Wadi Rum Mountain Hike: Umm Ad Dami, highest point of Jordan + Jeep tour & Lunch

Exploring Wadi Rum: A Complete Guide to the Highest Mountain and Desert Adventure

This in-depth review covers the Wadi Rum Mountain Hike to Umm Ad Dami, Jordan’s tallest peak, plus a scenic jeep tour and traditional Bedouin lunch. While we haven’t personally experienced it, the consistently stellar reviews and detailed itinerary suggest this tour offers a fantastic mix of adventure, culture, and stunning scenery.

What we love most? The chance to climb Jordan’s highest mountain with knowledgeable Bedouin guides, the authentic outdoor meal cooked on fire, and the panoramic sunset views from Um Sabatah. It’s a well-rounded experience that combines active exploration with culture.

One potential consideration is the physical demand of hiking the mountain, which takes around 2 to 3 hours depending on your pace. Travelers with moderate fitness levels will enjoy it most, but those with mobility issues should be aware of the terrain.

This tour is perfect for active travelers craving authentic desert scenery and cultural encounters. If you’re eager to combine hiking, sightseeing, and local flavors into one day, this experience should definitely be on your list.

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Key Points

Highest Point: Climb Jabal Umm Ad Dami, Jordan’s tallest mountain, with an expert Bedouin guide.
Authentic Food: Enjoy a traditional Bedouin lunch cooked outdoors on a fire, offering a taste of local culture.
Stunning Scenery: From panoramic mountain views to iconic desert formations like Chicken Rock and Mushroom Rock, visuals are unforgettable.
Variety of Activities: Combine hiking, jeep touring, and relaxing at sunset viewpoints for a dynamic day.
Knowledgeable Guides: Guides share fascinating stories about Bedouin life and the desert landscape, enriching the experience.
Value for Money: At $85, the tour offers a full day of adventure, culture, and breathtaking scenery.

A Detailed Look at the Wadi Rum Mountain Hike & Desert Tour

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Starting Point and Logistics

The adventure begins in Wadi Rum Village at the Rest House, where you’ll meet your guide around 09:30-10:00 am. The meeting spot is easy to find, with a supermarket and souvenir shop nearby, adding convenience for last-minute essentials or souvenirs. The tour includes transfers to and from Wadi Rum Village, so you won’t need to worry about logistics upon arrival.

The group size is limited to 15 participants, which means you’ll get a personalized experience without feeling lost in a crowd. The tour is priced at $85.09 per person, a reasonable rate considering the full day of activities, meals, and transfers included.

The Climb to Jabal Umm ad Dami

The highlight for many is the hike up Jabal Umm Ad Dami — the highest mountain in Jordan, standing at approximately 1,854 meters (6,083 feet). The trail involves some scrambling, but the presence of an experienced Bedouin guide ensures safety and local insights.

Based on reviews, guides like Mohamed and Ali are not only knowledgeable but charismatic, often sharing stories about Bedouin traditions, desert plants, and local legends. One reviewer praised Ali for guiding them up Jordan’s highest peak, emphasizing the fun and friendliness of the group. The hike usually takes 2-3 hours, depending on your pace, with plenty of opportunities to rest, take photos, and enjoy the view.

Expect to relax at the summit, where you’ll see the Jordanian flag fluttering and panoramic vistas stretching across the desert. Many travelers say this moment is worth the effort, offering a sense of achievement and awe at the landscape below.

Exploring Wadi Rum’s Remote Areas by Jeep

Post-hike, your guide will prepare a traditional Bedouin lunch cooked on an open fire. While waiting for the meal, there’s the option to explore the surrounding area, which includes caves and valleys. The lunch typically features vegetables, bread, hummus, and yogurt, giving a true taste of Bedouin hospitality.

Following lunch, the tour continues with a jeep ride through less accessible parts of Wadi Rum. This is a highlight for many, as the jeep takes you to remote spots such as the White Desert, with its distinctive white rock formations and fewer travelers. Notable sites like Mushroom Rock and Chicken Rock provide fun photo ops, with reviewers noting their resemblance to animals and quirky shapes.

