Hike to Jordan Highest Mountain, Umm Ad Dami with Meal and Stay

Travelers looking for a mix of adventure, breathtaking scenery, and authentic Bedouin hospitality will find this tour to Wadi Rum’s highest summit, Jebel Umm Ad Dami, a compelling choice. It’s a full-day venture that combines a challenging hike with spectacular desert vistas, topped off by a night under a canopy of stars.

What really makes this experience shine are the knowledgeable guides, the panoramic views from the summit, and the chance to connect with Bedouin culture in a more personal way. However, the nearly 40 km drive into the desert and the full day’s activity might be tiring for some, so it’s best suited for those with a decent level of fitness and a love for outdoor adventures.

This tour offers excellent value for those eager to combine physical activity with the chance to see Jordan’s highest point and enjoy the serenity of the desert. It’s perfect for travelers who want a multi-layered experience—combining hiking, culture, and memorable starry nights—without the fuss of complicated logistics.

Key Points

• Highest Peak in Jordan: The hike to Jebel Umm Ad Dami reaches 1,832 meters, providing panoramic views that are well worth the effort.
• Expert Guides & Personal Touch: Guides like Charlie add depth and insight, making the experience both informative and fun.
• Authentic Bedouin Experience: Stay overnight in a camp, enjoy a Bedouin dinner cooked under sand, and relax by a campfire under the stars.
• Diverse Stops & Scenic Views: From the White Desert to Wadi Rum’s iconic pinnacles, each stop adds a new layer of desert beauty.
• All-Inclusive Value: Meals, bottled water, tea, and the experience of a starry night are included, making it a hassle-free adventure.
• Suitable for Active Travelers: The tour’s duration and physical demand are ideal for those comfortable with a day of hiking and outdoor exploration.

Starting Point and Transportation

The tour kicks off early at 9:30 am, with a pickup from Wadi Rum Village or Visitor Center. Travelling roughly 40 km south in a comfortable vehicle, you’ll cross the iconic Valley of the Moon and Wadi Saabit, setting the scene for the adventure ahead. It’s a scenic drive that offers glimpses of the rugged desert landscape, and the journey itself is part of the excitement, especially if you’re a fan of desert vistas.

Knowing that the drive takes about an hour helps set expectations for the day’s pacing. The group size is limited to 8 travelers, which means a more personalized experience with plenty of opportunities for questions and interaction.

The Climb to Jebel Umm Ad Dami

Once at the base, the real fun begins. The guided hike to Jordan’s highest mountain is designed for those comfortable with moderate physical activity. The ascent, which takes around four hours, offers a rewarding challenge. Expect stunning views as you climb, with panoramic vistas over the vast desert mountain ranges of southern Wadi Rum and even across to north-western Saudi Arabia.

According to reviews, guides like Charlie are not only professional but also engaging, sharing insights that enhance the experience. One reviewer mentioned, “Charlie was brilliant,” highlighting how important a knowledgeable guide can be in making the hike enjoyable and informative.

At the summit, you’ll be at 1,832 meters, with a sense of achievement and incredible scenery. The views that stretch far across the desert are truly spectacular—a reminder of the vastness and beauty of this region.

Rest and Lunch Amidst Nature

After reaching the summit, you’ll enjoy a well-deserved break. The guide often prepares a picnic-style lunch in a secluded area, giving you a chance to relax and soak in the scenery. The review notes that the lunch includes a dessert picnic which adds a sweet touch to the meal.

This pause is a highlight, providing an opportunity to recharge, chat with fellow travelers, and enjoy the silence of the desert—an experience that’s both peaceful and invigorating.

Exploring the Wadi Rum Surroundings

On the way back down, the tour visits several scenic spots. The White Desert standouts with their flatter formations and wide-open valleys, offering a different perspective of Wadi Rum’s diverse landscape. You’ll visit Qatar Spring, where the spring’s fresh water contrasts with the arid surroundings, and other points like Bedouin Dam and Wadi Nugra, which are perfect for short hikes and photography.

One reviewer describes this part as “vast views across the desert,” emphasizing how each stop offers a new, memorable scene. The landscape is surreal, with golden and red hues that intensify as sunset approaches.

