedouin culture, and make every traveler feel at home. The camp offers excellent value, free Wi-Fi, and an atmosphere that feels both peaceful and authentic. Check availability and prices here.
Wadi Rum Tours
Exploring Wadi Rum is not just about where you stay — it’s about what you do once you’re there. Tours are the best way to experience the vast desert landscape, visit the main sights, and learn about Bedouin culture.
Here’s a breakdown of the most popular types of Wadi Rum tours and what to expect:
Jeep Tours
The jeep tours are the most popular option for first-time visitors.
Half-Day Tours: Usually 2–4 hours, covering highlights like Lawrence’s Spring, Khazali Canyon, Um Fruth Rock Bridge, and the Red Sand Dunes. Click here to check all tour options and availability.
Full-Day Tours: 6–8 hours, visiting more remote places like Burdah Rock Bridge and Anfishiyyeh Inscriptions. Often includes lunch cooked in the desert. Also, some full day tours also include an overnight stay or direct transfer from Aqaba or Petra. make sure to choose one according to your specific needs. Click here to check all tour options and availability.
Sunset & Sunrise Tours: Shorter drives designed to catch the most magical light of the day. Click here to check all tour options and availability.
Pro tip: If you’re visiting Wadi Rum in the high season (spring or fall), jeep tours are usually shared with other travelers from your camp, which is fun and budget-friendly. If you prefer privacy, you can book a private jeep for an extra fee. Click here to check all private tour options and availability.
Camel Rides
For a slower, more traditional experience, take a camel ride — the Bedouin way to travel across the desert.
Short rides (1–2 hours) are great for sunrise or sunset. Longer treks (half-day or even overnight) are available if you want a true desert adventure. Click here to check all tour options and availability.
Hiking & Trekking
If you love the outdoors, Wadi Rum has some fantastic hikes:
Burdah Rock Bridge: A moderate-to-challenging hike with spectacular views from the top.
Jebel Umm Ad Dami: Jordan’s highest peak (1,854 m / 6,083 ft) — the hike takes around 3–4 hours round trip.
Canyon Walks: There are several narrow canyons you can explore on foot, often combined with a jeep drop-off and pickup.
Stargazing Experiences
Wadi Rum is a Dark Sky Reserve, so it’s one of the best places in the world to stargaze. Some camps offer guided stargazing with telescopes and laser pointers — perfect for spotting planets, constellations, and the Milky Way. Click here to check all tour options and availability.
Hot Air Balloon Rides
For something truly unforgettable, you can book a hot air balloon ride at sunrise (seasonal and weather-dependent). You’ll float over the desert and watch the sun light up the red mountains — one of the most spectacular views in Jordan. Click here to check all tour options and availability.
Practical Tips for Visitors
Visiting Wadi Rum is an unforgettable experience, but a little preparation can make your trip smoother and more enjoyable. Here are some essential tips to keep in mind before you head into the desert.
Book Your Camp in Advance
While it’s possible to show up and arrange accommodation on the spot, Wadi Rum has become increasingly popular, especially in spring and autumn. Booking ahead ensures you get the type of camp you want (basic, mid-range, or luxury) and that your hosts are expecting you at the Visitor Center for pickup.
Pack Smart for the Desert
Even though you won’t need much, the right items make a big difference:
Clothing: Bring light, breathable clothes for the day and warm layers for the night — desert temperatures can drop quickly after sunset. A scarf or hat is useful for sun protection and for shielding your face from dust during jeep rides.
Footwear: Comfortable walking shoes or sandals are essential if you plan to explore on foot or climb dunes.
Other Essentials: Sunglasses, sunscreen, lip balm, and a reusable water bottle are musts. If you’re visiting in winter, gloves and a warm jacket will keep you cozy around the campfire.
Bring Cash
While a few luxury camps accept credit cards, many mid-range and traditional camps prefer cash (Jordanian dinars). Many times, camps will say that they accept credit cards, but what they actually mean is that they will give you a ride to a nearby village to get money from an ATM. Having cash on hand also makes it easier to tip your guides and drivers.
Plan Your Transportation Carefully
Public transport to Wadi Rum can be limited, especially on weekends or during holidays. Confirm bus times with your hotel if traveling from Petra or Aqaba, or arrange a taxi in advance to avoid delays.
Stay Connected — or Disconnect
Wi-Fi is limited or nonexistent in many camps, and cell service can be patchy. Embrace this as a chance to disconnect and fully enjoy the silence and beauty of the desert. If staying connected is important, let your camp know in advance — some have stronger signals near common areas.
Respect Local Culture
Wadi Rum is home to the Bedouin community, and respecting their customs goes a long way. Dress modestly (especially women), accept tea when offered as a sign of hospitality, and always ask before photographing people.
Time Your Activities Wisely
Desert light is strongest and hottest around midday. Plan tours early in the morning or late in the afternoon for cooler temperatures and the best photography conditions. If you’re hiking, carry plenty of water and wear a hat to avoid heat exhaustion.
Bring a Sense of Adventure
Part of the magic of Wadi Rum is its remoteness and simplicity. Be ready for a bit of sand in unexpected places, simple bathroom setups (even in some luxury camps), and starry nights without city noise. These are all part of the experience that make Wadi Rum so special.
Conclusion: Wadi Rum Bedouin Experience
Wadi Rum is more than just a desert — it’s a place where history, culture, and natural beauty come together in a way that feels almost otherworldly. Whether you’re climbing natural arches, wandering through canyons filled with ancient inscriptions, or sitting by the fire in a Bedouin camp under a star-studded sky, every moment here is unforgettable.
For us, extending our stay from one night to two was the best decision of our Jordan trip. It gave us the chance to slow down, connect with our Bedouin hosts, and truly experience the rhythm of desert life — something that can’t be rushed.
If you’re planning your own journey, I hope this guide helps you choose the right camp, plan your tours, and make the most of your Wadi Rum Bedouin experience. Whether you come for one night or three, you’ll leave with memories of a landscape that looks like Mars but feels like home — a place that will stay with you long after you’ve left the Valley of the Moon.