Wadi Rum: Camel Ride with tea and Bedouin Guide

Exploring Wadi Rum’s vast desert landscapes is a highlight for anyone visiting Jordan, and this tour promises a genuine taste of Bedouin life combined with stunning views. We’ve gathered insights from travelers who have experienced this journey firsthand to help you decide if it’s right for you.

What we love about this experience is the chance to see Wadi Rum from a different perspective — on a camel’s back, no less. The friendly Bedouin guides, a well-cared-for camel ride, and relaxing tea breaks amid breathtaking scenery are big pluses. Plus, the tour covers the iconic sites like Lawrence’s Spring and the majestic red sand dunes, making it both fun and enriching.

That said, one thing to keep in mind is the entrance fee to the protected area isn’t included in the tour price (JD 5), so budget accordingly. It’s a consideration if you’re looking for a completely all-inclusive experience.

This tour suits travelers who enjoy authentic, guided adventures, appreciate scenic outdoor activities, and want a manageable, budget-friendly introduction to Wadi Rum’s natural beauty. It’s especially good for those who prefer a mix of relaxing and active elements — camel riding, scenic stops, and a laid-back yet informative guide.

Key Points

• Authentic Bedouin Experience: Guided by friendly, knowledgeable Bedouins who share insights into desert life.
• Stunning Views: See iconic spots like Lawrence’s Spring and the red sand dunes from both camel and jeep.
• Affordable Price Point: At $31 per person, offers great value considering the variety of activities.
• Inclusion of Local Culture: Enjoy traditional Bedouin tea and water in the desert.
• Flexible Booking: Reserve with the option to pay later, with a full refund if canceled 24 hours in advance.
• Limited Area Entry Fee: Expect to pay an additional JD 5 for entrance to the protected area.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Itinerary: What You Can Expect

Starting from Wadi Rum village, the tour kicks off with a jeep transfer to the camel riding area. The 1-hour camel ride is a tranquil way to take in the rugged terrain. Reviewers consistently mention the friendly camels and knowledgeable guides, like Mamdouh, who speak excellent English and are keen to share stories and tips.

Camel riding in Wadi Rum isn’t just about taking photos; it’s a proper ride. As Sonja describes, “It was a nice and proper ride, not just a photo opportunity. The camel looked healthy and happy enough. The young guide did a good job.” This highlights that the camels are well cared for and the guides are attentive, emphasizing the tour’s authentic and humane approach.

After the camel experience, the jeep takes you to the most acclaimed sights. These include Lawrence’s Spring, a lush spot amid the desert, the red sand dunes, and Khazali Canyon, filled with ancient petroglyphs and towering cliffs. The Little Rock Bridge offers a scenic vantage point.

Throughout the journey, you’ll enjoy stunning vistas, whether from the top of a hill or while relaxing on your camel. The scenery is consistently praised for its vibrant reds, dramatic rock formations, and the peacefulness of the desert landscape.

Tea and water are provided mid-tour, giving you a chance to sit back and absorb the views. Several reviewers mention the friendly hospitality, with Sofiane noting, “The guide Mamdouh is very friendly and speaks good English, making the experience smooth and engaging.”

The Cultural and Scenic Highlights

One of the tour’s main advantages is the combination of scenic stops and cultural insights. Visiting Lawrence’s Spring, for example, is not just about sightseeing but also about connecting with the rich history of the area. The red sand dunes offer panoramic photo opportunities and a visceral sense of the desert’s scale.

Khazali Canyon, with its ancient carvings, transports visitors back in time and makes for a memorable exploration. The jeep allows access to these spots, which are often difficult to reach on foot, especially when paired with the relaxing camel ride.

Duration and Group Size

The entire experience lasts roughly around 3-4 hours, with the camel ride itself being about 1 hour. The group size is typically small, making for a more personalized experience, and guides like Mamdouh are praised for their attention and friendliness.

Cost and Value

At $31 per person, this tour offers excellent value, especially given the inclusion of a camel ride, jeep tour, and tea. The additional entrance fee to the Wadi Rum Protected Area (JD 5) is separate but relatively inexpensive, considering the abundance of scenic and historic sites you visit.

