There is a Wadi Rum ticket fee to enter the UNESCO-listed protected area. Most visitors arrive either on a full-day tour or to stay in one of the desert camps, which range from basic to luxurious. It is also possible to hire a Bedouin 4WD driver directly on arrival.
This picturesque desert and its sandstone mountains are an essential stop on most multi-day Jordan tours, some of which include a night under the desert stars. At around four hours from Amman, it’s a challenging day trip, and better approached from Aqaba—although many would argue that without a night in the desert, you’re missing out. Most Wadi Rum tours explore by 4WD, although some include a short camel ride, and longer camel safaris are also possible. Adventure activities include rock climbing and sandboarding.