If you’re dreaming of an adventure in Jordan’s iconic desert landscape, this 2-day hiking and jeep tour from Wadi Rum offers a fantastic mix of walking, exploring, and soaking in breathtaking scenery. While we haven’t personally participated, this tour has garnered perfect reviews for its knowledgeable guides, stunning vistas, and excellent value.
What we love most? The chance to walk through ancient canyons, the flexibility of a small group, and the seamless blend of adventure and comfort with included meals and overnight stays. The only potential consideration? The full-day hike on Day 2 can be quite long—around 5 to 6 hours—so it’s best suited for those comfortable with a solid trek.
This experience is perfect for travelers who want an authentic taste of Wadi Rum’s natural beauty, historical sites, and Bedouin culture, all wrapped into a manageable two days. Whether you’re a seasoned trekker or a family looking for an accessible adventure, this tour offers something memorable for everyone.
Key Points
- Expert local guides enhance the experience with rich insights into the area’s geology and history.
- Stunning vistas from mountain summits and iconic rock formations make every hike worthwhile.
- All-inclusive pricing covers meals, accommodations, and entrance fees, adding great value.
- Small-group size ensures personalized attention and a more intimate adventure.
- Variety of stops — from ancient Nabataean inscriptions to natural arches — keeps the itinerary engaging.
- Suitable for all ages with easy walks, though the second day’s mountain hike is more demanding.
An In-Depth Look at the 2-Day Wadi Rum Adventure
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The Value of a Well-Balanced Itinerary
This tour balances action-packed exploration with relaxed moments. Over two days, you’ll traverse some of Wadi Rum’s most famous spots, complemented by informative guides who bring the landscape’s stories to life. The cost of $198.50 per person might seem steep at first glance, but considering the included meals, accommodations, and expert guiding, it offers good bang for your buck.
Day 1: A Journey Through Iconic Wadi Rum Landmarks
Wadi Rum’s Hidden Gems: Lawrence Spring and Red Sand Dunes
The tour kicks off with Lawrence Spring, a rarely visited site that offers a quick but rewarding hike. As your guide explains, this spring is connected to T.E. Lawrence, who visited it during his time in the area. The views from the top are said to be magnificent, and the walk takes about 55 minutes, making it accessible even for less energetic travelers.
Next, you’ll head to the Red Sand Dunes—a vibrant landscape of shifting sands and rock piles. This spot is perfect for a mini adventure, where many choose to try sandboarding or just run down the slopes for fun. The 40-minute hike is short but visually striking, with colorful layers of sand and rock that change hue as the sunlight shifts.
Khazali Canyon and Natural Formations
The tour continues to the famed Khazali Canyon, a short hike that’s widely appreciated for its ancient Nabataean inscriptions and dramatic scenery. Visitors often comment on the opportunity to see historical carvings and hear stories from their guides, who bring the walls alive.
Following that, you’ll visit the Little Arch, a natural stone formation resembling a bridge that overlooks Khor al Ajram. It’s a highlight for many, offering incredible views with just a modest hike of about 40 minutes.
Historical and Natural Highlights
Lunch is served at Lawrence’s House, a Nabataean-era stone structure where you can relax and enjoy the desert’s tranquility. The break is not just about eating but soaking in the atmosphere—plus, your guide shares tales of Lawrence of Arabia and the area’s history.
The afternoon features visits to the Mushroom Rock and Burdah Rock Bridge, iconic formations that showcase Wadi Rum’s geological diversity. The Burdah Rock Bridge, in particular, is one of the largest natural arches in the area and offers fantastic photo opportunities.
Wadi Rum’s Scenic Canyons and Sunset
The day’s final stops include a walk through Abu Khashaba Canyon, a narrow, scenic gorge with yellow sand and wild bushes, and the Um Frouth Rock Arch, a well-photographed natural bridge. The day concludes with a sunset view from Um Sabatah, where you can enjoy Bedouin tea, and watch the desert change hues as the sun dips below the horizon.
Day 2: Mountain Hike and White Desert Wonders
Climbing Jabal Al Hash
The second day ramps up with a jeep transfer to Jabal Al Hash, a mountain that’s renowned for being accessible yet visually stunning. The guided hike begins in the Um Snenah Valley, starting from the eastern side and making its way to the summit, reaching approximately 1700 meters above sea level.
