Wadi Rum desert sites
Wadi Rum desert sites
Wadi Rum is an expansive desert in the south of Jordan that offers endless opportunities for exploration. And its breathtaking landscapes and hidden gems make it a must-visit destination. Having some basic knowledge about the various places of interest and areas you can explore is helpful. This knowledge will help you decide which tour package will be the most rewarding. Therefore, on this page, you will find information about the different sites within the Wadi Rum desert. For each place, we added a brief description, a picture, and, to many, a link to a relevant blog post or tour package that includes the site.
Table of Contents
Abu Khashaba Canyon
Abu Khashaba Canyon is a stunning canyon in the heart of the protected area, boasting a unique combination of red and yellow sand, and it is surprisingly green due to the presence of desert bushes and trees. The canyon’s shape is reminiscent of an hourglass, with a narrow middle section requiring a bit of rock scrambling. As you go through the canyon, look at the mountainsides; they look like works of art, with various shapes and forms carved out over time by wind and rain. Some of these shapes even resemble animals and faces. The walk through the canyon is a pleasant one, taking approximately 45 minutes. This hike is part of our jeep tour.
Ain Ash–Shallaleh
The picturesque Ain Ash-Shallaleh awaits at the end of a delightful 15-minute walk along a track, starting behind Rum Village’s cemetery. This serene location features a small pool shaded by lush ferns and small trees next to a rock-cut aqueduct. Constantly fed by fresh mountain water, the pool creates a vibrant oasis in the heart of the desert. This spring is referenced in Lawrence of Arabia’s ‘Seven Pillars of Wisdom,’ as it was the watering spot for Lawrence and Faisal’s troops’ camels before their pivotal attack on the Aqaba Fort during the Arab Revolt. Lastly, be sure to find the ancient inscriptions and soak in the breathtaking views that stretch across the beautiful Rum Valley.
Anfishiyyeh Inscriptions
Located on the southern side of Jabal Anfishiyyeh, a massive rock wall boasts some of the most remarkable Thamudic and Nabatean petroglyphs and inscriptions in Wadi Rum. These stunning petroglyphs and inscriptions are believed to be made between 2500 and 2800 years ago. Take a moment to look at the petroglyphs, and you will discover a stunning number of camels and their interactions with humans. And if you take a closer look, you will also find scenes of hunting, armed men, intriguing circular and linear symbols, inscriptions, and more.
Barrah Canyon
Barrah Canyon is a 5-kilometer long canyon that divides the Barrah Massif into two parts, offering incredible diversity. The area features sandy stretches, lush vegetation, and dunes flanked by colorful cliffs and rock formations, making it an excellent destination for everyone. The hiking trail takes around 1.5 to 2 hours to complete. Our 3D3N desert tour Jabal Al-Hash and Burdah rock bridge includes this hike. While many consider Barrah Canyon one of the most stunning canyons in Wadi Rum, there are other hidden and less crowded gems waiting to be discovered, each with its own unique charm and allure.
Bedouin storage places
In the Wadi Rum desert, there are multiple storage facilities scattered around. These storages vary in construction, with some traditional architectural styles, while newer and larger ones may have been built using sturdy building blocks. While some storage spaces are relatively compact, others boast substantial rooms with actual doors. However, they all share a common feature - they are designed to shield their contents from the relentless desert sun for most of the day. Historically, these storage spaces have been part of the Bedouin way of life in Wadi Rum, serving as secure repositories for food supplies and essential equipment.
Burdah Rock Bridge
The Burdah Rock Bridge is an amazing sight, standing tall at 35 meters and spanning 20 meters. It is located on the north side of Jabal Burdah, at an altitude of just under 1350 meters, making it the highest-elevation arch in Wadi Rum, and one of the world’s most elevated natural arches. This site is perfect for adventurous travelers looking for an exciting experience. To reach the bridge, you will need to climb around 260 meters, which involves rock scrambling and a short rock climb. The climb typically takes about 3 hours round trip, and the views from the bridge over Wadi Rum are simply stunning.
