Wadi Rum, Jordan: A Journey Through the Valley of the Moon

Wadi Rum, also known as the Valley of the Moon, is one of the most spectacular desert landscapes in the Arab world. Located in southern Jordan, near the border with Saudi Arabia, this protected area covers roughly 720 square kilometres of red sand, towering sandstone mountains and narrow canyons. Its surreal beauty has drawn travellers for centuries, from Nabataean traders to modern film crews, and today it offers a rare chance to experience the silence and scale of the desert.

Why visit Wadi Rum

The main reason to visit Wadi Rum is the landscape itself. Wind and water have carved the sandstone into dramatic cliffs, natural arches and hidden gorges. The colours shift throughout the day, from pale gold at noon to deep crimson at sunset. At night, the lack of light pollution reveals a sky crowded with stars. For many visitors, the highlight is the sense of stillness and isolation that is hard to find elsewhere.

What to see and do

Most visitors explore the desert on a half-day or full-day jeep tour, which takes in the main sights. These include the Khazali Canyon, where ancient inscriptions and petroglyphs cover the rocks, and the Burdah Rock Bridge, a natural arch that can be reached on foot. Camel treks are a slower, more traditional way to travel, and many camps offer short rides or longer expeditions. For keen hikers, there are marked trails of varying difficulty, from easy walks to full-day scrambles up peaks like Jebel Um Adaami, the highest point in Jordan.

Staying overnight in a Bedouin camp is a memorable experience. Camps range from basic to comfortable, and most provide dinner, breakfast and a place to sleep under canvas or in a simple cabin. Evenings are usually spent around a fire, drinking sweet tea and listening to traditional music. Stargazing is a natural part of the night, and many visitors simply lie back and watch the Milky Way.

When to go

The best time to visit Wadi Rum is during the spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November), when daytime temperatures are warm but pleasant, and nights are cool. Summer can be extremely hot, with temperatures often exceeding 40°C, making midday activities uncomfortable. Winter is generally mild during the day but can drop below freezing at night, so warm layers are essential if you plan to camp.

Getting there and practical tips

Wadi Rum is about a four-hour drive south of Amman and roughly one hour from the coastal city of Aqaba. There is no public transport directly into the protected area, so most visitors arrive by private car, taxi or organised tour. Once inside, a 4x4 is needed to reach the deeper parts of the desert, and all visitors must enter through the main visitor centre, where a small conservation fee is charged.

Dress respectfully and practically: lightweight, loose-fitting clothing that covers shoulders and knees is appropriate for the culture and helps protect against the sun. A scarf or hat, sunscreen and plenty of water are essential. Footwear should be sturdy enough for walking on sand and rock. If you plan to hike, bring a map or hire a local guide who knows the area.