Places to visit in Wadi Rum

This natural, towering summits sandstone rock formation has got this famous name through the legend of Lawrence. It indeed is a wonderful sight in the desert and is suited for trekking as well.

These inscriptions involve a lot of history of the Thumadic tribes, who labeled their journey through the desert during prehistoric times, in these Anfashya inscriptions. Sounding Jabal Anfashya, you can marvel at the moving sand of red sand dunes.

Situated around 20 km from the Rum Village, this majestic mountain worth a climb right to its top, just for the awe-inspiring view from there, is  a must visit. 

The desert has been inhabited by diverse cultures, including Nabateans and Bedouins, since ancient times. The ancient Arabic writings and rock drawings depict a genuine narrative of the Bedouin life.

The famous Alameleh inscriptions found here are best examples of conserved prehistoric rock drawings, screening camels and wildlife.

Being a protected desert zone, Wadi Rum is home to rare species of plants such as Jordan’s national flower Black Iris, Red Anemones, Poppies and many other herbs. Bird-watchers can see approximately 110 diverse species of birds such as Sparrows, Vultures, Eagles and Buzzards and many more. Being a desert, very few animal species seen here and some of them are Gray Wolf, Arabian sand cat and the mountain goat.

It is a spectacular natural arch rock surrounding Wadi Rum, which is just 15 meters above the desert floor. You can reach the top via a gully and the bridge is fairly narrow; so you need to be careful up there.

While exploring Wadi Rum, you must visit this secluded canyon situated between two massive mountains of dissimilar red and white sand. It is not too far from the Wadi Village and the view from the top of this canyon is breathtaking and fulfilling.

Situated approximately 30 km away from Wadi Rum Visitor’s Centre, this stunning mountain is 1650 meters above the sea level. The Canyon rock divides the mountain from the north, which has some Arab, Islamic and Nabatiyah drawings and writings encrypted with it, which is more than thousand years old.

Adjoining the Visitors Centre in Wadi Rum, there is an Intepetation hall located, which contains photos and general information about Wadi Rum including the history, Bedouin information, the culture and nature of Wadi Rum.

Believed to be constructed in 14th century BC by archeologists, the ruins of the marble-lined Nabatean Temple is a must visit. The temple is assumed to have been devoted to Goddesses Atargatis and Hadad.

The 4X4 drive through the desert to reach Wadi Rum, is something the kids may enjoy immensely, not to mention the breathtaking desert views. The overnight camp in the desert will be an unforgettable experience for the kids, with amazing views of sunrise and sunset.

This little spring under a rock on a high mount is much overrated, owing to the film location of Lawrence of Arabia. Nonetheless, it is definitely worth a hike so that you can enjoy yet another breathtaking desert landscape.

Wadi Rum is actually a set of distinctively formed sandstone Rocky Mountains, mounted vertically over the pink sand of the desert, which divide one dark heap from another in stunning desert scenery, with gigantic cliffs of weather-beaten stones. The mountain bases are approximately 1000m above sea level. Jabal Rum is the highest peak in Wadi Rum and the second highest in Jordan. After taking approval from the visitor centre, you can reach here via 4X4 drive.