Camel riding in jordan is the headline and in the background are some camels sitting under a lone tree in the desert

Camel riding: a bucket list experience!

If you want to try camel riding in Jordan during your trip there are two clear options: Petra or Wadi Rum. Short rides are offered to tourists in Petra and make a nice photo opportunity. But if you want a longer trek, the real bedouin way, you’ll want to plan this experience in the majestic desert of Wadi Rum. Full day tours with a local bedouin guide are a great way to see some of the highlights inside the protected area.

There’s no question that camels have been prized by bedouin for centuries. You can see the petroglyphs of camels that abound in Wadi Rum, showing their importance to the nomadic lifestyle. These are beloved and valuable animals that are well-cared for and carefully trained to accept riders. Lonely Planet travel guide recommends camel rides as an eco-friendly way to explore the desert of Wadi Rum.

The Ships of the Desert

During your visit to Wadi Rum you may see camels roaming freely in the desert, but they are not “wild.” The bedouin owners often allow them to move about unsheperded, and know where they tend to go. You may even spot a group of camels who are being raised to compete in camel races that take place throughout the region. A prize racing camel brings a hefty price. Usually the races in and around Wadi Rum are an event for the locals and not promoted to tourists.