Cow Rock
The Wadi Rum desert boasts numerous stunning rock formations, including some solitary rocks with distinct shapes. One of the most prominent is Cow Rock, also known as Chicken Rock. Over time, the relentless forces of nature, mainly wind erosion, have shaped Cow Rock into a unique and photogenic structure. When you visit this rock, during, for example, our 2D2N desert tour Jabal Al-Hash, take a stroll around it and decide for yourself whether it resembles a cow, a chicken, or something else.
Dams, reservoirs, and sunken cisterns
Water is scarce in Wadi Rum, with only a few springs available. To ensure access to water, people have constructed dams, reservoirs, and sunken cisterns across the desert since at least the 4th century BC. Most of these structures are built in the hollow parts of the mountains that are mostly shaded throughout the day. This slows the evaporation process, which is crucial in preventing water loss. During rainfall, the water flows down from the mountainsides and fills the basins, providing a vital water source for the Bedouins during the hot and dry summer months. All these structures serve as a testament to the ingenuity and determination of the Nabateans, Romans, and Bedouins, who have thrived in this harsh environment.
Double Bridge
In the Wadi Rum desert, numerous breathtaking natural rock bridges are waiting to be explored. Among them are the well-known Um Fruth Rock Bridge, Little Bridge, and the Burdah Rock Bridge. However, standing out from the rest is the remarkable Double Bridge. This formation is nestled in a stunning yellow sand area tucked away in the less-visited southern region of Wadi Rum. The Double Bridge, along with its enchanting and serene surroundings, unquestionably stands out as one of the captivating features of this desert landscape.
Jabal Al-Hash
Jabal Al-Hash, situated in the southern part of Wadi Rum, close to the border with Saudi Arabia, is a gem waiting to be explored. Hiking one of the so-called Bedouin roads on this mountain offers a unique opportunity to see fossils, sparkling salt crystals in the sand, and traditional medicinal plants we use. There are numerous routes to choose from, each with its own level of challenge and leading to different points on the mountain. You will be amazed by the breathtaking views of the north and south of Wadi Sabet, which makes this place one of the most magnificent spots in Wadi Rum desert.
Jabal Al-Qattar
Jabal Al-Qattar is one of the most iconic and breathtaking mountains in the Wadi Rum desert. It stands tall and proud like a castle, with towering peaks that are visible from afar, especially during the enchanting sunset in Um Sabatah. Similar to Jabal Rum, Jabal Al-Qattar has a granite base with limestone at the top. Limestone is a type of stone that can absorb water, which then slowly descends until it reaches the granite. As granite cannot retain water, it is expelled, resulting in the formation of natural springs that provide water for plants, trees, animals, and the Bedouins.
Jabal Um ad Dami
Jordan's highest mountain, Jabal Um ad Dami, has an elevation of 1854 meters and is situated in the far south of Wadi Rum. It provides stunning views over Wadi Rum and Saudi Arabia, and on a clear day, you can even see the Red Sea shimmering in the distance. The hike to the top takes about two hours for people with moderate fitness levels. The trail is relatively simple but involves climbing a rocky surface with some slippery sections, so be prepared for a bit of scrambling. We plan to reintroduce this hike as a second or third day starting in the late summer of 2024. If you're interested in joining this tour, please email us to receive a proposal.
Khazali Canyon
Khazali Canyon is one of the most famous and frequently visited places in Wadi Rum. The canyon starts with a narrow crack filled with numerous petroglyphs and inscriptions at different heights on the walls. The Nabateans and Thamudic people created most of these historical markings, including depictions of camels, horses, mountain goats, ostriches, people, pairs of feet, and writings dating back to pre-Islamic and Thamudic times. Additionally, there are a couple of handmade water pools. A steep and slippery climb is required to access the higher part of the canyon, which is typically not included in tour programs.
Khor al-Ajram
Khor al-Ajram is the central artery of the Wadi Rum Protected Area, cutting through the majestic landscape from west to east. This expansive valley is a breathtaking sea of red sand, flanked by the towering peaks of Jabal Rum, Jabal Um Ishrin, and Jabal Khazali. Iconic attractions like the vibrant red sand dune, the mysterious Khazali Canyon, and the scenic Little Bridge are all in Khor al-Ajram. The enchanting valley takes its name from the flourishing ‘Ajram’, the Anabasis plant, which thrives in the area, adding to the natural beauty of the surroundings.
