What to See in Wadi Rum

Be sure to get an idea of what to see in Wadi Rum before you plan your trip. Below is a general overview of the many locations you can visit during your tour in protected area. If there is a particular spot you can’t miss, make sure to check it against the itinerary to be sure it is included. There are more locations here than a one day jeep tour will cover. And of course, if you want to see the area from high on a mountain top rather than desert-level, you should consider including a hike in your tour.

Nabatean Temple

Located at the foot of Jabal Rum near Wadi Rum Village, this temple ruin dates to 32 AD during the reign of King Aretas IV. Inscriptions can also be seen here.

Ain es -Shalalah

An amazing tapestry of inscirptions from various languages and eras can be seen in this green spring oasis. There is also an “eye idol” of Nabatean goddess Al-‘Uzza.

Ain Abu Aineh

Also referred to as Lawrence’s spring, this is a usual stop during camel tours because it is a good place for watering animals. There are also nearby inscriptions.

Red Sand Dunes

A fun place to take off your shoes and enjoy the soft sand. Often, sandboarders can also be seen surfing down the massive dune.

Khazali Canyon

In addition to the rock art depicting humans and animals, there are also inscriptions in Thamudic, Safaitic, Hismaic and Kufic arabic..

Anfashieh

Many artistic scenes of hunting and herding, along with Thamudic and Nabatean inscriptions can be seen on the sheer rock face of the mountain.

The Little Arch

This picturesque natural rock bridge formatiion is a frequent stop for visitors to Wadi Rum. Easy to climb up for views of the nearby mountains, it is centrally located in Khor El Ajran. Make a quick stop here for photos.

Lawrence’s House

Built at a higher point to see the caravans coming across the open valley from the north. This Nabatean stone building ruin once provided shelter to T.E. Lawrence before heading to Aqaba.

Burrah Canyon

The deep orange colors here are particularly striking in the early morning or late evening. This long Siq is a great place to trek on foot or go for a shorter hike to explore during a tour.

Mushroom Rock

One of the most striking natural sandstone formations in the area. Nearby is a bedouin tent where you can buy a souvenir of your visit, or drink tea.

Burdah Arch

This spectacular, world-class natural rock bridge is the highest in Jordan. A challenging scramble to the top. At a height of 35m it is not for those who have a fear of heights.

Abu Khashaba

We love this canyon because it is in the area of Rum where our family lived before moving into the village. This is where we have chosen as a setting for the Escape camp.

Um Frouth

This natural rock bridge is a favorite place to be photographed. It isn’t a very hard climb to reach the top and is one of the main highlights inside the protected area.

Um Sabata

One of the best large mountains from which to view the dramatic Wadi Rum sunset and sip bedouin tea made over the fire. It is easy to get to the viewing spot by jeep.

Wadi Sabet

In the extreme south of Wadi Rum, you will feel like you have left the world behind and escaped into the wilderness. Petroglyphs can be seen here as well.

Jabal Hash

In the southern area of Wadi Rum, this mountain is favored by hikers who want a less strenuous ascent. The reward of your efforts is an amazing view of the landscape from above.

Jabal Khazali

This mountain has a deep, narrow fissure which is rich with inscriptions and rock art. Anciently regarded as a blessed or even holy area because water collects naturally here.

Jabal Rum

This towering mountain is to your right as you enter into Wadi Rum village. The second highest mountain in Jordan, it is a favorite of scramblers and technical climbers.

Umm Ad Dami

To get the most stunning panoramic views of the area, you need to hike up Jordan’s tallest mountain. You may even see all the way to the Red Sea! It’s located near the border with Saudi Arabia.

Cow Rock

Or is it a chicken? It depends on your angle of view. This 3 meter high natural formation of eroded sandstone located in the red desert is a fun stop off the beaten path during the two day jeep tours.

7 Pillars of Wisdom

As you approach the Wadi Rum Visitor’s Center you will drive past Jabal Al Mazmar. Now it gets an English name from the famous autobiographical book by T.E. Lawrence.