How to Get Around Wadi Rum: Transportation Tips and Options
Navigating the vast, otherworldly landscape of Wadi Rum requires some planning. This guide covers all transportation options for exploring the desert, as well as how to reach Wadi Rum from other destinations in Jordan.
Getting to Wadi Rum
From Amman
By Bus:
JETT buses run from Amman to Aqaba with a stop at the Wadi Rum intersection
Cost: Around 10 JOD (14 USD)
Duration: Approximately 4 hours to the intersection, then you'll need a taxi to the Visitor Center
By Minibus:
Minibuses depart from Amman's South Bus Station (Wehdat)
Cost: Around 7-8 JOD (10-11 USD)
Duration: 4-5 hours with potential stops
By Taxi:
Private taxis can be arranged from Amman
Cost: 70-100 JOD (100-140 USD)
Duration: 3.5-4 hours
Advantage: Direct service to Wadi Rum Village
By Rental Car:
Multiple rental agencies in Amman
Cost: From 30-50 JOD (42-70 USD) per day plus fuel
Duration: 3.5-4 hours
Note: You'll need to park at the Visitor Center and arrange desert transportation
From Aqaba
By Minibus:
Minibuses depart from Aqaba's main bus station
Cost: Around 5 JOD (7 USD)
Duration: Approximately 1 hour
Frequency: Limited, usually morning departures
By Taxi:
Taxis from Aqaba to Wadi Rum
Cost: 25-35 JOD (35-50 USD)
Duration: 1 hour
Advantage: Flexible departure times
From Petra (Wadi Musa)
By Minibus:
Limited direct minibuses (usually need to change at Aqaba)
Cost: 7-10 JOD (10-14 USD)
Duration: 2-3 hours
By Taxi:
Direct service available
Cost: 45-60 JOD (63-85 USD)
Duration: 1.5-2 hours
Transportation Within Wadi Rum
Once you arrive at the Wadi Rum Visitor Center, you'll need specialized desert transportation to explore the protected area.
4x4 Jeep Tours
Advantages:
Cover large distances quickly
Access remote areas
Comfortable for all fitness levels
Protection from sun and elements
Can carry supplies for longer trips
Options:
2-Hour Tour: Covers main attractions near the village
- Cost: 35-45 JOD (50-63 USD) per jeep
Half-Day Tour (4 hours): Visits major sites
- Cost: 65-75 JOD (92-106 USD) per jeep
Full-Day Tour (7-8 hours): Comprehensive exploration
- Cost: 90-120 JOD (127-170 USD) per jeep
Custom Tours: Tailored to specific interests
- Cost: Varies based on duration and distance
*Note: Jeeps typically accommodate 6 passengers plus driver. Prices are per vehicle, not per person.*
Camel Rides
Advantages:
Traditional Bedouin transportation
Eco-friendly
Unique desert experience
Slower pace allows for better appreciation of surroundings
Options:
Short Ride (1-2 hours)
- Cost: 25-35 JOD (35-50 USD) per camel
Half-Day Trek (3-4 hours)
- Cost: 50-70 JOD (70-99 USD) per camel
Full-Day Trek
- Cost: 80-100 JOD (113-141 USD) per camel
Multi-Day Treks
- Cost: From 70 JOD (99 USD) per day per camel
*Note: Camel treks include a Bedouin guide who leads the camels.*
Hiking/Trekking
Advantages:
Complete freedom to explore at your own pace
Access to areas vehicles can't reach
Most immersive experience
No cost beyond guide fees (if applicable)
Considerations:
Requires good physical fitness
Need plenty of water (5-7 liters per person per day)
Navigation skills or a guide is essential
Extreme heat during summer months (May-September)
Options:
Guided Hikes
- Cost: 50-70 JOD (70-99 USD) per day for a guide
Self-Guided Hikes
- Not recommended unless you have desert experience
- Must register your route with the Visitor Center
Combination Transportation
Many visitors opt for a combination of transportation methods:
Jeep + Hiking: Use a jeep to reach distant areas, then explore on foot
Jeep + Camel: Experience both modern and traditional transportation
Camel + Hiking: Combine riding with walking for varied perspectives
Transportation Tips
Book in Advance: Especially during high season (March-May, September-November)
Negotiate Prices: Some flexibility exists, particularly in low season
Shared Tours: Join other travelers to split jeep costs
Water: Carry more water than you think you'll need
Sun Protection: Essential regardless of transportation choice
Photography: Different transportation offers different photography opportunities
Local Guides: Always use local Bedouin guides for the best experience
Accessibility Considerations
Most jeep tours can accommodate travelers with moderate mobility issues
Camel riding may be challenging for those with back problems or limited mobility
Custom tours can be arranged for travelers with specific accessibility needs
Conclusion
Wadi Rum offers various transportation options to suit different preferences, budgets, and physical abilities. For the most authentic experience, we recommend combining different modes of transportation during your stay. A typical arrangement might include a jeep tour on the first day to cover major attractions, followed by a camel ride or guided hike for a more intimate desert experience.
At Wadi Rum Adventures, we can arrange all transportation needs for your desert exploration, from airport transfers to customized desert tours. Contact us to plan your perfect Wadi Rum adventure.