Lawrence House
The current structure built by the Romans stands on the ruins of an earlier Nabatean building. Although there are stories about Lawrence of Arabia staying at this site before heading to Aqaba, there is no conclusive evidence to prove it. Some tales suggest that he used the building to store weapons. Over time, the house fell into disrepair and is now less impressive. However, the location itself is stunning. If you climb the rocks behind the house, you can reach a plateau offering breathtaking views of the desert.
Lawrence Spring - Ain Abu Aineh
Ain Abu Aineh, also known as Lawrence Spring, is a natural spring three kilometers southwest of Rum village. It provides a constant source of fresh water for the Bedouins, their animals, and other wild animals. A drainage system has been installed to transport the water to the reservoirs beside the parking area and near Bedouin settlement. Two large rocks at the mountain’s base contain numerous Thamudic inscriptions. To reach the spring, which is almost dry, you must scramble over rocks to the fig trees. From there, you can take in the spectacular views of the desert.
Little Bridge
The Little Bridge is one of the smaller rock bridges in Wadi Rum, spanning approximately 4 meters. You can easily touch the bridge from its base, and scrambling up to the top of this rock bridge is one of the easiest in all of Wadi Rum. Your reward for making it to the top is a superb view of the surrounding red sand valley, Khor al Ajram, with famous mountains like Jabal Khazali, Jabal Rum, and Jabal Um Ishrin in the backdrop. Overall, it is a fantastic place to visit. If you want to see this bridge, it is included in our jeep tour.
The Map
At the meeting point of Wadi Um Ishrin and Khor Al Arjam lies an intriguing site known as the ‘Map’, named for reasons unknown to us. A sandstone rock at this location is adorned with fascinating early Thamudic petroglyphs, although the significance of its name remains a mystery to us. Despite some fading and damage, carvings of animals such as Oryx and a camel can still be identified. While other carvings may be more challenging to interpret, the ‘Map’ site, along with nearby inscriptions and petroglyphs, provides valuable insights into the ancient inhabitants of Wadi Rum.
Mushroom Rock
The Wadi Rum desert is home to a variety of breathtaking rock formations, including several solitary rocks with unique shapes. Mushroom rock is arguably the most well-known and photographed solitary rock in the desert. Over a long period of time, the relentless forces of nature, mainly wind erosion, have sculpted Mushroom rock into a one-of-a-kind and visually appealing structure. If you want to see the famous Mushroom Rock, it is included in our jeep tour.
Nabataean Temple
Just outside Wadi Rum village lie the remains of a Nabataean Temple. This ancient structure was dedicated to Allat. Despite being damaged by an earthquake, the temple’s remaining foundations offer a glimpse into its former grandeur. Unlike the ornate facades of Petra, this temple was likely a simpler building, with a central courtyard and vibrant columns. Nearby Thamudic inscriptions provide valuable insights into the presence of the Nabataeans and Wadi Rum's inhabitants. Despite its state, the temple offers a serene setting to reflect on the skills of this ancient civilization.
Rakabat Canyon
The Rakabat Canyon is a complex series of ravines that cut through the Jabal Um Ishrin massif. The entrance of the canyon is located northeast of the Rum village. The hike and rock scramble is challenging and adventurous, taking about three hours to complete. This hike is recommended only for those who are reasonably fit and do not have balance issues or a fear of heights. The abundance of shade in the canyon offers some protection from the desert heat. You will enjoy breathtaking mountain and desert scenery while learning about the ecosystem of the desert canyon.
Red and yellow sand dunes
Wadi Rum is home to numerous red and yellow dunes that dot the desert landscape. The dunes are mostly located near rock formations, but some can also be found in open valleys. Visiting Wadi Rum without seeing and exploring one or more of these dunes is impossible. The highest dune in Wadi Rum is Al Hasany Dune while the most popular one is the dune close to Jabal Khazali, which is easier to climb and offers breathtaking views of Khor al Ajram.
