Wadi Rum

Wadi Rum is a sandstone and granite desert valley in Aqaba Governorate, Jordan, covering 720 square kilometers and containing red sand dunes, natural rock arches, and steep mountains. The highest formations reach 1750 meters (5741 feet), while the rock walls frame flat plains of fine sand.

The Nabataeans built a temple near the present visitor center in the 1st century, which French archaeologists excavated between 1933 and 1997, uncovering altars and inscriptions. Lawrence of Arabia used the area as a base in 1917 during the revolt against the Ottoman Empire.

Bedouins from the Zalabieh tribe still live in tents at the edge of the valley and offer tea while telling stories about camels and navigating through sand. Visitors can join camel races or watch bread being baked directly in hot sand.

The valley is reached from Aqaba through organized tours offering hiking, rock climbing, jeep rides, or overnight stays in desert camps. Mornings bring cooler temperatures for walking, while afternoon light shows the red rocks at their best.

Film crews choose this location for its resemblance to Mars, so scenes for Dune and The Martian were shot among the red rocks. The sand color shifts from orange to purple to deep red depending on the time of day.

Location: Aqaba Governorate

Elevation above the sea: 800 m

Height: 1,750 m

Website: http://wadirum.jo

GPS coordinates: 29.50844,35.33622

Latest update: December 14, 2025 20:36