2 Days Guided Hiking Tour To Wadi Rum Jebal Al Hash

Exploring the Wadi Rum Guided Hiking Tour: An In-Depth Review

Stepping into the desert wilderness of Jordan’s UNESCO-listed Wadi Rum on this guided two-day hike promises an encounter with some of the most dramatic landscapes you’ll ever see. From soaring sandstone cliffs and narrow gorges to panoramic mountain vistas, this tour is designed for curious travelers ready to explore beyond the usual tourist spots. While we haven’t done it ourselves, the detailed itinerary, glowing reviews, and comprehensive inclusion list suggest this trip offers genuine value for adventure lovers, nature enthusiasts, and those seeking an authentic Bedouin experience.

What we love about this tour? First, the stunning scenery and the chance to hike Jebal Al Hash, one of the highest peaks in Jordan. Second, the intimate small-group setting ensures personalized attention and a more immersive adventure. Third, the combination of cultural insights and breathtaking landscapes makes this more than just a hike – it’s a peek into Bedouin life and desert history.

A potential consideration is the duration and physicality—with around five hours of hiking on the mountain and other stops, it’s best suited for those comfortable with moderate activity levels. Travelers with mobility issues or very young kids might find some parts challenging.

This experience is ideal for travelers seeking a balanced mix of adventure, culture, and scenery in a manageable two-day format. Whether you’re a solo traveler, a family, or a small group, this tour offers a thoughtful blend of exploration and relaxation under the desert sky.

Key Points

• Authentic Bedouin Experience: Learn about local culture directly from guides and locals.
• Breathtaking Views: High mountain summit reaching 1700 meters offers panoramic desert vistas.
• Comprehensive Itinerary: Includes hiking, rock climbing, cultural visits, and scenic stops.
• All-Inclusive Pricing: Meals, activities, transportation, and accommodations are covered.
• Small Group: Max 8 travelers for a more personal and flexible experience.
• Sunset and Star Gazing: Ends with spectacular desert sunset views and a night under the stars.

Encountering Wadi Rum: What to Expect

This tour kicks off early in the morning, meeting at the Wadi Rum Rest House around 9:30 am. The initial drive by jeep to Jebal Al Hash takes about 40–60 minutes, giving you a scenic preview of the surrounding desert landscape. During this journey, you’ll get a sense of how vast and untouched Wadi Rum feels, with its rugged terrain stretching to the horizon.

The Ascent of Jebal Al Hash

The main highlight is the hike up Jebal Al Hash, a mountain surrounded by other peaks that rise up to 1700 meters above sea level. The route starts in the Um Snenah Valley and traverses through narrow gorges and rocky outcrops. Expect a steady, moderate climb—this is very doable even for those without extensive hiking experience. When you reach the summit, the views are spectacular; the different hues of red, orange, and beige in the rock formations create a painter’s palette of desert colors.

The guide will point out notable features along the way, including local wildlife and geological formations. We loved the way the guides shared local stories and insights, adding depth to the experience. The descent, via the north-western side of the mountain into Wadi Nuqra, offers a different perspective of the landscape and makes for an engaging round trip.

Cultural and Wilderness Stops

After the hike, a hearty Bedouin-style lunch is served on the mountain, cooked on a fire—a simple but delicious experience. Post-lunch, the trip continues with visits to places like Qatar Spring, known for its spring waters and traditional dam, Wadi Nugra, and the White Desert. These stops offer vast, flat landscapes, contrasting with the rugged mountains, and give you a chance to appreciate the wide-open desert vistas.

Sunset and Camp Life

As the day winds down, the tour takes you to Um Sabatah, where the sunlight casts golden reds across the rock pinnacles and winding canyons. This is a perfect time to capture those iconic desert photos. The guide will serve hot Bedouin tea around a fire before heading to the camp, nestled in the heart of the protected area.

