How to visit the Jordan desert

A vast, otherworldly landscape of sandstone mountains, red dunes and natural arches, visiting the Jordanian desert, especially the iconic Wadi Rum, is an unforgettable experience. To make the most of your trip to this magical place, read on for detail on how to visit the Jordan desert.

How to visit the Jordan desert

Visiting the desert is for sure among the best things to do in Jordan, and truly worth including in your Jordan itinerary, especially Wadi Rum.

Located in southern Jordan, about 60 km east of Aqaba and 100 km south of Petra, this UNESCO World Heritage Site is one of the world’s best desert experiences.

Nicknamed the “Valley of the Moon”, it’s served as the sublime backdrop for many a movie, including Lawrence of Arabia and The Martian. 

Serving an exhilarating mix of surreal scenery, Bedouin culture, magical stargazing, and epic outdoor adventures, the desert is accessible, and well-managed. 

That said, the following guide to how to visit the Jordan desert might just make your experience smoother, and more special.

For wider context, read our Jordan travel tips. 

How to get to the Jordan desert 

Most visitors access the Wadi Rum desert by car from Petra (1.5–2 hrs) or Aqaba (1 hr), with the Wadi Rum Visitor Centre serving as the main entry point to the Jordan desert.

From Petra (Wadi Musa), it’s scenic and straightforward 110 km (1.5–2 hours) drive. Simply follow Route 35 south, then Route 15 toward the Wadi Rum Visitor Centre, just past the town of Disi. 

From Aqaba, the distance is shorter — around 70 km (1 hour) north on Route 15.

Getting around the Jordan desert

Public transport is very limited. From Petra, occasional minibuses to Wadi Rum village may be available, but you can't rely on them being there. In fact, they require local coordination. 

From Aqaba, JETT buses or shared taxis may run to the Visitor Centre, though they are irregular.

As a result, the best option is to book a private transfer or organized tour with hotel pickup, or else to self-drive. All these options are covered below. 

Want wider context? Read up on getting around Jordan. 

Self-driving the Jordan desert 

While self-driving to the Wadi Rum Visitor Centre is easy with a standard vehicle, driving inside the Wadi Rum desert itself is only permitted with a licensed 4x4.

The terrain consists of deep sand, rocky paths, and unmarked tracks, which can easily trap or disorient unfamiliar drivers.

Even if you have an off-road capable 4x4 vehicle and desert experience, while it’s technically possible to drive into Wadi Rum independently, you must register at the Visitor Centre and pay the entry fee. This is included in the Jordan Pass, which also gives access to other top sites, like Petra.

For most travelers, the best approach is to drive to the Visitor Centre, park in the lot, and arrange for your camp or Bedouin guide to meet you with a 4x4 transfer. Camps coordinate pickups here or from Wadi Rum village nearby.

However you get there, inside the desert, travel is by 4x4, camel, or on foot, usually led by Bedouin hosts. The unique terrain, extreme temperatures, and isolation mean it’s safest — and more enriching — to explore with someone who knows the landscape intimately.

Guided tours of the Jordan desert

Guided tours are the most popular and safest way to experience Wadi Rum.

Tours are available as day trips, overnight stays, or multi-day adventures, with general and specialized options available to suit your interests and budget.

4x4 jeep tours

Run by local Bedouin guides, these are most common tour type, and cover highlights like Lawrence’s Spring, Burdah Rock Bridge, Khazali canyon, and seeing all those sand dunes.

Tours range from 2 hours to full-day, and most include tea, snacks, or lunch.

Camel treks

Short rides (1–2 hours) are available from camps, while multi-day treks with overnight stops in Bedouin tents offer a slower, immersive journey.

Hiking and climbing tours

Experienced guides lead hikes to Jebel Um Adaami (Jordan’s highest peak) or climbs like Burdah Arch. 

Overnight desert experiences

These are the ultimate way to visit the Jordan desert, and often include jeep tours, sunset viewing, stargazing, dinner, music and camp accommodation.

Want to save yourself the time and hassle of arranging your own tour? Book a customizable Jordan itinerary. 

When to visit the Jordan desert

During these months, daytime temperatures range between 68–86°F (20–30°C), making it ideal for hiking, jeep tours, camel rides, and stargazing alike.

In addition, spring serves the spectacle of blooming desert plants, while autumn boasts clear skies and comfortable nights — perfect for sleeping under the stars.

Winter (December to February) is another option, if you prefer cooler weather, though bear in mind that temperatures can drop to freezing at night, especially in higher desert elevations, and some camps may close or offer limited services due to the cold. 

Also note that flash floods, while rare, are a small concern in the winter rainy season, particularly in canyons or wadis. 

Conversely, the peak of summer (June–August) should be avoided. Temperatures can soar above 104°F (40°C) and the intense sun and heat can make outdoor adventures uncomfortable and risky.

On the subject of when to visit, discover why the time to go to Jordan is now!

Where to stay in the Jordan desert 

Accommodation in Wadi Rum ranges from budget Bedouin tents to luxury desert domes, with most options operated by local families, and including meals, transport, and tours.

Budget options ($30–$60/night) comprise shared tents with simple bedding and communal bathrooms, with mid-range camps ($70–$150) offer private tents, en-suite bathrooms, traditional meals, campfires, and stargazing experiences.

For something extra-special, luxury options ($200+) provide dome-style camps with panoramic views, A/C, private bathrooms, and gourmet dining. 

For wider context, read up on Jordan accommodation.

Best activities in the Jordan desert

Here’s a handy overview of the kinds of activities you’ll get to enjoy in the Jordan desert.

• 4x4 jeep tours: you’ll visit rock bridges, canyons and stacks of sand dunes.
• Hiking: take trails to natural arches, such as Burdah Rock Bridge or Jebel Um Adaami (Jordan’s highest peak).
• Rock climbing: ideal for experienced climbers; expert guides available.
• Stargazing: the desert’s remote location offers stunning dark-sky views of the Milky Way.
• Sandboarding: the best way to have fun on the dunes.
• Cultural experiences: enjoy Bedouin meals, storytelling and music by firelight.
   

Before heading off to the desert, be sure to experience some of the best things to do in Amman. 

How to stay safe in the Jordan desert 

Wondering is Jordan is safe? On balance, it is, but you'd be wise to follow a few guidelines when visiting the desert.

Water safety: always carry at least 2–3 liters per person per day. Camps and guides usually provide plenty, but double-check.

Weather safety: the sun is intense around these parts, so protect yourself with a hat, sunscreen, and light long-sleeved clothing. Conversely, nights can be freezing, so pack accordingly.

Hiking safety: never hike alone — the terrain is rugged and unmarked. Always use local guides and inform someone of your route.