Sunset and Cultural Encounters

The day culminates at Um Sabatah, a viewpoint where the pinnacles and canyons transform with the changing light. Here, you’ll witness the desert’s iconic golden and red glow—a photographer’s dream—and enjoy a hot Bedouin tea around the campfire, as another reviewer pointed out.

This moment of tranquility encapsulates the essence of the Wadi Rum experience: untouched nature, stunning colors, and a sense of timelessness.

Night in the Desert and Star Gazing

The overnight stay in a Bedouin-style camp is a highlight. You can wander freely or relax by the campfire, listening to stories and jokes under a starry sky. The Bedouin dinner—cooked under the sand—is a local delicacy that adds authenticity to your stay.

The night in Wadi Rum is peaceful, with the Milky Way often visible overhead. You might find that this quiet, star-filled environment is one of the most memorable parts of the trip. Breakfast in the morning offers a gentle start before your return to Wadi Rum Village, wrapping up a day packed with adventure.

What’s Included and What’s Not

For $107 per person, you get a full-day tour that includes meals (lunch, dinner, breakfast), bottled water, tea and coffee, and a guide who is both informative and friendly. The tour is well priced considering the value of the experience—hiking one of Jordan’s highest peaks, visiting iconic desert sites, and spending a night under the stars.

You also have the option for vegetarian or vegan meals if you specify in advance. However, note that there is a Wadi Rum entrance fee of 7 JD per person, unless you have a Jordan Pass that covers it.

This experience is ideal for travelers who enjoy physical activity and outdoor adventures. If you’re comfortable hiking for several hours and are excited by panoramic desert views, this tour will suit you perfectly. It’s also great for those interested in culture, thanks to the Bedouin hospitality and storytelling.

While the full day can be tiring, the route is designed for those with a reasonable fitness level. The small group size ensures a more personalized experience, with guides like Charlie making the journey engaging and insightful.

This hike to Jordan’s highest mountain offers a mix of challenge, stunning scenery, and cultural richness. It’s a well-rounded adventure that combines physical effort with moments of quiet reflection amid some of the most beautiful desert landscapes. The overnight in Wadi Rum adds a special touch, turning the day into a truly memorable experience.

If you’re looking for an authentic, active way to see Jordan’s natural wonders and connect with Bedouin life, this tour offers excellent value and a rewarding journey. Just be prepared for an energetic day filled with awe-inspiring vistas, friendly guides, and starry nights.

Is this tour suitable for beginners?
While suitable for most travelers with a reasonable fitness level, the hike to the summit is moderate in difficulty. Comfortable walking shoes and some endurance are recommended.

What should I bring for the hike?
Bring layers of clothing, sun protection, a hat, sunglasses, plenty of water, and good hiking shoes. A small backpack for essentials is helpful.

How long is the drive to the mountain?
The drive from the starting point to Jebel Umm Ad Dami takes about an hour, covering roughly 40 km in the desert terrain.

Are meals included?
Yes, the tour includes lunch, dinner, and breakfast, with vegetarian and vegan options available if requested.

What’s the best time of year to do this tour?
While not specified, desert trips are generally best in cooler months—spring and autumn—avoiding extreme summer heat.

Is overnight accommodation comfortable?
The overnight stay is in a Bedouin-style camp, offering a cozy, authentic experience under the stars, with basic but comfortable facilities.

Are there any additional costs?
The Wadi Rum entrance fee of 7 JD per person is not included unless you have a Jordan Pass.

Can I do this tour if I don’t want to hike?
The main activity is the hike; non-hikers may find the experience less fulfilling, but they can enjoy the scenery from different viewpoints.

What makes the guides special?
Guides like Charlie are praised for their professionalism, friendliness, and their ability to make the experience both fun and educational.

How do I book?
You can book through the provided provider or platform, with free cancellation available if canceled 24 hours in advance.

This comprehensive tour offers a fantastic way to see Jordan’s highest peak, explore iconic desert landscapes, and enjoy authentic Bedouin hospitality—all packed into one unforgettable day.