The desert may not immediately seem an idea place for a family holiday but Wadi Rum is so enchanting that all ages fall in love with it. There is also a surprising amount to do.
Horse riding
Wadi Rum is the favoured place for horse riding tours. These usually last for several days and although not just for experts, good riding skills are required. If you and your family are competent, there are few rides anywhere that can compare with the scenery and romance of this desert.
Camel trekking
If you prefer a slower pace then take a camel. There are short circular routes from Wadi Rum Village, but also longer treks taking up to several days. Being far out amongst the saw-tooth mountains in the middle of sweeping sandy plains whilst gently swaying to the rhythm of a camel is an experience anyone of any age would treasure for life.
Hiking
There are treks for all abilities, from full-day routes high into the mountains to more gentle hikes exploring some of the mysterious wadis or the intricately wind-carved rocks of the foothills.
Bedouin and 4x4 tours
A driver and a 4x4 can be hired from the Visitors Centre and they will take you on a tour that will last around four hours. There are also Bedouin operators who offer longer vehicle trips, for a full day or more.
Camping
There are campsites dotted around the protected area, owned and operated by Bedouin guides. These sites are often located in picturesque spots, but because tourism development inside Wadi Rum is controlled, they are discrete. The guides will provide an evening meal of local food and bedding. It is then your choice whether you sleep under the shelter of a goat-hair Bedouin tent or out in the open staring up at galaxies of stars.
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Bedouin guide Mzied Atieg tells us how much he loves Wadi Rum... "If I am just lying down in the sand it is better than a big castle in another place" [0:12] |
Read more about Wadi Rum, horse riding and other activities in Jordan
