From Aqaba To Wadi Rum & Dead Sea Includes Lunch In Dead Sea

Exploring Jordan from Aqaba: Wadi Rum and Dead Sea Day Tour Review

Taking a day trip from Aqaba to explore Wadi Rum and the Dead Sea is a fantastic way to see some of Jordan’s most iconic sites without the hassle of multiple travel days. While we haven’t experienced this tour firsthand, based on detailed reviews and the itinerary, it promises a well-organized, authentic adventure packed with stunning views, cultural insights, and a relaxing float in the salty waters.

What we love about this experience is its variety: a scenic jeep tour through Wadi Rum’s “Valley of the Moon,” the opportunity to float effortlessly in the Dead Sea, and a convenient, hassle-free pickup and drop-off from Aqaba. The inclusion of lunch and bottled water makes it feel like a complete, thoughtfully curated day. One thing to keep in mind is the early start, which might be tiring for some, but it ensures you maximize your time at each site. This tour is ideal for travelers who want a taste of Jordan’s natural wonders without complicated planning or multiple days away.

Key Points

• Comprehensive Day Trip: Combines Wadi Rum’s striking desert landscape with the Dead Sea’s relaxing waters.
• All-Inclusive Comfort: Includes transportation, bottled water, Wi-Fi, and lunch.
• Authentic Experiences: Jeep tour in Wadi Rum and a float in the Dead Sea—highlighted as some of the best parts.
• Early Start: Pickup at 6:00 AM offers a full day, but might be early for some.
• Private Group: Only your group participates, ensuring a personalized experience.
• Value for Money: At $700 per person, it’s a premium price, but the all-day coverage and included activities offer good value.

Journey Breakdown: From Aqaba to Wadi Rum and the Dead Sea

Pickup and Early Drive

The day kicks off at 6:00 AM with pickup from your hotel in Aqaba. This early start is designed to maximize your time, offering a head start on the desert heat and crowds. The drive to Wadi Rum takes approximately an hour, giving you a moment to settle in and enjoy the scenic journey through Jordan’s desert landscape. The group size is private, so you won’t be sharing space with strangers, which adds to the comfort and flexibility of the day.

Exploring Wadi Rum: The Valley of the Moon

Arriving around 7:00 AM, you’re greeted with the promise of Wadi Rum’s breathtaking scenery. The 3-hour jeep tour is the core of this part of the trip. Reviewers consistently mention how stunning the views are—vast red sand dunes, towering rock formations, and sweeping desert vistas that make you feel like you’re on another planet.

One reviewer, Thulasiram_K, calls Wadi Rum “the most beautiful thing I’ve seen,” emphasizing the visual impact. The jeep ride is often described as fun and engaging, with some guides adding personal touches like traditional music, which enhances the experience. Camel rides are optional but available if you want to add a more traditional, slower-paced element to your adventure.

Transition to the Dead Sea

After the jeep tour, you’ll head towards the Dead Sea, making the drive a chance to relax and reflect on the desert beauty. Arriving around 1:00 PM, you’ll find a welcoming setup for a leisurely afternoon.

Lunch and Relaxation at the Dead Sea

Your included open buffet lunch offers a convenient break, letting you indulge without worrying about additional costs. Afterward, the time at the Dead Sea is what many travelers look forward to most. Floating effortlessly in the salty waters—some reviews mention a “mudding” experience—is both fun and uniquely soothing. The mineral-rich muds are also believed to be good for the skin, making this a rejuvenating stop.

You’ll have ample free time to relax, take photos, and enjoy the surreal sensation of weightlessness. The Dead Sea’s striking landscape, with its shimmering, reflective surface, is an experience that stays with you long after the day ends.

Return to Aqaba

By around 4:00 or 5:00 PM, you’ll start your journey back to Aqaba, arriving at your hotel around 6:00 PM. The drive back is a good chance to wind down, review the day’s highlights, and maybe plan your next Jordanian adventure.

What’s Included and What’s Not?

Included:

• English-speaking driver (who often doubles as a guide)
• Bottled water in the vehicle
• Wi-Fi inside the car
• Air-conditioned transfer

Not Included:

• Tips for the driver or any guides (if available)
• Wadi Rum entrance fee (ticket not included)
• Tour guide beyond the driver, or travel insurance
• Anything not explicitly mentioned

The price of $700 per person might seem steep at first glance, but considering the full day of activities, private transportation, and meals, it offers a good balance of convenience and value—especially for travelers seeking a hassle-free, comprehensive experience.

Authentic Insights from Reviewers

One of the standout remarks from Thulasiram_K was how the driver made the journey exceptionally enjoyable, even introducing traditional music. This highlights the importance of a friendly, engaging driver in enriching the experience. Many reviews echo this sentiment, noting that the guides are personable and accommodating, which makes the day feel more like a trip with friends than a commercial tour.

The stunning views in Wadi Rum are consistently praised, with visitors describing the landscape as “beautiful” and “breathtaking.” The jeep tour’s duration is just right to take in the scenery without feeling rushed, and the optional camel ride offers a slower, more traditional perspective if you wish.

At the Dead Sea, guests mention how floatation and mudding stand out as unique, relaxing activities. The open buffet lunch is generally well-received for its convenience and variety, allowing you to refuel before enjoying your free time.

The Sum Up: Who Is This Tour Best For?

This trip is perfect for adventurous travelers eager to see Jordan’s natural landmarks without the hassle of multiple bookings. It suits those who value comfort, convenience, and authentic experiences—from the thrill of a jeep ride in Wadi Rum to the surreal float in the Dead Sea.

If you’re on a tight schedule but still want to tick off top sights, this full-day tour packs a lot into one trip. It’s also a great choice for solo travelers or couples looking for a private, personalized experience, as the group size is limited to your booking.

However, if you prefer a more leisurely pace or are sensitive to early mornings, you might want to consider options with later start times or more flexible schedules. Keep in mind the cost—it’s a premium price for a full-day, all-included adventure, but many find the value in the seamless organization and memorable sights.

FAQs

What time does the tour start?
Pickup is at 6:00 AM from your hotel in Aqaba, with the tour beginning around 7:00 AM.

How long is the drive from Aqaba to Wadi Rum?
It’s approximately a one-hour drive, giving you time to settle in before the jeep tour begins.

Is the jeep tour in Wadi Rum included?
Yes, the 3-hour jeep tour in Wadi Rum is part of the itinerary.

Are tips included?
No, tips are not included. It’s customary to tip guides and drivers if you’re satisfied with their service.

Can I ride a camel during the tour?
Camel rides are optional; they are available but not included in the base price.

Does the tour include the Wadi Rum entrance fee?
No, the Wadi Rum ticket is not included and must be paid separately if required.

What should I bring for the Dead Sea?
Bring your swimwear, towel, and perhaps a change of clothes. No specific gear is provided for floating or mudding.

Is this a private tour?
Yes, it’s a private experience, meaning only your group will participate, providing a more personalized trip.

This full-day journey from Aqaba offers a well-rounded taste of Jordan’s captivating landscapes. Whether you’re after stunning desert vistas, a floating experience in the Dead Sea, or simply want a smooth, enjoyable day out, this tour delivers in both scenery and convenience.