WADI RUM
This is a stupendous, timeless place, virtually untouched by humanity and its destructive forces. Here, it is the weather and winds that have carved the imposing, towering skyscrapers, so elegantly described by T.E. Lawrence as “vast, echoing and God-like…”
A maze of monolithic rockscapes rise up from the desert floor to heights of 1,750m creating a natural challenge for serious mountaineers. Hikers can enjoy the tranquility of the boundless empty spaces and explore the canyons and water holes to discover 4000-year-old rock drawings and the many other spectacular treasures this vast wilderness holds in store
Also known as ‘The Valley of the Moon’, this is the place where Prince Faisal Bin Hussein and T.E. Lawrence based their headquarters during the Arab Revolt against the Ottomans in World War I, their exploits intrinsically woven into the history of this amazing area
There are several options for exploring Wadi Rum. Visitors should head for the Visitors’ Centre where, apart from visitors’ facilities, they can hire a 4×4 vehicle, together with driver/guide, and then drive for two or three hours into the Wadi system to explore some of the best known sites. Alternatively they can hire a camel and guide. The duration of the trip can be arranged beforehand through the Visitors’ Centre, as can a stay under the stars in a Bedouin tent, where they can enjoy a traditional campfire meal accompanied by Arabic music.
Once transport has been arranged, there are various excursions available – for example, a trip to Burdah Rock Bridge, the highest in Wadi Rum, via the Seven Pillars of Wisdom and many other interesting sights, is a full day by car or an overnight trip by camel. There are many alternative routes and information on these is available from your tour operator or from the Visitors’ Centre on-site.
The Bedouin people that inhabit the area still maintain their semi-nomadic lifestyle. They are hospitable and offer a friendly welcome to visitors, often inviting them to sit and enjoy a coffee or even a meal.
NOTES
Dress casually (khakis, jeans or shorts)
Bring a light jacket in the summer and a warm one in the winter as temperature drops dramatically as the balloon rises
A sun hat or cap is advisable
Flat shoes are recommended
Balloon tour
Float silently over Wadi Rum and enjoy the breathtaking natural rock formations. See the seven pillars of wisdom and the natural dunes of the desert from 6,000 feet. This unique experience is enhanced by our experienced pilot and his dedicated staff who will make sure every part of your experience is safe and enjoyable.
Flights take place in the early morning for optimal flying conditions.
ECO & NATURE
This is a nature-lover’s paradise; a unique ecosystem where rare plants and herbs, long known by the Bedouin for their curative powers, can be discovered.
At first glance there does not appear to be a great deal of wildlife but more observant visitors will soon discover there is more to Wadi Rum than sand and rocks. Hyrax, hares, jerboas and gerbils appear, as if from nowhere, as the sun goes down. This is also the time for the desert hunters, the foxes and Arabian sand cats, to make their appearance. Their footprints can often be seen in the sand in the early morning around the Bedouin campsites – evidence, no doubt, of their nighttime scavenging.
Though not as many as in the past, there are still Nubian Ibex and gazelle to be seen. These are highly protected by the Jordanian Royal Society for the Conservation of Nature (RSCN), as are the Arabian Oryx recently reintroduced to the area from the Shawmari Reserve.
Birdlife includes Desert Larks and Crested Larks, Wheatears Rock Sparrows, bright pink Sinai Rosefinches (Jordan’s National Bird) and Chukar Partridges. Overhead, Vultures, Buzzards and Eagles soar over the towering cliffs.
There are two ways to stay overnight in Wadi Rum: Camping and bed and breakfast. Camping in this mountainous desert is an unforgettable experience. You can choose from “wild campsites,” with minimum facilities, where you can take your own tent, to luxury Bedouin style campsites with all facilities and entertainment. Most of these deluxe sites are outside the protected area near the village of Disi.
There is also a permanent campsite in Rum Village with showers, toilets and restaurants nearby and it is possible to stay in a genuine Bedouin tent in the desert. There are no hotels in the immediate vicinity of Wadi Rum. The nearest places with a wide selection of hotels are Aqaba and Petra, which take between one and one-and-half hours to reach by car or bus.
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