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Published on January 13, 2026

How to Get to Wadi Rum: Your Ultimate Guide

Venturing into the majestic Martian landscape of Wadi Rum is a highlight for many travelers to Jordan. This guide provides comprehensive, practical information to help you navigate your journey to the iconic "Valley of the Moon," ensuring a smooth and memorable experience.

Understanding Wadi Rum's Location

Wadi Rum, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is situated in southern Jordan, a vast desert wilderness characterized by towering sandstone mountains, dramatic rock formations, and sweeping red sands. It's relatively remote, which contributes to its untouched beauty, but requires a bit of planning to reach. The main entry point for visitors is the Wadi Rum Visitor Center, located near the village of Rum.

Geographically,Wadi Rum is strategically positioned between Jordan's most popular attractions. It lies approximately an hour's drive north of the Red Sea port city of Aqaba and about 1.5 to 2 hours south of the ancient Nabataean city of Petra(specifically, the town of Wadi Musa). From the capital city of Amman, it's a longer journey, typically taking around 4-5 hours.

Arriving by Car: The Most Flexible Option

For many visitors, renting a car offers the greatest flexibility and control over their itinerary, allowing for stops along the way and the freedom to explore at leisure.

Renting a Car in Jordan

Car rental agencies are readily available in major cities like Amman and Aqaba, as well as at Queen Alia International Airport. Ensure you have an international driving permit, comprehensive insurance, and are comfortable driving on Jordanian roads, which are generally well-maintained, especially the main highways. The drive to Wadi Rum is scenic, passing through vast desert landscapes, and navigating to the Visitor Center is straightforward with GPS.

Driving from Amman to Wadi Rum

The journey from Amman to Wadi Rum typically takes between 4 to 5 hours, covering approximately 320 kilometers. The most common route is via theDesert Highway (Highway 15), a direct and mostly straight road. While less scenic than the King's Highway, it's the fastest option. Consider breaking up the journey with an overnight stop in Petra or Aqaba if you prefer a more relaxed pace.

Driving from Petra/Wadi Musa to Wadi Rum

The drive from Petra(or the adjacent town of Wadi Musa) to Wadi Rum is one of the most common routes for tourists. It's a relatively short and easy drive, taking about 1.5 to 2 hours (around 100-110 kilometers) via Highway 35 and then turning onto theWadi Rum Road. This makes combining Petra and Wadi Rum into a single itinerary highly convenient.

Driving from Aqaba to Wadi Rum

If you're coming from the south,Aqaba offers the shortest drive to Wadi Rum. The journey is approximately 60-70 kilometers and takes about 1 hour. You'll take the Desert Highway north and then turn off onto the well-marked Wadi Rum Road. This makes Aqaba a great base for a day trip or an easy starting point for an overnight stay in the desert.

Public Transportation: An Economical Choice

While less direct than a private car, public transportation can be a budget-friendly way to reach Wadi Rum, especially if you're traveling solo or on a tight budget.

JETT Buses

JETT buses are a comfortable and reliable option for inter-city travel in Jordan. They operate routes between major tourist hubs like Amman,Petra(Wadi Musa), and Aqaba. There is no direct JETT bus service *to*Wadi Rum Visitor Center. You would typically take a JETT bus to Petra or Aqaba, and then arrange a taxi or shared taxi for the final leg of the journey to Wadi Rum. It's advisable to book JETT tickets in advance, especially during peak season.

Local Buses and Minibuses

Local buses and minibuses (known as "serviis" or "jitney" in some contexts, though shared taxis are more common for this route) primarily run between Aqaba and the Wadi Rum village/Visitor Center. These are less frequent, often depart when full, and may not operate on a strict schedule. They offer an authentic local experience but require patience and flexibility. From Petra, direct local buses to Wadi Rum are rare; you'd likely need to take a shared taxi or connect via Aqaba.

Shared Taxis and Private Transfers: Convenience and Comfort

For those who prefer not to drive but want more flexibility than public buses, shared taxis and private transfers are excellent options.

Shared Taxis (Serviis)

Shared taxis, often simply called "taxis" or "serviis," are a popular way to travel between Petra(Wadi Musa),Aqaba, and Wadi Rum. These taxis wait at designated taxi stands or popular tourist areas and depart once all seats are filled. They offer a good balance between cost and convenience, being faster than public buses but more economical than private transfers. Your accommodation in Petra or Aqaba can often help you arrange a shared taxi to Wadi Rum.

Private Transfers

Private transfers offer the most comfort and convenience. You can book a private car and driver directly from Amman,Petra, or Aqaba to the Wadi Rum Visitor Center. This is an ideal option for families, groups, or travelers seeking a hassle-free, door-to-door service at a set time. Many hotels and tour operators throughout Jordan can arrange private transfers for you. While more expensive than other options, the ease and speed can be well worth the investment.

Combining Your Jordan Itinerary with Wadi Rum

Wadi Rum fits perfectly into most Jordan travel itineraries. Here are some common combinations:

  • The Classic Loop:Start in Amman, visit sites like Jerash,Madaba, and Mount Nebo, then head south along the King's Highway, stopping at places like Dana Biosphere Reserve before reaching Petra. From Petra, it's a short hop to Wadi Rum, then on to Aqaba for some Red Sea relaxation before returning north via the Dead Sea.
  • Petra & Wadi Rum:Many travelers dedicate a few days to Petra and then spend a night or two in Wadi Rum, taking advantage of their close proximity.
  • Aqaba & Wadi Rum:If you're flying into Aqaba or spending time by the Red Sea,Wadi Rum is an easily accessible excursion, perfect for a day trip or an overnight desert experience.

Travel Tip:Many visitors opt to spend one full day and one night in Wadi Rum after exploring Petra. This allows for a thrilling jeep tour, a beautiful sunset, stargazing, and an authentic Bedouin dinner before continuing their journey.

What to Do Upon Arrival at Wadi Rum Visitor Center

Regardless of how you arrive, all visitors must stop at the Wadi Rum Visitor Center. Here, you'll pay the entrance fee for the protected area. If you have pre-booked a desert tour or an overnight camp, your Bedouin guide or camp representative will meet you here. They will then transport you into the desert in a 4x4 vehicle, as private vehicles are generally not permitted beyond this point into the protected area. It is highly recommended topre-book your desert experience(including accommodation and tours) to ensure a smooth arrival and to support local Bedouin communities.

Essential Tips for Your Wadi Rum Journey

  • Book Ahead:Especially for accommodations and desert tours, booking in advance is crucial, particularly during peak seasons.
  • Pack Smart:Bring plenty of water, sunscreen, a hat, sunglasses, and comfortable walking shoes. Layers are also advisable, as desert temperatures can fluctuate significantly between day and night.
  • Cash is King:While some larger camps may accept cards, it's always wise to carry enough Jordanian Dinars for smaller purchases, tips, and any local transport.
  • Respect Local Customs:Dress modestly, especially when interacting with local communities.
  • Stay Flexible:While planning is important, embrace the relaxed pace of desert life. Timings for local transport might be approximate.
  • Environmental Awareness:Wadi Rum is a protected area. Please respect the environment by not leaving any trash and following guidelines from your guides.

Reaching Wadi Rum is part of the adventure, and with a little planning, your journey to this extraordinary desert landscape will be as rewarding as the destination itself. Whether by rental car, shared taxi, or private transfer, the "Valley of the Moon" awaits to enchant you with its timeless beauty.