The camp experience is both charming and authentic—think traditional Bedouin tents, a bonfire, and a sky full of stars. The dinner, cooked under the sand, offers a taste of local hospitality, and the peaceful desert night provides a rare chance to disconnect from the world.

Day Two: Sunrise and Return

Waking early for the sunrise viewpoint, you’ll get a chance to see the desert bathed in morning light—an experience reviewers describe as unforgettable. After a relaxed breakfast, the group heads back to Wadi Rum village, ending the tour around 9:30 am. The entire experience blends active adventure with moments of calm reflection, making it a well-rounded desert escape.

Transport, Group Size, and Value

Transportation-wise, the tour includes pickup and drop-off from designated meeting points, with the jeep journeys adding to the adventure and scenic value. The small group size, limited to a maximum of 8 travelers, enhances the sense of intimacy and allows guides like Salem and Ahmed to give more personalized attention.

For the price of $103 per person, the tour covers all major activities, meals, and accommodations, making it a solid value—especially considering the inclusion of two full days of exploration, meals, and expert guiding. The small-group format means a more tailored experience, and the overall itinerary balances adventure with cultural insight, all in a manageable timeframe.

Authenticity and Traveler Reviews

Based on reviews, this tour is highly praised for its stunning scenery and friendly guides. One reviewer called it “the best thing in Jordan,” highlighting the desert’s magical beauty and the natural landscapes as the main draw. Another noted that their guides, Salem and Ahmed, were “very kind and caring,” emphasizing the warm, welcoming Bedouin hospitality.

Travelers appreciated the diverse landscape—from the high mountain peaks to the white desert plains—and the chance to see the desert at different times of day, especially at sunset and sunrise. The camp experience, with its starry skies and traditional food, was also a standout element.

Who Is This Tour Best Suited For?

This tour appeals most to travelers looking for a moderate but immersive adventure. Hikers who enjoy scenic mountain climbs and panoramic views will find it rewarding, as will those interested in Bedouin culture and desert landscapes. It’s perfect for small groups or families who want a mix of physical activity and relaxation in a stunning natural setting.

If you’re after a quick, superficial glance at Wadi Rum, this might not be your best choice. But if you’re eager to connect with the landscape, learn about local traditions, and spend a memorable night under the stars, this tour fits the bill.

FAQ

Is transportation included?
Yes, the tour includes pickup and drop-off from designated meeting points, with jeep rides during the day to various sites.

What is the group size?
This is a small-group tour with a maximum of 8 travelers, ensuring a more personalized experience.

How much does the entrance fee cost?
The Wadi Rum entrance fee is 7 JD or free if you have a Jordan Pass, which is recommended.

Are meals included?
Yes, the tour includes all meals—lunch, dinner, and breakfast—cooked in traditional Bedouin style, with vegetarian and vegan options available if specified.

What should I wear?
Comfortable hiking clothes, sturdy shoes, sun protection, and a hat are advisable, especially for the mountain hike and outdoor stops.

Is this suitable for children or less mobile travelers?
While the hike up Jebal Al Hash is moderate, it might be challenging for very young children or those with mobility issues. The tour is best suited for active travelers.

What time does the tour start and end?
The tour begins around 9:30 am and generally concludes back at the meeting point by late morning on the second day, with the overnight camp providing a full desert experience.

Final Thoughts

This two-day guided hiking tour in Wadi Rum offers a well-rounded adventure that combines striking scenery, cultural insight, and outdoor activity. It’s crafted for those who want to see the desert’s best sights while enjoying the comfort of small-group travel and all-inclusive amenities. Whether you’re climbing mountains, exploring white dunes, or simply soaking up the sunset, this experience promises a deep connection with Jordan’s most iconic desert landscape.

It’s a fantastic choice for active travelers eager to step beyond typical sightseeing, as well as anyone craving a peaceful night beneath a blanket of stars in one of the world’s most beautiful deserts. The blend of scenic hikes, cultural encounters, and authentic Bedouin hospitality makes it a memorable journey worth considering if you’re visiting Aqaba or Wadi Rum.