Seven pillars of Wisdom - Jabal Al-Mazmar
The Seven Pillars of Wisdom is a mountain opposite the Wadi Rum visitor center, known as Jabal Al-Mazmar by the Bedouin community. The name of this mountain was popularized by T.E. Lawrence’s book, published in the 1920s. Lawrence of Arabia derived the name from a verse in Proverbs that reads, “Wisdom has built her house; she has carved out her seven pillars.” Interestingly, the mountain itself does not have seven distinct pillars. Although Jabal Al-Mazmar is not part of our tours, you can still see it from the visitor center or when driving to our office in Rum Village.
Um Fruth Rock Bridge
Um Fruth Rock Bridge is one of the stunning natural arches in Wadi Rum. It is about 15 meters high and offers great views of the surrounding area. This place is one of the most popular and photographed tourist spots in the Wadi Rum desert, so finding a quiet time to visit can be challenging. You should expect to encounter many other travelers while you are there. Although the climb is steep, with the help of your tour guide, you can climb the bridge in a couple of minutes. In our blog about places you want to photograph in the Wadi Rum desert, you can find more ideas of scenic places to photograph.
Um al-Samn Rock Bridge
The Um al-Samn Rock bridge, also known as “the eye,” is situated in the southwest part of the Wadi Rum Protected Area. It is a relatively lesser-known rock bridge compared to the Um Fruth Rock Bridge, Burdah Rock Bridge, and Little Bridge. This is likely due to its location rather than its natural beauty. A relatively easy and short hike and scramble leads to the bridge, and climbing even higher up the mountain will reward you with breathtaking panoramic views of the Wadi Rum desert. This remarkable bridge is included in our Wadi Sabet tour.
Um Ghadah
Um Ghadah is another captivating area in Wadi Rum that offers great hiking opportunities. You can scramble through a narrow canyon or take an easy valley hike. Both options allow you to explore the vegetation, potentially see some wildlife, and enjoy extraordinary desert views in this less-traveled part of Wadi Rum. The duration and length of hikes in this area can vary to suit different preferences. This hike is included in our Wadi Sabet tour.
Um Mugur Canyon
Nestled in the northern part of the wilderness zone, Um Mugur Canyon is a mesmerizing yellow-sand canyon that captivates visitors with its stunning beauty. The canyon is adorned with vibrant, lush vegetation typical of the “white desert”. It provides an opportunity to encounter fascinating wildlife, including lizards and various bird species. Taking a 30-45 minute hike through this less-explored canyon assures a one-of-a-kind and unforgettable experience, surrounded by breathtaking natural scenery. Moreover, be sure not to miss out on the extraordinary desert vistas at the beginning and end of the hike!
Um Sabatah - sunset area
The Um Sabatah area, renowned for its vibrant red sand, lies about 10 kilometers from the Rum village. It is known as one of the finest places to experience the awe-inspiring sunset. The valley floor, dunes, rocks, and mountainsides in this area offer the perfect locations to witness the visual feast of colors. As the sun sets, the sky, sand, and mountains gradually change colors, creating a stunning view perfect for photography enthusiasts. However, we highly recommend you put your camera aside and simply sit down to savor the magical sunset amidst the serene and beautiful surroundings. During all our Wadi Rum tours, we go to Um Sabatah to enjoy the sunset.
Wadi Nuqra
Wadi Nuqra is a stunning yellow-sand valley with diverse vegetation extending from Um Mugur to Wadi Sabet. One of the valley’s most remarkable features is the Nuqra well, a deep and imposing hole descending meters below the surface. The valley's southern part is narrower and flanked by magnificent rock formations, creating a truly awe-inspiring sight. This part of the wadi especially offers an excellent opportunity for a hike amidst diverse plant life and the possibility of encountering lizards. The hike also offers breathtaking panoramic views of Wadi Sabet, providing a truly memorable experience. This hike is one of the highlights included in our Wadi Sabet tour.
Wadi Sabet
Wadi Sabet is a hidden gem in the southern region of Wadi Rum, attracting fewer visitors than the famous northern and central parts. This expansive red-sand valley stretches from the east to the west of Wadi Rum, offering viewpoints with awe-inspiring panoramas on its north side. While the vastness of the valley often calls for transportation by jeep to cover the distances between sites, the valley also invites you to do some hiking. Additionally, this canyon has multiple ancient petroglyphs and inscriptions, adding to its historical and cultural significance. You can explore Wadi Sabet by joining our Wadi Sabet tour or one of our multiple day tours.