You might find that paying a bit extra for a private or semi-private experience enhances the adventure, but for most, this tour strikes a good balance of affordability and quality.

More Great Tours Nearby

Authenticity and Guide Experience

From the reviews, guides like Mamdouh shine in their friendly demeanor and storytelling. Sofiane notes, “Le guide Mamdouh est très sympa et parle un très bon anglais,” making communication easy and informative. Guests are often surprised by how much they learn about Bedouin life, desert ecology, and the history of the sites.

The care of the camels is also a big plus. According to Lauren, “Camels were well cared for,” which reassures travelers concerned about animal welfare.

The Importance of Local Hospitality

Several reviewers mention the warm hospitality—offering tea, water, and friendly interaction—that makes the trip feel personal and welcoming. This isn’t just a quick photo stop; it’s a shared experience that emphasizes local culture and natural beauty.

Practical Tips for Travelers

• Bring sunglasses and a hat to shield yourself from the sun during the ride and stops.
• Wear comfortable clothing suitable for outdoor activity.
• A headscarf can be useful, especially in the wind or sun.
• Prepare for no cell phone coverage in the desert; download maps or info beforehand.
• Budget for the JD 5 entrance fee if you plan to visit the protected area beyond the tour.

Booking and Flexibility

With “Reserve & Pay Later” options and the ability to cancel up to 24 hours in advance, booking is low-stress and flexible. This makes it ideal for spontaneous plans or uncertain schedules.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is perfect for those who want an authentic, relaxed introduction to Wadi Rum, without the need for intense hiking or expensive private tours. It’s ideal for first-time visitors, families, or solo travelers seeking a manageable and meaningful desert adventure.

Travelers who enjoy scenic drives, cultural insights, and gentle animal rides will find this tour enjoyable and rewarding. If you’re curious about Bedouin life, love picturesque landscapes, and appreciate friendly guides, this tour hits many of the right notes.

The Sum Up

For a budget-friendly, genuine taste of Wadi Rum, this camel ride and jeep tour offers a well-rounded experience. You’ll get to see some of the most iconic spots, enjoy the company of friendly Bedouin guides, and savor traditional tea amidst remarkable scenery.

It’s especially suited to those who want a balance of activity and relaxation and prefer a small-group, authentic adventure over commercialized options.

While it’s not a comprehensive all-day exploration, it delivers enough to leave you with beautiful memories and a deeper appreciation for the desert. The combination of scenic stops, cultural insights, and warm hospitality makes this experience stand out as an accessible and enjoyable way to connect with Jordan’s natural beauty.

FAQ

How long is the camel ride?
The camel ride lasts approximately 1 hour, offering a leisurely way to see the desert from a different perspective.

What is included in the tour?
You’ll enjoy a 1-hour camel ride with a Bedouin guide, a jeep tour to key sites like Lawrence’s Spring and Khazali Canyon, plus drinks including traditional Bedouin tea.

Do I need to pay an entrance fee?
Yes, the entrance fee to the Wadi Rum Protected Area is JD 5, payable at the Visitor Center. This isn’t included in the tour price.

What should I bring?
Sunglasses, comfortable clothing, and a headscarf are recommended to stay comfortable in the desert sun and wind.

Is the guide’s English good?
Yes, guides like Mamdouh are praised for their fluent English and friendly, informative manner.

Can I customize this tour?
Booking is flexible; you can reserve now and pay later, and cancellations are accepted up to 24 hours beforehand.

What is the tour price?
The tour costs about $31 per person, which is quite reasonable considering the variety of activities and the inclusion of tea.

Is this suitable for families or solo travelers?
Absolutely. The tour’s relaxed pace and small group size make it suitable for families, couples, or solo adventurers seeking an authentic desert experience.

In summary, this tour offers an engaging, culturally immersive way to explore Wadi Rum. With friendly guides, scenic stops, and an affordable price, it’s a fantastic choice for anyone wanting to experience the desert’s grandeur without breaking the bank.

You can check availability for your dates here: