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Wadi Rum: Travel Guide

Discover the vastness and wild beauty of the Wadi Rum desert.

 
 

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General information

Located in the heart of Jordan, the Wadi Rum desert is a spectacular expanse of breathtaking desert scenery. Known for its towering rock formations, orange sand dunes and vast plains, this fascinating destination offers a unique experience for travelers seeking adventure and tranquility.

POPULATION

The population of Wadi Rum is mainly made up of the Bedouin Zalabia tribe. The inhabitants are renowned for their warm hospitality and their way of life closely linked to the nature of the desert.

CLIMATE

Wadi Rum enjoys an arid desert climate with extreme temperatures. Days can be very hot, often reaching 40 degrees Celsius in summer, while nights can be cool, with temperatures sometimes dipping below zero in winter.

CURRENCY

The official currency is the Jordanian dinar (JOD).

LANGUAGE

The official language is Arabic.

A bit of history

Wadi Rum has a rich history dating back thousands of years. The earliest evidence of human occupation dates back to the Stone Age, with petroglyphs and inscriptions carved into the rocks bearing witness to this ancient period.

 Over the centuries, various civilizations have left their mark on the region. The Nabataeans, a trading people, established trade routes across the desert, while the Romans built fortifications to protect their interests. 

 Later, Bedouins settled in the area and developed a close relationship with the desert.

During the First World War, Wadi Rum played a key role in the Arab Revolt, led by T.E. Lawrence.

Today, Wadi Rum is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, attracting travelers from all over the world to admire its fascinating history and captivating landscapes.

WADI RUM

What to visit in Wadi rum

Discover the treasures of Wadi Rum in this section! Get ready for a host of exciting experiences during your stay in Wadi Rum. Here are just a few of the must-do activities you won't want to miss in this fascinating region.

the archaeological site

the emblematic rock formations

Hidden canyons and oases

Sand dunes

When to visit Wadi Rum

The best time to visit Wadi Rum is generally in spring (March to May) or autumn (September to November). During these seasons, temperatures are milder and more pleasant, making outdoor activities easier, with sunny days and cool but not icy nights.

Things to do around Wadi Rum

In addition to the wonders of the Wadi Rum desert, the surrounding area also offers exciting attractions to discover. Here are a few suggestions for things to do in the vicinity of this captivating destination:

the Dana nature reserve

the historical site of Kerak

Our selection of accommodation in Wadi rum

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Our Restaurant selection in Wadi rum

After a day of exploring the desert, you will definitely want to try some tasty dishes. Here are some of the best restaurants in the Wadi Rum region:

Sawa camp

Sun City Camp

Events in Wadi Rum not to be missed

While in Wadi Rum, keep an eye out for these exciting events that could enrich your travel experience:

Wadi Rum Festival

Wadi Rum Festival

Each year, this festival celebrates Bedouin culture with traditional performances, live music, folk dancing and demonstrations of Bedouin skills such as horse riding and archery.

Wadi Rum Desert Marathon

Running enthusiasts can take part in this annual event, which offers a unique experience of running through the breathtaking landscape of the Wadi Rum desert. Participants can choose from a range of distances, and it's a great opportunity to combine sport and adventure.

Transportation in Wadi Rum

Car rental

Car rental is a practical option for those wishing to explore Wadi Rum and the surrounding area independently. Several car rental agencies are available in Wadi Rum and nearby towns.

Bus

Public buses connect Wadi Rum with other towns and villages in the region. They are an economical option for longer-distance travel. Timetables may vary, so it is advisable to check in advance.

Taxi

Local cabs are a convenient and affordable way to get around Wadi Rum. They are readily available in town and can be used for short or long journeys. Be sure to negotiate the fare before boarding.

Jeep

Jeep tours are a popular way to discover Wadi Rum's iconic sites. Experienced drivers will guide you through the desert and give you interesting information about the places you visit.

The cost of living in Wadi Rum

0
Average Salary in Wadi Rum
The cost of living is very affordable. 35%

The cost of living in Wadi Rum offers a favorable balance between affordability and quality. making it an affordable destination for travelers. Here are some examples of common costs in Jerash:

Accommodation

Accommodation prices in Wadi Rum can vary according to location, size and facilities. You can find affordable Bedouin camps, traditional tents, as well as luxury hotels and lodges that can cost an average of €32/night.

Food

Meals at local restaurants in Wadi Rum are generally affordable, especially if you opt for traditional Bedouin fare. Prices may vary according to the type of restaurant and the level of luxury.

Transportation

The public transport system in Wadi Rum is affordable, with bus fares ranging from 0.6 to 1.3 euros. Local cab fares in Wadi Rum are generally negotiable, and organized jeep tours can vary in price depending on duration and services included.

Activities

The cost of entertainment in Wadi Rum varies depending on what you choose to do. Some excursions, such as hiking and climbing, may require additional fees for guides or equipment.

Must-do activities in Wadi Rum

Practical information

Wadi Rum is a relatively safe town for travelers, but it's always important to take certain precautions... In addition, it is advisable to keep abreast of the latest updates on the city's security situation by consulting the local and international media.

TRAVEL INSURANCE FOR Wadi Rum

Travel insurance is particularly important if you're planning a trip to Wadi Rum, Jordan.

Although the city is relatively safe for tourists, it is still possible to encounter unexpected situations such as health issues, lost or stolen luggage, or transportation delays.

In such cases, travel insurance can help you resolve the issues quickly and efficiently, without having to bear high costs or additional complications. 

CASH MANAGEMENT

When traveling to Wadi Rum, it's important to take bank charges into account in order to manage your financial transactions efficiently. The easiest way, and the one we recommend, is to open a bank account. Revolution Metal.

Here are the advantages of having a Revolut Metal account for your trips

  1. Currency conversion free of charge Revolut enables instant and transparent currency conversions without hidden fees. You can load your Revolut account with your local currency and convert money to Colombian pesos (COP) at the real exchange rate, thus avoiding the costly commissions charged by traditional currency exchange offices.

  2. Use without borders With Revolut, your account is usable worldwide. You can make online and in-store payments, withdraw cash from ATMs, and even use your Revolut card to pay for public transportation and taxis in Colombia. This saves you from carrying large amounts of cash and facilitates your daily transactions.

  3. Security and Control Revolut offers advanced security options to protect your account. You can easily enable and disable your card in real-time through the app if needed. Additionally, the Revolut app allows you to track your expenses in real-time, set spending limits, and receive instant notifications for each transaction, giving you full control over your finances.

  4. Budget and savings Revolut offers budgeting features that help you track your expenses during your trip. You can create budgets for different spending categories such as accommodation, food, and tourist activities. Additionally, you can round up your purchases to save money automatically in a separate savings account.

  5. 24/7 Support In case of any issues, Revolut's support team is available 24/7 to assist you. You can contact them through the app or the website for any questions or concerns related to your account or transactions.

In such cases, travel insurance can help you resolve the issues quickly and efficiently, without having to bear high costs or additional complications. 

Frequently asked questions

Although Wadi Rum is a nature reserve rather than a town, iconic rock formations such as Burdah Rock Bridge and Lawrence's Spring are must-see attractions.

The best time to visit Wadi Rum is in spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November), when temperatures are pleasant for outdoor activities.

Means of transport in Wadi Rum include 4×4 vehicles driven by local guides to explore the desert and hikes to discover the magnificent landscapes.

As Wadi Rum is mainly a nature reserve, there are no specific typical dishes associated with the region. However, you can enjoy delicious Jordanian dishes in the region's lodges and campsites.

Wadi Rum is mainly a nature reserve and has no museums. However, you can learn more about Bedouin culture by talking to the locals in the campsites.

Wadi Rum sometimes hosts special cultural events, such as Bedouin festivals, traditional music evenings and local celebrations. Keep an eye out for special events during your visit for an authentic cultural experience.

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