Wadi Rum Protected Area Tickets & Tours & Informataion April 2025

Wadi Rum Protected Area

The Wadi Rum Protected Area is a vast and spectacular desert landscape, renowned for its stunning geological formations and rich cultural heritage. Spanning over 720 square kilometers, this protected area is home to towering sandstone mountains, narrow canyons, and expansive red sand dunes, creating a truly otherworldly environment. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a place of great natural beauty and historical significance. Visitors can experience the serenity of the desert while discovering ancient petroglyphs, unique rock formations, and vibrant wildlife, all within the protection of this incredible desert sanctuary.

The Basics

The Wadi Rum Protected Area is located in southern Jordan, near the town of Wadi Rum and about 60 kilometers from Aqaba. The area is part of the larger Wadi Rum region, and it is managed to preserve its natural and cultural value. The area is famous for its breathtaking desert landscapes, which can be explored through various activities like jeep tours, camel rides, and hiking. Visitors must pay an entrance fee to access the protected area, and it’s important to respect local customs and rules to ensure the preservation of the site for future generations.

Things to Know Before You Go

Before heading into the Wadi Rum Protected Area, there are a few important things to keep in mind. First, prepare for a desert environment with extreme heat during the day and cooler temperatures at night, especially in the winter months. It's essential to wear comfortable, breathable clothing, a hat, and sunscreen to protect against the sun. Ensure you have plenty of water for hydration. Cell phone service is limited in parts of the area, so consider traveling with a licensed guide who can offer a deeper understanding of the desert and its history.

How to Get There

Getting to the Wadi Rum Protected Area is straightforward from the nearby Wadi Rum Village. Most visitors travel by car, taxi, or pre-arranged tour from Aqaba (about an hour’s drive) or Petra (about 3 hours away). Once at the entrance of the protected area, you’ll need to book a tour with a local guide or join a jeep tour to explore the area. The guides are not only knowledgeable but can also ensure safety while navigating the desert terrain. If you’re traveling from Wadi Rum Village, you can easily arrange your tour through local camps or guides.

When to Get There

The best time to visit the Wadi Rum Protected Area is during the cooler months, from October to April. The temperatures are more comfortable for outdoor activities, ranging between 15°C and 25°C (59°F - 77°F), perfect for exploring the desert. Summer temperatures can soar to over 40°C (104°F), making it less ideal for daytime exploration. For those who enjoy stargazing, winter nights offer clear skies with some of the best views of the stars in the world. Regardless of when you visit, be prepared for temperature changes, especially after sunset.

Day Trips from Wadi Rum

If you're staying in Wadi Rum Village, a day trip to the Wadi Rum Protected Area is a must. Jeep tours are one of the most popular ways to explore the stunning desert landscape, and they can take you to key sites such as the famous Seven Pillars of Wisdom, the rock inscriptions, and Lawrence’s Spring. For the more adventurous, hiking and rock climbing opportunities abound, offering a chance to experience the desert’s natural beauty up close. You can also take a camel ride for a truly authentic desert experience. Many day trips include a visit to a traditional Bedouin camp, where you can enjoy local food and tea under the stars.