This 5 to 6-hour trek offers panoramic views of the desert’s swirling colors—something that recent reviewers have praised as “probably the most beautiful mountain in Wadi Rum to hike.” The journey is suitable for those with moderate fitness, and the company of a knowledgeable guide ensures safety and interesting commentary along the way.
The White Desert and Rock Bridge
Post-hike, you’ll visit the White Desert, notable for its smooth, white formations and a famous rock bridge called “the eye” at Um Ashaman. Nearby, Elqetter Spring has remained a water source for over a thousand years—an intriguing reminder of the desert’s resilience and history.
The Overall Experience
Throughout the tour, the guides—like Saleem, who is highly praised—bring enthusiasm and deep knowledge, enriching the experience with stories about the landscape, geology, and history. From the reviews, it’s clear that the guides’ friendliness and expertise are among the top highlights.
The small-group format (max 7 travelers) means you get personalized attention, more room for questions, and a relaxed atmosphere. The included meals and accommodations turn what could be a rugged adventure into a comfortable, authentic experience—without sacrificing the sense of adventure.
Practical Details That Matter
- Transport: The tour includes a jeep ride to Jabal Al Hash, saving energy for the long hike.
- Timing: Starting at 10 am, the schedule allows for a leisurely exploration with plenty of time for breaks and photos.
- Meals: All meals and drinks are included, which simplifies planning and adds value.
- Pricing: At $198.50, the package offers good value considering the comprehensive itinerary, guiding, and accommodations.
- Additional Fees: There’s a small entrance fee of 5 JD for the protected area, but this is standard for most visitors.
Who Should Consider This Tour?
This tour is ideal for those who want a thorough introduction to Wadi Rum without the hassle of organizing each element themselves. It’s perfect for families, adventurers, or history buffs who appreciate guided storytelling and authentic desert experiences. The mix of easy walks and a challenging mountain hike also makes it suitable for a range of fitness levels—just be prepared for the longer day on Day 2.
If you’re looking for a balanced, well-organized, and immersive desert adventure**, this tour hits many marks.
Final Thoughts
In our view, this 2-day Wadi Rum experience offers genuine value for anyone eager to explore Jordan’s most famous desert area in a relaxed, informative way. The combination of stunning landscapes, historical sites, and expert guides makes it a compelling choice for all types of travelers.
While the second day’s mountain trek might be demanding for some, the payoff is extraordinary views and a real sense of accomplishment. The small-group setup and inclusive meals turn what could be a rugged trip into a memorable, hassle-free adventure.
If you enjoy scenic hikes, rich storytelling, and authentic cultural encounters, this tour will leave you with lasting impressions of Wadi Rum’s wild beauty.
FAQ
Is this tour suitable for young children?
Yes, the tour is described as suitable for young children and seniors, especially since most walks are easy. However, the second day’s mountain hike is longer and more strenuous, so consider your child’s fitness level.
How long is the total hiking time?
Most of Day 1 involves walks between 30 to 55 minutes, with some longer stops for lunch and sightseeing. Day 2’s hike to Jabal Al Hash lasts about 5 to 6 hours, covering a significant elevation gain.
Is transportation provided within the tour?
Yes, the tour includes jeep rides to various sites, especially the mountain transfer on Day 2. These rides help conserve energy for longer hikes.
What is included in the price?
All meals (breakfast, lunch, dinner), drinks (tea, mineral water), guided tours, accommodations at Wadi Rum Quiet Village Camp, and entrance fees are included. You’ll need to pay the small protected area fee separately.
Are tips expected?
Tips are not mandatory but appreciated, especially if you enjoyed the guides’ local insights and hospitality.
What should I bring?
Comfortable walking shoes, sun protection, a hat, water, and a camera are advisable. The tour provides mineral water and tea, but extra snacks or personal items are optional.
Is prior hiking experience necessary?
No technical skills are required, though the long mountain hike on Day 2 demands some physical endurance. The rest of the walks are accessible.
Can I participate if I’m not very fit?
Yes, the majority of the tour involves easy walks, but the longer, higher-altitude hike on Day 2 is more challenging—consider your fitness level.
How many people are in the group?
A maximum of 7 travelers ensures a personalized experience.
What is the best time to take this tour?
While not specified, Wadi Rum is most pleasant in cooler months—spring and autumn—when daytime temperatures are moderate.
To sum it up, this Wadi Rum tour offers an enriching, well-rounded desert adventure that balances scenic hikes, cultural insights, and comfortable accommodations. It’s particularly suited for travelers who appreciate a guided, small-group experience with plenty of authentic moments amid stunning landscapes.
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