Wadi Rum Entry Fees: What You Need to Know

Visiting the magnificent Wadi Rum Protected Area requires paying an entrance fee that helps maintain this UNESCO World Heritage Site. This guide covers everything you need to know about Wadi Rum entry fees, including costs, payment methods, and money-saving tips.

Standard Entry Fees

As of 2024, the standard entry fees for Wadi Rum Protected Area are:

Foreign visitors: 5 JOD (approximately $7 USD) per person

Jordanian citizens: 1 JOD per person

Children under 12: Free (with proof of age)

These fees are collected at the Visitor Center, which serves as the gateway to the protected area.

What's Included in the Entry Fee

The entry fee includes:

Access to the Wadi Rum Protected Area

Basic map of the main sites

Use of the facilities at the Visitor Center

Conservation contribution to help preserve the desert ecosystem

The entry fee does not include:

Transportation within the protected area

Guide services

Accommodation

Food and beverages

Special activities or tours

Jordan Pass Holders

If you have purchased a Jordan Pass (highly recommended for most tourists visiting Jordan), your Wadi Rum entry fee is included in the pass. Simply present your Jordan Pass (digital or printed) at the Visitor Center to gain entry without additional payment.

The Jordan Pass comes in three varieties:

Jordan Wanderer: 70 JOD ($99 USD) - Includes 1-day visit to Petra

Jordan Explorer: 75 JOD ($106 USD) - Includes 2-day visit to Petra

Jordan Expert: 80 JOD ($113 USD) - Includes 3-day visit to Petra

All three options include the Wadi Rum entry fee, making the Jordan Pass an excellent value if you're also visiting Petra and other attractions in Jordan.

Special Permits and Additional Fees

Photography Permits

Professional photography/filming: Requires a special permit

Cost: 70 JOD ($99 USD) for professional equipment

Application: Must be arranged in advance through the Visitor Center or a tour operator

*Note: Regular tourist photography with standard cameras and smartphones does not require a special permit.*

Camping Fees

Wild camping: Not permitted without proper authorization

Organized camping: Included in tour packages or camp bookings

Payment Methods

Currency: Jordanian Dinar (JOD) is the preferred currency

Cash: Most reliable payment method

Credit cards: Accepted at the Visitor Center but may be subject to technical issues

Foreign currency: USD and EUR may be accepted but at unfavorable exchange rates

*Note: There are no ATMs in Wadi Rum Village or at the Visitor Center. The nearest ATMs are in Aqaba or Petra.*

Visitor Center Hours

The Wadi Rum Visitor Center, where you pay the entry fee, operates during these hours:

Summer (April-October): 6:00 AM to 8:00 PM

Winter (November-March): 7:00 AM to 6:00 PM

It's recommended to arrive early, especially during peak season, to avoid crowds and make the most of your day in the desert.

Tips for Saving Money on Entry Fees

Purchase the Jordan Pass if you're visiting multiple attractions in Jordan

Travel with children under 12 as they enter free

Plan a longer stay to maximize the value of your entry fee

Combine with other southern Jordan attractions like Petra and Aqaba for efficient travel

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the entry fee a one-time payment or daily?

The entry fee is a one-time payment valid for the duration of your stay in Wadi Rum. You don't need to pay again if you exit and re-enter on the same day.

Do I need to pay the entry fee if I'm staying at a camp inside Wadi Rum?

Yes, all visitors must pay the entry fee regardless of accommodation arrangements. Some camps include the entry fee in their packages, but it's best to confirm this in advance.

Can I pay the entry fee in advance?

The standard entry fee cannot be paid in advance unless it's included in a tour package or the Jordan Pass. Payment is made upon arrival at the Visitor Center.

Is there a different fee for day visitors versus overnight visitors?

No, the entry fee is the same regardless of whether you're visiting for a few hours or staying overnight.

Are there any discounts for students or seniors?

Currently, there are no official discounts for students or seniors. All foreign adults pay the standard 5 JOD fee unless they have a Jordan Pass.

Conclusion

The Wadi Rum entry fee is a small price to pay for accessing one of the world's most spectacular desert landscapes. At just 5 JOD per person (or included with the Jordan Pass), it represents excellent value for the experience offered.

For the most seamless experience, we recommend:

Purchasing the Jordan Pass if you're visiting other attractions in Jordan

Bringing exact change in Jordanian Dinars

Arriving early at the Visitor Center to complete the entry formalities

At Wadi Rum Adventures, we can help arrange your visit to include all necessary permits and fees. Contact us to plan your perfect Wadi Rum experience.