12 Things to Know Before Booking your Wadi Rum Bedouin Camp 

Home to the rich nomadic heritage of the Bedouins, Wadi Rum offers a unique blend of cultural immersion and natural beauty. Whether you’re exploring ancient inscriptions, enjoying a traditional Bedouin meal, or stargazing under the vast desert sky, Wadi Rum promises an unforgettable experience. Read on to discover everything you need to know before booking your Wadi Rum Bedouin camp adventure in this magical desert.

Is Wadi Rum worth visiting?  

Absolutely! Jordan, often hailed as a stable pillar in the Middle East, is renowned for its warm hospitality. You’ll frequently hear the welcoming phrase, “Welcome to Jordan,” often accompanied by an invitation to share a cup of tea. With its rich history spanning thousands of years and numerous UNESCO World Heritage sites, Jordan offers a treasure trove of cultural experiences.

Among these, the UNESCO-protected Wadi Rum desert stands out. Home to the Bedouins, the “desert dwellers” who once led a nomadic lifestyle, Wadi Rum offers a deep dive into Arab culture, stunning natural landscapes, and rich history. For an unforgettable cultural experience, don’t miss out on a stay at a Bedouin Camp in Wadi Rum.

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Can you explore Wadi Rum by yourself? 

While it’s possible to explore Wadi Rum solo, you’d miss out on the cultural exchange that makes the visit truly special. The Bedouins are the heart and soul of Wadi Rum, and a local guide can provide insights and experiences that you wouldn’t get otherwise. For an authentic desert adventure, camping overnight and following the guidance of a local expert, like those at Wadi Rum Golden Valley, is the way to go.

Getting around Wadi Rum

Reaching Wadi Rum village by car is fairly straightforward, thanks to a paved road from the highway. However, once in the village, roads are less maintained and bustling with jeeps, meaning its best to park at the Rest House and continue into the desert with a guide.

Navigating the desert alone is challenging and generally not recommended by the Visitors Center. The popular highlights are usually noted on the maps, but since it is an UNESCO protected area, you can only drive in certain areas. The locals know the way and know where you can and cannot drive, but for tourists it is not easy to spot these roads as they are not marked. If you must, ensure you have a 4×4 vehicle, register it at the Visitors Center, and understand the designated driving areas to protect the UNESCO site. Also be aware there’s limited mobile phone service.

Picking a tour guide for the ultimate Wadi Rum Bedouin Camp experience 

For the best Wadi Rum experience, choosing the right guide is crucial. Many Bedouin camps offer tours, so booking both your stay and tour in one place is convenient. A knowledgeable local guide can show you the highlights and hidden gems, sharing stories about the area and Bedouin lifestyle. Ensure your guide speaks English and clarify the sites included in the tour. For a reliable experience, Wadi Rum Golden Valley offers well-curated packages and tailor-made programs.

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Is it worth staying overnight in a Wadi Rum Bedouin Camp?  

Staying overnight at a Bedouin Camp is the best way to connect with locals and soak in the desert’s tranquility. Once booked, you’ll be picked up from Wadi Rum Village and driven into the desert, experiencing the breathtaking landscape en route.

“The journey in itself is a whole experience, stepping into the jeep and driving into to red sand, seeing the panoramic landscape come to live, as you drive closer and closer to the dreamy Bedouin camp. Staying overnight in Wadi Rum gives you the time to enjoy the beauty of the desert in a more relaxed way. The best part of the night is when the lights get dimmed, and you see the sky full of stars. Just take a mattrass and lay down in the sand, counting the shooting stars.” – Ahmad, CEO & Owner Wadi Rum Golden Valley

  

Where to go for the best Wadi Rum Bedouin Camp Experience 

For a top-notch camping experience in Wadi Rum, head to Wadi Rum Golden Valley. This camp perfectly blends traditional Bedouin elements with modern comforts like air conditioning and private bathrooms. Ahmad Alzalabieh, the camp’s owner, combines years of experience with a passion for offering both luxury and authentic experiences. Here, Bedouin hospitality means treating guests like family, with excellent food, engaging stories, and traditional dances.

What to pay attention to when camping in Wadi Rum 

1. Staying safe in the Desert:

Always let your guide or host know where you’re going. Always bring enough water with you and always give your guide or host an number to call in case of emergency. 

2. Best time of year to visit:

The best time of year to visit Wadi Rum is from March until May and from September until November. These months offer the most pleasant temperatures. The summer months might be too hot to do activities, but the winter months can be good if you like hiking. 

3. The weather in Wadi Rum:

The desert sun is strong, so pack a hat and sunscreen! 

4. The Facilities in Wadi Rum:

Be prepared for basic facilities when touring or hiking, as there are generally no bathrooms in the desert, only at campsites. So if you’re planning to take part in a tour or hike, just be prepared for the “open air toilet” and bring wipes or toilet paper with you since most guides don’t always provide this .

5. Is it Suitable for Families/couples:

Wadi Rum is suitable for all ages, but if traveling with kids, request a suitable vehicle to ensure a comfortable ride. The 4×4 rides can be pretty rough, especially when you sit in the back with a child. 

What to pack when staying at a Wadi Rum Bedouin Camp