Unique Desert Sights and Sunset Views

The tour also includes visits to Wadi Sabet, a picturesque valley, and caves built centuries ago by ancestors in search of shelter. These caves are a window into Bedouin history and offer great photo opportunities.

Near sunset, you’ll head to the Um Sabatah viewpoint—a secluded area renowned for its breathtaking views as the sun dips below the horizon. Here, you can sit on a mat or the sand, sip Bedouin tea, and soak in the vibrant colors of the desert sky. Reviewers consistently mention how magical the sunset is in Wadi Rum, with some describing it as one of the most beautiful sights in Jordan.

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Practical Details & Tips

The tour lasts approximately 8 hours, starting at 10:00 am and ending back at the meeting point.
It’s suitable for travelers with moderate physical fitness, given the hiking involved.
The tour includes bottled water and tea, but there’s an extra charge for transfers to the Visitor’s Center if desired.
Travelers should wear comfortable, breathable clothes, sturdy shoes, and bring sun protection.

Authenticity and Comfort

While the tour emphasizes active exploration, it also provides moments of relaxation and culture. The Bedouin guides are praised for their humor, storytelling, and warmth, making the experience more than just sightseeing. Many reviews highlight the friendliness of staff and the authenticity of the meals, which are cooked outdoors and served with pride.

Why This Tour Offers Great Value

At $85, this experience combines hiking, cultural insights, breathtaking landscapes, and local cuisine into one comprehensive package. It’s ideal for those who want to see the highest mountain in Jordan, explore iconic desert formations, and indulge in delicious local food, all within a manageable day.

The inclusion of transfers, lunch, and multiple stops means you’re getting a full, hassle-free adventure. The small group size enhances the feeling of intimacy and personal attention, while the knowledgeable guides ensure you get the most out of every moment.

Who Would Love This Experience?

This tour is perfect for active travelers who enjoy hiking and outdoor exploration. If you’re curious about Bedouin culture and love authentic food, you’ll find the meals and stories enriching. It’s also great for photographers and nature lovers drawn to striking desert and mountain scenery.

However, those with mobility issues or limited physical fitness should consider their comfort levels before signing up, since the mountain hike involves scrambling and uneven terrain.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for children?
This tour involves a moderate hike and outdoor activities, so it’s best for kids with good mobility and stamina. Always check with the provider about age restrictions.

What is included in the price?
The tour covers lunch, transfers to and from Wadi Rum Village, bottled water, and tea. Entrance to the sites is free, and the price is all-inclusive for activities and meals.

How long does the hike to Umm Ad Dami take?
The hike generally takes about 2 to 3 hours, depending on your pace and fitness level.

Can I book the tour for a different start time?
The tour starts at 10:00 am, with the meeting at Wadi Rum Rest House. For specific timing adjustments, you should contact the provider directly.

What should I wear and bring?
Wear comfortable hiking shoes, breathable clothes, and bring sun protection, a hat, and sunglasses. Don’t forget your camera or smartphone for photos.

Is the tour suitable for solo travelers?
Absolutely, the group size is limited to 15, making it a good chance to meet fellow travelers.

Are there options for overnight stays included?
While this specific tour is a day trip, the provider offers overnight camping experiences, which can be booked separately.

What is the cancellation policy?
You can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours before the tour for a full refund. Less notice means no refund, so plan accordingly.

Final Thoughts

This Wadi Rum trip offers a memorable blend of adventure, culture, and stunning scenery. You’ll climb to the highest point in Jordan, explore beautiful valleys and formations, and enjoy a hearty Bedouin meal — all with guides who are both friendly and knowledgeable. It’s a well-priced way to experience the desert’s magic without sacrificing comfort or authenticity.

Whether you’re a hiking enthusiast, a culture seeker, or simply someone craving jaw-dropping views, this tour caters to a wide range of travelers. The focus on authentic Bedouin hospitality, combined with the opportunity to capture incredible photos and learn about desert life, makes it a worthwhile addition to any Jordan itinerary.